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Summary

Chemistry

Teachers:
From Form III upwards all Chemistry classes are taught by subject specialists:
Mrs Hampton (HoD)
Mr Lucas
Miss Robinson

Aims of the Department

to stimulate curiosity, interest and enjoyment of chemistry and to equip students for further studies requiring a scientific background.

to help pupils develop safe experimental and investigative abilities, and acquire a systematic body of chemical knowledge, including the uses and limitations of chemistry.

to encourage students to develop an understanding of technological, economic, environmental, social and ethical applications implications of chemical processes, in order to develop as well prepared citizens in a scientific and technological world.

The department has two fully equipped teaching labs and a resource room. Some junior classes are taught in other science labs.

Chemistry is taught at all stages within the school curriculum.

Key Stage 3
All pupils study Chemistry:
As part of a general science course (five periods per week) based on the Revised Curriculum for Northern Ireland in Forms I and II.
As a separate subject (two periods per week) in Form III. This gives pupils the opportunity to experience Chemistry as a stand-alone subject prior to making their choices for GCSE.

Key Stage 4
All pupils study Chemistry:
As part of the GCSE Double Award Science course or as a separate GCSE subject.
Pupils have three (Double Award) or four periods (separate subject) of Chemistry per week.

Advanced Level
Students who choose to study Chemistry at A level have eight periods per week over the two years. The CCEA specification is followed.
At all levels a variety of teaching methods is used. Relevant practical work is an integral part of all schemes of work.

Career Opportunities
A wide range of careers require an A level in Chemistry, including medicine, veterinary science, dentistry, the chemical industry, forensics, food science, pharmacy, biology, chemical engineering. The chemical industry is vital to the UK’s economy and is a major employer in the UK, including people in careers such as research chemistry, analytical chemistry, chemical engineering, management, sales and marketing.

Internet links
www.wpbschoolhouse.btinternet.co.uk - Very good collection of GCSE/A level materials.
www.creative-chemistry.org.uk - Dr Saunders’ (from Harrogate High School) web site.
www.chemguide.co.uk - Excellent A level site.
www.s-cool.co.uk - Excellent GCSE site.
www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/chemistry - Very good BBC GCSE site.
www.bbc.co.uk/schools/ks3bitesize/science/chemistry - Very good BBC KS3 site.
www.schoolzone.co.uk
www.illiquation.co.uk - Has links to many websites that provide a variety of different interactive activities and puzzles for Years 7 to 13.
www.creative-chemistry.org.uk - Fun activities.
www.chemistrygeek.com - Interactive site.
www.webelements.com - Useful source of information on elements.
www.chemsoc.org/viselements - Information about any element.
www.ccea.org.uk – Details of GCSE and A-level specifications from this site