What is the course?

The S3 Chemistry course is mixed course of chemical knowledge and practical skills.  You will:

• apply knowledge and understanding of key chemical facts and ideas
• apply skills in analysis, predicting, processing and evaluation to a range of chemical problems, both theoretical and practical
• communicate chemical concepts clearly and concisely, using appropriate terminology
• learn how chemistry impacts on our local world of work
• develop an understanding of the impact of chemistry in changing our environment and society

You should choose Chemistry if you are achieving Silver or Goad level in S2 Chemistry topics or Gold level in S2 Science.

How will I learn?

A large part of the course takes the format of whole class direct teaching opportunities. This is interspersed by activity based learning on practical tasks.  You will be expected to adopt an investigatory approach to many of the practical tasks, analysing and evaluating results to improve your work or solve problems.  You will be actively involved in developing your practical skills, knowledge and understanding by investigating a range of real-life and relevant engineering systems, problems and solutions.

What topics will I learn?

• Natural dyes
• Periodic table and Atomic structure
• Chemical bonding and structure
• Formulae
• Forensic analysis
• Carbohydrates
• Fuels

As part of the BGE, your S3 personalisation will help build the knowledge and skills required for a successful  senior phase.  Completing the S3 Chemistry course covers many of the science outcomes related to chemistry and supports progression to National Chemistry courses (National 4-Advanced Higher) along with developing essential skills used in many other subjects.

What skills are developed?

The course is intended to develop skills that will help you in the workplace or further learning when you leave school.  Chemistry learners develop skills in:

• Numeracy – graphical interpretation, calculations, formulae
• Practical investigative – analysing and evaluating
• Problem solving skills – developing solutions
• Applying knowledge in different contexts

How will I be assessed?

Your progress on the course will be assessed through a combination of continuous and final assessment.

What might this help me with when I leave school?

Completing this course will help build the skills and knowledge for many chemistry and science related courses (college and university) and local careers (whisky or food industry and petroleum industry).