Does this subject contribute to an ATAR? Yes (General Subject)
How many credits does this subject contribute towards QCE? 4
What is Chemistry?
Chemistry is the study of materials and their properties and structure.
Students study atomic theory, chemical bonding, and the structure and properties of elements and compounds. They explore intermolecular forces, gases, aqueous solutions, acidity and rates of reaction. They study equilibrium processes and redox reactions. They explore organic chemistry, synthesis and design to examine the characteristic chemical properties and chemical reactions displayed by different classes of organic compounds.
Students develop their appreciation of chemistry and its usefulness; understanding of chemical theories, models and chemical systems; expertise in conducting scientific investigations. They critically evaluate and debate scientific arguments and claims in order to solve problems and generate informed, responsible and ethical conclusions, and communicate chemical understanding and findings through the use of appropriate representations, language and nomenclature.
Students learn and apply aspects of the knowledge and skills of the discipline (thinking, experimentation, problem-solving and research skills), understand how it works and how it may impact society.
What makes a student suited to Chemistry?
Students who achieve success in Chemistry are those who:
- show keen interest in the subject
- are hard workers both in class and outside of class
- have a high ability in Science and Mathematics
What prerequisites must students meet in order to take this subject?
Minimum B standard core Math and minimum C standard for Core English and Science.
What is the cost of this subject?
Nil - all costs covered by Shared Resource Hire Scheme
What materials or equipment do I need for this subject?
- 2 x A4 Exercise books (minimum 96 page)
- Scientific calculator
What do students study in this subject and how are they assessed?
| | | Unit Overviews | Assessment |
| Year 10 | Semester 1 | Introduction to Chemistry
The Periodic Table | Data test (14%)
Research investigation (18%)
Unseen examination (25%) |
| | Semester 2 | Chemical reactions
Quantitative Chemistry | Student experiment (18%)
Unseen examination (25%) |
| Year 11 | Unit 1 | Chemical fundamentals — structure, properties and reactions
• Properties and structure of atoms
• Properties and structure of materials
• Chemical reactions —reactants, products and energy change | Formative internal assessment 1: 10%
• Data test
Formative internal assessment 2: 20%
• Student experiment |
| | Unit 2 | Molecular interactions and reactions
• Intermolecular forces and gases
• Aqueous solutions and acidity
• Rates of chemical reactions | Formative internal assessment 3: 20%
• Research investigation
Formative internal assessment 4: 50%
• Examination |
| Year 12 | Unit 3 | Equilibrium, acids and redox reactions
• Chemical equilibrium systems
• Oxidation and reduction | Summative internal assessment 1 (IA1): 10%
• Data test
Summative internal assessment 2 (IA2): 20%
• Student experiment |
| | Unit 4 | Structure, synthesis and design
• Properties and structure of organic materials
• Chemical synthesis and design | Summative internal assessment 3 (IA3): 20%
• Research investigation
Summative external assessment (EA): 50%
• Examination
|