12 Chemistry

SACE Stage 2:  20 Credits / 2 Semesters / Science

SACE Website:  https://www.sace.sa.edu.au/web/chemistry

Pre-Requisite: An achievement level of ‘B’ or better in Stage 1 Chemistry.

 

SUBJECT OVERVIEW

In their study of Chemistry, students develop and extend their understanding of how the physical world is chemically constructed, the interaction between human activities and the environment, and the use that human beings make of the planet's resources.  They explore examples of how scientific understanding is dynamic and develops with new evidence, which may involve the application of new technologies.

Students consider examples of benefits and risks of chemical knowledge to the wider community, along with the capacity of chemical knowledge to inform public debate on social and environmental issues.  The study of Chemistry helps students to make informed decisions about interacting with and modifying nature, and explore options such as green or sustainable chemistry, which seeks to reduce the environmental impact of chemical products and processes.

Students integrate and apply a range of understanding, inquiry, and scientific thinking skills that encourage and inspire them to contribute their own solutions to current and future problems and challenges, and pursue future pathways, including in medical or pharmaceutical research, pharmacy, chemical engineering, and innovative product design.

Topics include

  • Monitoring the environment
  • Managing chemical processes
  • Organic & biological chemistry
  • Managing resources
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ASSESSMENT

In 2025 there are multiple options for assessment, as Chemistry or Scientific Studies. Scientific Studies students will complete the same learning tasks but will have a different set of assessment tasks, the most significant difference being a collaborative inquiry instead of an exam. This choice does not have to be made as part of the subject selection process, but should be discussed between student, family and teacher.

The following assessment types enable students to demonstrate their learning in Stage 2 Chemistry:

School assessment

  • Assessment type 1: investigations folio (30%)
  • Assessment type 2: skills and applications tasks (40%)

External assessment

  • Assessment type 3: examination (30%)

Students provide evidence of their learning through eight assessments, including the external assessment component.

Students complete:

  • At least two practical investigations
  • One investigation with a focus on science as a human endeavour
  • At least three skills and applications tasks
  • One examination (external)

The following assessment types enable students to demonstrate their learning in Stage 2 Scientific Studies:

School assessment

  • Assessment type 1: inquiry folio (50%)
  • Assessment type 2: collaborative inquiry (20%)

External assessment

  • Assessment type 3: individual inquiry (30%)

Students provide evidence of their learning through seven assessments, including the external assessment.

Students complete:

  • One inquiry folio, comprising:
    • Three tasks with a focus on science inquiry skills
    • One investigation with a focus on science as a human endeavour
    • One individual inquiry design proposal
  • One collaborative inquiry
  • One individual inquiry

Additional Information

Costs: Essentials Chemistry Workbook $60 (optional but recommended)

Chemistry requires confidently working through stoichiometry which includes calculations, converting between units and using algebra to rearrange formulae. Therefore, competence in numeracy skills strongly encouraged. Graphing or scientific calculator and notebook are needed for this topic.

To be successful in this subject, completion of Stage 1 Chemistry to a B standard or better is recommended as well as ongoing and significant study outside of the classroom.

All subject costs are subject to approval, are approximate and subject to change in 2025.

Last updated: July 2024

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