Chemistry - KS4

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GCSE Chemistry at SJB inspires students to develop a profound understanding of the material world through a rigorous and engaging curriculum. As a powerful lens for exploring and caring for creation, Chemistry equips students with the knowledge to appreciate the principles that govern chemical reactions, atomic structure, and the composition of matter. Studying chemistry lays a strong foundation for future academic pursuits, diverse careers, and lifelong scientific curiosity.

At SJB, students follow one of two science pathways: Combined Science or Separate Science (Triple Science). While both lead to GCSE qualifications, the Triple Science pathway offers a more rigorous and fast-paced curriculum, covering Biology, Chemistry and Physics as distinct GCSEs.

Student voice is valued in the decision-making process, and we actively listen to students’ aspirations, interests, and feedback. However, the final decision rests with the Curriculum Lead, who considers a range of factors including academic data, teacher insight, and student mindset. This ensures that each student is placed on the pathway that best supports their success, motivation, and long-term goals in science.

Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel

Qualification: Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9 - 1) in Chemistry (1CH0)

Edexcel GCSE Chemistry SpecificationScience Curriculum Map

Science Catholic Social Teaching Principles

Science is a core subject and all students study it through to GCSE either by following the Combined Science pathway or the Separate Science pathway. Below you can find out more information about the Chemistry GCSE studied by those selected for the Separate Science pathway.

Students studying GCSE Chemistry as part of the Separate Science pathway will sit two written examination papers:

  • Paper 1: Topics 1–5
  • Paper 2: Topics 1, 6–9
  • Each paper is 1 hour 45 minutes, worth 50% of the final Chemistry grade, and includes a mix of multiple-choice, short answer, calculation, and extended response questions.

All exams are taken in the same exam series (May/June)

  • All students following the separate science pathway at SJB sit the Higher Tier: Grades 4–9
  • Calculators may be used in all science examinations.
What Skills Are Assessed?
  • Knowledge and understanding of chemistry – 40%
  • Application of scientific ideas and methods – 40%
  • Analysis and evaluation of data and experiments – 20%
Grade Awarded

  • Students receive one GCSE grade for Chemistry (e.g. 9, 8, 7)

  • This grade reflects the performance in Chemistry only 

  • The grade ranges from 9 (highest) to 4 (lowest)

Paper Subject Topic
1 Chemistry 1 Key concepts in chemistry, states of matter and mixtures, chemical changes, extracting metals and equilibria, as well as advanced topics in separate chemistry.
2 Chemistry 2 Key concepts in chemistry, groups in the periodic table, rates of reaction and energy changes, fuels and Earth science, as well as advanced topics in separate chemistry.

 

Students complete 8 core practicals in chemistry in addition to the other scientific practicals that we have built in to the curriculum.
Below are three examples of the core practicals that help students develop essential scientific skills and deepen their understanding of key chemistry concepts. These investigations are assessed through the final exams.

Acid–Alkali Titration

Using a burette, pipette and a suitable indicator students determine the concentration of an acid or alkali by titration, using indicators to find the endpoint. This is an essential skill for any aspiring chemist that promotes meticulous handling of precise equipment.

Qualitative Analysis on Unknowns

Students identify the ions in unknown salts, using the tests for the specified cations and anions such as flame tests, gas tests, and precipitation reactions.

Electrolysis

Students nvestigate the electrolysis of copper sulfate solution with inert electrodes and copper electrodes in order to explore the products and mass changes.

Mathematical skills will account for at least 20% of the marks in the written assessments for GCSE Chemistry.

Across both Chemistry papers, students are expected to apply a range of mathematical techniques, including:

  • Arithmetic and numerical computation
  • Handling data
  • Algebra
  • Graphs
  • Geometry and trigonometry

These skills are assessed in the context of chemistry content, including practical work, data analysis, and theoretical questions. Students will encounter mathematical questions related to chemical calculations, interpreting experimental results, and analysing data from investigations. 

  1. Science teachers use formative assessment in every lesson to check understanding and guide learning. They are confident, adaptive practitioners who respond to the needs of all learners, ensuring that every student is supported and challenged appropriately.
  2. At the end of each topic, students complete a short online assessment to check their understanding of key knowledge and skills. These tests focus on the core scientific concepts from that unit, helping students demonstrate their understanding and application. The results allow teachers to quickly identify and address any gaps, ensuring that future learning builds on secure and confident foundations.
  3. Three times a year, students sit a written cumulative assessment in their Chemistry lessons. These assessments feature GCSE-style questions, tailored to the appropriate level, and cover multiple topics studied up to that point. This regular revisiting of content helps students strengthen their understanding, apply knowledge in exam-style conditions, and build confidence over time.
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