Chemistry
Pupils are introduced to general science from T2 with Chemistry taught as a discrete subject in its own right from S2. From this point all the way through to Advanced Higher in S6, nearly every lesson has a practical component with experimental work carried out to illustrate particular aspects of the theory being taught
Practical work and the acquisition of practical skills are viewed as fundamental to the understanding of Chemistry and its importance and relevance to us in our every day lives.
Teaching is focused on enabling pupils to develop an appreciation of the inter-linking patterns that are a distinguishing feature of the subject. We also aim as a department to ensure that pupils also gain an understanding of the social, economic, environmental and technological inter-relationships between chemistry and its applications.
Mastering the subject also requires pupils to foster imaginative and critical thinking skills as well as the straightforward acquisition of knowledge. Ultimately, we want to attract pupils into studying the subject by illustrating the inherent importance of Chemistry in today’s world.
Chemistry can be studied at all examination levels from National 5 to Advanced Higher.
Chemistry - National 5
At National 5, the course is split into three units:
Chemical changes and structure: skills of scientific enquiry, investigation, analytical thinking and knowledge and understanding of chemical changes and structure. Key areas covered are: rates of reaction; atomic structure and bonding related to properties of materials; formulae and reacting quantities and acids and bases.
Nature’s chemistry: applications of nature’s chemistry on our lives, as well as the implications on society and the environment. Key areas covered are: homologous series; everyday consumer products; energy from fuels; hydrocarbons and plants to products.
Chemistry in society: applications of chemistry in society and in our lives as well as the implications on society/the environment. The key topics covered are: metals and alloys; properties of plastics and materials; fertilisers; nuclear chemistry and chemical analysis.
Chemistry - IB
As an experimental science, the Diploma Programme (DP) chemistry course requires not only a theoretical and practical understanding of the subject, but also an awareness of how chemists construct knowledge claims and the limitations of these methods. Studying chemistry offers numerous benefits and opens a wide range of opportunities for further studies.
Chemistry helps explain the properties and behavior of matter, which is fundamental to understanding the world around us. The DP Chemistry course therefore emphasizes the development of representative models and explanatory theories, both of which rely heavily on creative but rational thinking.
Through studying DP Chemistry, students will become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other and of the ethical debates and limitations of creative scientific endeavour.
Chemistry is often called the central science as chemical principles underpin both the physical environment in which we live and all biological systems. It is therefore often a prerequisite for many other courses in higher education, such as medicine, environmental science and engineering.
Nature of science
Nature of science is an overarching theme in the DP Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS) courses which aims to cultivate critical thinking, enabling students to analyse, evaluate, and synthesise scientific information while appreciating the limitations and possibilities of science in addressing global challenges.
Syllabus
The chemistry curriculum is built on two organizing concepts: structure and reactivity, which are connected through the idea that structure determines reactivity, which in turn transforms structure.
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IB Chemistry course structure |
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Structure Structure refers to the nature of matter from simple to more complex forms |
Reactivity Reactivity refers to how and why chemical reactions occur |
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Structure 1. Models of the particulate nature of matter |
Reactivity 1. What drives chemical reactions? |
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Structure 2. Models of bonding and structure |
Reactivity 2. How much, how fast and how far? |
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Structure 3. Classification of matter |
Reactivity 3. What are the mechanisms of chemical change? |
Practical work
Practical work is a central aspect of the DP Chemistry course allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of the subject content and associated concepts. It provides opportunities to develop a wide range of practical and investigative skills and to collaborate with peers. It presents students with the opportunity to experience a wide range of tasks, from closed to open inquiry, and from hands-on experimentation through to the use of simulations and modelling, incorporating technology where appropriate. The practical approach to the course delivery culminates in the interdisciplinary collaborative sciences project, that addresses real-world problems that can be explored through the range of subjects in the sciences group, and the scientific investigation, an assessed independent research paper.
The Department strives to encourage every student to achieve their best in their study of Chemistry at whatever their level and readily provides additional support opportunities to bring this about. Senior pupils lead clubs for pupils in younger yeargroups, and we offer lunchtime support and drop-in.
Book a tour
To find out more about how we engender hard work and determination in our young people, come and visit us and meet our dedicated teaching staff and speak to our pupils.
