The CCEA GCSE Chemistry specification develops students’ knowledge and understanding of the material world and the effects of chemistry on society.

Students learn about organic chemistry, quantitative chemistry and electrochemistry. They apply their understanding of the scientific process in the laboratory and develop their observational and problem-solving skills.

Practical science is a key part of this specification, with students carrying out nine prescribed practicals during the course.

Our GCSE science specifications are the only ones to directly examine practical work, a core element of the subject, as part of a unit titled Practical Skills. There is also a written exam for each unit.

All parts of the assessment are externally marked.

This qualification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed through the Science and Technology Area of Learning.

This specification is unitised, so it’s possible to take part of the assessment before the end of the course.

The specification has three units:

• Unit 1: Structures, Trends, Chemical Reactions, Quantitative Chemistry and Analysis
• Unit 2: Further Chemical Reactions, Rates and Equilibrium, Calculations and Organic Chemistry
• Unit 3: Practical Skills.