Chemistry

Chemistry

Chemistry in Year 11 –

Students study a combined Science programme which includes key elements of Chemistry.

Chemistry in Year 12 –

Students investigate answers to some of the following everyday questions:

• What is a chemical?
• Can you drink too much water?
• What is the difference between baking soda and baking powder?
• How do light sticks or glow sticks work?
• How do sunless tanning products work?
• What happens when you bleach hair or use temporary or permanent hair colour?
• What are the elements in the human body?
• Why the flu vaccine may not work?
• How breath tests for alcohol work?

The focus of this course is to understand chemicals involved in our lives and requires a high level of learning through investigation.

Course Prerequisite: Science studied at NCEA Level 1 or by negotiation with the Head of Department

Assessment: Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will contribute up to 24 credits towards NCEA Level 2. The course has both internal and externally assessed components.

Pathways: Level 3 Chemistry.

Possible careers: Science, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Technician, Engineer, Chemist.

Chemistry in Year 13 –

Learn more about chemistry as it relates to everyday life. You will find out how things work, see the science and get ideas for experiments. The course includes study of the following topics:

• atomic structure, bonding and related properties
• inorganic chemistry
• energetics of chemical and physical processes
• equilibrium
• oxidation – reduction reactions
• organic chemistry

Assessment: Successful completion of all standards associated with this course will contribute up to 24 credits towards NCEA Level 3. The course has both internal and externally assessed components.

Course Prerequisite: 12 credits or more in Level 2 Chemistry.

Pathways: University or Polytechnic courses.

Possible Careers: Science, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Technician, Engineer.