Our Higher course allows pupils to acquire a deeper understanding of the central concepts of Chemistry, of benefit not only to those intending to pursue a career in science, but also to those intending to work in areas such as the food, health or manufacturing industries.

Continuing the subjects studied at National 5, as well as adding a further ‘Researching Chemistry‘ topic, pupils are challenged to think analytically, creatively and independently, and to make reasoned evaluations as they develop a range of transferable skills crucial to the workplace or for studying Chemistry in further education.

The course emphasises practical and experiential learning opportunities, with a strong skills-based approach to learning.

Assessment

Each unit has an end-of-unit assessment which is marked internally and which must be passed to obtain the Higher qualification. This has two components, one of Knowledge and Understanding and one of Problem Solving.

The examination constitutes 80% of the final grade. This consists of two papers: 25 marks for multiple choice questions (40minutes) and 95 marks for extended answer questions (2h 20minutes), some of which will be open-ended.

The assignment constitutes 20% of the final grade. The assignment assesses the application of skills of scientific inquiry and related chemistry knowledge and understanding. It allows assessment of skills that cannot be assessed by a question paper, for example handling and processing data gathered through experimental and research skills.

Both assessments, question paper and assignment, are marked externally.

To find out more about the CfE Higher Chemistry course visit the SQA website.

The timeline for the Higher Chemistry course can be found below. This gives an indication of what will be taught during the year and dates of assessments. Please note that this is a working document and can change within the session.