Purpose and Aims:

• Develops scientific knowledge and understanding of chemistry theories and practices.

• Encourages experimental skills, safe handling of chemicals, and scientific investigation.

• Promotes the use of scientific data to solve problems and understand the limitations of scientific methods.

• Emphasizes effective communication using scientific terminology, notation, and conventions.

• Highlights the impact of chemistry on people and the environment.

Key Topics Covered:

• States of matter

• Atoms, elements, and compounds

• Stoichiometry

• Electrochemistry

• Chemical energetics

• Chemical reactions

• Acids, bases, and salts

• The Periodic Table

• Metals

• Chemistry of the environment

• Organic chemistry

• Experimental techniques and chemical analysis

Assessment Structure:

• Core and Extended assessments, including multiple choice, theory, and practical papers.

• Assessment objectives:

  • Knowledge with understanding (50%)

  • Handling information and problem-solving (30%)

  • Experimental skills and investigations (20%)

• Practical assessment includes either a practical test or an alternative to practical paper.

Core Concepts and Skills:

• Understanding atomic structure, isotopes, and the Periodic Table.

• Describing chemical bonding: ionic, covalent, and metallic bonds.

• Explaining properties of solids, liquids, and gases, and changes of state.

• Relating structure and bonding to properties such as melting/boiling points and conductivity.

• Applying kinetic particle theory to explain states of matter and diffusion.

Scientific Approach:

• Develops skills in observation, data analysis, and drawing conclusions from experiments.

• Encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and application of knowledge to new situations.

• Promotes ethical and safe scientific practice.

Equations and Calculations:

• Relative atomic mass: Arelement = ∑(isotope ext{ }mass imes abundance)total ext{ }abundance

• Use of chemical symbols and formulae for elements, compounds, and ions.

Learning Outcomes:

• Students gain a foundation for further study in chemistry and related sciences.

• Develop transferable skills valuable for education and employment.

• Become confident, responsible, reflective, innovative, and engaged learners.