Secondary Science BIST

IGCSE Syllabus - Coordinated Science (0654)

Supplementary material for the extended course is in bold type

Biology Units Check

⚫- fully done
◐ - done some

B1 Characteristics of living Organisms

Describe the characteristics of living organisms by defining the terms: ◐

– movement as an action by an organism causing a change of position or place
– respiration as the chemical reactions in cells that break down nutrient molecules and release
energy
– sensitivity as the ability to detect and respond to changes in the environment – growth as a
permanent increase in size
– reproduction as the processes that make more of the same kind of organism
– excretion as removal from organisms of toxic materials and substances in excess of
requirements – nutrition as taking in of materials for energy, growth and development
Define the terms:
– movement as an action by an organism or part of an organism causing a change of
position or place
– respiration as the chemical reactions in cells that break down nutrient molecules and
release energy for metabolism
– sensitivity as the ability to detect or sense stimuli in the internal or external environment
and to make appropriate responses
– growth as a permanent increase in size and dry mass by an increase in cell number or
cell size or both
– excretion as removal from organisms of the waste products of metabolism (chemical
reactions in cells including respiration), toxic materials, and substances in excess of
requirements
– nutrition as taking in of materials for energy, growth and development; plants require
light, carbon dioxide, water and ions; animals need organic compounds and ions and
usually need water

B2 Cells

2.1 1. State that living organisms are made of cells. ◐

Cell
Struct
ure
2. Describe and compare the structure of a plant cell with an animal cell, as seen under a light ⚫
microscope, limited to cell wall, nucleus, cytoplasm, chloroplasts, vacuoles and location of the
cell membrane.

3. State the functions of the structures seen under the light microscope in the plant cell and in ◐
the animal cell.

4. Relate the structure of the following to their functions: – ciliated cells – movement of
mucus in the trachea and bronchi – root hair cells – absorption – palisade mesophyll cells
– photosynths – transport of oxygen – sperm and egg cells – repr
 5. Calculate magnification and size of biological specimens using millimetres as units. ⚫

B2.2 1. Define diffusion as the net movement of particles from a region of their higher concentration to
Move a region of their lower concentration down a concentration gradient, as a result of their random
ment movement.
in and
out of
cells 2. Investigate the factors that influence diffusion, limited to surface area, temperature,
concentration gradients and diffusion distance.

3. State that substances move into and out of cells by diffusion through the cell membrane.

4. State that water diffuses through partially permeable membranes by osmosis.

5. State that water moves in and out of cells by osmosis through the cell membrane.

6. Define osmosis as the net movement of water molecules from a region of higher water
potential (dilute solution) to a region of lower water potential (concentrated solution),
through a partially permeable membrane.

7. Investigate and describe the effects on plant tissues of immersing them in solutions of
different concentrations.

8. Explain the effects on plant tissues of immersing them in solutions of different

concentrations by using the terms turgid, turgor pressure, plasmolysis and flaccid.

9. Explain the importance of water potential and osmosis in the uptake of water by plants.

10. Explain the importance of water potential and osmosis on animal cells and tissues.

B3 Biological molecules

3 1. List the chemical elements that make up: – carbohydrates – fats – proteins.

2. State that large molecules are made from smaller molecules, limited to: – starch and glycogen
from glucose – proteins from amino acids – fats and oils from fatty acids and glycerol.

3. Describe the use of: – iodine solution to test for starch – Benedict’s solution to test for reducing
sugars – biuret test for proteins – ethanol emulsion test for fats and oils.

4. State that water is important as a solvent.

B4 Enzymes

4 1. Define enzymes as proteins that function as biological catalysts.

2. Explain enzyme action with reference to the complementary shape of the active site of
an enzyme and its substrate and the formation of a product.

3. Investigate and describe the effect of changes in temperature and pH on enzyme activity.

4. Explain the effect of changes in temperature on enzyme activity, in terms of kinetic

energy, shape and fit, frequency of effective collisions and denaturation.

5. Explain the effect of changes in pH on enzyme activity in terms of shape and fit and
denaturation.

B5 Plant Nutrition
5 1. Define photosynthesis as the process by which plants manufacture carbohydrates from raw ⚫
materials using energy from light.

2. State the word equation for photosynthesis: carbon dioxide + water → glucose + oxygen, in the ⚫
presence of light and chlorophyll.

3. State the balanced equation for photosynthesis. ◐

4. Explain that chlorophyll transfers light energy into chemical energy in molecules, for ◐
the synthesis of carbohydrates.

5. Outline the subsequent use and storage of the carbohydrates made in photosynthesis. ◐

6. Investigate the necessity for chlorophyll, light and carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, using ⚫
appropriate controls.

7. Investigate and describe the effect of varying light intensity and temperature on the ◐
rate of photosynthesis (e.g. in submerged aquatic plants).

8. Identify chloroplasts, cuticle, guard cells and stomata, upper and lower epidermis, palisade ◐
mesophyll, spongy mesophyll, vascular bundles, xylem and phloem in leaves of a dicotyledonous
plant.

9. Describe the significance of the features of a leaf in terms of functions, to include: – ◐

palisade mesophyll and distribution of chloroplasts – photosynthesis – stomata, spongy
mesophyll cells and guard cells – gas exchange – xylem for transport and support –
phloem for transport.

10. Describe the importance of: – nitrate ions for making amino acids – magnesium ions for
making chlorophyll.

11. Explain the effects of nitrate ion and magnesium ion deficiency on plant growth.

B6 Animal Nutrition

B6.1 1. State what is meant by the term balanced diet for humans.
Diet
2. List the principal sources of, and describe the dietary importance of: – carbohydrates – fats –
proteins – vitamins, limited to C and D – mineral salts, limited to calcium and iron – fibre
(roughage) – water.

3. Explain how age, gender and activity affect the dietary needs of humans including
during pregnancy and whilst breast-feeding.

4. Describe the effects of malnutrition in relation to starvation, constipation, coronary

heart disease, obesity and scurvy.

5. Explain the causes and effects of vitamin D and iron deficiencies.

6. Explain the causes and effects of protein energy malnutrition, e.g. kwashiorkor and
marasmus.

B6.2 1. Define ingestion as the taking of substances, e.g. food and drink, into the body through the
Alime mouth.
ntary
Canal 2. Define digestion as the breakdown of large, insoluble food molecules into small, water soluble
molecules using mechanical and chemical processes.
 3. Define mechanical digestion as the breakdown of food into smaller pieces without
chemical change to the food molecules.

4. Define chemical digestion as the breakdown of large insoluble molecules into small,
soluble molecules.

5. Define absorption as movement of digested food molecules through the wall of the intestine
into the blood.

6. Define assimilation as the movement of digested food molecules into the cells of the body
where they are used, becoming part of the cells.

7. Define egestion as passing out of food that has not been digested, as faeces, through the
anus.

8. Identify the main regions of the alimentary canal and associated organs, including mouth,
salivary glands, oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, pancreas, liver, gall bladder, large
intestine and anus.

9. Describe the functions of the regions of the alimentary canal listed above, in relation to
ingestion, digestion, absorption, assimilation and egestion of food.

B6.3 1. Identify the types of human teeth (incisors, canines, premolars and molars).
Diges
tion 2. Describe the structure of human teeth, limited to enamel, dentine, pulp, nerves and cement,
as well as the gums.

3. Describe the functions of the types of human teeth in mechanical digestion of food.

4. Describe the proper care of teeth in terms of diet and regular brushing.

5. State the causes of dental decay in terms of a coating of bacteria and food on teeth, the
bacteria respiring sugars in the food, producing acid which dissolves the enamel and
dentine.

6. State the significance of chemical digestion in the alimentary canal in producing small, soluble
molecules that can be absorbed..

7. State the functions of enzymes as follows: – amylase breaks down starch to simpler sugars –
protease breaks down protein to amino acids – lipase breaks down fats to fatty acids and
glycerol.

8. State where, in the alimentary canal, amylase, protease and lipase are secreted.

9. State the functions of the hydrochloric acid in gastric juice, limited to killing bacteria in food
and giving an acid pH for enzymes.

10. Explain the functions of the hydrochloric acid in gastric juice, limited to the low pH: –
denaturing enzymes in harmful microorganisms in food – giving the optimum pH for protease
activity.

11. Outline the role of bile in neutralising the acidic mixture of food and gastric juices entering the
duodenum from the stomach, to provide a suitable pH for enzyme action.

12. Outline the role of bile in emulsifying fats to increase the surface area for the chemical
digestion of fat to fatty acids and glycerol by lipase.

13. Explain the significance of villi in increasing the internal surface area of the small intestine.

14. Describe the structure of a villus.

 15. Describe the roles of capillaries and lacteals in villi.

B7 Transport

B7.1 1.State the functions of xylem and phloem. ◐

Trans
port in 2. Identify the position of xylem as seen in sections of roots, stems and leaves, limited to non- ◐
Plants woody dicotyledonous plants.

3. Identify root hair cells, as seen under the light microscope, and state their functions. ◐

4. Explain that the large surface area of root hairs increases the rate of absorption of water and ◐
ions.

5. State the pathway taken by water through root, stem and leaf as root hair, root cortex cells,
xylem and mesophyll cells.

6. Investigate, using a suitable stain, the pathway of water through the above-ground parts of a
plant.

7. State that water is transported from the roots to leaves through the xylem vessels. ◐

8. Define transpiration as loss of water vapour from plant leaves by evaporation of water at the
surfaces of the mesophyll cells followed by diffusion of water vapour through the stomata.

9. Explain the mechanism by which water moves upwards in the xylem in terms of a
transpiration pull, helping to create a water potential gradient that draws up a column of
water molecules, held together by cohesion.

10. Investigate and describe the effects of variation of temperature and humidity on transpiration
rate.

11. Explain the effects of variation of temperature and humidity on transpiration rate.

12. Define translocation in terms of the movement of sucrose and amino acids in phloem:
– from regions of production (source) – to regions of storage OR to regions where they are
used in respiration or growth (sink).

B7.2 1. Describe the circulatory system as a system of blood vessels with a pump and valves to
Trans ensure one-way flow of blood.
port in
mam 2. Describe the double circulation in terms of circulation to the lungs and circulation to
mals the body tissues in mammals.

3. Explain the advantages of a double circulation.

4. Name and identify the structures of the mammalian heart, limited to the muscular wall, the
septum, the left and right ventricles and atria, one-way valves and coronary arteries.

5. State that blood is pumped away from the heart into arteries and returns to the heart in veins.

6. Describe the functioning of the heart in terms of the contraction of muscles of the atria
and ventricles and the action of the valves.

7. Name the main blood vessels to and from the: – heart, limited to vena cava, aorta, pulmonary
artery and pulmonary vein – lungs, limited to the pulmonary artery and pulmonary vein – kidney,
limited to the renal artery and renal vein.
 8. Describe coronary heart disease in terms of the blockage of coronary arteries and state
the possible risk factors as diet, stress, smoking, genetic predisposition, age and gender.

9. Investigate and state the effect of physical activity on pulse rate.

10. Explain the effect of physical activity on the heart rate.

11. Describe the structure and functions of arteries, veins and capillaries.

12. Explain how the structures of arteries, veins and capillaries are adapted for their
function.

13. List the components of blood as red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and plasma.

14. Identify red and white blood cells, as seen under the light microscope, on prepared slides
and in diagrams and photomicrographs.

15. State the functions of the following components of blood: – red blood cells in transporting
oxygen, including the role of haemoglobin – white blood cells in phagocytosis and antibody
production – platelets in clotting (details are not required) – plasma in the transport of blood cells,
ions, soluble nutrients, hormones and carbon dioxide.

B8 Gas exchange and respiration

B8.1 1. Name and identify the lungs, diaphragm, ribs, intercostal muscles, larynx, trachea, bronchi,
Gas bronchioles, alveoli and associated capillaries.
Excha
nge 2. List the features of gas exchange surfaces in humans, limited to large surface area, thin
surface, good blood supply and good ventilation with air.

3. State the differences in composition between inspired and expired air limited to oxygen, carbon
dioxide and water vapour.

4. Explain the differences in composition between inspired and expired air.

5. Use limewater as a test for carbon dioxide to investigate the differences in composition
between inspired and expired air.

6. Investigate and describe the effects of physical activity on rate and depth of breathing.

7. Explain the effects of physical activity on rate and depth of breathing in terms of the
increased carbon dioxide concentration in the blood, causing an increased rate of
breathing.

8. Explain the role of goblet cells, mucus and ciliated cells in protecting the gas
exchange system from pathogens and particles.

9. State that tobacco smoking can cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD),
lung cancer and coronary heart disease.

10. Describe the effects on the gas exchange system of tobacco smoke and its major
toxic components, limited to carbon monoxide, nicotine and tar.

B8.2 1. State the uses of energy in the body of humans limited to: muscle contraction, protein
Respi synthesis, cell division, growth and the maintenance of a constant body temperature.
ration
2. Define aerobic respiration as the chemical reactions in cells that use oxygen to break
down nutrient molecules to release energy.

3. State the word equation for aerobic respiration as glucose + oxygen → carbon dioxide + water. ⚫
 4. State the balanced chemical equation for aerobic respiration as C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + ◐
6H2O.

5. Define anaerobic respiration as the chemical reactions in cells that break down nutrient
molecules to release energy without using oxygen.

6. State the word equation for anaerobic respiration in muscles during vigorous exercise (glucose →
lactic acid).

7. State that lactic acid builds up in muscles and blood during vigorous exercise causing
an oxygen debt.

8. State the word equation for anaerobic respiration in microorganism yeast (glucose → alcohol +
carbon dioxide).

9. Describe the role of anaerobic respiration in yeast during bread-making.

10. State that anaerobic respiration releases much less energy per glucose molecule than
aerobic respiration.

B9 Coordination and response

B9.1 1. Describe a nerve impulse as an electrical signal that passes along nerve cells called ⚫
Nervo neurones.
us
contro 2. Describe the human nervous system in terms of: – the central nervous system consisting of ⚫
l in brain and spinal cord – the peripheral nervous system – coordination and regulation of body
huma functions.
ns
3. Distinguish between voluntary and involuntary actions. ⚫

4. Identify motor (effector), relay (connector) and sensory neurones from diagrams. ⚫

5. Describe a simple reflex arc in terms of receptor, sensory neurone, relay neurone, motor ⚫
neurones and effector.

6. Describe a reflex action as a means of automatically and rapidly integrating and coordinating ⚫
stimuli with the responses of effectors (muscles and glands).

B9.2 1. Identify the structures of the eye, limited to cornea, iris, pupil, lens, retina, optic nerve, ◐
Sens ciliary muscles, suspensory ligaments and blind spot.
e
organ 2. Describe the function of each part of the eye, limited to: – cornea – refracts light – iris – ◐
s controls how much light enters pupil – lens – focuses light onto retina – retina – contains
light receptors, some sensitive to light of different colours – optic nerve – carries
impulses to the brain.

3. Explain the pupil reflex in terms of light intensity and antagonistic action of circular and ◐
radial muscles in the iris.

4. Explain accommodation to view near and distant objects in terms of the contraction
and relaxation of the ciliary muscles, tension in the suspensory ligaments, shape of the
lens and refraction of light.

B9.3 1. Define a hormone as a chemical substance, produced by a gland, carried by the blood, which ⚫
Horm alters the activity of one or more specific target organs.
ones
2. Describe adrenaline as the hormone secreted in ‘fight or flight’ situations and its effects, limited ⚫
to increased breathing and pulse rate and widened pupils 3 Give examples of situations in which
 adrenaline secretion increases.

3. Give examples of situations in which adrenaline secretion increases. ⚫

4. Discuss the role of the hormone adrenaline in the chemical control of metabolic
activity, including increasing the blood glucose concentration and pulse rate.

5. Compare nervous and hormonal control system in terms of speed and longevity of
action.

B9.4 1 Define homeostasis as the maintenance of a constant internal environment. ◐

Home
ostasi 2. Explain that homeostasis is the control of internal conditions within set limits. ◐
s
3. Explain the concept of control by negative feedback. ◐

4. Describe the control of the glucose content of the blood by the liver and the roles of ◐
insulin and glucagon from the pancreas.

5. Name and identify on a diagram of the skin: hairs, hair erector muscles, sweat glands,
receptors, sensory neurones, blood vessels and fatty tissue.

6. Describe the maintenance of a constant internal body temperature in humans in terms of ◐

insulation, sweating, shivering and the role of the brain (limited to blood temperature receptors
and coordination).

7. Describe the maintenance of a constant internal body temperature in humans in terms

of vasodilation and vasoconstriction of arterioles supplying skin surface capillaries.

B9.5 1. Define gravitropism as a response in which parts of a plant grow towards or away from gravity.
Tropic
respo 2. Define phototropism as a response in which parts of a plant grow towards or away from the
nses direction from which light is coming.

3. Explain phototropism and gravitropism of a shoot as examples of the chemical control

of plant growth.

4. Investigate gravitropism and phototropism in shoots and roots.

5. Explain the role of auxin in controlling shoot growth, limited to: – auxin made in shoot tip (only)
– auxin spreads through the plant from the shoot tip – auxin is unequally distributed in response
to light and gravity – auxin stimulates cell elongation.

B10 Reproduction

B10.1 1. Define asexual reproduction as a process resulting in the production of genetically identical
Asexu offspring from one parent
al and
sexua 2. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of asexual reproduction to a population of
l a species in the wild
repro
ductio 3. Identify examples of asexual reproduction from information provided
n
4. Define sexual reproduction as a process involving the fusion of the nuclei of two gametes (sex ⚫
cells) to form a zygote and the production of offspring that are genetically different from each
other

5. State that the nuclei of gametes are haploid and that the nucleus of a zygote is diploid ⚫
 6. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of sexual reproduction to a population of a
species in the wild

B10.2 1. Identify and draw, using a hand lens if necessary, the sepals, petals, stamens, filaments and ◐
Sexu anthers, carpels, style, stigma, ovary and ovules, of an insect-pollinated flower.
al
repro 2. Use a hand lens to identify and describe the anthers and stigmas of a wind-pollinated
ductio flower.
n in
plants 3. State the functions of the sepals, petals, anthers, stigmas and ovaries. ◐

4. Distinguish between the pollen grains of insect pollinated and wind-pollinated flowers.

5. Define pollination as the transfer of pollen grains from the anther to the stigma

6. Name the agents of pollination

7. State that fertilisation occurs when a pollen nucleus fuses with a nucleus in an ovule

8. Describe the structural adaptations of insect pollinated and wind-pollinated flowers ◐

9. Investigate and state the environmental conditions that affect germination of seeds, limited to
the requirement for water, oxygen and a suitable temperature

B10.3 1. Identify and name on diagrams of the male reproductive system: the testes, scrotum, sperm
Sexu ducts, prostate gland, urethra and penis.
al
repro 2. State the function of the parts of the male reproductive system limited to: – testes –
ductio production of male gametes (sperm) – scrotum – sac that holds the testes outside the body –
n in sperm ducts – transfer sperm to the urethra – prostate gland – secrete fluids for sperm to swim in
huma forming semen – urethra – carries urine and semen out of the body – penis – transfers semen to
ns vagina during sexual intercourse.

3. Identify and name on diagrams of the female reproductive system: the ovaries, oviducts,
uterus, cervix and vagina.

4. State the function of the parts of the female reproductive system limited to: – ovaries – release
of female gametes (eggs) – oviducts – transfers egg to uterus and the site of fertilisation – uterus
– where the fetus develops – cervix – ring of muscle at the opening of the uterus – vagina –
receives penis during sexual intercourse.

5. Describe fertilisation as the fusion of the nuclei from a male gamete (sperm) and a female
gamete (egg cell/ovum).

6. Compare male and female gametes in terms of size, structure, motility and numbers.

7. State the adaptive features of sperm, limited to flagellum and the presence of enzymes.

8. State the adaptive features of egg cells, limited to energy stores and a jelly coating that
changes after fertilisation.

9. Describe the menstrual cycle in terms of changes in the uterus and ovaries (knowledge of sex
hormones are not required).

10. State that in early development, the zygote forms an embryo which is a ball of cells that
implants into the wall of the uterus.

11. State the functions of the umbilical cord, placenta, amniotic sac and amniotic fluid.
 12. Describe the function of the placenta and umbilical cord in relation to exchange of
dissolved nutrients, gases and excretory products and providing a barrier to toxins
(structural details are not required).

13. State that human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection may lead to acquired immune
deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

14. Describe the methods of transmission of HIV.

15. Explain how the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is controlled.

B11 Inheritance

B11.1 1. Define inheritance as the transmission of genetic information from generation to generation ⚫
Chro
moso 2. Define chromosome as a thread-like structure of DNA, carrying genetic information in the form ⚫
mes of genes.
and
genes 3. Define gene as a length of DNA that codes for a protein. ⚫

4. Define allele as a version of a gene. ⚫

5. Describe the inheritance of sex in humans with reference to XX and XY chromosomes. ◐

6. Define a haploid nucleus as a nucleus containing a single set of unpaired ⚫

chromosomes, e.g. in gametes.

7. Define a diploid nucleus as a nucleus containing two sets of chromosomes, e.g. in ⚫

body cells.

8. State that in a diploid cell, chromosomes are arranged in pairs and in a human diploid ⚫
cell there are 23 pairs.

B11.2 1. Define mitosis as nuclear division giving rise to genetically identical cells (details of ⚫
Cell stages are not required).
divisio
n 2. State that the exact duplication of chromosomes occurs before mitosis. ◐

3. State the role of mitosis in growth, repair of damaged tissues, replacement of cells and ⚫
asexual reproduction.

4. Define meiosis as reduction division in which the chromosome number is halved from ⚫
diploid to haploid resulting in genetically different cells (details of stages are not
required).

5. State that meiosis is involved in the production of gametes. ⚫

B11.3 1. Define genotype as the genetic make-up of an organism in terms of the alleles present. ⚫
Mono
hybrid 2. Define phenotype as the observable features of an organism. ⚫
inherit
ance 3. Define homozygous as having two identical alleles of a particular gene. ⚫

4. State that two identical homozygous individuals that breed together will be pure-breeding. ⚫

5. Define heterozygous as having two different alleles of a particular gene. ⚫

6. State that a heterozygous individual will not be pure-breeding. ⚫

 7. Define dominant as an allele that is expressed if it is present. ⚫

8. Define recessive as an allele that is only expressed when there is no dominant allele of the ⚫
gene present.

9. Use genetic diagrams to predict the results of monohybrid crosses and calculate phenotypic ◐
ratios, limited to 1:1 and 3:1 ratios.

10. Use Punnett squares in crosses which result in more than one genotype to work out and ⚫
show the possible different genotypes.

11. Interpret pedigree diagrams for the inheritance of a given characteristic.

B11.4 1. Define variation as differences between individuals of the same species. ⚫

Variat
ion 2. Distinguish between phenotypic variation and genetic variation. ◐
and
select 3. State that phenotypic variation is caused by both genetic and environmental factors. ◐
ion
4. State that continuous variation results in a range of phenotypes between two extremes, e.g. ⚫
height in humans.

5. State that discontinuous variation is mostly caused by genes alone, e.g. A, B, AB and O ⚫
blood groups in humans.

6. State that discontinuous variation results in a limited number of phenotypes with no ⚫

intermediates, e.g. tongue rolling.

7. Record and present the results of investigations into continuous and discontinuous variation. ⚫

8. Define mutation as a change in a gene or chromosome ⚫

9. State that ionising radiation and some chemicals increase the rate of mutation.

10. Describe natural selection with reference to: – variation within populations – production of ⚫
many offspring – competition for resources – struggle for survival – reproduction by individuals
that are better adapted to the environment than others – passing on of their alleles to the next
generation

11. Describe evolution as the change in adaptive features of a population over time as the ⚫
result of natural selection.

12. Define the process of adaptation as the process, resulting from natural selection, by ⚫
which populations become more suited to their environment over many generations.

13. Describe the development of strains of antibiotic resistant bacteria as an example of

evolution by natural selection.

14. Describe selective breeding with reference to: – selection by humans of individuals with ⚫
desirable features – crossing these individuals to produce the next generation – selection of
offspring showing the desirable features.

15. State the differences between natural and artificial selection. ◐

16. Outline how selective breeding by artificial selection is carried out over many generations to ⚫
improve crop plants and domesticated animals.

B12 Organisms and their environment

1. State that the Sun is the principal source of energy input to biological systems. ⚫
 2. Define the terms: – food chain as showing the transfer of energy from one organism to the ⚫
next, beginning with a producer – food web as a network of interconnected food chains –
producer as an organism that makes its own organic nutrients, usually using energy from
sunlight, through photosynthesis – consumer as an organism that gets its energy by feeding on
other organisms – herbivore as an animal that gets its energy by eating plants – carnivore as an
animal that gets its energy by eating other animals – decomposer as an organism that gets its
energy from dead or waste organic matter.

3. Define the terms: – ecosystem as a unit containing all of the organisms and their ⚫
environment, interacting together, in a given area, e.g. a lake – trophic level as the
position of an organism in a food chain or food web.

4. Describe how energy is transferred between trophic levels. ⚫

5. Explain why food chains usually have fewer than five trophic levels. ⚫

6. Construct simple food chains. ⚫

7. Interpret food chains and food webs in terms of identifying producers and consumers. ⚫

8. State that consumers may be classed as primary, secondary and tertiary according to their ⚫
position in a food chain.

9. Identify producers, primary consumers, secondary consumers, tertiary consumers and ⚫

quaternary consumers as the trophic levels in food webs and food chains.

B13 Human influences on ecosystems

1. Describe the carbon cycle, limited to photosynthesis, respiration, feeding, decomposition, ◐

fossilisation and combustion.

2. Discuss the effects of the combustion of fossil fuels and the cutting down of forests on ◐
the oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere.

3. List the undesirable effects of deforestation as an example of habitat destruction, to include

extinction, loss of soil, flooding and increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

4. Explain the undesirable effects of deforestation on the environment.

5. State the sources and effects of pollution of water (rivers, lakes and the sea) by chemical ◐
waste, discarded rubbish, untreated sewage and fertilisers.

6. Explain the process of eutrophication of water in terms of: – increased availability of ◐

nitrate and other ions – increased growth of producers – increased decomposition after
death of producers – increased aerobic respiration by decomposers – reduction in
dissolved oxygen – death of organisms requiring dissolved oxygen in water.

Chemistry Units Check

⚫- fully done
◐ - done some

C1 The particulate nature of matter

1. State the distinguishing properties of solids, liquids and gases. ⚫

2. Describe the structure of solids, liquids and gases in terms of particle separation, arrangement ⚫
and types of motion.
 3. Describe the changes of state in terms of melting, boiling, evaporation, freezing and ⚫
condensation.

4. Demonstrate understanding of the terms atom, molecule and ion. ⚫

5. Explain changes of state in terms of particle theory and the energy changes involved. ⚫

6. Describe and explain diffusion in terms of the movement of particles (atoms, molecules or ⚫
ions).

7. Describe and explain dependence of rate of diffusion on molecular mass.

C2 Experimental techniques

C2.1 1. Name suggest appropriate apparatus for the measurement of time, temperature, mass and ◐
Meas volume, including burettes, pipettes and measuring cylinders.
urem
ent

C2.2 1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of paper chromatography. ◐

Criteri
a of 2. Interpret simple chromatograms.
purity
3. Interpret simple chromatograms, including the use of Rf values.

4. Understand the importance of purity in substances for use in everyday life, e.g. in the
manufacture of compounds to use in drugs and food additives.

5. Recognise that mixtures melt and boil over a range of temperatures.

6. Identify substances and assess their purity from melting point and boiling point
information.

C2.3 1. Describe and explain methods of separation and purification by the use of a suitable solvent, ◐
Meth filtration, crystallisation, distillation, fractional distillation and paper chromatography.
ods 2. Suggest suitable separation and purification techniques, given information about the
of substances involved.
purific
ation

C3 Atoms, elements and compounds

C3.1 1. Identify physical and chemical changes, and understand the differences between them. ◐
Physi
cal 2. Understand that some chemical reactions can be reversed by changing the reaction
and conditions (Limited to the effects of heat and water on hydrated and anhydrous copper(II)
chemi sulfate and cobalt (II) chloride.) (Concept of equilibrium is not required.)
cal
chan
ges

C3.2 1. Describe the differences between elements, mixtures and compounds, and between metals
Elem and non-metals.
ents,
comp 2. Define the terms solvent, solute, solution and concentration.
ound
s and
mixtu
res
C3.3 1. Describe the structure of an atom in terms of a central nucleus, containing protons and ⚫
Atomi neutrons, and ‘shells’ of electrons.
c
struct 2. Describe the build-up of electrons in ‘shells’ and understand the significance of the noble gas ⚫
ure electronic structures and of the outer shell electrons (The ideas of the distribution of electrons in s
and and p orbitals and in d block elements are not required.)
the
Perio 3. State the charges and approximate relative masses of protons, neutrons and electrons. ⚫
dic
Table 4. Define and use proton number (atomic number) as the number of protons in the nucleus of an ⚫
atom.

5. Define and use nucleon number (mass number) as the total number of protons and neutrons ⚫
in the nucleus of an atom.

6. Use proton number and the simple structure of atoms to explain the basis of the Periodic ⚫
Table, with special reference to the elements of proton numbers 1 to 20.

7. Define isotopes as atoms of the same element which have the same proton number but a ◐
different nucleon number.

8. Understand that isotopes have the same properties because they have the same
number of electrons in their outer shell.

C3.4 1. Describe the formation of ions by electron loss or gain. ⚫

Ions
and 2. Use dot-and-cross diagrams to describe the formation of ionic bonds between Group I and ⚫
ionic Group VII.
bond
s 3. Describe the formation of ionic bonds between metallic and non-metallic elements to ⚫
include the strong attraction between ions because of their opposite electrical charges.

4. Describe the lattice structure of ionic compounds as a regular arrangement of ⚫

alternating positive and negative ions, exemplified by the sodium chloride structure.

C3.5 1. State that non-metallic elements form simple molecules with covalent bonds between atoms. ⚫
Molec
ules 2. Describe the formation of single covalent bonds in H2, Cl2, H2O, CH4, NH3 and HCl as the ⚫
and sharing of pairs of electrons leading to the noble gas configuration including the use of dot-and-
coval cross diagrams.
ent
bond 3. Use and draw dot-and-cross diagrams to represent the bonding in the more complex ◐
s covalent molecules such as N2, C2H4, CH3OH, and CO2.

4. Describe the differences in volatility, solubility and electrical conductivity between ionic and ◐
covalent compounds.

5. Explain the differences in melting point and boiling point of ionic and covalent
compounds in terms of attractive forces.

C3.6 1. State that there are several different forms of carbon, including diamond and graphite. ⚫
Macr
omol 2. Describe the giant covalent structures of graphite and diamond. ⚫
ecule
s 3. Relate the structures of diamond and graphite to their uses, e.g. graphite as a lubricant ⚫
and a conductor and diamond in cutting tools.

4. Describe the macromolecular structure of silicon(IV) oxide (silicon dioxide, SiO2). ◐

C4 Stoichiometry
 1. Use the symbols of the elements and write the formulae of simple compounds. ⚫

2. Determine the formula of an ionic compound from the charges on the ions present. ⚫

3. Deduce the formula of a simple compound from the relative numbers of atoms present.

4. Deduce the formula of a simple compound from a model or a diagrammatic representation.

5. Construct and use word equations 6 Interpret and balance simple symbol equations.

7. Construct and use symbol equations, with state symbols, including ionic equations.

8. Deduce the balanced equation for a chemical reaction, given relevant information.

9. Define relative atomic mass, Ar, as the average mass of naturally occurring atoms of an ⚫
element on a scale where the 12C atom has a mass of exactly 12 units.

10. Define relative molecular mass, Mr, as the sum of the relative atomic masses (relative ⚫
formula mass or Mr will be used for ionic compounds).

C4.2 1. Define the mole in terms of a specific number of particles called Avogadro’s constant. ⚫
The
mole 2. Use the molar gas volume, taken as 24dm3 at room temperature and pressure. ⚫

3. Calculate stoichiometric reacting masses, volumes of gases and solutions, and ⚫

concentrations of solutions expressed in g/dm3 and mol/dm3 . (Calculations involving the
idea of limiting reactants may be set.).

C5 Electricity and chemistry

1. Define electrolysis as the breakdown of an ionic compound when molten or in aqueous solution
by the passage of electricity.

2. Use the terms inert electrode, electrolyte, anode and cathode.

3. Describe electrolysis in terms of the ions present and the reactions at the electrodes, in
terms of gain of electrons by cations and loss of electrons by anions to form atoms.

4. Describe the electrode products and the observations made, using inert electrodes (platinum
or carbon), in the electrolysis of: – molten lead(II) bromide – concentrated aqueous sodium
chloride – dilute sulfuric acid.

5. State the general principle that metals or hydrogen are formed at the negative electrode
(cathode), and that non-metals (other than hydrogen) are formed at the positive electrode
(anode).

6. Relate the products of electrolysis to the electrolyte and electrodes used, exemplified
by the specific examples in the Core together with aqueous copper(II) sulfate using carbon
electrodes and using copper electrodes (as used in the refining of copper).

7. Construct simple ionic half-equations for the formation of elements at the cathode.

8. Describe electroplating with copper.

9. Predict the products of the electrolysis of a specified molten binary compound.

10. Describe, in outline, the chemistry of the manufacture of: – aluminium from pure
aluminium oxide in molten cryolite – chlorine, hydrogen and sodium hydroxide from
concentrated aqueous sodium chloride (Starting materials and essential conditions should
be given but not technical details or diagrams.).
C6 Energy changes in chemical reactions

1. Describe the meaning of exothermic and endothermic reactions. ◐

2. Describe bond breaking as an endothermic process and bond forming as an exothermic

process.

3. Draw and label energy level diagrams for exothermic and endothermic reactions using ◐
data provided.

4. Interpret energy level diagrams showing exothermic and endothermic reactions and ◐
the activation energy of a reaction.

C7 Chemical reactions

C7.1 1. Describe practical methods for investigating the rate of a reaction which produces a gas. ⚫
Rate
(spee 2. Interpret data obtained from experiments concerned with rate of reaction ◐
d) of
reacti 3. Suggest suitable apparatus, given information, for experiments, including collection of ◐
on gases and measurement of rates of reaction.

4. Describe the effect of concentration, particle size, catalysts and temperature on the rate of ◐
reactions.

5. Describe and explain the effect of changing concentration in terms of frequency of ◐

collisions between reacting particles.

6. Describe and explain the effect of changing temperature in terms of the frequency of ◐
collisions between reacting particles and more colliding particles possessing the
minimum energy (activation energy) to react.

7. Describe how concentration, temperature and surface area create a danger of explosive
combustion with fine powders (e.g. flour mills) and gases (e.g. methane in mines). Note:
Candidates should be encouraged to use the term rate rather than speed.

C7.2 1. Describe oxidation and reduction in chemical reactions in terms of oxygen loss /gain (Oxidation
Redo state limited to its use to name ions, e.g. iron(II), iron(III), copper(II).).
x
2. Define redox in terms of electron transfer, and identify such reactions from given
information, which could include simple equations.

3. Define and identify an oxidising agent as a substance which oxidises another

substance during a redox reaction and a reducing agent as a substance which reduces
another substance during a redox reaction.

C8 Acids, bases and salts

C8.1 1. Describe neutrality and relative acidity and alkalinity in terms of pH (whole numbers only)
The measured using Universal Indicator.
chara
cterist 2. Describe the characteristic properties of acids (exemplified by dilute hydrochloric acid and
ic dilute sulfuric acid) including their effect on litmus paper and their reactions with metals, bases
prope and carbonates.
rties
of
acids 3. Describe the characteristic properties of bases including their effect on litmus paper and their
and reactions with acids and ammonium salts.
bases
4. Describe and explain the importance of controlling acidity in soil.
 5. Define acids and bases in terms of proton (H+ ) transfer, limited to aqueous solutions.

C8.2 1. Classify oxides as either acidic or basic, related to metallic and non-metallic character.
Type
s of 2. Further classify other oxides as neutral or amphoteric.
oxide
s

C8.3 1. Describe the preparation, separation and purification of salts using techniques specified in
Prepa Section C2 and the reactions specified in Section C8.1.
ration
of 2. Suggest a method of making a given salt from suitable starting material, given ◐
salts appropriate information, including precipitation.

C8.4 1. Describe and use the following tests to identify: aqueous cations: ammonium, calcium,
Identi copper(II), iron(II), iron(III) and zinc, using aqueous sodium hydroxide and aqueous ammonia as
ficatio appropriate (formulae of complex ions are not required) cations: flame tests to identify lithium,
n of sodium, potassium and copper(II) anions: carbonate (by reaction with dilute acid and then
ions limewater), chloride and bromide (by reaction under acidic conditions with aqueous silver nitrate),
and nitrate (by reduction with aluminium) and sulfate (by reaction under acidic conditions with
gases aqueous barium ions) gases: ammonia (using damp red litmus paper), carbon dioxide (using
limewater), chlorine (using damp litmus paper), hydrogen (using a lighted splint), oxygen (using a
glowing splint).

C9 The Periodic Table

C9.1 1. Describe the Periodic Table as a method of classifying elements and its use to predict ⚫
The properties of elements.
Perio
dic
Table

C9.2 1. Describe the change from metallic to nonmetallic character across a period. ◐
Perio
dic 2. Describe the relationship between Group number, number of outer shell electrons and ⚫
trend metallic/non-metallic character.
s

C9.3 1. Describe lithium, sodium and potassium in Group I as a collection of relatively soft ⚫
Grou metals showing a trend in melting point, density and reaction with water.
p
prop 2. Predict the properties of other elements in Group I, given data, where appropriate. ⚫
erties
3. Describe the halogens, chlorine, bromine and iodine in Group VII, as a collection of ⚫
diatomic non-metals showing a trend in colour and physical state.

4. State the reaction of chlorine, bromine and iodine with other halide ions. ◐

5. Predict the properties of other elements in Group VII, given data where appropriate. ⚫

6. Identify trends in other groups, given data about the elements concerned. ◐

C9.4 1. Describe the transition elements as a collection of metals having high densities, high melting
Trans points and forming coloured compounds, and which, as elements and compounds, often act as
ition catalysts.
elem
ents

C9.5 1. Describe the noble gases, in Group VIII or 0, as being unreactive, monoatomic gases and ⚫
Noble explain this in terms of electronic structure.
gases 2. State the uses of the noble gases in providing an inert atmosphere, i.e. argon in lamps, helium ⚫
for filling balloons.

C10 Metals

C10.1 1. Describe the general physical properties of metals as solids with high melting and boiling ⚫
Prope points, malleable and good conductors of heat and electricity.
rties
of 2. Describe metallic bonding as a lattice of positive ions in a ‘sea of electrons’ and use ⚫
metal this to describe the electrical conductivity and malleability of metals.
s
3. Describe alloys, such as brass, as mixtures of a metal with other elements. ◐

4. Explain in terms of their properties why alloys are used instead of pure metals.

5. Describe how the properties of iron are changed by the controlled use of additives to
form steel alloys, such as mild steel and stainless steel.

6. Identify representations of alloys from diagrams of structure.

C10.2 1. Place in order of reactivity: potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, aluminium, (carbon), zinc, ◐
React iron, (hydrogen) and copper, by reference to the reactions, if any, of the elements with: – water or
ivity steam – dilute hydrochloric acid – reduction of their oxides with carbon.
series
2. Describe the reactivity series in terms of the tendency of a metal to form its positive
ion, illustrated by its reaction, if any, with: – aqueous ions of other listed metals – the
oxides of other listed metals.

3. Deduce an order of reactivity from a given set of experimental results.

C10.3 1. Describe the use of carbon in the extraction of some metals from their ores.
Extra
ction 2. Describe and explain the essential reactions in the extraction of iron from hematite in the blast
of furnace, including the removal of acidic impurities as slag C + O2 → CO2 C + CO2 → 2CO Fe2O3 +
metal 3CO → 2Fe + 3CO2 CaCO3 → CaO + CO2 CaO + SiO2 → CaSiO3.
s
from 3. Know that aluminium is extracted from the ore bauxite by electrolysis.
their
ores 4. Relate the method of extraction of a metal from its ore to its position in the reactivity
series for the metals listed in section C10.2 and for other metals, given information.

5. Describe metal ores as a finite resource and hence the need to recycle metals.

C10.4 1. Describe the uses of aluminium: – in aircraft parts because of its strength and low density – in
Uses food containers because of its resistance to corrosion.
of
metal 2. Describe and explain the apparent unreactivity of aluminium in terms of the oxide layer
s which adheres to the metal.

3. State the uses of mild steel (car bodies and machinery) and stainless steel (chemical plant and
cutlery).

4. Explain the uses of zinc for galvanising steel and for making brass.

C11 Air and water

C11.1 1. Describe a chemical test for water using copper(II) sulfate and cobalt(II) chloride.
Water 2. Describe, in outline, the treatment of the water supply in terms of filtration and chlorination.

C11.2 1. State the composition of clean air as being a mixture of 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen and small ◐
Air quantities of noble gases, water vapour and carbon dioxide.

2. Name the common pollutants in air as being carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide and oxides of ⚫
nitrogen.

3. State the adverse effect of these common air pollutants on buildings and on health. ◐

4. State the source of each of these pollutants: – carbon monoxide from the incomplete ◐
combustion of carbon-containing substances – sulfur dioxide from the combustion of fossil fuels
which contain sulfur compounds (leading to acid rain) – oxides of nitrogen from car engines.

5. Describe some approaches to reducing emissions of sulfur dioxide, including the use
of low sulfur petrol and flue gas desulfurisation by calcium oxide.

6. Describe, in outline, how a catalytic converter removes nitrogen monoxide and carbon monoxide ◐
from exhaust emissions by reaction over a hot catalyst 2CO + O2 → 2CO2 2NO + 2CO → N2 + 2CO2
2NO → N2 + O2.

7. State the conditions required for the rusting of iron (presence of oxygen and water).

8. Describe and explain barrier methods of rust prevention, including paint and other coatings.

9. Describe and explain sacrificial protection in terms of the reactivity series of metals and
galvanising as a method of rust prevention.

C11.3 1. State the formation of carbon dioxide: – as a product of complete combustion of carbon- ◐
Carb containing substances – as a product of respiration – as a product of the reaction between an
on acid and a carbonate – as a product of thermal decomposition of calcium carbonate.
dioxid
e and
meth
ane 2. State that carbon dioxide and methane are greenhouse gases. ⚫

3. State that increased concentrations of greenhouse gases cause an enhanced ⚫

greenhouse effect, which may contribute to climate change.

C11.4 1. Describe the need for nitrogen-, phosphorus and potassium-containing fertilisers.
Nitrog
en
and
fertilis 2. Describe the displacement of ammonia from its salts.
ers
3. Describe and explain the essential conditions for the manufacture of ammonia by the
Haber process including the sources of the hydrogen (reaction of methane/natural gas
with steam) and nitrogen (from the air).

C12 Sulfur

1. Name the use of sulfur in the manufacture of sulfuric acid.

2. Describe the manufacture of sulfuric acid by the Contact process, including essential conditions
and reactions S + O2 → SO2 2SO2 + O2 ⇌ 2SO3 H2SO4 + SO3 → H2S2O7 H2S2O7 + H2O →
2H2SO4.

C13 Carbonates
 1. Describe the manufacture of lime (calcium oxide) from limestone (calcium carbonate) in terms
of the chemical reactions involved, and the use of limestone in treating acidic soil and neutralising
acidic industrial waste products.

2. Describe the thermal decomposition of calcium carbonate (limestone).

C14 Organic chemistry

C14.1 1. Name and draw the structures of methane, ethane, ethene and ethanol. ◐
Name
s of 2. State the type of compound present, given a chemical name ending in -ane, -ene and -ol, or a
comp molecular structure.
ound
s 3. Name and draw the structures of the unbranched alkanes and alkenes (not cistrans),
containing up to four carbon atoms per molecule.

C14.2 1. State that coal, natural gas and petroleum are fossil fuels that produce carbon dioxide on
Fuels combustion.

2. Name methane as the main constituent of natural gas.

3. Describe petroleum as a mixture of hydrocarbons and its separation into useful fractions by
fractional distillation.

4. Describe the properties of molecules within a fraction.

5. Name the uses of the fractions as: – refinery gas for bottled gas for heating and cooking –
gasoline fraction for fuel (petrol) in cars – naphtha fraction as a feedstock for making chemicals –
diesel oil/gas oil for fuel in diesel engines – bitumen for road surfaces.

C14.3 1. Describe the homologous series of alkanes and alkenes as families of compounds with
Homo the same general formula and similar chemical properties.
logou
s
series

C14.4 1. Describe alkanes as saturated hydrocarbons whose molecules contain only single covalent
Alkan bonds.
es

2. Describe the properties of alkanes (exemplified by methane) as being generally unreactive,

except in terms of burning.

3. Describe the complete combustion of hydrocarbons to give carbon dioxide and water.

C14.5 1. Describe alkenes as unsaturated hydrocarbons whose molecules contain one double covalent
Alken bond.
es
2. State that cracking is a reaction that produces alkenes.

3. Describe the formation of smaller alkanes, alkenes and hydrogen by the cracking of
larger alkane molecules and state the conditions required for cracking.

4. Recognise saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons: – from molecular structures – by their

reaction with aqueous bromine.

5. Describe the properties of alkenes in terms of addition reactions with bromine,

hydrogen and steam, exemplified by ethene.

C14.6 1. State that ethanol may be formed by fermentation and by reaction between ethene and steam.
Alcoh 2. Describe the formation of ethanol by fermentation and the catalytic addition of steam to
ols ethene.

3. Describe the complete combustion of ethanol to give carbon dioxide and water.

4. State the uses of ethanol as a solvent and as a fuel.

C14.7 1. Define polymers as long chain molecules formed from small units (monomers).
Poly
mers 2. Deduce the structure of the polymer product from a given alkene and vice versa.

3. Explain the differences between addition and condensation polymerisation.

4. Describe the formation of a simple condensation polymer exemplified by nylon, the

structure of nylon being represented as: