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| Higher |  |
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This is a broad based course covering a wide range of topics in the areas of inorganic, organic and physicalchemistry. It follows on from GCSE Chemistry but, as with other Higher subjects, is a significant step up terms of pace and depth. The course is demanding but is well regarded as an intellectual training for a range of careers in such areas as medicine, veterinary science, chemical engineering and chemical research, and for those who simply find the subject interesting.
All pupils, however, can benefit from studies of the social aspects of the discipline, which include energy sources and pollution, as well as from the development of a wide range of transferable skills such as practical dexterity, numerical problem solving and scientific writing.
Entry requirements
The minimum entry requirements are grade C for GCSE Chemistry (or Standard Grade or Intermediate 2 equivalent). However, GCSE Chemistry performance at grade B or better is preferable. It is designed to take one year from GCSE/Standard Grade, but some pupils may be recommended to take two years over the course.
On to A Level
Having successfully completed the Higher course, pupils can transfer to the second year of the A-Level course. This route to A-Level chemistry involves additional course material and examinations and is only recommended for pupils wishing to study for a complete Higher portfolio in the 6th year. At the time of writing, the choice of the new A-Level syllabus for 2008 has not been finalised; however, it is most likely that pupils intending to sit A-Level chemistry after their Higher, will sit Unit 1 of the A-Level course in June of the 6th year. This will involve some additional lessons and private study, alongside the Higher.
Course content
The course content is prescribed in detail and builds on work covered at Standard Grade and GCSE. There are three units:
1. Energy Matters
Structure and bonding of elements and compounds; intermolecular forces; rates of reaction; energy changes; chemistry calculations. With diminishing energy supplies, aging infrastructure, and increasing energy costs, a worldwide search for more efficient and clean energy resources and power systems is underway. |
2. The World of Carbon
Fuels; alkanes, alkenes and alkynes; alcohols; carbonyls, carboxylic acids and esters; fats and oils; polymers. The UK is struggling to decrease its carbon dioxide emissions and meet its own domestic targets of 20 percent below 1990 levels by 2010 (with the future target of 60 percent by 2050) |
3. Chemical Reactions
Nuclear chemistry; chemical equilibrium; acids, bases and pH; redox reactions and electrochemistry; energy calculations and the chemical industry. Chemical changes are a result of chemical reactions. All chemical reactions involve a change in substances and a change in energy. Neither matter or energy is created or destroyed in a chemical reaction---only changed. |
AssessmentAssessment consists of a final examination in two parts as well as internal assessment. The internal assessment consists of a written test after each unit has been completed and these tests are taken in November, February and May. These tests act as hurdles set at C grade; all three tests must be passed before certification can be obtained. One prescribed practical activity has also to be successfully completed for each of the three units of the course. The internally marked assessments are externally moderated. The Higher grade awarded depends on the external paper (2 hours 30 minutes) taken in May. A preliminary examination will be taken at the end of January. |
Course venue |
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