Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Chemistry specification (YCH11)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Chemistry exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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- Written by expert teachers and examiners
- Aligned to exam specifications
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Chemistry specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Chemistry (YCH11) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
The Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in Chemistry aims to develop students’ understanding of the core principles of chemistry and their application to real-world contexts. It fosters a systematic approach to problem solving, encouraging students to think analytically, critically and creatively. The qualification integrates practical skills with theoretical knowledge, preparing learners for further study in chemistry or related scientific disciplines. Topics span physical, inorganic and organic chemistry, with a focus on patterns, reactions, energetics, and molecular structure. The course supports learners in applying mathematical skills, interpreting data, and evaluating scientific methodology.
Subject content breakdown
1. Structure, Bonding and Introduction to Organic Chemistry
- Atomic structure and the periodic table
- Chemical bonding, intermolecular forces and redox
- Nomenclature and isomerism in organic compounds
- Alkanes and alkenes: structure, reactions and mechanisms
2. Energetics, Group Chemistry, Halogenoalkanes and Alcohols
- Enthalpy changes and calorimetry
- Group 2 and Group 7 elements: trends and reactions
- Halogenoalkanes and alcohols: preparation and mechanisms
- Analytical techniques: IR and MS
3. Practical Skills in Chemistry I
- Experimental design and measurement
- Data processing, analysis and evaluation
- Common apparatus and techniques in chemistry
4. Rates, Equilibria and Further Organic Chemistry
- Kinetics and dynamic equilibria
- Acid–base chemistry and buffers
- Carbonyl compounds, carboxylic acids and derivatives
- Spectroscopic techniques: NMR
5. Transition Metals and Organic Nitrogen Chemistry
- Properties and complex formation of transition metals
- Ligand substitution and redox behaviour
- Amines, amides, amino acids and proteins
- DNA and synthesis of organic compounds
6. Practical Skills in Chemistry II
- Advanced experimental techniques
- Designing and evaluating multi-step procedures
- Data interpretation and drawing conclusions
Assessment structure
Unit 1: Structure, Bonding and Introduction to Organic Chemistry
- Written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes
- 80 marks
- Objective, short and long answer questions
Unit 2: Energetics, Group Chemistry, Halogenoalkanes and Alcohols
- Written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes
- 80 marks
- Mix of structured and open-response questions
Unit 3: Practical Skills in Chemistry I
- Written exam: 1 hour 20 minutes
- 50 marks
- Based on practical skills and apparatus
Unit 4: Rates, Equilibria and Further Organic Chemistry
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
- 90 marks
- Structured and extended response questions
Unit 5: Transition Metals and Organic Nitrogen Chemistry
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
- 90 marks
- Includes synoptic questions across the course
Unit 6: Practical Skills in Chemistry II
- Written exam: 1 hour 20 minutes
- 50 marks
Focus on advanced practical analysis and evaluation
- IAS qualification: Units 1–3
- IAL qualification: All six units
- Available in January and June
- Grading: A–E (IAS), A*–E (IAL)
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Chemistry isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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