OCR A Level Chemistry A H432 Specification Notes

Overview

• First Assessment Year: 2017
• Current Version: 2.8 (March 2024)
• Accrediting Body: OCR (Oxford Cambridge and RSA)

Key Features of Specification

• Flexible approach for teaching
• Divided into modules with chemical topics
• Emphasis on practical skills assessed in exams and Practical Endorsement
• Co-teachable with AS Level
• Incorporates Ofqual GCE Subject Level Conditions and Requirements

Modules Overview

1. Development of Practical Skills
2. Foundations in Chemistry
3. Periodic Table and Energy
4. Core Organic Chemistry
5. Physical Chemistry and Transition Elements
6. Organic Chemistry and Analysis

Assessment Structure

• Total of 4 components:
  • Component 01: Periodic table, elements, and physical chemistry (37% of total A level)
  • Component 02: Synthesis and analytical techniques (37% of total A level)
  • Component 03: Unified chemistry (26% of total A level)
  • Component 04: Practical Endorsement (reported separately)
• Synoptic assessment across all components

Teaching and Resources

• Support through delivery guides, transition guides, topic exploration packs, and lesson elements
• CPD/Training available through OCR
• Resources for skills development and teaching
• Active Results for performance analysis

Detailed Content of Modules

Module 1: Development of Practical Skills

• Skills in planning, implementing, analyzing, and evaluating

Module 2: Foundations in Chemistry

• Atomic structure, quantitative chemistry, reactions of acids, redox reactions, bonding, and structure

Module 3: Periodic Table and Energy

• Periodic trends, Group 2 and halogens, qualitative analysis, enthalpy changes, reaction rates, and equilibrium

Module 4: Core Organic Chemistry

• Nomenclature, hydrocarbons, alcohols, haloalkanes, organic synthesis, and analytical techniques

Module 5: Physical Chemistry and Transition Elements

• Rate equations, equilibrium constants, acid-base equilibria, lattice enthalpy, entropy, and electrochemistry

Module 6: Organic Chemistry and Analysis

• Aromatic compounds, carboxylic acids, nitrogen compounds, polymers, synthetic routes, and modern analytical techniques

Practical Endorsement

• Minimum Requirements: 12 practical activities
• Includes assessment of practical competencies
• Facilitated through a range of practical activities covering various techniques and skills

Prior Knowledge and Progression

• Builds on GCSE knowledge
• Prepares for higher education in Chemistry and related fields or direct entry into science-based careers

Administrative Details

• One examination series annually in May/June
• Language of assessment: English only
• Retakes allowed with options to carry forward Practical Endorsement results

Additional Information

• Includes overlaps with other qualifications like Biology, Geology, Physics
• Health and safety information to be observed during practical activities

Mathematical Requirements

• At least 20% of exam marks for Level 2 mathematical skills
• Skills span across various topics, including unit conversions, estimation, use of scientific calculations, and graphical data representation

Professional Development and Support

• OCR offers continuous support and resources for teachers
• Availability of training events and materials through the CPD Hub

References and Further Reading

• Updates and additional resources available at OCR A Level Chemistry A webpage