Qualification Aims and Objectives

The course develops students’ understanding of matter, chemical processes, and reactions while fostering scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and practical investigation. It encourages students to be knowledgeable, inquiring, and open-minded, and to appreciate the impact of chemistry on society, the environment, and global challenges.

Objectives

• Develop a deep conceptual understanding of key chemical principles and processes.
• Acquire and apply scientific knowledge, methods, and investigative techniques.
• Build practical and analytical skills through experimentation and collaborative work.
• Consider the ethical, environmental, economic, cultural, and social implications of chemistry.
• Prepare for further study and careers in medicine, pharmacy, chemical and biochemical research, chemical engineering, environmental science, materials science, biotechnology, and education.

Course Outline

The course is built around three pillars:

1. Approaches to learning
2. Nature of science
3. Skills in the study of chemistry

Syllabus Themes

• Structure: atomic theory, electron configurations, bonding, molecular structure, classification of matter
• Reactivity: chemical reactions, energetics, kinetics, equilibrium, reaction mechanisms
• Advanced atomic structure, transition metals, thermodynamics, organic chemistry, spectroscopy, advanced measurement and analysis

Experimental Programme

• Practical Work
• Collaborative Sciences
• Project Scientific Investigation

Develops skills in designing experiments, collecting and processing data, evaluating results, and applying mathematical and technological tools.

Assessment (HL)

• External (80%): Papers testing multiple-choice, data-based, short-answer, and extended-response questions
• Internal (20%): Scientific Investigation – open-ended research project with written report (max 3,000 words)

Future courses and possible careers:

Medicine • Pharmacy • Chemical and Biochemical Research • Chemical Engineering • Environmental Science • Materials Science • Biotechnology • Forensic Science • Teaching • Laboratory Work • Pharmaceuticals • Nutrition and Food Science