GCSE Options

Chemistry

The course in Chemistry follows the Edexcel IGCSE specification. This is a demanding course that covers a wide variety of material and is excellent preparation for A Level study.

Topics studied are divided into four main components:

1. Principles of chemistry: States of Matter, Chemical Formulae, Structure and Bonding. 2. Inorganic chemistry: Alkali Metals, Halogens, Reactivity, Acids & Bases, Chemical Analysis.

3. Physical chemistry: Energetics, Rates of Reactions, Chemical Equilibria. 4. Organic chemistry: Crude Oil, Hydrocarbons, Esters, Synthetic Polymers.

Whilst there is no coursework element, practical work forms a major part of the course, and 20% of the written examinations test candidates’ practical understanding.

Two exams are set at the end of the Fifth Form:

Paper 1 tests core topics and, taken alongside papers in Biology and Physics, leads to an IGCSE Double Award in Science.

Paper 2 tests extension topics and candidates taking papers 1 and 2 qualify for an IGCSE in Chemistry.

Paper 1: Chemistry

Paper 2: Chemistry

2-hour written examination

1 hour and 15-minute written examination

The total number of marks is 110, 61.1% of the total Interational GCSE.

The total number of marks is 70, 38.9% of the total International GCSE.

Anyone thinking of studying for an A Level in Chemistry should opt for Triple Science at IGCSE as this provides the best foundation for further study. The IGCSE course runs for three years, starting at the beginning of the Fourth Form. The course is cumulative and content from the early part of the course is required for full understanding of the later topics. J R Talboys Head of Chemistry jtalboys@mtsn.org.uk

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