Chemistry

Mission

The programme is set to provide students with 

  1. some knowledge of the empirical world
  2. a training in objective observation
  3. an ability to solve problems
  4. an appreciation of chemistry and its application in daily life
  5. an ability to think scientifically and independently and to make rational decisions
  6. some insight into future career prospects in fields related to chemistry

Curriculum Goals

Senior Forms

Students should acquire: 
Basic Concepts 

  1. facility in recalling information and experience
  2. knowledge of chemical terminology and conventions
  3. knowledge of major generalizations which have been made and of theories which are widely held
  4. the ability to understand and interpret scientific information presented in verbal, numerical and graphical forms 

Experimental Investigation 

  1. skills in handling materials, manipulating apparatus, carrying out instructions for experiments and making accurate observations
  2. the ability to interpret experimental results in terms of suitable chemical laws and principles
  3. the ability in suggesting suitable apparatus, procedures to carry out experiments.
  4. an awareness of safety problems connected with the use of chemicals in the laboratory and in daily life situations

Interpretation and Applications 

  1. the ability to select and apply known laws and principles to given situations
  2. the ability to apply previous understanding to data supplied in new situations
  3. the ability to organize and present chemical ideas in a clear and logical form
  4. an appreciation of the relevance of chemistry in daily life
  5. an understanding of the role of chemistry in society and industry

Curriculum Highlights

HKDSE Chemistry curriculum emphasizes both fundamental knowledge and applied skills, with highlights including compulsory core topics (e.g., acids & bases, redox reactions, organic chemistry), elective modules (e.g., industrial chemistry, analytical chemistry), and an investigative study to foster inquiry and problem-solving.