S2 Grade Chemistry

AIM OF COURSE

The Second Year Chemistry course is designed to make pupils aware of the chemical nature of the earth and the atmosphere around it.  It also examines the way in which man has used these natural chemical resources for his own advancement.  The course is designed to follow on from the First Year Integrated Science course with the aim of developing scientific writing together with practical skills.

COURSE CONTENT

The two topics which Second Year pupils study are – “The Chemistry of the Earth” and “Metal Eaters and Salt Makers”.

The Chemistry of the Earth

This topic serves as an introduction to Standard Grade Chemistry, involving a study of the raw materials of the earth, the earth’s resources, and the extraction of elements, their uses and properties.  Evidence of chemical reactions, together with making, breaking and naming of compounds are also studied in this topic.

Metal Eaters and Salt Makers

This topic involves the study of acids and alkalis.  Their properties and chemical reactions, such as salt preparation and neutralisation, are studied with a view to understanding their importance in everyday life.  This leads on to investigate the properties of Hydrogen including the reactions of metals.

ASSESSMENT

Knowledge and Understanding and Investigative Skills are the assessable elements of this course.  Topic one is followed by and End of Topic Test based on Knowledge and Understanding and Investigative Skills.  During the course work Investigative Skills are introduced and reinforced by a practical investigation.