You have probably heard the horror stories of Year 12 Chemistry; the complex nature of galvanic cells, mastering the flow of particles in systems, and being able to remember the entirety of the organic pathways sheet ... It’s a lot to work through. Fret not, this guide from KIS Academics will help you better understand what is taught in Y12 Chemistry, and how to master it.
- What is the QCE Chemistry Syllabus?
- How is QCE Chemistry assessed?
- How to Prepare for Assessments?
- FAQs
QCE Chemistry Syllabus
Unit 1
In Unit 1, students relate matter and energy in chemical reactions as they study both the breaking and forming of bonds on a molecular level. You will also be taught about the many different implications the structure of an molecule has on its properties.
The first unit you will delve into for QCE Chemistry is the very fundamentals – the structure of an atom. You will learn:
- The manner in which atoms are formed
- How to analyse the atomic model
- Notation for an atom and how it changes with structural alteration, such as the formation of an isotope.
- Periodic tables and trends are a part of Unit 1 that you will carry through with you all the way to your external!
The final topics in QCE Chemistry Unit 1 can be summarised into the following: exploring the properties of molecules based on their structures, and calculating the energy change in chemical reactions through analysis of the products and reactants.
Unit 2
The next unit is Molecular Interactions and Reactions. You will develop an understanding of the physical and chemical properties of materials such as gases, aqueous solutions, and acids and bases. You will also investigate the solubility of a variety of substances in water and solutions.
Your first topic lies with intermolecular forces – VSEPR theory, bond angles, orbitals, and physical properties dominate this topic. This topic will also focus on gases, specifically using the ‘ideal gas formula’ and analysing the kinetic theory of gases. This unit gets capped off with rates of reaction, investigating how and why items like catalysts increase the rate of reaction.
Unit 3
Here, you would have officially entered your first ATAR term of QCE Chemistry, where content will be tested at the end of the year on your external exam. With IA1’s up soon, it’s really important that you pay close attention. Unit 3 of chemistry looks at Equilibrium, Acids, and Redox Reactions.
This unit begins with equilibrium systems, where we analyse Le Chateliers Principle and how reversible reactions are used to maintain an equilibrium constant. This unit then moves forward into factors affecting equilibrium, and then applying these principles to Bronsted-Lowry acids and bases and changes in pH. This opens the door for volumetric analysis, which is one of the maths heavy topics you will do in QCE Chemistry, using a lot of concentrations and volumes to rearrange equations.
The majority of Unit 3 is to do with redox reactions, more specifically the ones that take place during electrolytic and galvanic cells, dictated by the standard electrode potentials.
Unit 4
You’re finally in the home stretch – Structure, Synthesis, and Design. In this unit, your memory more than anything will be tested. Across all topics, you will be given a wide variety of organic pathways, structures, artificial processes, principles of chemistry, and many more.
Whilst memory is the main factor in this Unit, you should still do written practice questions, and focus on truly understanding the content rather than memorising the words.
How is QCE Chemistry Assessed?
IA1 – Data Test – 10%
- Drawing conclusions from provided data sets
- Using information provided
- Less recalling of theoretical knowledge
- Extracting evidence and applying understanding
IA2 – Student Experiment – 20%
- 2000 words or less
- Design and execute an experiment to answer a research question
- Modifying/extending a pre-existing experiment
- Analysing data and drawing conclusions based on findings
- Heavy on ‘The Scientific Method’
IA3 – Research Investigation – 20%
- 2000 words or less
- Researching, analysing, and interpreting secondary evidence
- Credible sources are key!!!
- Form justified conclusions through reputable scientific research
EA – External Assessment – 50%
- 2 separate papers:
- Paper 1 (90 minutes)
- Paper 2 (90 minutes)
- The same exact paper given to all schools
- Assesses your knowledge on the subject matter throughout the entire Unit 3 and Unit 4 syllabus
- Consists of a combination of short response, long response, multiple choice, and data test style questions
Manoj Arachige
How to Prepare for Assessments?
1. Study for the Exam Questions
- Exams are pretty simple to study for – you study the questions they’re going to ask.
- For a data test, you want to make sure you’re doing questions with data sets and provided evidence, so you train your ability to draw conclusions and interpret information, rather than recall content.
2. Stay on Top of Assignments
- For assignments, it’s about staying ahead; make sure that you don’t leave the bulk of work for the last minute, and check and edit as you go.
- It’s also important to take advantage of every opportunity you’re given, whether that be assignment exemplars, research question hints, or feedback from your teachers.
Manoj Arachige
Conclusion
Chemistry is a fantastic subject for everyone, but you have to love a challenge. Nobody breezes through the whole of QCE Chemistry. The anxiety of struggling with the content is normal in such a strenuous subject, but it should not be a reason to avoid it.
Chemistry not only helps develop a wide array of skills in the content it tests you on, but is fascinating in its complex and intricate nature. I can personally attest to loving the subject despite struggling in it for a while – and it helps that it consistently scales so well. If you ever do find yourself needing that bit of extra help, feel free to reach out to our amazing community of tutors at KIS Academics.
FAQs
How can I get an A in Chemistry?
- Master the syllabus: Use the QCAA syllabus as a checklist.
- Understand cognitive verbs: Know what is required when questions ask you to “explain,” “justify,” or “evaluate.”
- Practice calculations: Focus on stoichiometry, equilibrium, pH, and redox calculations.
- Use past papers: Practice under timed conditions and review marking guides.
What Practical Skills are Assessed?
- Drawing conclusions from data (IA1)
- Designing, conducting, and analysing experiments (IA2)
- Understanding risk assessment and safety in experiments
- Applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios in exam questions
What Resources can I use to Study for Chemistry?
- QCAA Syllabus
- Past year papers
- Tutoring
Written by KIS Academics Tutor for QCE Chemistry, Physics, Biology and English/Literature tutor – Muhammad Akbar. Muhammad is currently studying a Bachelor of Medical Science at Central Queensland University, with guaranteed provisional entry into the University of Queensland’s Doctor of Medicine degree. He is an experienced tutor, and balances his pursuit of excellence with dedication to his students. You can view Muhammad’s profile here and request him as a tutor.
Want personalised study guidance to help drastically improve your marks? A private tutor can make the biggest difference!
