Level 3 Chemistry (L3CHE)

Overview

This course expands on the material covered in L2 Chemistry.

What will I learn?

  • AS3.2 Spectroscopy (4 weeks)

Use spectroscopic data to determine the composition of organic molecules.

  • AS3.4 Thermochemistry and properties of particles (6 weeks)

Properties of particles (electron configurations and trends in atomic properties), molecular and ionic substances (bonding, shapes and polarity). Heat transfer and energy changes for processes, including calculations of enthalpy changes. Explore the concept of entropy.

  • AS3.5 Organic compounds (6 weeks)

The names, structures, properties and reactions of alkenes, alkynes, haloalkanes, amines, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, esters, acyl chlorides, amides.

  • AS3.6 Equilibrium and aqueous systems (6 weeks)

The use of equilibrium principles to describe the composition of aqueous solutions, including acids and bases and the dissolving of sparingly soluble substances.

  • AS3.7 Oxidation-Reduction processes (4 weeks)

Using oxidation-reduction reactions to understand how electrochemical and electrolytic cells work.

There is an optional practical chemical investigation (AS3.1) Students who are interested in completing this may choose a topic or be given a topic by the teacher. This Achievement Standard would need to be completed outside of normal class time.

What should I have done already?

Students must have completed the L2 Chemistry course and gained at least 14 credits having gained 'Achieved' grades in at least two of the externally assessed Achievement Standards.

Assessment outline

L3CHE

Assessment regulations

There will be two internal assessments during the year. There WILL NOT be any reassessment opportunities offered.

The final examination in November assesses the three external standards.

It is vital that you read and understand the rules relating to NCEA in the Student Handbook. The following rules are emphasized here:

Late Work

Work submitted late for the internally assessed standards will not be marked.

If you have a genuine reason why you are unable to submit work by the due date or unable to take part in an assessment on the set day, then you are able to apply for an extension. This should occur prior to the due date/date of assessment, not after. Approach your subject teacher and make your case. Read the NCEA Student Handbook for more detail.

Authenticity and Appeals

These issues are dealt with by the college’s assessment procedures. Essentially all work must be your own. If you copy anything from the internet or a book, you must attribute the source of the work. Do not claim it as your own! You have the right to appeal a grade if you consider you have been treated unfairly. Read your NCEA Student Handbook for details.

Where does this course lead?

L3 Chemistry is a prerequisite for University study in many science degree courses such as chemistry, biochemistry, molecular genetics, micro-biology, zoology, marine science, various health sciences, agricultural science and engineering.

Indicative costs

For all indicative course costs please see the Course Costs Page.