Chemistry

Chemistry at Blouberg International School is experiential and hands-on; students conduct experiments, research ideas and work together in order to understand the world around them.

In simplified terms, the science of chemistry deals with the properties, composition, and structure of substances and how these substances interact with one another.  In the IGCSE, AS and A-level chemistry curricula, topics of study are divided into three broad categories:  physical chemistry, inorganic chemistry and organic chemistry. In each category students learn about chemical theories and processes that are relevant to their lives and to the challenges faced in the world around us.

A strong emphasis is placed on how past and current chemical processes affect the environment and the lives of others.  We have had many lively classroom debates about alternative sources of energy, agriculture and the use of fertilizers, food security and transport.  The Cambridge curriculum allows students to be exposed to scientific applications on a global level – illustrating how countries around the world have approached these issues and found possible sustainable solutions.  Our classroom discussions have also focused on solutions for the African and South African context:  identifying our unique resources and challenges and how we can improve on our current processes.

Practicals are another important component of chemistry.  Students are empowered to work independently, make discoveries for themselves and apply their theoretical knowledge in a laboratory setting.  In the final AS Chemistry examinations, each student carries out their own two-hour practical in which they complete both quantitative and qualitative analyses.  Using both their theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills, students calculate the quantity of a compound given using various laboratory techniques.  In the second half of the examination they apply their knowledge to identify unknown substances using various chemical tests.  The AS and A-level curricula prepare students very well for university by providing them with a solid foundational understanding of chemistry principles and laboratory techniques.

Philippa Goch
High School Chemistry Teacher