AQA GCSE Chemistry 8462 (Foundation or Higher)
Our KS4 Chemistry curriculum provides opportunities for students to further deepen their substantive science knowledge of the ‘big ideas in Chemistry’ (e.g. particles, energy, rate of reactions) as well as deepening the disciplinary ‘working scientifically’ knowledge that students require to become competent scientists e.g. knowledge of how scientists carry out experiments, knowledge of different scientific techniques, knowledge of data analysis and knowledge of how evidence can be used to deepen explanations.
As well as this key scientific knowledge, students will continue to develop their maths skills, metacognitive skills, literacy skills and practical skills. We place a clear emphasis on the importance of ‘reading like a scientist’, and as such, students are guided to use a variety of strategies to help them become confident readers e.g. PQRST, skimming and scanning.
There are clear links to ‘careers’ in Science throughout GCSE and the importance of science in the wider world. Students are given opportunities in lessons to carry out practical tasks. Students are required to complete a ‘revision sheet’ for each topic, which assesses them on their literacy, maths, practical and science knowledge and understanding.
OCR Advanced GCE Chemistry A H432
Our KS5 Science curriculum is designed around students’ specific interests for future pathways. A level qualifications in Science open up opportunities to study related subjects in higher education. Depending on the specialist area our students are interested in, our biology, chemistry and physics curricula allow students to build upon the knowledge and skills they have developed through KS3 and 4 to help them make informed choices about their futures.
The level of scientific knowledge and understanding increases and students are required to link information in logical manner, developing an appreciation for the interaction of different disciplines in Science. More focus is placed on the scientific process and students carry out a number of required practicals which allow students to develop their investigative skills and disciplinary knowledge.
Assessments take place on a regular basis, which provide an opportunity for students and teachers to determine progress made, identify gaps in knowledge and address misconceptions. The topics follow an ever-increasing level of complexity and allow scaffolding of information to take place, with the earlier topics leading on from GCSE to the A2 content increasing in complexity and demand and preparing students for their future pathways. Students are supported throughout the course for their unique futures, including guidance on writing their UCAS personal statements, visits from BR alumni to discuss university study and working in scientific careers and extracurricular visits e.g. to CERN, conservation centres and university lectures.
Chemistry is the study of substances, with particular emphasis on their structure and components, how they interact, and their importance in daily life. A level Chemistry is suitable for students who have an interest in carrying out investigations and who enjoy critical thinking, analysis and problem solving. A Level Chemistry comprises of 6 modules. Practical skills are integrated with the theoretical topics and they are assessed both through written papers and, for A- level only, the Practical Endorsement.
OCR Advanced GCE Chemistry A H432
Students are given the opportunity to attend lecture days and workshops throughout the year run by some of the local universities and other organisations. Students have recently attended cosmetic science workshops, lectures and workshops at UCL and in house lectures delivered by visiting speakers.