Chemistry

Chemistry is an important part of our everyday lives. Through learning about chemistry, you will develop your interest and understanding of the world. Chemistry is vital to everyday life and plays a key role in meeting society’s needs in areas such as medicine, energy, industry, material development, the environment and sustainability.

Chemistry qualifications are well respected in all jobs and by universities & colleges.  By studying chemistry you will develop the ability to think analytically and to solve problems, good communication and leadership skills, a collaborative working ethos and the ability to think critically.  Employers highly value these transferable skills.  No matter what your future career plans may be, chemistry is a great choice of subject.

Course Content Outline:

N4 to Higher levels of Chemistry have three Key Units.  The depth of knowledge in these units is developed in the progression from N4 through to Higher Chemistry.  In Advanced Higher Chemistry two areas of chemistry are studied at considerable depth and students undertake a personal practical research project.

Chemical changes and structure

This unit involves the study of the atom and how atoms can react to make different substances.

Nature’s Chemistry

This unit involves the study of carbon compounds we find on Earth and how we can manipulate them for our own use to make fuels, fragrances, and many other substances.  At Higher level there is also a study of the chemistry of cooking.

Chemistry in society

This unit studies how chemistry is used in society to make plastics and fertilisers.  Metals are also studied along with the chemistry of batteries and sustainable energy production.

Researching Chemistry

This unit is only studied at Higher and Advanced Higher.  Students undertake a personal practical research project on an area of chemistry of their choice.  This research leads into the externally assessed Assignment.