Chemistry is the underpinning science in society. It plays a part in every aspect of our lives from the medicines we use to keep us healthy, to the fertilisers we use on the land to maximise crop yields.

In the first year of the course we learn about the structure of the atom, how chemicals react and develop the mathematical skills needed to understand the chemical word. We introduce learners to organic chemistry and the unique chemistry of carbon as well the different instrumental techniques we use to determine chemical structure.

Most subjects can be successfully studied alongside Chemistry. This is because Chemistry is a subject in which many key skills are developed. Such skills are key to any future career.

For those wishing to pursue a career in medicine, veterinary science and many other scientific careers, Chemistry is an absolute must. Additionally, many chemists find careers in marketing and sales, journalism and advertising, and law. The range of careers open to chemists confirms the high regard in which someone with such an all-round set of skills is held.

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Induction lessons

Our chemistry induction materials ‘Bridging The Gap’ support learners to make the transition from GCSE to A-level drawing from their knowledge and understanding of key concepts from GCSE and then taking an incremental extension of these concepts into AS. The induction materials consist of an activity booklet with supplementary videos which are produced by Crash Course which are available on Youtube.

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At the beginning we revisit our definition of an element which leads learners to revise their understanding and use of the periodic table as well as their knowledge of Atomic Theory and calculating the numbers of subatomic particles in different atoms. Learners are expected to identify the key aspects of the periodic table, the names of blocks, identify groups and periods as well as use it to determine atomic number and relative atomic mass.

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The understanding of the atom is then extended into the concept of valency and ions. Learners revise how to construct chemical formula and name inorganic chemical compounds which is extended to include ions with multiple valencies. This understanding is further developed with practise of construction and balancing chemical equations with more challenging ones included for stretch in more able learners.

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Once these skills are complete learners are then given the opportunity to revisit electron shells and dot and cross diagrams to develop understanding of covalent and ion bonding from GCSE. This is then extended to A-level with the introduction of Coordinate Bonding with the example of the ammonium ion, which will then support learners at A-level.

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With the GCSE knowledge of atomic structure in hand, we then extend learners to AS level understanding by introducing orbitals and sub-shells and electron configuration using box and s, p, d notation. This allows leaners to then access the topic of Ionisation energy where leaners practise the numeracy skills by plotting a logarithmic graph (calculations done for leaners) of the successive ionisation energies of an element. Learners are then encouraged to analyse graphical data of ionisation energies to deduce what we can understand about the structure of the atom.