how different is a-level to gcse chemistry

like ive def scraped my way through gcse chemistry (thank god for combined allowing me to average out my scores), but now im considering dentistry, so is it different enough for me to understand it without knowing much gcse stuff or should i try and learn some gcse chemistry in the summer holidays?

Reply 1

subbhy

18

Original post by via16

like ive def scraped my way through gcse chemistry (thank god for combined allowing me to average out my scores), but now im considering dentistry, so is it different enough for me to understand it without knowing much gcse stuff or should i try and learn some gcse chemistry in the summer holidays?

To access A Level chemistry, it’s crucial you know everything you learned at GCSE very very well. Chemistry is more about understanding and spotting patterns than memorising so try to understand the GCSE content (watch Cognito/free science lessons videos!)

Reply 2

matilda04

3

Original post by via16

like ive def scraped my way through gcse chemistry (thank god for combined allowing me to average out my scores), but now im considering dentistry, so is it different enough for me to understand it without knowing much gcse stuff or should i try and learn some gcse chemistry in the summer holidays?

one thing to consider is if you scraped you way through gcse, and it will only get harder from there (a level and thorn university level), perhaps dentistry is not the career for you?

honestly, it doesn’t matter as much if you genuinely enjoy chemistry. if you enjoy chemistry as a subject, you shouldn’t mind putting in the extra effort to improve your knowledge and prepare you for a level chemistry and then university. however, if that doesn’t seem appealing, perhaps consider other careers which don’t have as much chemistry in them? hope that helps

Reply 3

UtterlyUseless69

12

Original post by via16

like ive def scraped my way through gcse chemistry (thank god for combined allowing me to average out my scores), but now im considering dentistry, so is it different enough for me to understand it without knowing much gcse stuff or should i try and learn some gcse chemistry in the summer holidays?

Short answer: A level is much more intense and complicated than GCSE - but it is also more rewarding and more interesting.

If you aren’t remotely interested in chemistry, it might be best to reconsider taking it. Otherwise, read on.

Much of what you will have learnt at GCSE is contradicted by what is taught at A level and so I would suggest only a few GCSE topics to look over during summer, as these are important at A level and aren’t contradicted in the slightest as far as I remember:

-Mole calculations
-Bonding and structure
-Dynamic equilibrium
-Rates

I would second the recommendations above for sources, plus physics and maths tutor is excellent, too.

how different is a-level to gcse chemistry

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