Advanced Higher Chemistry
Topics Taught
The study of chemistry at Advanced Higher level develops the students’ knowledge and understanding of the physical and natural environments. The course builds on the Higher level, developing further the underlying theories of chemistry and the practical skills used in the chemical laboratory. The course also develops the skill of independent study and thought that is essential in a wide range of occupations.
The course has four mandatory Units, three of which are content Units i.e. –
- Electronic Structure and the Periodic Table 0.5 credits (20 hours)
- Principles of Chemical Reactions 1 credit (40 hours)
- Organic Chemistry 1 credit (40 hours)
The fourth Unit is practically based but is also externally assessed i.e.-
- Chemical Investigation 0.5 credits (20 hours)
All units seek to develop knowledge and understanding, problem solving and practical abilities in the context of each Unit.
Homework
Formal homework exercises will be issued, but students will be expected to take responsibility for planning their own learning, revision and completion of course work by predetermined deadlines.
Assessments (Internal and External)
To gain the award of the course, the student must achieve passes in all component Units of the course as well as the external assessment, which will provide the basis of grading attainment in the course award. Each component Unit will be assessed by means of end of Unit tests.
External assessment will consist of two parts:
1. Written examination (2½ hours):
Part 1 – Fixed-response paper (40 marks)
Part 2 – Extended-answer paper (60 marks)
2. Assessment of the Chemical Investigation is by submission of a written report. (25 marks)
Next Steps
This course is particularly suitable for those pupils who wish to progress to degree courses either in chemistry or in subjects where chemistry is a major component such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, forensics, chemical engineering and the environmental and health sciences. A degree in chemistry may leas to employment in traditional chemical industries such as the petrochemical or pharmaceutical industries. There are opportunities for further studies in leading to the award of research degrees. Chemistry is also recognised as being a sound education that develops a variety of skills appropriate to employment in teaching, commerce and other industries.
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