What does the course entail?

Chemistry is the study of materials and substances, and the transformations they undergo through interactions and the transfer of energy. Chemists can use an understanding of chemical structures and processes to adapt, control and manipulate systems to meet particular economic, environmental and social needs. Chemistry develops students' understanding of the key chemical concepts and models of structure, bonding and chemical change, including the role of chemical, electrical and thermal energy. Students learn how models of structure and bonding enable chemists to predict properties and reactions and to adapt these for particular purposes.
Studying Chemistry provides students with a suite of skills and understandings that are valuable to a wide range of further study pathways and careers including those in forensic science, environmental science, engineering, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and sports science. Some students will use this course as a foundation to pursue further studies in chemistry and all students will become more informed citizens, able to use chemical knowledge to inform evidence-based decision making and engage critically with contemporary scientific issues.

What will be covered in this course?

YEAR 11
UNITS 1 & 2

Students will study two units, with each unit broken into the topics:
  • Properties and structure of atoms
  • Properties and structure of materials
  • Chemical reactions: reactants, products and energy change
  • Aqueous solutions and acidity
  • Rates of chemical reactions

Assessment Structure
Students will be assessed using the following assessment types:
  • 15% Test
  • 25% Science inquiry (Practical/Investigation)
  • 10% Extended Response
  • 50% Exam

YEAR 12
UNITS 3 & 4

Students will study two units, with each unit broken into the topics:
  • Chemical equilibrium systems
  • Acids and bases
  • Oxidation and reduction
  • Properties and structure of organic material
  • Chemical synthesis

Assessment Structure
Students undertaking this subject will encounter a variety of assessment types.
  • 50% Exams
  • 20% Test
  • 20% Science inquiry (practical/investigation)
  • 10% Extended response
Expectations
Students will be required to study, as well as complete homework and research tasks out of class time. Past students have found this load to be approximately 30 minutes per night.
Studying multiple science courses in Year 11
Please note that while students may receive a recommendation for all four ATAR sciences, it is only with the approval of the HOLA that students may undertake more than two science courses.
Head of Learning Area: Mrs Michelle Prasad
Contact Number: 9591 4218
​Contact Email: [email protected]