KS4 GCSE

Science: Chemistry

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In Years 10 and 11, students focus on preparing for life after GCSEs. Using our online platform Unifrog, they explore potential pathways, including Sixth Form, college courses and apprenticeships, and the subjects or qualifications required for different careers. We also provide opportunities to meet employers, training providers and local colleges, giving students real-world insight into the world of work. All students complete Year 10 work experience and meet our independent Careers Advisor to discuss their future plans.

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Course ID
AQA 8462
Faculty
Science
Department
Chemistry
Level
GCSE
Head of Faculty
S. Owen
Head of Department
J. Jones
KS4 GCSE Science: Chemistry

Course Overview

Studying Chemistry at GCSE is an exciting opportunity to explore the substances and reactions that make up the world around us.

Building on the knowledge and skills developed at Key Stage 3, students deepen their understanding of chemical principles while developing practical, analytical and problem-solving skills.

Students can follow either the AQA Separate Science route (triple science) or the AQA Combined Science Trilogy route (double science). Both routes cover essential Chemistry topics, including atomic structure, bonding, chemical reactions, energy changes, rates of reaction, and the chemistry of the atmosphere. Separate Science is particularly suited to students with a strong interest in Chemistry who wish to study the subject in greater depth and progress to A-Level Chemistry and beyond.

Through practical investigations, modelling, and contextualised lessons, students gain hands-on experience in experimental work, while learning to analyse data, evaluate evidence, and develop logical explanations. The course encourages curiosity, resilience, and the ability to think critically about real-world problems, from sustainability to chemical innovation.

Studying Chemistry at GCSE not only enhances scientific knowledge and reasoning but also provides a foundation for further study in the sciences. It opens doors to careers in research, medicine, engineering, environmental science, pharmaceuticals, and a wide range of STEM-related fields.

Course Description

Year 10

Term Unit of Work Assessment
Autumn 1 C3: Structure and bonding 
C4: Chemical calculations 
 
Autumn 2 C3: Structure and bonding 
C4: Chemical calculations 
Autumn Assessment on C1 Atomic structure, C2 The periodic table, C3 Bonding and C4 Chemical calculations 
Spring 1 C5: Chemical changes 
C6: Electrolysis 
C7: Energy changes 
 
Spring 2 C5: Chemical changes 
C6: Electrolysis 
C7: Energy changes 
Spring Assessment on C1 Atomic structure, C2 The periodic table, C3 Bonding, C4 Chemical calculations, C5 Chemical changes, C6 Electrolysis and C7 Energy changes 
Summer 1 C8: Rates of Reaction 
Revision of chapters 1 – 7 for mock exams. 
 
Summer 2 C8: Rates of Reaction 
Revision of chapters 1 – 7 for mock exams. 
Year 10 paper 1 mock exam  

Year 11

Term Unit of Work Assessment
Autumn 1 C9: Crude oil and fuels 
C10: Chemical analysis 
C11: The Earth’s atmosphere 
 
Autumn 2 C9: Crude oil and fuels 
C10: Chemical analysis 
C11: The Earth’s atmosphere 
Paper 1 Mock exam 
Spring 1 C12: The Earth’s resources. 
Revision of chapter 1-12 for Combined Science. 
Support for Triple Science candidates. 
 
Spring 2 C12: The Earth’s resources. 
Revision of chapter 1-12 for Combined Science. 
Support for Triple Science candidates. 
Paper 2 mock exam. 
Summer 1 Revision of chapter 1-12 for Combined Science. 
Support for Triple Science candidates. 
 
Summer 2 GCSE Examination.  GCSE Examination. 

Extended Learning

Year 10

Websites Read Visit or Watch Extra
Kerboodle; BBC Bitesize Science; Free Science Lessons; Seneca Learning Science; Kahoot!; Focus eLearning.  AQA Chemistry for GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy text book; AQA Chemistry for GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy revision guide.  Science Museum; Natural History Museum; Wellcome Trust; Science Documentaries on BBC iPlayer.   

 

Year 11

Websites Read Visit or Watch Extra
Kerboodle; BBC Bitesize Science; Free Science Lessons; Seneca Learning Science; Kahoot!; Focus eLearning.  AQA Chemistry for GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy text book; AQA Chemistry for GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy revision guide.  Science Museum; Natural History Museum; Wellcome Trust; Science Documentaries on BBC iPlayer.    

 

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