Sixth Form
Chemistry
As the central science linking physics and biology, chemistry unravels the molecular foundation of our universe, empowering us to solve critical global challenges in medicine, sustainable energy, and environmental preservation.
At Ryde you can study Chemistry at A Level and IBDP.
Why study Chemistry?
Studying Chemistry at Ryde School at A Level or the International Baccalaureate (IB) offers a dynamic and rigorous pathway for students passionate about scientific discovery.
Studying chemistry at Ryde serves as an exceptional launchpad, opening doors to competitive degree courses and rewarding careers in fields such as medicine, engineering, pharmacology, and environmental sciences. Here, students do not just study chemistry; they learn to think like pioneering scientists, equipped with the critical thinking, curiosity, and practical skills needed to solve the complex challenges of tomorrow’s world.
Courses Available
The academic content of the A-Level course is rigorous and ensures that it adequately prepares learners for university courses; there is much focus on core chemical principles within the specification.
Entry Requirements
GCSE Chemistry or Trilogy Science (Dual Award) Grade 6, A Level students must either take Maths in Context as their enrichment choice or A Level Maths. “Chemistry has enabled me to improve my lab and analytical skills, further my understanding and enabled me to develop my problem solving abilities.”
Where can this subject take you?
Previous Ryde students have gone on to a plethora of career choices and university courses due to the massive diversity that this subject affords. Chemistry is an important subject for careers in: Medicine, Environmental Science, Engineering, Toxicology, Developing Consumer Products, Metallurgy (studying how metals behave), Space Exploration, Developing Perfumes and Cosmetics, Pharmaceuticals, Energy, Teaching, Science Writing, Software Development and Research to name but a few.
Award
A LEVEL AQA
Course Content/Structure
Inorganic & Physical:
- Atomic Structure
- Bonding
- Periodicity
- Redox
- Energetics
- Equilibrium
- Acids and Bases
Organic & Physical:
- Bonding and Structure
- Moles
- Organic Chemistry
- Kinetics
- Modern Analytical Techniques
Assessment
Paper 1 (2hrs – 35%): Assesses Physical and Inorganic Chemistry topics and relevant practical skills through short and long answer questions
Paper 2 (2hrs – 35%): Assesses Physical and Organic Chemistry and relevant practical skills through short and long answer questions
Paper 3 (2hrs – 30%): Assesses any content and practical skills met throughout the two years through data analysis questions, short answer questions and multiple choice questions.
The IB Diploma Programme course is rigorous and ensures that it adequately prepares learners for university courses. There is a focus on core chemical principles within the specification. In addition there is also an individual, experimentally based project which is worth 20% of the final grade.
Entry Requirements
GCSE Chemistry or Trilogy Science (Dual Award) Grade 6, A Level students must either take Maths in Context as their enrichment choice or A Level Maths. “Chemistry has enabled me to improve my lab and analytical skills, further my understanding and enabled me to develop my problem solving abilities.”
Award
IBDP – Chemistry (Sciences – Group 4)
Course Content/Structure
Core:
- Stoichiometric Relationships
- Atomic Structure
- Periodicity
- Bonding and Structure
- Energetics and Thermochemistry
- Kinetics
- Equilibrium
- Acids and Bases
- Organic Chemistry
Higher Level:
Each of the above is studied in more depth
There is also a Group 4 individual project.
Assessment
Paper 1: 36% – Multiple choice and data based questions
Paper 2: 44% – Short-answer and extended response questions