Chemistry A Level (AQA 7405)

Course Overview

The new GCE specification in Chemistry has been tailored to follow on from GCSE Dual Science or GCSE Chemistry as a separate science. It will develop a student’s knowledge and understanding whilst providing a pathway to further study in Higher Education. Our objective is to develop a student’s interest for the subject, including an interest in further study and careers in Chemistry, to appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and to develop a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of How Science Works. The new specification does not involve practical assessment but we are still devoted to ensuring students do develop the practical skills required to be a successful chemist.

A Level Chemistry – Assessment by three written papers:

Paper 1: 7405/1 (Written Paper 2 hours 35% A level)

This paper consists of a mixture of short and long answer questions (105 marks) and is a 2 hour paper. It accounts for 35% of the A level Chemistry qualification. Topics examined include Inorganic Chemistry with relevant Physical Chemistry and Practical Skills.

Paper 2: 7405/2 (Written Paper 2 hours 35% A level)

This paper consists of a mixture of short and long answer questions (105 marks) and is a 2 hour paper. It accounts for 35% of the A level Chemistry qualification. Topics examined include Organic Chemistry with relevant Physical Chemistry and Practical Skills.

Paper 3: 7405/3 (Written Paper 2 hours 30% A level)

This paper consists of questions on practical techniques and data analysis (40 marks) with further questions based on topics from across the specification (20 marks). There is a further multiple choice section (30 marks). This paper accounts for 30% of the A level Chemistry qualification

Academically, it is expected that students entering Birkdale’s Sixth Form will have achieved a minimum of 5 passes (9 to 5) at GCSE, with at least 4 at grade 6 or higher; we would expect 6 or higher GCSE grades in those subjects being studied to A level. A grade 6 is required to study A Level English and Mathematics, although a grade 7 is preferred in Mathematics. Prospective Further Mathematicians should achieve a grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics although a grade 8 is preferred. In addition at Birkdale we look beyond the academic and would wish applicants to become fully involved in the life of the school, offering their skills and abilities in one or more of a number of areas (e.g. drama, sport, music, clubs and societies, etc).