Chemistry
Our Curriculum Aims:
Chemistry is THE central Scientific discipline. At AGSB, our aim is that students enjoy their study of Chemistry as only by this measure can we hope to: -
Inspire students with a sense of curiosity and wonder about the fundamental nature of the world around them by presenting ideas and concepts in an interesting and entertaining manner.
Empower students to make decisions about their own lives and critically evaluate scientific and technological developments that impact society by providing the skills needed to function in a fast-changing world.
Equip students with the knowledge and skills to pursue further study and rewarding careers in the chemical sciences and a wide range of related fields.
Key Stage Three Curriculum Overview
Year 9 |
Name of topic |
Key Content of the Topic |
Assessment points |
HT 1 |
Acids, alkalis, salts and precipitates General chemical techniques, eg thermal |
Students learn techniques that develop accuracy and precision. They extend their use of word and symbol equations. |
|
HT 2 |
Knowledge of acids is applied to environmental issues such as acid rain. Students are given a topic on reaction rate that allows the teaching of planning, risk assessment and which develops the skills needed to properly analyse and evaluate practical work. |
End of term exam |
|
HT 3 |
Study of foundation Chemistry. The Periodic Table.
|
In January of Y9 we begin the GCSE course as we have finished the relevant Key Stage 3 requirements. In this term we study Unit 1 of the AQA Separate Chemistry GCSE. This allows us to review and extend the work originally done in Y7 and Y8. Being a selective school, our students cope well with the KS3 content, and we get through it quite fast. There is no point marking time when we can use the extra time generated in Y10 and 11 to extend practical tasks to include and develop analytical and evaluation skills |
|
HT 4 |
Throughout Year 9 teaching, we ensure that the content covered is common to both the Separate and ‘Dual Award’ science GCSE courses |
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HT 5 |
The Periodic Table; its development and use. Atmosphere |
We finish the study of unit 1 before the Y9 exam. Following feedback from the exam, we teach Unit 9 on the ‘Chemistry of the Atmosphere’. |
Trial Exam |
HT 6 |
Should any time allow, teachers will focus on practical skills to interest and extend knowledge. |
Assessment of GCSE topics covered so far. |
GCSE Course Followed: Chemistry
Specification: AQA (Syllabus code 8462)
Why Choose GCSE
All students will study:
- Atomic Structure and Periodic Table
- Bonding, Structure and the Properties of Matter
- Quantitative Chemistry
- Chemical Changes
- Energy Changes
- The Rate and Extent of Chemical Change
- Organic Chemistry
- Chemical Analysis
- Chemistry of the Atmosphere
- Using Resources
Separate Chemistry students study the same or similar areas of study, but most topics will be explored in greater detail.
Key Stage Four Curriculum Overview
Year 10
|
Name of topic |
Key Content of the Topic |
Assessment points |
HT 1 |
Ionic compounds and bonding |
Following revision of unit 1, we teach the ionic bonding content of unit 2. We also teach Electrolysis that is found later in the syllabus to give some practical and investigative work. |
|
HT 2 |
Electrolysis, covalent compounds and bonding and metals |
Following completion of electrolysis topic, we look at covalent compounds and giant covalent lattices. The study of metals involves structure, reactivity, extraction and alloying. Teachers also consider environmental issues. |
End of term assessment prior to Christmas grades |
HT 3 |
Analysis and energy |
In this term we are aiming to complete units 8 and 5. Details in syllabus. |
|
HT 4 |
Energy and Y10 Revision |
Finish this terms content and move onto revision for the Y10 exams at the end of term. |
|
HT 5 |
Carbon Chemistry |
From the extraction of crude oil to the uses and extraction of compounds within the mixture. |
Trial Exam |
HT 6 |
Carbon, environmental impact and Life cycle analysis |
It’s a big topic with ample opportunity for students to revise unit 9 and consider wider environmental issues associated with combustion and disposal of materials. |
End of year assessment |
Year 11
|
Name of topic |
Key Content of the Topic |
Assessment points |
HT 1 |
The Mole |
Chemical calculations |
|
HT 2 |
Acids |
More calculations followed by acids topic before revision. If time allows. |
Y11 mock |
HT 3 |
Rate/Equilibria |
This is unit 6 on the syllabus |
|
HT 4 |
Tidy up |
Staff use these last weeks to link ideas across the syllabus and tidy up any loose ends that are not covered within the larger topics such as water, fertilisers and others |
|
HT 5 |
Finish tidy up and revision |
A good deal of time is spent going over exam technique, past papers and the skills necessary to reach their potential. |
|
HT 6 |
NA |
Staff are always available to give Chemistry help and support. |
GCSE exams |
Recommended Revision Guides for GCSE
Pupils have access to the online textbook through Kerboodle. We now sell CGP revision guides for AQA chemistry at £2.80 via Parentpay. We buy in bulk and pass the savings onto you.
Also, do not forget to check the resources available in the STU Chemistry folder on Office 365 or to download a copy of the AQA Chemistry specification.
Support available for GCSE Students
Staff are available to help between 8.00 and 16.30.