IB Chemistry HL Part 1 explores the properties and behavior of matter, essential for understanding our world. The course emphasizes developing representative models and explanatory theories, fostering creative yet rational thinking. Students gain insight into scientific communication and the ethical debates surrounding scientific endeavors. As the "central science," chemistry underpins both physical environments and biological systems, making it a prerequisite for fields like medicine, environmental science, and engineering.
The curriculum is organized around two key concepts: structure and reactivity, illustrating how structure influences reactivity, which then transforms structure. This includes the study of atomic theory, chemical bonding, classification of matter, thermochemistry, equilibrium, solutions, and topics in organic chemistry. Students engage in an interdisciplinary Collaborative Science Project and an independent research project. In Part 2, they will study advanced topics and fulfill International Baccalaureate Organization requirements.
Prerequisites
This is part one of a two-year course. Grade of B or better in regular or Intensified Chemistry; Grade of B or better in Algebra II or equivalent and/or permission of the instructor. Open to all Grade 11 W-L students who meet the prerequisites.
This course is year 1 of a two-year sequence and prepares students for the required Higher Level IB assessments in Chemistry at the end of the course of study. Students will complete an Internal Assessment and sit for External Assessments (papers/exams). This IB course is weighted by applying an additional 1.0 quality point value assigned to the final grade upon completion of the course.