IGCSE CHEMISTRY

The IGCSE in Chemistry enables students to appreciate the practical nature of chemistry and understand the widespread importance of chemistry and the way materials are used in the world.

The course involves a straightforward linear assessment (i.e. there is no coursework) and it comprises of a single-tier qualification (there is no separate Foundation or Higher Tier).

Students will find that the enhanced level of the course offers an excellent basis for studying Chemistry at A-level.

UNITS / CONTENT/ ASSESSMENT

Course Content

1. Principles of chemistry: Atomic Structure, Relative formula masses, equations, electrolysis, ionic and covalent compounds.

2. Chemistry of the elements: Group 1 and Group 7, Reactivity Series, Hydrogen, Oxygen, Tests for ions and gases.

3. Organic chemistry: Alkanes, alkenes, ethanol.

4. Physical chemistry: Acids, alkalis, salts, energetics, rates of reaction, equilibria.

5. Chemistry in society: Extraction and uses of metals, crude oil, synthetic polymers, industrial manufacture of metals.

Assessment

There are two compulsory papers which are completed at the end of the two-year course.

Paper 1 comprises 66.6% of the mark (2 hour written test).

Paper 2 comprises 33.3% of the mark (1 hour written test).  

Both papers assess the 5 main areas of chemistry as listed above, although there are some specific higher-level topics which are tested only in Paper 2. 

For those following the one-year Intensive course, both papers will be examined at the end of the one-year course.

EXAM BOARD

Edexcel

There is the option of sitting only Paper 1 and this, combined with sitting Paper 1 in both Biology and Physics, would give students a Double Award (two IGCSE grades instead of three separate Science grades). To date, the College has entered all students for Papers 1 and 2.

A* – C = 78%