A-Level Chemistry Practical Endorsement

The A-level Chemistry CPAC Practical Endorsement course at BioGrad Exams comprises 12 experiments, carefully chosen to enable students to demonstrate their competencies in each of the Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPACs). Key to chemistry is the ability to identify unknown compounds, and several experiments are focused towards the characterisation of organic and inorganic compounds. The preparations of organic solids and liquids involve the use of reflux and distillation apparatus, recrystallisation and aqueous work up purification steps, followed by analysis using thin layer chromatography. Standard titration and gas collection techniques are the foundation of determining unknown concentrations and relative formula masses, whilst the rates investigations give ample opportunity for students to process and display data using ICT. The determination of the composition of an alloy showcases the devastating effect of concentrated acids on metals, whilst at the same time treating the observer to a spectacularly colourful display!

The course is as much a learning experience as an assessment. The aim is for the student to improve their general approach towards practical work over the course of the week and provide a tangible framework upon which preparations for A-level can be firmly secured.

Required Practical 1 – Determination of the relative atomic mass of magnesium

Required Practical 2 – Determination of concentration of hydrochloric acid

Required Practical 3 – Determination of an enthalpy change of reaction by Hess’ Law

Required Practical 4 – Identifying unknowns

Required Practical 5 – Preparation of an ester

Required Practical 6 – Preparation of benzoic acid

Required Practical 7 – Identifying organic unknowns

Required Practical 8 – Electrochemical cells

Required Practical 9 – Rate of decomposition of hydrogen peroxide

Required Practical 10 – Rates – Iodine Clock

Required Practical 11 – pH – titration curves

Required Practical 12 – Investigating iron tablets

Required Practical 13 – The iodometric determination of copper in brass

• Students must be studying A-level Chemistry with AQA, Edexcel or OCR by distance learning or at a further education centre.
• This is an intensive practical course designed for students to ‘fast track’ the A-Level practical assessment. This basic course contains a limited number of opportunities to attempt each of the assessed practical techniques, therefore BioGrad recommends that students without any prior practical laboratory experience consider the 1 day ‘Introduction to Laboratory Skills’ which offers the chance to gain vital skills required to be successful in their assessment.