Year 7
The Year 7 Chemistry lessons begin by introducing pupils to a scientific laboratory – how to work safely in one, and how to use the pieces of equipment which are essential for the experiments they carry out through the course.
The course includes the topics of
- acids and alkalis
- simple chemical reactions
- the particle theory
- solutions
As much of the subject as possible is taught through practical work. One piece of apparatus that is used is the Bunsen burner, and pupils greatly enjoy learning to light a Bunsen burner and to use one in the topic of simple Chemical reactions.
The course is designed to relate Chemistry to everyday experiences and to generate enthusiasm for, and interest in, the subject.
Year 8
The Year 8 Chemistry lessons continue to use practical work to develop the subject further wherever possible. Topics studied include
- Elements and atoms
- Compounds and mixtures
- Rocks and weathering
- The rock cycle
- Reactions of metals and their compounds
- Patterns of reactivity
Year 9
The aim of the Chemistry taught in Year 9 is to finish the Key Stage 3 curriculum and to begin the GCSE course. The topics studied are
- Construction of formulae and balancing equations
- Environmental Chemistry
- Using Chemistry
This leads into the GCSE C1b course considering the structure of the Earth and plate tectonics.
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