Chemistry: National 4/5

Entry Requirements:

  • N4: Achieving level 3 in S3.
  • N5: Achieving level 4 in S3.

Course Content:

  • In National 4/5 Chemistry, pupils will study Chemical Changes and Structure, Nature’s Chemistry and Chemistry In Society. The course enables learners to develop and apply knowledge and understanding of chemistry’s role in scientific issues and relevant applications of chemistry, including the impact these could make in society and the environment.
  • Unit 1: Chemical changes and structure: Rate of reaction, chemical structure, atomic structure and bonding related to properties of materials, acids and bases.
  • Unit 2: Nature’s chemistry: Fuels and energy, Fossil fuels, Hydrocarbons, cosmetic products.
  • Unit 3: Chemistry in society: Properties of metals, nuclear chemistry, chemical analysis.

Assessment:

  • Throughout National Science Courses, pupils are assessed throughout the year in various forms.
  • All sciences engage pupils through both theory and practical work.
  • Summative assessment:

Class tests – mid and end of unit

Practical assessments

  • Homework and problem solving tasks
  • Conditions of the course award. The grade awarded is based on the total marks achieved across all course assessment components.
  • Component 1: question paper 100 marks 2 hours and 30 minutes Component 2: assignment 25 marks
  • 8 hours of which a maximum of 1 hour and 30 minutes is allowed for the report stage — see course assessment section
  • Pupils are provided with an SQA data book
  • Please note for 2023 exams, assignments remain omitted from the course award assessment.
  • Pupils are graded from A to D.

Progression Pathway: