What will I learn?

Through studying this course, you will develop the following:

  • An understanding of how matter creates the universe around us;
  • An appreciation of how chemical reactions drive all living things;
  • A respect for the different industrial and medical processes that build our society;
  • An in depth analysis of the properties of substances from the nano scale to the macro scale;
  • A respect for the scientific method and a respect for evidence;
  • Critical thinking skills.

What is the structure of the course?

All students will study the following core topics:
Stoichiometric relationships, Atomic structure, Periodicity, Chemical bonding and structure, Energetics/ thermochemistry, Chemical kinetics, Equilibrium, Acids and bases, Redox processes, Organic chemistry, Measurement and data processing.

Higher Level students will also study these additional topics:
Atomic structure, The periodic table – transition metals, Chemical bonding and structure, Energetics/ thermochemistry, Chemical kinetics, Equilibria, Acids and bases, Redox processes, Organic chemistry, Measurements and analysis.

In addition to this, HL students study one out of a choice of four additional topics. These are:
Material, Biochemistry, Energy, Medicinal chemistry.

Higher Levels

Part 1: Knowledge

Demonstrate knowledge of:

  • terminology, facts and concepts;
  • skills, techniques and methodologies.

Part 2: Apply

Apply knowledge to:

  • terminology and concepts;
  • skills, techniques and methodologies.

Part 3: Formulate, analyse and evaluate

Formulate, analyse and evaluate:

  • hypotheses, research questions and predictions;
  • methodologies and techniques;
  • primary and secondary data;
  • scientific explanations.

Part 4: Investigation 

Demonstrate the appropriate research, experimental, and personal skills necessary to carry out insightful and ethical investigations.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment

Higher Level

Part 1: Knowledge 

External – Paper 1 (1 hour) – 40 multiple choice questions (20% of final grade)

Part 2: Apply

External – Paper 2 (2.25 hours) – Data based, short answer and extended response questions (36% of final grade)

Part 3: Formulate, analyse and evaluate

External – Paper 3 (1.25 hours) – Data based, short answer and extended response questions (24% of final grade)

Part 4: Investigation

Internal (10 hours) – An investigation and write-up, usually 6-12 pages in length (20% of final grade)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which CAS opportunities are available?
Science Club, Extra-Curricular Trips, Debating Club.

Which opportunities for further study are available?
Studying Chemistry will open doors to many fascinating and rewarding careers and opportunities to study further. Chemistry will be a perfect starting point if you wish to study medicine, biotechnology, nanotechnology, biomedicine, chemical engineering, veterinary science, forensics, industrial chemistry and many more.