Advanced Higher Chemistry

Why Chemistry?

This course provides insight into the underlying theories of Chemistry and develops the practical skills used in a chemical laboratory.

The study of chemistry at this level can make a major contribution to your knowledge and understanding of the natural and physical environment. You will have the opportunity to develop the skills of independent study and thought that are essential in a wide range of subjects and occupations.

Advanced Higher Chemistry is particularly relevant if you wish to progress to degree courses, either in chemistry, or in subjects of which chemistry is a major component, such as medicine, veterinary medicine, chemical engineering or environmental science. The course also provides a sound basis for direct entry to chemistry related employment.

Entry to the course

This is at the discretion of the school but you would normally be expected to have achieved one of the following

·         Higher Chemistry at Grade B or above.

Course outline

The course is made up of one 20 hour unit, two 40 hour units and a 20 hour Chemical Investigation. In addition there are 40 hours of flexible time.

Electronic Structure and the Periodic Table (20 hours)

In this unit you will develop knowledge and understanding, problem solving skills and practical abilities in the contexts of

·         electronic structure

·         chemical bonding

·         some chemistry of the Periodic Table.

Principles of Chemical Reactions (40 hours)

In this unit you will develop knowledge and understanding, problem solving skills and practical abilities in the contexts of

·         stoichiometry

·         chemical equilibrium

·         thermochemistry

·         reaction feasibility

·         electrochemistry

·         kinetics.

Organic Chemistry (40 hours)

In this unit you will develop knowledge and understanding, problem solving skills and practical abilities in the contexts of

·         permeating aspects of organic chemistry

·         systematic organic chemistry

·         stereoisomerism

·         structural analysis

·         medicines

Chemical Investigation (20 hours)

In this unit you will develop your investigative, problem solving, numeracy and communication skills by carrying out a short chemical investigation.

Core Skills

·         H Problem Solving (Critical Thinking*, Planning and Organising*, Reviewing and Evaluating*)

·         H Numeracy (Using Graphical Information*, Using Numbers)

*To be confirmed

Assessment

Units are assessed internally by your teacher/lecturer in accordance with SQA guidelines.

The course is assessed by an external examination, set and marked by the SQA.

A report on the chemical investigation is also externally assessed and contributes towards the final grade.

Progression

Successful completion of this course may lead to:

A Scottish Group Award at Higher in

·         Chemistry

Education (HNC/HND/Degree) or Employment in

·         Animals, Land & Environment

·         Health & Medicine

·         Manufacturing Industries

·         Science & Mathematics

·         Security & Protective Services

·         Sports & Leisure

Further advice and information on these options is available from your teacher, guidance teacher/adviser and careers adviser.