Chemistry-Shanghai High School International Division

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Chemistry

Nature of the Subject

Chemistry is an experimental science that combines academic study with the acquisition of practical and investigational skills. It is concerned with the study of the materials of our environment, their properties and the way in which they react with each other. Chemistry is a broad science that touches nearly every aspect of human life.

Aims of the Subject

The general aims of chemistry are to inspire in the students:

1.An understanding of the facts, principles, and concepts of chemistry.

2.The ability to analyze information related to the study of chemistry.

3.The ability to apply knowledge and chemistry and other scientific skills.

4.Preparation for further study of pure and applied chemistry and other sciences in higher education.

5.The ability to communicate scientific ideas, both orally and in written form.

6.The development of experimental and investigative scientific skills.

7.Raise the awareness of the moral, ethical, social, economic and environmental implication of using science and technology.

8.The development of an appreciation of the possibilities and limitations associated with science and scientist.

Practical work is an integral part of the subject. The students’ practical skills should be developed as the result of direct and personal involvement in practical scientific activities, not through teacher demonstration. The students’ hands-on practical activities should occupy 15~35% of the total teaching time.

Contents and Courses

Chemistry is offered for students of grades 9 to 12 which is a compulsory in grade 9 and became elective from grade 10.

Grade/Level	Standard	Standard Plus (G9 only)	Honor	AP Chemistry	IB Chemistry	A level Chemistry	Organic Chemistry
9	Nature of Chemistry，Atomic Structure，Chemical Bonds
10	Interaction of Matter, Stoichiometry，States of Matter
11	Kinetics, Chemical Equilibrium, Acids and Bases			AP Chemistry	IB Chemistry HL/SL	AS
12	Redox chemistry, Thermodynamics, Organic chemistry			AP Chemistry	IB Chemistry HL/SL	A2	Fundamentals of organic chemistry

Philosophy of Teaching

1. An inquiry-based teaching. Enable students to experience and practice scientific methods.

2. Build up the connection between chemistry and real life, and allow students have opportunities to experience the integration of chemistry and different disciplines.

3. Flexible teaching strategies to satisfy the demands from different students.

4. Utilize technologies effectively such as data loggers and online teaching platforms.

Science Laboratories

Lab work accompanies our courses and will be focused on acquiring basic lab and research skills. In high school the research and teaching labs include General Chemistry Lab, Modern Analytical Chemistry Lab, and Digital Analysis Lab, providing students with innovative teaching and learning spaces.