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*

Course title IGCSE CHEMISTRY
Course code 0620
Examinations Core papers 1, 2 and 5
papers 1, 2, 3 and 5

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.

• 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

Practical work

Throughout the course there is as much emphasis placed upon practical work as possible and students learn a wide range of laboratoty techniques. Safety is always a priority as are the inclusion of aspects of pollution and finite energy resources.