Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry (0620 & 0971)

Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry (0620 & 0971)

1. Overview

  • About the Course
    • Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry develops understanding of the principles and concepts of chemistry and their application in real-world contexts.
    • Designed for students aged 14–16.
    • Prepares learners for advanced study (AS & A Levels, IB, AP).
  • Exam Codes:
    • 0620 → IGCSE Chemistry (Core/Extended)
    • 0971 → IGCSE Chemistry (9–1 Grading, UK)

2. Aims & Goals

The syllabus aims to enable students to:

  • Develop a broad understanding of chemical facts, concepts, and principles.
  • Apply knowledge to new situations (problem solving & data analysis).
  • Gain experimental and investigative skills.
  • Appreciate chemistry’s role in society, economy, and environment.
  • Prepare for further studies in chemistry and related fields.

3. Assessment Objectives

Students are assessed on:

  1. Knowledge with understanding (definitions, facts, concepts, vocabulary).
  2. Handling information and problem solving (data interpretation, predictions, calculations).
  3. Experimental skills and investigations (practical techniques, safety, data recording).

Weighting:

  • AO1 (Knowledge): ~50%
  • AO2 (Application/Problem Solving): ~30%
  • AO3 (Practical Skills): ~20%

4. Syllabus Content – Key Topics

Core (for grades C–G)

  1. States of Matter
  2. Atoms, Elements, Compounds
  3. Atomic Structure
  4. Ions and Ionic Bonding
  5. Covalent Bonding
  6. Metallic Bonding
  7. The Periodic Table
  8. Chemical Reactions & Equations
  9. Acids, Bases, and Salts
  10. Metals and Reactivity Series
  11. Air and Atmosphere
  12. Carbonates
  13. Organic Chemistry (Intro)

Extended (additional topics for grades A–E)*

  1. Moles and Stoichiometry
  2. Redox Reactions & Electrolysis
  3. Energetics (Enthalpy changes, Bond energies)
  4. Rates of Reaction & Catalysis
  5. Chemical Equilibrium
  6. Detailed Organic Chemistry (Hydrocarbons, Alcohols, Esters, Polymers)
  7. Qualitative Analysis (Anion/Cation tests, gases)
  8. Further Industrial Chemistry (Haber Process, Contact Process, Electrolysis of brine)

5. Practical Skills & Investigations

  • Planning and carrying out experiments.
  • Recording, presenting, and interpreting observations.
  • Familiarity with key apparatus (pipettes, burettes, thermometers).
  • Safety protocols in chemistry labs.

Practical Assessment Options:

  • Paper 5: Practical Test
  • Paper 6: Alternative to Practical (written, testing practical understanding)

6. Assessment Structure

  • Core Candidates:
    • Paper 1 (Multiple-choice)
    • Paper 3 (Theory, Core)
    • Paper 5/6 (Practical/Alternative Practical)
  • Extended Candidates:
    • Paper 2 (Multiple-choice, Extended)
    • Paper 4 (Theory, Extended)
    • Paper 5/6 (Practical/Alternative Practical)

Grading:

  • Core → max grade C
  • Extended → up to A*

7. Resources

  • Official Syllabus PDF (2025–2027): [Download link – Cambridge International site]
  • Past Papers & Mark Schemes
  • Examiner Reports (highlighting common mistakes and tips).
  • Schemes of Work (for teachers).

8. Study Tools on UOCS

  • Interactive Quizzes (Bonding, Stoichiometry, Acids/Bases).
  • Virtual Labs (titrations, rates of reaction).
  • Periodic Table Explorer.
  • Exam-style practice questions.
  • Revision Checklists & Flashcards.

9. Progression

  • Pathway to:
    • Cambridge AS & A Level Chemistry (9701)
    • Pre-university STEM courses
    • Medicine, Engineering, Environmental Science

Resources

 

Contact or request support for Cambridge curriculum guidance

 

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