Chemistry
Why study Chemistry?
Chemistry is the study of matter in the process of change: it attempts to understand what is going on when substances change so that we may predict, prevent or control such change. We live in a world whose materials are constantly changing and the facts and principles of chemistry are central to the understanding of biological, geological and technological processes to name just a few. The discipline of chemistry is a creative science which mirrors and dialogues with the processes of nature. To grow in understanding of chemistry is to grow in understanding of the processes that underpin life itself in all its variety.
A study of Chemistry should provide an opportunity for, and assistance in, the further development of students' abilities to access, process and communicate information so that they might be culturally and scientifically informed and aware. To achieve these global aims, Senior Chemistry provides learning experiences that will assist students to develop:
Coursework
The Chemistry course at the Aldridge State High School is constructed around a unitized approach that seeks to provide a thorough grounding in the principles of Chemistry that are then applied across a range of areas. Certain areas are introduced in year eleven and then extended in year twelve. The following topics are studied.
- The composition of and changes in matter, the particulate nature of matter, the structure of the Periodic Table, predicting chemical reactions, balancing chemical equations
- Stoichiometry, the periodic nature of chemical properties of elements, the nature of chemical bonding and its effect on the properties of matter.
- An introductory study of energy and its relationship to chemical change is also included
- Acids and bases, thermodynamics (involving a study of reaction rates and the nature of chemical equilibrium), together with oxidation-reduction
- Electrochemistry, gas laws and organic (carbon) chemistry
All students participate in laboratory work that is regarded as being integral to the course rather than just an important adjunct.
Students are encouraged to enjoy competition by participating in the R.A.C.I. Chemistry and Titration competitions and the Chemistry Olympiad. The course aims to be academic, innovative, challenging and stimulating. Students who are particularly gifted will have the opportunity to be challenged beyond the usual requirements for Secondary level Chemistry courses. All students will be challenged and aided by teachers motivated to bring out the best in their students.