A Level Chemistry is a challenging and rewarding course that helps students understand the substances that make up the world around us and how they interact. You will study the composition, structure, properties and reactions of elements and compounds, while developing both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills.
This is a two-year A Level course, usually studied alongside two other A Levels or equivalent qualifications. The OCR Chemistry A course is content-led and develops both practical and theoretical understanding across physical, inorganic and organic chemistry.
Students study six modules:
● Module 1: Development of practical skills in chemistry
● Module 2: Foundations in chemistry
● Module 3: Periodic table and energy
● Module 4: Core organic chemistry
● Module 5: Physical chemistry and transition elements
● Module 6: Organic chemistry and analysis
In Foundations in chemistry, students develop essential knowledge of atomic structure, formulae, equations, amount of substance, bonding, acids, redox and related core concepts.
In Periodic table and energy, students build understanding of inorganic and physical chemistry, including trends in the periodic table, enthalpy, rates of reaction and equilibrium.
In Core organic chemistry and Organic chemistry and analysis, students study hydrocarbons, haloalkanes, alcohols and a wider range of organic functional groups, as well as organic synthesis and analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy and NMR.
In Physical chemistry and transition elements, students extend their understanding of energy, rates, equilibria and periodicity, including the chemistry of transition metals.
Practical work is an important part of the course. Students develop laboratory, observational and analytical skills throughout the programme and complete practical activities that contribute to the Practical Endorsement. OCR states that practical skills are also assessed indirectly in the written examinations.
Chemistry offers students the opportunity to develop strong problem-solving, analytical and practical skills in a supportive but academically demanding environment. Lessons combine theory with practical work, helping students understand both the ideas behind chemistry and the ways those ideas are applied in real contexts.
Students may also benefit from enrichment opportunities such as university seminars, science-related trips and opportunities to explore progression routes in healthcare, research and industry.
Entry requirements for A Level courses
● Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Mathematics.
● A strong interest in and enthusiasm for, the subject chosen.
● A willingness to commit to regular Independent Study outside of lesson time, as A Level courses require a high level of motivation, organisation and academic commitment.
● An interview may be required as part of the application process.
Please note: some courses have additional entry requirements.
This is a linear course, which means all written examinations are taken at the end of the two-year programme.
The A Level is assessed through three written papers:
● Paper 1: Periodic table, elements and physical chemistry – 2 hours 15 minutes, 100 marks, 37%
● Paper 2: Synthesis and analytical techniques – 2 hours 15 minutes, 100 marks, 37%
● Paper 3: Unified chemistry – 1 hour 30 minutes, 70 marks, 26%.
Students also complete the Practical Endorsement, which is assessed separately by teachers and reported independently of the A Level grade. Students must complete all written papers and the Practical Endorsement.
A Level Chemistry is highly valued by universities and employers and supports progression into a wide range of scientific, medical and technical fields.
It can support progression into areas such as:
● Medicine
● Dentistry
● Pharmacy
● Chemistry and Chemical Research
● Biochemistry
● Forensic Science
● Chemical Engineering
● Healthcare
● Biomedical and laboratory-based careers
Please Note: While every effort is made to maintain the accuracy of these details, changes can and do occur. Please confirm the course details when enrolling.
