Course Purpose and Aims:

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

• Emphasizes experimental skills, safe laboratory practice, and scientific methods.

• Encourages the use of scientific data to solve problems and understand the impact of chemistry on people and the environment.

• Promotes effective communication using scientific terminology and concepts.

Key Content Areas:

• States of matter (solids, liquids, gases, changes of state, diffusion, effects of temperature and pressure).

• Atomic structure and the Periodic Table (structure of the atom, proton/neutron/electron numbers, electron configuration, isotopes).

• Stoichiometry (chemical equations, relative atomic and molecular masses, mole concept).

• Electrochemistry (ionic and covalent bonding, properties of compounds, conductivity).

• Chemical energetics (energy changes in reactions, exothermic/endothermic processes).

• Chemical reactions (rates of reaction, equilibrium, acids, bases, and salts).

• The Periodic Table (group and period trends, properties of elements).

• Metals (properties, extraction, uses).

• Chemistry of the environment (air, water, pollution, green chemistry).

• Organic chemistry (hydrocarbons, functional groups, reactions).

• Experimental techniques and chemical analysis (laboratory skills, data analysis, safety).

Assessment Structure:

• Core and Extended assessment options, 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.

Skills Developed:

• Observation, analysis, and problem-solving in unfamiliar contexts.

• Application of experimental techniques and interpretation of data.

• Critical thinking about the impact of chemistry in real-world scenarios.

Scientific Equations and Concepts:

• Relative atomic mass: ArX = ∑isotope × abundance100

• Mole concept: n = mM where n = moles, m = mass (g), M = molar mass (g/mol)

• Gas laws (e.g., Boyle's Law): P1V1 = P2V2

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand and explain key chemistry concepts and processes.

• Apply knowledge to new situations and solve quantitative and qualitative problems.

• Demonstrate safe and effective laboratory practice.

• Communicate scientific ideas clearly and accurately.