How hard is chemistry A-level?

Hi everyone.
I have received the timetable for the sixth form at my school and they have a system where you choose one subject in each 'block'. Since I have a very vague idea about what university course I want to do, I want to make sure I pick 4 facilitating subjects, or 3 with 1 other A-level.

However, in one of the blocks they have:
- Art
- Music
- Psychology
- BTEC IT
- BTEC H&S
- Chemistry.

Chemistry is the only subject on there that is a facilitating, and to be honest the only subject apart from psychology that I have an interest in doing.

I would like to take it, but my question is: How hard is it? I have heard it's a very challenging subject and apparently is the hardest of the 3 science subjects.

I do ok and I understand the concepts. I would say I'm working at a B grade on additional science and maths. Should I go for it? Or pick something else instead

Reply 1

Richpeasant

Original post by Jor64

I can only speak from my experience but i can safely say that Chemistry is by far the hardest subject you could take at A-level. I had 100% in my Chem exams at GCSE and ended up with an E in my AS exam. The difference between GCSE and A-level chem is enormous, though, it's very possible to do well as so many have proved but if you're only currently getting a B, honestly i would choose another subject. Though if you do go ahead with it, just make sure you understand the amount of time you will spend doing it :smile:

Reply 2

richpanda

Original post by Richpeasant

further maths is definitely harder, perhaps you could argue physics is up there too

Reply 3

richpanda

Original post by Jor64

It's hard, but just as hard as any other 'facilitating' subject. People on TSR put chemistry a level on a pedastal a bit, and this has a domino effect.

I would say if you get an A* or very high A at GCSE, go for it. If you're finding it way too hard, then you can always switch subjects.

Reply 4

samb1234

Original post by richpanda

further maths is definitely harder, perhaps you could argue physics is up there too

Chemistry is a lot more work than either of those, how hard it is will vary a lot from person to person

Reply 5

octopus21

I'm currently doing Chemistry A Level alongside Biology, Maths and Physics. Personally, I love it and its my favourite subject, but I have friends that loved it at GCSE and cannot wait to drop it now. If you're willing to put in the effort, you'll be okay. However, I don't think it is the hardest A Level; Physics and Further Maths are harder. In terms of Maths content, our teacher said its all covered in GCSE Higher Tier, so I think that you'll be fine. If you really don't like it you can drop it or switch to another subject.

Reply 6

richpanda

Original post by samb1234

Chemistry is a lot more work than either of those, how hard it is will vary a lot from person to person

Well I find it easier and much more enjoyable than physics

Reply 7

C-rated

I did all three last year, these are my opinions
Chemistry, boring afk but pretty easy
Physics, most challenging but most fun
Biology, complete bs which made me want to dip myself in honey and prance into a grizzly bear den