Why study Chemistry?
Chemistry is vital to everyday life and allows us to understand and shape the world in which we live. You will learn about the applications of chemistry in everyday contexts such as medicine, energy and industry, as well as its impact on the environment and sustainability. You will learn how to think creatively and independently, and analyse and solve problems.
What do I need to get in?
Entry is at the discretion of the school or college but you would normally have achieved one of the following:
- National 4 Biology
- National 4 Chemistry
- National 4 Environmental Science
- National 4 Physics
- National 4 Science
What will I study?
You will learn about how we use the Earth’s resources, the chemistry of everyday products and environmental analysis. You will find out how chemistry affects our environment and our everyday lives. This will help you to make your own decisions on contemporary issues where scientific knowledge is constantly developing.
The course comprises three areas of study.
Chemical changes and structure
You will learn about:
- rates of reaction
- atomic structure and bonding related to properties of materials
- formulae and reacting quantities
- acids and bases.
Nature’s chemistry
You will learn about:
- the homologous series
- everyday consumer products
- energy from fuels.
Chemistry in society
You will learn about:
- nuclear chemistry
- chemical analysis.
How will I be assessed?
The course assessment consists of two components totalling 120 marks:
- Component 1: question paper – worth 100 marks
- Component 2: assignment – worth 20 marks.
For the assignment component, you will be asked to investigate a relevant topic in Chemistry, focusing on its application and its impact on society/the environment, and produce a report on your findings.
Both the assignment and question components will be set and externally marked by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA).
The grade awarded is based on the total marks achieved across all course assessment components.
The course assessment is graded A-D.
