Chemistry

Chemists have a bigger role in everyday life than you might realise.  Without chemistry, life would be very different!

Chemistry is not an isolated discipline, for it merges into physics and biology.  It is the science of the materials that make up our physical world.  The Curriculum provided by the department is delivered through all years from S1 to Senior 6 inclusive.    

Senior 1

Chemical Reactions

Rates of Reactions

Acids and Alkalis rusting and metals

This takes form of a practical course where the pupils are encouraged to learn lab skills and benefit from their study of Chemistry.

As part of the course Investigations are carried out and assessed by the class teacher.

Senior 2-Senior 4 (Standard Grade)

Topics covered:

  • Atoms and the Periodic Tables
  • Bonding
  • Fuels
  • Structure and Reaction of Hydrocarbons
  • Properties of Substances
  • Acids, Alkalis, The Mole and Solutions
  • Reactions of Acids
  • Making Electricity
  • Metals
  • Corrosion
  • Using Electricity
  • Plastics
  • Fertilisers
  • Carbohydrates and Alcohol

Practical Techniques and Investigations/Practical Abilities element part of the course:

These are assessed internally and the grade obtained is sent to the SQA. They are liable for Moderation by the SQA periodically.

General Level Practical Techniques attempted, these are done in Senior 3 in June

1.     Solubility Testing

2.     Filtration

3.     Electrolysing Solutions

Credit Level Practical Techniques attempted, these are done in Senior 3 in June

1.     Acid/Base Titrations

2.     Distillation

Each pupil in Senior 3 and 4 attempts two Investigations, and are drawn from:

1.     Lather

2.     Voltage

3.     Rusting

4.     Current

5.     Inks

All pupil materials relating to the Practical Skills and Investigations are located in the appropriate laboratory.

Senior 5 - Higher Grade

Topics covered as numbered in the SQA arrangements document for Higher Still

Unit 1 Energy Matters                          

Unit 2 The World of Carbon                  

Unit 3 Chemical Reactions                    

Outcome 3 for each unit practical assessment is carried out as appropriate time throughout the course.

Course material is Chemcord. Pre-printed pupil notes are completed as pupils are taken through the various topics. End of Topic summary files are used. Homework is provided by "Revision Questions for Higher Grade Chemistry" by Melrose and Buchanan (Chemcord).

Senior 6-Advanced Higher Chemistry

Topics covered as numbered in the SQA arrangements document:

1.        Electronic Structure And The Periodic Table  

2.        Principles Of Chemical Reactions                  

3.        Organic Chemistry                                        

Course materials for this are provided in the form of department written or bought in pupil study guides containing appropriate notes and exercises.  A homework question booklet is also available for additional work.

Practical Work - 3 write-ups are required to fulfil Outcome 3 Project Work -

Investigation