Summer Work + Reading for Incoming Pupils in A Level Chemistry
1. COMPULSORY TASK - MOLES Moles is a major component of the first topic in International A Level Chemistry. Therefore, a summer task is to brush up on your understanding of moles, especially if you have not previously studied triple sciences at IGCSE level. a) Review the IGCSE basics: Save My Exams – Topic 3 Stoichiometry b) Attempt these A Level style back titration questions If you wish to consolidate your Chemistry knowledge moving to A Level, there is an optional bridging book which supports the move from IGCSE to A Level - Head Start to A-level Chemistry which is published by CGP (ISBN: 9781782942801)
2. OPTIONAL TASK – SUBJECT WIDER READING Please pick one of the following books to read: a) Stuff Matters (Mark Miodownik) ISBN: 978-0544483941 - Materials science explained through the chemistry of ordinary objects. b) The Disappearing Spoon (Sam Kean) ISBN: 978-0316388276 - A highly readable tour of the periodic table through strange historical stories and discoveries. c) Periodic Tales: The Curious Lives of the Elements (Hugh Aldersey-Williams) ISBN: 978-0141041452 - A literary and cultural exploration of the elements. d) Bad Science (Ben Goldacre) ISBN: 978-0007284870 - Essential reading for evaluating claims and understanding scientific reasoning. Mr Goldacre has also given a TED Talk on this topic. 3. FOR INTEREST – CHEMISTRY YOUTUBE CHANNELS For Curiosity: i.
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Periodic Videos Created at the University of Nottingham, this is a chemistry education channel created by the Poliakoff Research Group. NileRed (my favourite!) Advanced but fascinating experimental chemistry demonstrations. The earlier videos are stronger.