Level 2 Chemistry
12CHE Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Mrs H. Reed-Hadley, Mr S. Wood.
Recommended Prior LearningStudents should pass CB1.2 and one of the external examinations due to the external nature of the level two course (either CB1.3 or PESS1.4)
However, the following are also essential skills:
- Strong Mathematical Skills: Chemistry is inherently quantitative. Students will frequently use mathematical concepts such as ratios, proportions, significant figures, unit conversions, logarithms, and algebraic manipulation to solve problems and interpret data. A solid understanding of Level One Mathematics is essential.
- Good Literacy Skills: Clear communication is vital in Science. Students will need to read and comprehend scientific texts, write detailed explanations, construct logical arguments, and present their findings accurately and concisely.
Why Study NCEA Level Two Chemistry?
Chemistry is often referred to as the "central science" because it connects to numerous other scientific disciplines, including Biology, Medicine, Physics, Engineering, and Environmental Science. NCEA Level Two Chemistry offers a journey into the fundamental building blocks of our world and how they interact. By understanding Chemistry, students gain a deeper appreciation for everything around them – from the food they eat and the clothes they wear, to the medicines that heal and the technologies that power our lives.
Taking this course will develop students’ critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Students will learn to observe, hypothesise, experiment, and interpret data, all of which are invaluable skills not just in science, but in any future endeavour. Chemistry is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, and this course will cover the foundational knowledge to understand its current advancements and contribute to its future.
What to Expect from the Course
NCEA Level Two Chemistry is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding subject. It builds significantly on the concepts introduced in Level One Science, delving deeper into atomic structure, chemical reactions, and introducing organic chemistry and quantitative analysis.
Key Expectations:
- Rigour and Depth: Be prepared to engage with complex ideas and abstract concepts. Students will explore the "why" and "how" behind chemical phenomena.
- Hard Work and Dedication: Success in Level Two Chemistry requires consistent effort, regular revision, and a willingness to grapple with difficult problems. It's not a subject where last-minute cramming is effective. Active class participation, completing homework diligently, and seeking clarification when needed are crucial.
Practical Work: The course will involve hands-on practical investigations, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge and develop their laboratory skills. Safety in the lab is paramount and will be a key focus.
Achievable Goals: While challenging, this course is designed to be achievable for students who are committed and willing to put in the necessary effort. Support will be available through the teacher, classmates, and resources. Embrace the challenge, and students will find immense satisfaction in mastering these concepts.
Course Overview
Term 1
REDOX INTERNAL (4 weeks)
This standard focuses on the fundamental concepts of oxidation and reduction reactions.
It covers a definition of oxidation and reduction, assigning oxidation numbers to elements in compounds and ions to identify what is being oxidised and what is being reduced, and constructing balanced half-equations for oxidation and reduction processes and combining them into full equations.
Students will understand the relevance of redox reactions in everyday life and industrial processes (e.g., corrosion, batteries, electrolysis).
This standard often involves both conceptual understanding and the ability to apply rules and procedures to balance equations and predict reaction outcomes.
ATOMIC STRUCTURE EXTERNAL (8 weeks - continuing into Term Two)
This external standard focuses on explaining the properties of substances based on their atomic structure, the type of bonding present, and the energy changes involved in physical and chemical processes.
This standard is important for a range of reasons within the context of chemistry education and for broader scientific literacy. It is fundamental to understanding matter and explaining the world around us and core to further Chemistry study.
This standard provides the essential "why" behind chemistry, equipping students with the conceptual framework and analytical tools necessary to explain and predict chemical phenomena, and preparing them for advanced studies and careers in a wide range of scientific and technical fields.
Term 2
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY (8 Weeks)
Organic Chemistry is essential as it provides the foundational understanding of carbon-based compounds, which are the building blocks of all life and countless everyday materials like plastics, fuels, and medicines.
This course is crucial for anyone pursuing further studies in biology, biochemistry, medicine, or health sciences, and it offers insights into the innovation driving pharmaceutical, petrochemical, and food industries.
Furthermore, it significantly enhances systematic thinking and problem-solving skills through the rigorous application of nomenclature, reaction mechanisms, and synthetic pathways, preparing students for advanced chemistry studies and a wide range of scientific and technical careers.
Term 3
RATES OF REACTION
This standard teaches students about the factors influencing reaction rates, the dynamic nature of chemical equilibrium, and the properties of acids and bases, including pH calculations and the distinction between strong and weak acids/bases.
This standard is vital because it explains how chemical reactions proceed and why they reach a certain state, providing crucial insights into controlling industrial processes, understanding biological systems, and managing environmental impacts, thus developing essential analytical and problem-solving skills for future scientific pursuits.
PRACTICE EXAMS
Term 4
REVISION
Term Four is time for consolidation of learning and revision for the external examinations.
Pathway
A strong foundation in Chemistry opens doors to a vast array of exciting career opportunities across various sectors. The analytical and problem-solving skills students develop are highly valued by employers in many fields.
Here are just a few examples of careers that Chemistry can lead to:
Health Sciences: Doctor, Pharmacist, Nurse, Medical Researcher, Biotechnologist, Dentist, Veterinarian, Radiographer, Dietitian.
Environmental Sciences: Environmental Scientist, Ecologist, Conservationist, Water Quality Chemist, Waste Management Specialist.
Food and Agriculture: Food Scientist, Agricultural Scientist, Quality Control Chemist, Winemaker, Brewing Scientist.
Forensic Science: Forensic Chemist, Crime Scene Investigator.
Engineering: Chemical Engineer, Materials Engineer, Process Engineer, Biomedical Engineer.
Research and Development: Research Scientist (in various industries like pharmaceuticals, polymers, new materials), University Lecturer, Laboratory Technician.
Manufacturing and Industry: Quality Assurance Manager, Production Chemist, Product Development Specialist, Analytical Chemist.
Education: Science Teacher, University Tutor.
Other Fields: Patent Attorney (specialising in chemistry), Science Journalist, Technical Sales Representative.
This course is an excellent stepping stone for further study in science, health, engineering, and technology at University or Polytechnic.
Receptionist, Agricultural Technician, Clinical Physiologist, Physician, Podiatrist, General Practitioner, Gynaecologist/Obstetrician, Psychiatrist, Forestry Scientist, Health Services Manager, Pulp and Paper Mill Operator, Radiation Oncologist, Saw Doctor, Wood Processing Worker, Ophthalmologist, Mining Engineer, Acupuncturist, Registered Nurse, Paramedic, Anaesthetist, Pathologist, Veterinary Nurse, Chemist, Marine Biologist, Medical Physicist, Microbiologist, Chemical Engineer, Biochemist, Biomedical Engineer, Biotechnologist, Metal Worker, Phlebotomist, Agricultural/Horticultural Scientist, Agricultural/Horticultural Consultant, Zoologist, Science Technician, Environmental Scientist, Ranger, Geospatial Specialist
Contributions and Equipment/Stationery$30 Education Perfect
$25 Additional resources (Bestchoice)
2B8 Exercise book or Refill pad and Clearfile
Highlighters x6
Scientific Calculator, eg fx-82AU