I.G.C.S.E

Introduction

The International General Certificate of Education (IGCSE) is an examination set by the University of Cambridge and is of a similar level (some would say higher) to the based UK GCSE examination. It is a two year optional course beginning in Year 10. The examination is taken in May or June of Year 11 and consists of three written papers and a practical examination.

It can be taken at two levels.

1. Core level, maximum grade=C
2. Extended level, maximum grade A*

Programme of study

Please note that the full course specification is available from this department as is issued to all students at the start of the course. This gives a detailed breakdown of all that follows. For practical purposes it is not included here.

Term 1

• Atomic structure, formulae, equations and bonding, acids, bases and salts

Term 2

• Mathematical concepts, calculations, the mole

Term 3

• Chemical energetics, gases and industrial processes

Term 4

• Rate of reaction, equilibria and kinetic theory

Term 5

• Sulphur, Carbonates, more industrial chemistry, organic chemistry

Term 6

• Revision and examination preparation

A Level

Programme of study

Term 1

• Physical Chemistry 1: Atomic structure in terms of spdf notation, bonding.

Term 2

• Inorganic Chemistry 1: Group chemistry with trends within a group.

Term 3

• Organic Chemistry 1: Carbon chemistry with simple functional groups. Revision and preparation for the AS examination.

Term 4

• Physical Chemistry 2: Equilibria and energetics. Industrial processes.

Term 5

• Inorganic and Organic Chemistry 2: Functional group analysis, synthesis and reactions.

Term 6

• Examination preparation

Key skills

• Numeracy: built into the course
• Communication: Demonstration of an experiment to the group.
• Information Technology: Presentation graphics used to build up a concept such as electron orbital arrangement.
• Development: built into the course. A review of accuracy and criticism of practical work will also be included.