COMPULSORY TASK:

A-Level Chemistry will use your knowledge from GCSE and build on this to help you understand new and more demanding ideas. You need to complete the tasks to get you ready to start your studies in September. These activities directly link to the first 3 units you will study at A-Level Chemistry. They will be assessed in a mini-assessment in the 2nd lesson back, which (alongside) your initial assessment, will confirm your suitability for A-Level Chemistry.

It is expected that you will complete ALL the tasks in the document below and submit your work during your first Chemisrty lesson in September.

You can email l.dawson@springwoodhighschool.co.uk for any questions relating to the task or the A-Level course.

Compulsory Chemistry Summer Task Sheet Download

 

OPTIONAL EXTENSION:

Please read through the text in the document below, and answer all the questions.

Optional Extension Chemistry Summer Task Sheet Download

 

COURSE MATERIALS REQUIRED:

You will need to purchase:

• Ring binder folders
• Plastic wallets
• Pens, pencils, ruler etc
• Scientific calculator

 

ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDED READING:

We recommend the following text book/revision guides to help with your study of this course:

This pack contains a programme of activities and resources to prepare you to start an A level in Chemistry in September. It is aimed to be used after you complete your GCSE, throughout the remainder of the Summer term and over the Summer Holidays to ensure you are ready to start your course in September.

Recommended Books:

• Periodic Tales: The Curious Lives of the Elements - This book covers the chemical elements, where they come from and how they are used. There are loads of fascinating insights into uses for chemicals you would have never even thought about.
• Why Chemical Reactions Happen - Behind every spark, color change, or puff of gas lies a deeper story—a story of atoms reshuffling in a quest for stability. This book dives into the fascinating world of chemical reactions, exploring how and why substances transform. From the driving forces of energy and entropy to the invisible collisions that make or break bonds, you'll uncover the hidden logic that powers everything from fire to life itself. It's chemistry not as a set of rules, but as an unfolding drama of matter striving for balance.
• The Disappearing Spoon - The Disappearing Spoon takes the periodic table and brings it to life with amazing true stories. You’ll learn how the elements have been used to solve crimes, win wars, and even drive people mad. From poisonous elements to those that change the course of history, Sam Kean shows how chemistry is full of drama, surprises, and strange discoveries. Whether you're a science fan or just love a good story, this book will make you see the periodic table in a whole new way.