Chemistry

The National, Higher and Advanced Higher Chemistry courses aim to build on what was learned during BGE and to continue to develop the natural curiosity, interest and enthusiasm of our young people for Chemistry in a range of contexts. Skills of scientific inquiry and investigation are developed throughout the various levels and the important role that Chemistry plays in our world today is highlighted by the study of its various applications in everyday life.

In doing Chemistry pupils will also develop highly transferable meta-skills including:

• Communication 

• Problem solving

• Critical thinking

• Teamwork and leadership

• Collaboration

• Evaluation

• Resilience and self-discipline

Senior Phase (S4–S6)

Pupils can progress to qualifications in:

• National 3, 4 and 5 Chemistry

• Higher Chemistry 

• Advanced Higher Chemistry

Content Covered:

N5:

Chemical changes and structure -  In this area, topics are: rates of reaction; atomic structure and bonding related to properties of materials; formulae and reacting quantities; acids and bases. 

Nature’s chemistry -  In this area, topics are: homologous series; everyday consumer products; energy from fuels.

 Chemistry in society  - In this area, topics are: metals; plastics; fertilisers; nuclear chemistry; chemical analysis.

Higher Chemistry

Chemical changes and structure - The topics are: periodicity, structure and bonding, oxidising and reducing agents .

Nature’s chemistry - The topics are: systematic carbon chemistry, alcohols, carboxylic acids, esters, fats and oils, soaps, detergents and emulsions, proteins  oxidation of food, fragrances, skin care. 

Chemistry in society.  - The topics  are:  getting the most from reactants,  controlling the rate,  chemical energy,  equilibria , chemical analysis.

Researching chemistry  - The topics covered are:  common chemical apparatus,  general practical techniques,  reporting, experimental work.

Advanced Higher Chemistry

Inorganic chemistry  - The topics covered are: ♦ electromagnetic radiation and atomic spectra  ♦ atomic orbitals, electronic configurations and the periodic table ♦ transition metals 

Physical chemistry  - The topics covered are: ♦ chemical equilibrium  ♦ reaction feasibility  ♦ kinetics 

Organic chemistry and instrumental analysis  - The topics covered are: ♦ molecular orbitals  ♦ synthesis  ♦ stereo chemistry ♦ experimental determination of structure  ♦ pharmaceutical chemistry 

Researching chemistry - The topics covered are: ♦ common chemical apparatus ♦ skills involved in experimental work ♦ stoichiometric calculations ♦ gravimetric analysis ♦ volumetric analysis ♦ practical skills and techniques

Skills and Career Pathways

A qualifications in Chemistry can support pathways into Science related fields like :

Analytical chemist

Chemical engineering

Biotechnologist

Clinical research associate

Colour technologist

Crime scene investigator

Food technologist

Forensic scientist

Medicinal chemist

Nanotechnologist

Oceanographer

Palaeontologist

Pharmacologist

Radiation protection practitioner

Research scientist (physical sciences)

Science writer

Toxicologist

Other areas of employment where a chemistry qualification would be useful include:

Actuary

Business analyst

Civil service fast streamer

Data analyst

Environmental consultant

Higher education lecturer

Nuclear engineer

Patent attorney

Product/process development scientist

Secondary school teacher

Digital Learning ( Google class room)

In Chemistry lessons are posted on Google Classroom as it enables pupils to:

• Access what is being taught day by day, lesson by lesson. - in particular if they can’t make it into school

• Access resources - videos, worksheets, web links, etc.

• Submit work

• Receive feedback or ask questions.

• Track assessment deadlines

• Revise topics for assessments.

This blended approach supports engagement, access to resources outwith school hours, independence and digital fluency.

Consolidation/ Homework :

As part of a good study routine pupils are expected to go over the work covered after every lesson, making sure that they understand and consolidate what was covered in the classroom. They are to make a note of anything that they are unsure of or that is problematic so that we can go over it together when back in class.

Other purposeful homework for consolidation or revision will be issued well in advance of deadlines so that pupils will have sufficient time to do it. 

If for any reason they can’t do or complete the homework the pupils are encouraged to come and ask for help/ support when needed.

Study Support

Available after school or lunchtimes when required.

Here are some useful links to support your learning:

SQA and Ushare :     https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/45720.html

JABchem:   https://jabchem.org.uk/

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