Chemistry Units 1 & 2
This subject is the study of a combination of Chemical Science and mathematics. Chemistry is looked at from a theoretical and practical point of view, involving laboratory experiments, inquiry based activities, independent research and practical investigations, and may include excursion and incursions. Unit 1 and 2 VCE chemistry enables the students to explore the diversity of materials and the unique properties of water.
Areas of Study
Unit 1: The diversity of materials
- Elements and the periodic table
- Metallic, ionic and covalent bonding
- Carbon lattices and carbon nanomaterials
- Quantifying chemistry and compounds
- Organic chemistry and polymers
Unit 2: The unique properties of water
- Properties of water
- Water as a solvent
- Acid-base reactions
- Redox reaction in water
- Water sample analysis
- Measurement of solubility and concentration
Analysis for salts, organic compounds, and acids and bases in water
Assessment
All assessments for Unit 1 and 2 are school based. Assessments include:
- Unit 1 and 2 exams
- Independent research investigation (end of unit 1)
- Independent practical investigation (end of unit 2)
- Second hand data analysis
- Extended practical investigation
- Topic tests
- Practical reports
- A modelling activity
Excursion to the Aquarium
Previous Experience/Prerequisites
It is recommended that students have a pass in year 10 science.
Future Pathways
VCE Chemistry provides a pathway that can lead to a range of careers such as: organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, and biochemistry. Chemistry is also applied in many fields such as agriculture, bushfire research, dentistry, education, engineering, environmental sciences, forensic science, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, sports science, toxicology, veterinary science, horticulture, meteorology.
Chemistry Units 3 & 4
In this subject students apply chemical principles to explain and quantify the behaviour of matter, as well as undertake practical activities that involve the analysis and synthesis of a variety of materials.
Areas of Study
- What are the options for energy production?
- How can the yield of a chemical product be optimised?
- How can the diversity of carbon compounds be explained and categorised?
- What is the chemistry of food?
- Practical investigation
Assessment
Your internal assessment is based on your performance in tests and assessment tasks on the first four areas of study and a scientific poster on a student- designed practical investigation. There is an external examination at the end of the year.
Previous Experience/Prerequisites
No previous experience is required for Unit 3. However, successful completion of Unit 1 and 2 Chemistry is strongly recommended and bridging work might be set by the teacher if Unit 1 and 2 were not completed satisfactorily. Satisfactory completion of Unit 3 is required for entry into Unit 4.
Future Pathways
This subject is particularly valuable for those considering tertiary study in Medicine, Pharmacology, Engineering and Sciences or working in technical fields dealing with the environment, food and chemicals.