CHEMISTRY SALTERS OCR

From the food we eat, to the clothes we wear, Chemistry provides us with the materials that shape our society. It is difficult to imagine an aspect of our lives that is not touched in some way by Chemistry. Indeed, A level Chemistry is required for a wide range of university degree courses and careers, including biochemistry, chemical engineering, chemistry, dentistry, environmental science, forensic science, medicine, pharmacy and veterinary science. Although the school has yet to decide upon which examination board to follow, the Salter’s course has been taught successfully at Myton for the last twelve years and will be used here to illustrate aspects that all A level chemistry courses have to offer.

Salters A level Chemistry is unique in the way it uses the applications of Chemistry to drive learning. These applications are presented in the Chemical Storylines book, which bring to life real issues in which Chemistry has a major role. Theoretical concepts are introduced on a need to know basis through the Chemical Ideas book, allowing students to understand the science behind the stories. The majority of lessons involve practical activities, providing ample opportunity to experience the fun of chemical reactions and to develop practical skills. In addition, the curriculum is enriched by extracurricular activities whenever possible, such as industrial visits and conferences.

Students can choose to study for one year for the AS qualification or carry on for the second year for the full A level qualification. The Salters’ course is supported by York University’s Science Education Group (www.york.ac.uk/org/seg/salters/chemistry) and follows the OCR Chemistry B (Salters) specification (www.ocr.org.uk), which assesses students through both written papers and coursework, the latter accounting for 20% of the AS qualification and 30% of the A2 qualification.

Entry to the AS component of the course requires students to have achieved at least BB grades in Double Award Science at GCSE or a B grade in GCSE Chemistry. In addition, grade B at GCSE Maths is desirable in order to deal with the quantitative aspects of A level Chemistry.

Assessment:
Two written papers are taken in January &/or June. Coursework is assessed through the Chemistry Individual Investigation project, which assesses 8 skill areas.