Chemistry

    AQA
    GCSE

    Specification: 8462

    Chemistry explores the building blocks of our world - from atoms to complex compounds. You'll learn about atomic structure, bonding, reactions and energy changes, developing practical skills alongside theoretical understanding.

    11

    Topics

    133

    Objectives

    0

    Exam Tips

    0

    Pitfalls

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    Key Features

    • Master chemical calculations
    • Conduct required practicals safely
    • Understand organic chemistry
    • Analyse rates and equilibria

    Assessment Objectives

    AO1
    40%

    Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: • scientific ideas • scientific techniques and procedures

    AO2
    40%

    Apply knowledge and understanding of: • scientific ideas • scientific enquiry, techniques and procedures

    AO3
    20%

    Analyse information and ideas to: • interpret and evaluate • make judgements and draw conclusions • develop and improve experimental procedures

    What Gets Top Grades

    A*/Grade 9

    Knowledge & Understanding

    Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge

    • Uses correct subject-specific terminology
    • Shows detailed understanding of concepts
    • Makes accurate connections between topics
    • Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge

    Application

    Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts

    • Selects relevant knowledge for the question
    • Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
    • Uses examples appropriately
    • Shows awareness of context

    Analysis & Evaluation

    Develops sophisticated analytical arguments

    • Constructs logical chains of reasoning
    • Considers multiple perspectives
    • Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
    • Acknowledges limitations and nuances

    Key Command Words

    AQA
    State
    1 mark

    Give a single fact or term

    Identify
    1 mark

    Name, select, or recognise

    Outline
    2 marks

    Set out main features briefly

    Describe
    2-4 marks

    Give an account of what something is like or what happens

    Explain
    3-6 marks

    Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains

    Compare
    2-4 marks

    State similarities AND differences (both required)

    Analyse
    6-9 marks

    Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains

    Evaluate
    6-12 marks

    Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion

    Assess
    6-12 marks

    Make judgments about importance with justification

    Calculate
    2-4 marks

    Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units

    Exam Structure

    AQA GCSE (8462)

    Paper 1: Atomic structure; Bonding; Quantitative chemistry; Chemical changes; Energy changes

    1h 45m

    Duration

    100

    Marks

    50%

    Weighting

    Paper 2: Rate and equilibrium; Organic chemistry; Chemical analysis; Chemistry of the atmosphere; Using resources

    1h 45m

    Duration

    100

    Marks

    50%

    Weighting

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