IB Chemistry

Course Description

Grade(s): 11-12                        Level: IB HL or SL                        Credit(s): 2 in Science

Prerequisite(s): General Chemistry, Algebra 2/Trigonometry

"Chemistry is the central Science.  Chemical principles underpin the physical environment in which we live, and all biological systems.  As such, the subject of Chemistry is also a pre-requisite for many other courses in higher education, such as medicine, biological and environmental sciences."

Currently IB Chemistry higher and standard levels (HL and SL) are offered at ISP.  The topics covered are mainly the same, but they are studied more in depth in the HL course. The students can choose the level considering their interests and needs.

In the first year, the course starts by reviewing the mole concept and its applications, including stoichiometry.  Then, the following general topics are explored: atomic theory, bonding, states of matter, energetics, kinetics, and equilibrium.  The first year (IB Chemistry a) sets the basis for the second year  (IB Chemistry b) allowing the students to predict the behavior of matter based on a solid basic knowledge of aspects as the expected shapes and types of particles involved in each specific type of substance.

IB Chemistry b starts by completing this basic knowledge with general chemistry topics which include acids and bases, oxidation-reduction, analysis, coordination compounds, and Gibbs free energy  to predict spontaneity.  Then Organic Chemistry is explored to set the basis for further studies in Chemistry and other related sciences.  Finally, Biochemistry and Environmental Chemistry are introduced as one of the options for both, HL and SL courses.  Other options could be implemented instead of the two previously mentioned.

After school hours may be required due to the breadth and depth of the IB course of studies.