Subject information

Everything you see, hear, smell, taste and touch involves Chemistry.   Learners who study Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry will develop a deep understanding of both organic and inorganic chemical processes. This broad and complex subject helps us to understand the world in which we live.

They will also develop an understanding of the scientific skills essential for further study at Cambridge International A Level, and Higher Level in the IB Diploma.
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A knowledge of Chemistry also opens up a range of science-based careers.

Blended Learning for Science

​Latham Online offers a unique opportunity for students studying science subjects to cover the practical elements of the course in an actual science laboratory.  

Practical Assessment in the Sciences
All candidates take one practical component either:
​Paper 5 – Practical Test
This paper tests in a practical context, OR
Paper 6 – Alternative to Practical Test
This paper tests in a written paper.

Whichever practical paper you choose please be aware that they test the same information. They require the same experimental skills to be learned and developed.

If it is possible, it is very desirable for all candidates to undertake practical work as it helps them to develop:
  • a deeper understanding of the syllabus topics​
  • experimental skills
For details of our Blended Learning for Science, please go to fees.

Syllabus Content

Learners study the following topics:
  1. The particulate nature of matter              
  2. Experimental techniques
  3. Atoms, elements and compounds
  4. Stoichiometry
  5. Electricity and chemistry
  6. Chemical energetics
  7. ​Chemical reactions
  8. ​Acids, bases and salts
  9. ​The Periodic Table
  10. ​Metals
  11. ​Air and water
  12. ​Sulfur
  13. Carbonates​
  14. ​​Organic Chemistry

Core and Extended Papers

To take into account of differing abilities, there is a choice between Core and Extended curriculum papers in Chemistry.

The Core curriculum is within the ability range of the large majority of students. It provides a full overview of the subject and is aimed at students expected to achieve grades C to G (levels 5 to 1).
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The Extended curriculum has been designed for the more academically able. It is targeted at those expected to achieve grades A* to E (levels 9 - 4).  Please go to Entering for Exams for more information.

Chemistry Exam Papers

All students sit three examination papers, whether taking the Core curriculum or the Extended curriculum.
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  • Multiple Choice Paper:  45 minutes (30% of marks)
  • Theory Paper: 1 hour 15 minutes (50%)
  • Alternative to Practical Paper which will test knowledge and understanding of experiments and practical skills:  1 hour 15 minutes (20%)
​Course codes: 0971 (1-9), 0620 (*A-G)

Prior Learning & Hours of Study

  • It is recommended that students taking IGCSE Chemistry have already studied Science for at least 2 years at secondary level.
  • It is anticipated that 130 hours should be dedicated to complete the study of this subject.
The Latham School is a registered school with Cambridge Assessment International Education
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