IB | Chemistry (SL)(HL) – Leighton Park

IB Chemistry

Course Overview

IB Chemistry can be studied at Standard and Higher Level.

The IBDP Chemistry course aims to provide the student with the knowledge, methods and techniques that enable students to study Chemistry in a global context, fostering and developing their practical, theoretical, creative and analytical skills.  The material will stimulate them to extend their learning independently, to evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources, including ICT based materials, books, magazines and periodicals.  They will also be encouraged through Science and Technology lectures and presentations arranged either on site or through educational visits. The distinction between SL and HL is one of breadth and depth.

Students will study how scientific information is generated and communicated, how it has evolved and how scientific method is deployed in today’s increasingly technologically based society.  They will be expected to be able to analyse the impact of scientific developments on modern society from moral, social, ethical, economic and environmental perspectives.

The aim of the syllabus is to integrate concepts, topic content and the Nature of Science through inquiry. For this reason the course is split into 4 distinct topic areas: Materials, Fuels, Controlling Reactions and Medicinal Chemistry. Each topic starts by covering the relevant knowledge and skills, leading to specific applications or case studies.

The syllabus aims to encourage a hands on inquiry approach wherever possible such as a new set of practical skills, under the titles of ‘Tools and Inquiry’   have been introduced. As part of the course a Higher Level student will complete 60 hours of practical work (Standard level 40 hours), 10 of which will be Collaborative Sciences project (formally the  ‘Group 4 project’) and 10 hours will be the Scientific Investigation.

As part of the skills programme the syllabus we will also incorporate several other areas to include Nature of Science, International-mindedness, Theory of Knowledge and ICT.

Assessment is by examinations and an individual investigation (10 hours).

Skills gained on this course

• An open-ended, thinking and questioning approach to Chemistry
• An appreciation of the possibilities, as well as limitations, associated with Chemistry and Chemists and of the importance of international collaboration to resolving issues of a scientific nature
• An awareness of moral, ethical social, economic and environmental implications of using Chemistry in both a national and international context
• An understanding of the interconnection of all scientific disciplines
• Communication, evaluation analysis, ICT and research skills.

Beyond IB

IB Chemistry is recognised as the appropriate route for entry into degree courses in Medicine and related subjects, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Pharmacology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biochemistry.  It is a recommended choice for those studying any Physical Science, Environmental Sciences, Forensic Science and Materials Science.  The IBDP course in addition offers the broader perspectives and skills in languages, theory of knowledge, critical thinking, problem-solving and independent learning, all highly valued by both universities and employers.

To find out more about this course please contact Acting Head of Department: David Hammond.

To apply for our Sixth Form please see our Admissions page.