“The Christian faith of the early scientists gave them more than presuppositions; it also gave them motivation. They believed that in studying nature they were discovering the wisdom and power of the Creator and were thus honouring Him.” James F. Jekel
OVERVIEW
Chemistry is a key science in explaining the workings of our universe through an understanding of the properties and interaction of substances that make up matter. A knowledge of chemistry gives an understanding of a broad range of human activities including medicine, domestic science, industrial development, use of machines and scientific research. As such, chemistry is a prerequisite or recommended subject for a large number of tertiary courses. However, students should be encouraged to study this subject not simply because they must, rather, it provides a chance to understand more about the materials we encounter in everyday life.
Many topical issues are explored in the units of study, allowing opportunities to discuss these from a Christian viewpoint. The Psalmist reminds us that “the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it” (Ps 24:1), but at creation God gave man a position of authority under His authority. As His stewards of the earth, we need to treat its chemical resources responsibly. It is important that we show concern for our “neighbour” - the present and future generations that may be affected by waste disposal - and for the treatment of the environment and the excessive use or misuse of materials. Through understanding the chemical principles involved in God’s Creation, students of Chemistry become equipped to produce, modify and analyse substances encountered in everyday life.
SUBJECT LENGTH
9 periods per cycle
TOPICS INCLUDE
UNIT 1: HOW CAN THE DIVERSITY OF MATERIALS BE EXPLAINED?
UNIT 2: WHAT MAKES WATER SUCH A UNIQUE CHEMICAL?
UNIT 3: HOW CAN CHEMICAL PROCESSES BE DESIGNED TO OPTIMISE EFFICIENCY?
UNIT 4: HOW ARE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS CATEGORISED, ANALYSED AND USED
The group and discussion work purposes to foster cooperation and mutual respect between students. It is hoped that increased understanding of the complexity and the order of the materials that make up our physical world will inspire wonder at the creation and appreciation of our mighty Creator.
PREREQUISITES
ASSESSMENT
UNIT 1
For Outcomes 1 and 2 (25% of overall grade each) from a range of:
For Outcome 3 (25% of overall grade each)
Examination (25% of overall grade each)
UNIT 2
For Outcomes 1 and 2 (25% of overall grade each) from a range of:
For Outcome 3(25% of overall grade each)
Examination (25% of overall grade each)
UNIT 3 (16% of study score)
Outcome 1 (50% overall of Unit 3 result) from a range of:
(Approximately 50 minutes or not exceeding 1000 words)
Outcome 2 (50% overall of Unit 3 result) from a range of:
(Approximately 50 minutes or not exceeding 1000 words for each task)
UNIT 4 (24% for overall study score)
Outcome 1 (1/3 of overall grade for Unit 4) from a range of:
(Approximately 50 minutes or not exceeding 1000 words for each task)
Outcome 2 (1/3 of overall grade for Unit 4) from a range of:
(Approximately 50 minutes or not exceeding 1000 words)
Outcome 3 (1/3 of overall grade for Unit 4):
EXTERNAL ASSESSMENT
The level of achievement for Units 3 and 4 is also assessed by an end-of-year examination. The examination will contribute to 60%
“By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.” Hebrews 11:3