Frequently asked questions

What awards will be available in this specification?

GCE Chemistry is comprised of two levels: AS and A2. The AS can be taken as a ‘stand-alone’ qualification without progression to A2. However, to obtain the Advanced GCE qualification, students will have to complete both the AS and A2 levels.

Both the AS and A Level qualifications will be awarded on a six-grade scale: A*, A, B, C, D and E. Students who fail to reach the minimum standard for a Grade E will be recorded as U (unclassified) and will not receive an AS or A Level certificate.

What units will students study for this award?

The specification has a modular structure and students will be required to study three modules at each level. The modules are listed below and are all compulsory:

AS Level

AS 1: Basic Concepts in Physical and Inorganic Chemistry
AS 2: Further Physical and Inorganic Chemistry and Introduction to Organic Chemistry
AS 3: Internal Assessment

A2 Level

A2 1: Periodic Trends and Further Organic, Physical and Inorganic Chemistry
A2 2: Analytical, Transition Metals, Electrochemistry and Further Organic Chemistry
A2 3: Internal Assessment: Practical Examination

What are the weightings of each module?

The weighting of each module is listed in the table below:

Unit	Weighting
AS 1: Basic Concepts in Physical and Inorganic Chemistry	35% of AS 17.5% of AL
AS 2: Further Physical and Inorganic Chemistry and Introduction to Organic Chemistry	35% of AS 17.5% of AL
AS 3: Internal Assessment	30% of AS 15% of AL
A2 1: Periodic Trends and Further Organic, Physical and Inorganic Chemistry	20% of AL
A2 2: Analytical, Transition Metals, Electrochemistry and Further Organic Chemistry	20% of AL
A2 3: Internal Assessment: Practical Examination	10% of AL

What are the prerequisites for this course?

The AS builds on, but does not depend upon, the knowledge, understanding and skills developed within GCSE Science: Chemistry and/or GCSE Science: Double Award. The A2 section of the Advanced GCE builds upon the foundations of knowledge, understanding and skills developed within the AS.

Are there any prohibited combinations for GCE Chemistry?

Yes, in any one series of examinations, students may not take examinations on this specification with examinations on another specification of the same title.

There is a national classification code assigned to every specification indicating the subject area to which it belongs. The classification code for this specification is 1110.

Centres should be aware that students who enter for more than one GCE qualification with the same classification code will only be awarded one grade (the highest).

Will students be able to re-sit assessment units?

Yes, students will be allowed to re-sit AS and A2 assessment units. The best result for each assessment unit will count towards the AS and A Level qualifications.