COURSES DETAILS

1. Syllabus aims

The aims listed below are not in order of priority. The aims of a course based on this syllabus should be to:

1 provide, through well designed studies of experimental and practical chemistry, a worthwhile educational experience for all learners, whether or not they go on to study science beyond this level and, in particular, to enable them to acquire sufficient understanding and knowledge to:

• become confident citizens in a technological world, able to take or develop an informed interest in scientific matters

• recognise the usefulness, and limitations, of scientific method and appreciate its applicability in other disciplines and in everyday life

• be suitably prepared for employment and/or further studies beyond Cambridge International A Level in Chemistry.

2 develop abilities and skills that:

• are relevant to the study and practice of science

• are useful in everyday life

• encourage efficient and safe practice

• encourage the presentation of information and ideas appropriate for different audiences and purposes

• develop self-motivation and the ability to work in a sustained fashion.

3 develop attitudes relevant to science such as:

• a concern for accuracy and precision

• objectivity

• integrity

• a spirit of enquiry

• initiative

• insight.

4 stimulate interest in, and care for, the environment.

5 promote an awareness that:

• the study and practice of science are co-operative and cumulative activities, and are subject to social, economic, technological, ethical and cultural influences and limitations

• the applications of chemistry may be both beneficial and detrimental to the individual, the community and the environment.

6 stimulate learners and create a sustained interest in chemistry so that the study of the subject is enjoyable and satisfying.

2. Structure of the syllabus

The table shows which parts of the syllabus contain AS Level material and which contain additional material that is examined only in the full A Level.

3. Assessment

Candidates for Advanced Subsidiary (AS) certification take Papers 1, 2 and 3 (either Advanced Practical Skills 1 or Advanced Practical Skills 2) in a single examination series.

Candidates who, having received AS certification, wish to continue their studies to the full Advanced Level qualification may carry their AS marks forward and take Papers 4 and 5 in the examination series in which they require certification.

Candidates taking the full Advanced Level qualification at the end of the course take all five papers in a single examination series.

Candidates may only enter for the papers in the combinations indicated above. Candidates may not enter for single papers either on the first occasion or for resit purposes.

All components are externally assessed.