As Practical Skills Handbook

AS and A LEVEL
Practical Skills Handbook
CHEMISTRY A
CHEMISTRY B (SALTERS)
This Practical Skills Handbook is designed
to accompany the OCR Advanced Subsidiary
GCE and Advanced GCE specifications in
Chemistry A and Chemistry B (Salters) for
teaching from September 2015.
ocr.org.uk/alevelchemistry
We will inform centres about any changes to the specification.

We will also publish changes on our website. The latest version
of our specification will always be the one on our website
(www.ocr.org.uk) and this may differ from printed versions.
Copyright 2015 OCR. All rights reserved.
Copyright
OCR retains the copyright on all its publications, including
the specifications. However, registered centres for OCR are
permitted to copy material from this specification booklet for
their own internal use.
Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations is a Company
Limited by Guarantee. Registered in England. Registered
company number 3484466.
Registered office: 1 Hills Road
Cambridge
CB1 2EU.
OCR is an exempt charity.
OCR will update this document on a regular basis. Please check the OCR website
(www.ocr.org.uk) or Interchange (https://interchange.ocr.org.uk) at the start of the
academic year to ensure that you are using the latest version.
Version 1.3 January 2016
Version 1.3
One change of note made between Version 1.2 and Version 1.3:
1.
Guidance on uncertainties in use of digital apparatus amended in Appendix 4, page 38, to

achieve consistency in approach across all A Level sciences. We strongly recommend
reading this revised guidance as it is relevant to both internal and external assessments.
Version 1.2 October 2015

Version 1.2
One change of note made between Version 1.1 and Version 1.2:
1.
Guidance on recording mean titres clarified in Appendix 4.
Version 1.1 September 2015

Version 1.1
Changes of note made between Version 1.0 and 1.1 are:
1.
Confirmation of the titles of the practical activities for PAGs 712 in Section 4, Table 2.
2.
Clarification of regulations relating to monitoring arrangements, assessment of the Practical

Endorsement, and Access arrangements, in Section 4.
3.
Addition of potential lab book suppliers in Appendix 2.
4.
Addition of a number of terms and definitions relating to the language of measurement in

Appendix 4.
5.
Modifications to wording on Anomalous readings in Appendix 4.
6.
Addition of guidance on tables in Appendix 6.
Additional small textual corrections have been made to clarify meaning. These have not affected
the content of this Handbook.
Contents
Contents
1 Introduction
2 Overview of practical skills requirements
Summary of the assessment model

Summary of the practical skills required
AS Level candidates and the Practical Endorsement
OCR 2015/2016 Version 1.3
GCE Chemistry
6
7
7
3 Practical skills assessed in a written examination

Planning
Implementing
Analysis
Evaluation
8
8
9
10
11
4 Practical skills assessed in the Practical Endorsement
13
Introduction to the OCR Practical Endorsement

Planning activities to cover the Endorsement requirements
Tracking achievement
Monitoring arrangements
Assessing the Practical Endorsement
Access arrangements
13
13
17
18
19
19
5 Planning your practical scheme of work

An approach to planning
20
20
Appendix 1: Health and safety
28
Appendix 2: Apparatus list
30
Appendix 3: Guidance on practical skills
33
Appendix 4: Measurements
37
Useful terms
Uncertainties
Recording measurements
Presentation of results
Significant figures
Errors in procedure
References
37
38
40
41
41
43
43
Appendix 5: Units
44
Appendix 6: Tables and graphs
45
Tables
Graphs
Choice of scales
Plotting of points
Line (or curve) of best fit
Determining gradients
Intercept
45
45
46
49
50
52
53
Appendix 7: Referencing
54
Systems of citation
References
54
55
Appendix 8: Resources
56
Appendix 9: Interchange help sheet
56

GCE Chemistry
1 Introduction
New GCE A/AS Level specifications in Chemistry have been introduced for teaching from
September 2015. Guidance notes are provided within specifications to assist teachers in
understanding the requirements of each unit.
This Handbook plays a secondary role to the specification itself. The specification is the document
on which assessment is based and this Handbook is intended to elaborate on the content of the
specification to clarify how skills are assessed and what practical experience is necessary to
support an assessment. The Practical Skills Handbook should therefore be read in conjunction with
the specification.
During their study of Chemistry, candidates are expected to acquire experience of planning,
implementation, use of apparatus and techniques, analysis and evaluation. These skills will be
indirectly assessed in the written examinations at both AS and A Level. In addition, certain
planning and implementation skills will be directly assessed at A Level only, through the Practical
Endorsement.
This Handbook offers guidance on the skills required for both assessments, clarifies the
arrangements for the Practical Endorsement, and gives suggestions towards planning a practical
scheme of work that will cover all requirements.
How to use this handbook
Sections 24 of this handbook describe the assessment of practical skills in the AS and A Level
qualifications. These sections elaborate on the information provided in the specification. Teachers
are particularly advised to carefully read Section 4, which sets out the requirements for the
Practical Endorsement the direct assessment of practical skills in the A Level qualifications.
Section 5 provides guidance on planning the practical scheme of work, bringing together the
various aspects that should be taken into account. The guidance in this section is intended to be
supportive rather than prescriptive.
The Appendices provide reference information on various topics.
Appendices 1 and 2 provide information on health and safety and apparatus requirements,
and may be useful to share with technicians.
Appendix 3 gives some further guidance on the practical skills set out in specification
Section 1.2.1, which are covered in the Practical Endorsement. This section is intended to
support centres in planning how they will develop these skills.
Appendices 47 give additional information on skills related to recording and presenting

experimental data, covering measurements, units, graphs and referencing respectively.
This content could be shared with learners to help them develop an appropriate level of
skill.
Appendix 8 lists a number of useful resources, including additional resources and support
provided by OCR.
Appendix 9 is a guide to finding additional documentation on Interchange.

GCE Chemistry
2 Overview of practical skills requirements

Summary of the assessment model
The practical skills assessment model is similar to the assessment model for the UK driving test,
consisting of a theoretical and a practical component.
The driving theory test assesses whether you know how to drive a car, what the rules of the road
are, and whether you can spot hazards. The theory test is centrally administered by the UK
government, and all candidates sit a test of a similar format.
The practical driving test assesses whether you can put your knowledge into practice and actually
drive a car. It is directly assessed by an examiner, who determines whether you have achieved the
minimum standard. While certain skills must always be demonstrated, the experience of the
assessment will be quite different from one candidate to the next, depending on the route taken,
traffic conditions, hazards encountered, and so on.
Similarly, the assessment of practical skills in the GCE Chemistry qualifications consists of two
components.
The theoretical component is an indirect assessment of practical skills through a written

examination. This assessment is integrated into the written assessments of chemical
knowledge and understanding, administered by OCR and taken at the end of the course.
The practical component is a direct assessment of practical skills displayed by candidates

as they are performing practical work. This is assessed by the teacher across the whole of
the course.
The indirect, written assessment is a component of both AS and A Level Chemistry. The direct
assessment, known as the Practical Endorsement, is a component of A Level Chemistry only.
The skills required for the practical skills assessments are set out in Module 1 of each
specification: Development of practical skills in chemistry. Module 1 is divided into two sections:
Section 1.1 of the specification covers skills that are assessed indirectly in a written
examination. These skills may be assessed in any of the written papers that constitute the
written assessment, at both AS and A Level.
Assessment of practical skills forms a minimum of 15% of the written assessment at both
AS and A Level.
Section 1.2 of the specification covers skills that are assessed directly through the
Practical Endorsement. Candidate performance is teacher-assessed against the Common
Practical Assessment Criteria. If the candidate has demonstrated achievement in the
competencies described, the teacher awards a Pass. The Practical Endorsement is
ungraded.
The Practical Endorsement is a component of the assessment at A Level only. There is no
direct assessment of practical skills at AS Level.
Performance in the Practical Endorsement is reported separately to the performance in the
A Level as measured through the externally assessed components.

GCE Chemistry
Summary of the practical skills required

Skills assessed in the written examinations
The skills assessed in the written examination cover the following areas:
Planning
Implementing
Analysis
Evaluation
Questions assessing these practical skills will be embedded in contexts relating to the content of
the specification. The specification learning outcomes beginning techniques and procedures
indicate types of practical activity that may form the context for the assessment of practical skills.
Candidates should be able to apply any of the above skills within any of these practical contexts.
Skills assessed through the Practical Endorsement

The skills assessed through the Practical Endorsement cover the areas of Planning and
Implementing, specifically the following:
Independent thinking
Use and application of scientific methods and practices
Research and referencing
Instruments and equipment
Candidates must exemplify their skill in these areas through use of the apparatus and techniques
listed in the specification, Section 1.2.2.
Within Appendix 5 of the specification, a structure comprising 12 Practical Activity Groups (PAGs)
is presented that demonstrate how the required skills and techniques for the Practical
Endorsement may be covered in the minimum 12 activities. Centres are permitted to assess a
wider range of practical activities for the Practical Endorsement, which may include splitting the
requirements of individual PAGs across multiple activities.
AS Level candidates and the Practical Endorsement

There is no direct assessment of practical skills within the AS Level qualification. However, AS
Level candidates will benefit from completing the type of practical activities recommended within
the Practical Endorsement, as well as others, for the following reasons:
completing practical activities will help to develop the practical skills that are assessed in
the written examination
completing practical activities will support understanding of the content of the specification
candidates who decide to continue to take the A Level qualification after completing AS
Level will be able to use their performance on Practical Endorsement activities completed in
their first year towards the Practical Endorsement, as long as appropriate records have
been kept.

GCE Chemistry
3 Practical skills assessed in a written

examination
Planning
Specification Section 1.1.1.
Learners should be able to demonstrate and apply their knowledge and understanding of:
experimental design, including to solve problems set in a practical context
identification of variables that must be controlled, where appropriate
evaluation that an experimental method is appropriate to meet the expected outcomes.
Experimental design should include selection of suitable apparatus, equipment and techniques for
the proposed experiment.
Learners will benefit from having been given the opportunity to design simple experiments, and
receiving feedback on their plans. Additionally, they should routinely be asked to consider why
experiments are performed in the way they are, and how the experimental set-up contributes to
being able to achieve the expected outcome. Learners could be asked what might be the effect of
changing aspects of the method.
Example questions
Outline an experimental setup that could be used in the laboratory to measure the
standard cell potential of an electrochemical cell based on the following redox
systems:
Ag+(aq) + e
Ag(s)
Fe3+(aq) + e
Fe2+(aq)
In your answer you should include details of the apparatus, solutions and the
standard conditions required to measure this standard cell potential.
A Level Chemistry A, Sample Question Paper 1 question 21(a)(i)
C6H5N2Cl decomposes in dilute aqueous solution.
C6H5N2Cl + H2O N2 + HCl + C6H5OH
Some chemists investigate the rate of this decomposition. They collect the nitrogen
gas in a graduated syringe at different initial concentrations of the C6H5N2Cl
solution. They time how long it takes for 50cm3 of nitrogen to be collected. The
volume of solution used in each experiment is 100cm3.
The chemists could have measured the time to produce a much larger volume of
nitrogen.
Suggest why it would have been inappropriate to measure the time to collect larger
volumes of gas, particularly in the experiments with lower concentrations of
C6H5N2Cl.
A Level Chemistry B (Salters), Sample Question Paper 2 question 1(e)(ii)
8

GCE Chemistry
Implementing
how to use a wide range of practical apparatus and techniques correctly
appropriate units for measurements
presenting observations and data in an appropriate format.
The practical apparatus and techniques that may be assessed are those outlined in the
specification statements related to practical techniques and procedures and, for A Level only,
those covered in the Practical Endorsement
Learners will be expected to understand the units used for measurements taken using common
laboratory apparatus. See Appendix 5 for units commonly used in practical work in chemistry.
Appropriate presentation of data includes use of correct units and correct number of decimal
places for quantitative data. This skill also includes appropriate use of tables and graphs for
presentation of data.
Further information on recording measurements and the use of graphs is given in Appendices 4
and 6, respectively.
Example questions
Methanoic acid and bromine react as in the equation below.
Br2(aq) + HCOOH(aq) 2H+(aq) + 2Br(aq) + CO2(g)
A student investigates the rate of this reaction by monitoring the concentration of
bromine over time. The student uses a large excess of HCOOH to ensure that the
order with respect to HCOOH will be effectively zero.
From the experimental results, the student plots the graph below.
[Graph shows plot of bromine concentration against time.]
Suggest how the concentration of the bromine could have been monitored.
A Level Chemistry A, Sample Question Paper 3 question 4(a)
Describe the main steps involved in carrying out the recrystallisation of hexane-1,6dioic acid using water as a solvent.
In your account, describe what property of hexane-1,6-dioic acid this process
depends upon.
A Level Chemistry B (Salters), Sample Question Paper 3 question 1(a)(iii)
[Diagrams given showing fluid level in a burette in initial and final positions for a
students titration.]
Record the students readings and the titre.
[Answer requires correct number of decimal places and units included.]
AS Level Chemistry A, Sample Question Paper 2 question 6(b)(i)
GCE Chemistry
Analysis
processing, analysing and interpreting qualitative and quantitative experimental results
use of appropriate mathematical skills for analysis of quantitative data
appropriate use of significant figures
plotting and interpreting suitable graphs from experimental results, including:

(i)
selection and labelling of axes with appropriate scales, quantities and units
(ii)
measurement of gradients and intercepts.
Learners will benefit from having practised these skills in a range of practical contexts. Many of the
skills and techniques that form part of the Practical Endorsement will also be suitable for practising
these skills.
Appendix 4 gives further information about the use of significant figures. Appendix 5 gives further
information about the plotting of graphs. See also the Mathematical Skills Handbook for further
guidance on the mathematical skills required in analysing experimental results, and in other areas
of quantitative chemistry.
Example questions
An acid is titrated with a strong alkali using phenolphthalein until the pink colour just
persists. If the solution is then allowed to stand in the titration flask it slowly goes
colourless.
Explain what is happening.
A Level Chemistry B (Salters), Sample Question Paper 2 question 2(e)(ii)
A student conducted an experiment to determine the enthalpy change of combustion
of methanol.
The student measured 100cm3 of water and poured it into the beaker.
The student measured a temperature rise of 10.5C.
The student calculated the amount of energy transferred to the water.
Which of the following uses the appropriate number of significant figures and correct
standard form to represent the result of the calculation?
A
B
C
D
10
4.389 103J
4.39 103J
43.9 102J
44.0 102J
AS Level Chemistry A, Sample Question Paper 1 question 18(a)

GCE Chemistry
The student repeated [an experiment to measure the volume of gas produced in a
reaction] using different quantities of zinc and calcium carbonate. The student
measured the total volume of gas collected over time.
The students results are shown below.
[Results table shown.]
(i)
Plot a graph from the data provided.

Include a line of best fit.
(ii)
Using the graph, determine the rate of reaction, in cm3s1, after 50s.
Show your working on your graph.
AS Level Chemistry A, Sample Question Paper 1 question 21(d)(i)
Evaluation
how to evaluate results and draw conclusions
the identification of anomalies in experimental measurements
the limitations in experimental procedures
precision and accuracy of measurements and data, including margins of error, percentage
errors and uncertainties in apparatus
refining experimental design by suggestion of improvements to the procedures and

apparatus.
Learners will benefit from having practised these skills in a range of practical contexts. As a matter
of course, learners should be encouraged to think carefully about the procedure they are
performing and how it relates to the content of the specification; this will better place them to draw
appropriate conclusions, identify anomalous and unexpected results, and identify limitations in
procedures. Many activities included in the Practical Endorsement, as well as others, can be
extended to allow learners to consider errors and uncertainties, and suggest improvements to
procedures.
Appendix 4 provides further information on precision, accuracy and errors, as well as identifying
anomalous results.
Example questions
The student repeats [an experiment to measure the enthalpy of combustion of
methanol] using a spirit burner containing ethanol instead of methanol. The same
mass of fuel is burned in both experiments.
Suggest two reasons why the total energy transferred from the spirit burner is
different in the two experiments.
A Level Chemistry B (Salters), Sample Question Paper 3 question 3(b)(ii)

GCE Chemistry
11
A student prepares a standard solution and carries out a titration. The standard
solution is placed in the burette.
Which of the following would result in a titre that is larger than it should be?
1:
Water is added to completely fill the volumetric flask, rather than to the
graduation line.
2:
The conical flask is washed out with water before carrying out each titration.
3:
The pipette is washed out with water before carrying out each titration.
1, 2 and 3
Only 1 and 2
Only 2 and 3
Only 1
AS Level Chemistry A, Sample Question Paper 1 question 19
The temperatures are measured using a thermometer that has graduation marks at
every 1C.
Calculate the percentage error associated with the temperature difference in the
above results.
[Results given as initial temperature and maximum temperature.]
A Level Chemistry B (Salters), Sample Question Paper 3 question 3(a)(i)
A student carried out the reaction of zinc (Zn) and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in a
fume cupboard.
A mixture containing 0.27g of powdered zinc and 0.38g of powdered CaCO3 was
heated strongly for two minutes. The volume of gas collected in the 100 cm3 syringe
was then measured. The experiment was then repeated.
The student did not obtain the volume of gas predicted using this procedure.
Apart from further repeats, suggest two improvements to the practical procedure
that would allow the student to obtain a more accurate result.
AS Level Chemistry A, Sample Question Paper 1 question 21(c)(ii)
12

GCE Chemistry
4 Practical skills assessed in the Practical

Endorsement
Introduction to the OCR Practical Endorsement
In order to pass the Practical Endorsement, candidates must demonstrate by the end of the twoyear A Level course that they consistently and routinely exhibit the competencies described in the
Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPAC), listed in Section 5 of the specification. These
competencies must be developed through a practical programme that encompasses the skills,
apparatus and techniques listed in section 1.2 of the specification, and must comprise a minimum
of 12 practical activities.
In the OCR specifications, 12 Practical Activity Groups (PAGs) are presented, which provide
opportunities for demonstrating competency in all required apparatus and techniques. Additionally,
all of the required skills can be developed through the PAGs. Some of the required skills are
explicitly included in the requirements for individual PAGs, while others can be developed as a
matter of course across the full range of activities.
The PAGs have been designed so that activities can be chosen that directly support the
specification content. PAG15 support concepts that are likely to be taught in the first year of A
Level, while PAG69 support concepts from the second year of A Level. PAG10 and PAG11 are
less scaffolded activities, designed for development of the investigative skills covered in Module
1.2.1, and can be used to bring together knowledge from across the course. Finally, PAG12 allows
candidates to demonstrate research skills and apply investigative approaches, and may link in with
any content from the course or beyond.
Planning activities to cover the Endorsement requirements

The Practical Activity Groups
Table 1 on the next page lists the 12 Practical Activity Groups (PAGs) with the minimum of skills
and use of apparatus and techniques to be covered in each. The groups have been designed to
include the types of activities that will support the requirements of the Practical Endorsement, as
well as the assessment of practical skills within the written examinations.
Table 1 can be used to construct a practical scheme of work that covers all requirements. Centres
are not required to stick rigidly to this table, as long as overall all the requirements are covered. For
example, the skills included in PAG12 could be covered as part of an activity described for another
PAG, rather than as a separate activity. That is fine, as long as at least 12 activities are completed
overall.
Centres are not required to cover the skills and techniques for each PAG in a single activity. Some
PAGs cover a range of skills, and centres may prefer to split these out. For example, PAG6 could
be covered through a series of stand-alone activities, focusing on synthesis and filtration,
recrystallisation, melting point determination and TLC as stand-alone practicals. Risk assessments
could be completed for any or all of these.
The Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPAC) can be applied to candidate performance
across all practical work performed throughout the A Level course. It is not the intention that
assessment of the Practical Endorsement should only be based on performance in 12 activities,
one from each PAG. For example, if you run multiple titration activities, candidates performance
across all these activities could be taken into account, not just their performance in an activity
selected explicitly to cover PAG2.
GCE Chemistry
13
Table 1 Practical activity requirements for the OCR Chemistry Practical Endorsement.
Practical activity
group (PAG)
1 Moles determination
2 Acidbase titration
Techniques/skills covered (minimum)

use of appropriate apparatus to record measurements of mass and volume
of a gas, 1.2.2(a)
measurement of volume of a liquid, 1.2.2(a)
use of volumetric flask, including accurate technique for making up a
standard solution, 1.2.2(e)
use of laboratory apparatus for titration, using burette and pipette, 1.2.2(d)(i)
use of acidbase indicators in titrations of weak/strong acids with
weak/strong alkalis, 1.2.2(f)
3 Enthalpy determination
use of appropriate apparatus to record measurements of temperature,

1.2.2(a)
4 Qualitative analysis of
ions
use of laboratory apparatus for qualitative tests for ions, 1.2.2(d)(iii)
5 Synthesis of an organic
liquid
make and record qualitative observations, 1.2.1(d)

use of laboratory apparatus for heating under reflux, 1.2.2(d)(ii)
purification of a liquid product, including use of a separating funnel,

1.2.2(g)(ii)
use of laboratory apparatus for distillation, 1.2.2(d)(ii)
identification of potential hazards (risk assessment), CPAC3
6 Synthesis of an organic
solid
use of laboratory apparatus for heating under reflux, 1.2.2(d)(ii)
use of laboratory apparatus for filtration, including use of fluted filter paper,
or filtration under reduced pressure, 1.2.2(d)(iv)
purification of a solid product by recrystallisation, 1.2.2(g)(i)
use of melting point apparatus, 1.2.2(h)
use of thin layer or paper chromatography, 1.2.2(i)
identification of potential hazards (risk assessment), CPAC3
7 Qualitative analysis of
organic functional groups
use of laboratory apparatus for qualitative tests for organic functional groups,
1.2.2(d)(iii)
use of a water bath or electric heater or sand bath for heating, 1.2.2(b)
make and record qualitative observations, 1.2.1(d)
8 Electrochemical cells
setting up of electrochemical cells and measuring voltages, 1.2.2(j)
9 Rates of reaction
continuous monitoring
method
measurement of rate of reaction by a continuous monitoring method,

1.2.2(l)(ii)
use of appropriate apparatus to record measurements of time, 1.2.2(a)
use appropriate software to process data, 1.2.1(g)
10 Rates of reaction
initial rates method
measurement of rate of reaction by an initial rate method such as a clock

reaction, 1.2.2(l)(i)
identify and control variables, CPAC2
use appropriate software to process data, 1.2.1(g)
11 pH measurement
12 Research skills
measurement of pH using pH charts, or pH meter, or pH probe on a data

logger, 1.2.2(c)
apply investigative approaches and methods to practical work, 1.2.1(a)
use online and offline research skills, including websites, textbooks and
other printed scientific sources of information, 1.2.1(h)
1,2
correctly cite sources of information, 1.2.1(j)

These techniques/skills may be covered in either of the groups indicated.
14

GCE Chemistry
Table 1 refers mainly to learning outcomes in Section 1.2 of the specification. In a few instances,
references are included to the Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPAC), to ensure coverage
of criteria that are not explicitly stated in the learning outcomes.
Some of the learning outcomes in Section 1.2 are generic, i.e. they could be covered in many
different activities. These have not been explicitly included in Table 1.
The learning outcome Safely and correctly handling solids and liquids, including corrosive, irritant,
flammable and toxic substances, 1.2.2(k), needs to be covered across the selection of activities.
It is expected that there will be ample opportunities to develop and demonstrate the following skills
across the whole practical course, regardless of the exact selection of activities:
safely and correctly use a range of practical equipment and materials, 1.2.1(b) (though note
identifying hazards has been explicitly included in PAG5 and PAG6)
follow written instructions, 1.2.1(c)
make and record observations/measurements, 1.2.1(d) (though note qualitative

observations are explicitly included in PAG4 and PAG7)
keep appropriate records of experimental activities, 1.2.1(e)
present information and data in a scientific way, 1.2.1(f)
use appropriate tools to process data, carry out research and report findings, 1.2.1(g)
use a wide range of experimental and practical instruments, equipment and techniques,
1.2.1(j).
Practical Activity Support Service

OCR does not require specific activities to be completed for each PAG. Centres may select
activities of their own, or provided by third parties, and map these against the requirements.
Centres may contact OCRs Practical Activity Support Service (PASS) with queries regarding
selection of activities for the Practical Endorsement: pass@ocr.org.uk
Centres may contact the service regarding individual activities that they wish to carry out. Centres
may request advice on whether
-
they have correctly mapped learning outcomes / CPAC against an activity
they have correctly selected an activity that will cover the requirements for a particular
PAG.
Centres should not submit full schemes of work to the service for advice on whether the full
Practical Endorsement requirements have been covered. However, queries requiring clarification
of the requirements and advice on the general approach to planning are welcome.
Activities provided by OCR

OCR has produced three example activities for each PAG, comprising student sheets and
teacher/technician guidance. Centres may use these directly in their centres, adapt them to their
requirements, or merely use them as reference for the types of activity that would satisfy the
criteria for each PAG and the Endorsement as a whole.
The example activities are available on Interchange. See Appendix 9 for details on how to access
them.
Table 2 lists the activity titles of the OCR example activities for A Level Chemistry.

GCE Chemistry
15
Table 2 PAG activities provided by OCR

PAG1
1.1 Determination of the composition of copper(II)
carbonate basic
1.2 Determination of the relative atomic mass of
magnesium
1.3 Determination of the formula for magnesium
oxide
PAG2
2.1 Determination of the concentration of
hydrochloric acid
2.2 Determination of the molar mass of an acid
2.3 Identification of an unknown carbonate
PAG3
3.1 Determination of the enthalpy change of
neutralisation
3.2 Determination of an enthalpy change of
reaction by Hess Law
3.3 Determination of enthalpy changes of
combustion
PAG4
4.1 Identifying unknowns 1
PAG5
5.1 Synthesis of a haloalkane
5.2 Preparation of cyclohexene
5.3 Oxidation of ethanol
PAG6
6.1 Synthesis of aspirin
6.2 Preparation of benzoic acid
6.3 Preparation of methyl 3-nitrobenzoate
16
PAG7
7.1 Identifying organic unknowns 1
PAG8
8.1 Electrochemical cells 1
PAG9
9.1 The rate of decomposition of hydrogen peroxide
9.2 The rate of reaction of calcium carbonate and
hydrochloric acid
9.3 The rate of reaction of magnesium and
hydrochloric acid
PAG10
10.1 Rates iodine clock
10.2 Rates thiosulfate and acid
10.3 Rates activation energy
PAG11
11.1 pH problem solving
11.2 pH titration curves
11.3 pH acids and buffers
PAG12
12.1 Investigating iron tablets
12.2 Investigating the copper content of brass
screws
12.3 Investigating the reaction between potassium
manganate(VII) and ethanedioic acid

GCE Chemistry
Tracking achievement
Requirements for record keeping
Centres will be required by OCR to provide the following information to a Monitor on any potential
monitoring visit (see following section for monitoring arrangements):
1. Plans to cover all practical requirements, such as a scheme of work to show how sufficient
practical activities will be carried out to meet the requirements of CPAC, incorporating all
the skills and techniques required over the course of the A Level.
2. A record of each practical activity that is carried out and the date it was done.
3. A record of the criteria assessed in each practical activity.
4. A record of learner attendance.
5. A record of which learners met which criteria and which did not.
6. Evidence of learners work associated with particular activities.
7. Any associated materials provided e.g. written instructions.
Centres are free to choose the format in which learners record evidence of their work that best
suits them, taking into consideration any constraints in a particular centre, e.g. large cohort,
budget.
Possible suitable methods include the use of a lab book, a folder of relevant sheets or a collection
of digital files.
PAG activities provided by OCR will provide instructions as to the types of evidence required
depending on the nature of the particular activity.
The PAG tracker

OCR has developed an Excel spreadsheet that can be used to track the progress of a class
through the Practical Endorsement. This tool has a number of functions and is designed to be used
alongside the PAG activities provided by OCR. These activities and the tracker can be found on
Interchange.
Teachers can use the PAG tracker by firstly entering their class data into the spreadsheet. The
OCR PAG activities have all been mapped to the skills, techniques and Common Practical
Assessment Criteria (CPAC) that need to be covered or considered when tracking the progress of
students through their practical activities. This then means that it is only necessary to enter the
date that a particular activity is completed for
all learners to be recorded as present, and
the skills, techniques and criteria covered by that activity to be recorded as achieved by all
students.
If any learner is absent, or fails to demonstrate competency in an element of the activity, it is very
easy to change that cell to absent or not achieved as appropriate.
Other functions include being able to check which skills, techniques and criteria a particular activity
covers, being able to find an activity that covers particular skills, techniques and criteria and the
ability to look at a whole class in terms of how many times they have achieved particular skills,
techniques and criteria.

GCE Chemistry
17
It is possible to enter and map practical activities that centres have developed themselves so the
tracker is very flexible in terms of the activities carried out. If a centre would like any advice about
the mapping of practical activities, then they will be able to get in touch with the Science Subject
Specialists at OCR by emailing the Practical Activity Support Service at pass@ocr.org.uk
It is suggested that Centres use the tracker as evidence for items 25 of the list of record keeping
requirements above. Therefore by using this tool, along with a scheme of work, any student sheets
used and the learners evidence, the internal monitoring of the Practical Endorsement should be
very easy to administer.
Monitoring arrangements
Monitoring visits
All centres will receive one monitoring visit in one of the sciences offered by that centre in the first
two years of teaching (from September 2015). Large centres will be visited for all three sciences.
The purpose of the monitoring process is to ensure that centres are planning and delivering
appropriate practical work, and making and recording judgements on learner competences to meet
the required standards.
On the day of the visit the monitor will:
observe practical activity
review the records kept by the centre and by learners (see Tracking achievement above)
talk with staff and learners.
Following the visit, the monitor will complete a record of the visit, which will be copied to the centre.
The record will state whether the monitor is satisfied that the centre is meeting the requirements for
the Practical Endorsement. The report may additionally offer guidance on improvements that could
be made by the centre.
Should a centre dispute the outcome of a monitoring visit, a repeat visit by an alternative monitor
may be requested.
Arrangement of visits
Centres must register the following information in September of each year:
which awarding organisation they intend to deliver for each science A Level (this will not
commit the centre to final examination entry)
the name of the lead teacher for each science A Level being delivered.
Each year the JCQ will decide which centres will be visited and which science at each centre will
be visited. This information is then passed to the respective awarding organisations. Centres
offering OCR qualifications will therefore receive a visit from a monitor appointed by OCR.
The monitor will contact the centre to arrange a visit within two to four weeks. The centre must
supply the monitor with
18
timetable information for the agreed date to allow the monitor to identify a practical lesson
to observe.

GCE Chemistry
Standardisation
Lead teachers for each subject are required to undertake training provided by OCR on the
implementation of the Practical Endorsement. This will be an online training package that can be
completed by the lead teacher in their own time. Further details are to be confirmed at the time of
writing.
The lead teacher for each subject is responsible for sharing the information provided in the training
with the other subject teachers in their centre, to ensure that:
all candidates are given adequate opportunity to fulfil the requirements of the Practical
Endorsement
standards are applied appropriately across the range of candidates within the centre.
Assessing the Practical Endorsement

The Practical Endorsement is directly assessed by teachers. The assessment is certificated as
Pass or Not-classified.
In order to achieve a Pass, candidates will need to have met the expectations set out in the
Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPAC) (see Table 2 in the specification, Appendix 5)
including demonstrating competence in all the skills, apparatus and techniques in sections 1.2.1
and 1.2.2 of each specification. Candidates can demonstrate these competencies in any practical
activity undertaken throughout the course of study. The 12 OCR Practical Activity Groups (PAGs)
described in the specification provide opportunities for demonstrating competence in all required
skills, together with the use of apparatus and practical techniques for each subject.
Candidates may work in groups, but must be able to demonstrate and record independent
evidence of their competency. This must include evidence of independent application of
investigative approaches and methods to practical work.
Teachers who award a Pass need to be confident that the candidate consistently and routinely
exhibits the required competencies before completion of the A Level course.
Access arrangements
There are no formal access arrangements for the Practical Endorsement.
Centres may make reasonable adjustments to their planned practical activities to allow candidates
with disabilities to participate in practical work. Where such adjustments allow these candidates to
independently demonstrate the competencies and technical skills required, without giving these
candidates an unfair assessment advantage, centres may award a Pass for the Practical
Endorsement.
For example, candidates who are colour blind can use colour charts to help them identify colour
changes. Alternatively, practical activities can be selected that involve changes that such
candidates are able to observe without such assistance.
Candidates who are not physically able to perform some or all of the required practical work
independently cannot achieve a Pass in the Practical Endorsement. However, they can access all
the marks within the written examinations, and will benefit from having been given the opportunity
to experience all practical work, perhaps with the help of a practical assistant. An application for
Special Consideration for such candidates should be made in the standard way.

GCE Chemistry
19
5 Planning your practical scheme of work

In planning the practical scheme of work, centres need to ensure sufficient opportunities are
provided to support candidates development of understanding and skill in the following areas:
practical skills assessed in the written examinations (identified in specification Section 1.1)
practical techniques and procedures assessed in the written examinations (identified

throughout the content modules of the specifications)
practical skills assessed through the Practical Endorsement (identified in specification

Section 1.2, for A Level only)
conceptual understanding which can be supported through practical work.
This section presents an approach to planning a practical scheme of work that takes into account
all of the above. The information in this section is presented for guidance only; there is no
prescribed approach.
An approach to planning
On the following pages, sample tables are presented for each of the specifications (Chemistry A
and Chemistry B (Salters)), which could be used as a starting point for planning the practical
scheme of work within centres. The structure of the tables is informed by one possible approach to
planning:
1. Identify the learning outcomes within the specification that relate to knowledge and
understanding of practical techniques and procedures.
2. Identify which of these learning outcomes relate to Practical Activity Groups, so that
carrying out practical work in support of these learning outcomes will also meet certain
requirements within the Practical Endorsement. For both GCE Chemistry specifications,
PAGs 111 relate to activity types that will also directly support learning outcomes
assessed in the written examinations.
3. Select practical activities that will adequately cover the requirements identified so far.
4. Consider how to incorporate coverage of PAG12. The research, citation and investigative
skills covered in PAG12 may be developed in the context of any topic in the specification
(or beyond). You may elect to:
a. develop these skills in an area not already included in the PAGs (e.g. equilibrium
investigations or redox titrations)
b. use this type of activity to give additional support in an area of practical activity
already covered
c. run this type of activity as a mini-investigation, giving candidates some freedom of
choice of topic.
5. Identify how the chosen practical activities can be used to support development of the
practical skills assessed in the written examinations. Modify the choice of activities, or add
activities, if more support is required.
6. Identify how the chosen practical activities can be used to support other learning outcomes
within the specification. Again, if insufficient opportunities have been identified, consider
modifying the choice of activities or adding additional activities.
20

GCE Chemistry
Note that a much wider range of practical work can be carried out than is suggested by the
learning outcomes specifically related to practical techniques and procedures.
The learning outcomes related to techniques and procedures form just one potential starting point
for planning the practical scheme of work. It is equally possible to begin by considering the work
you wish to carry out to support conceptual understanding, and then checking that other
requirements have been covered. Alternatively, you could begin by planning sufficient work to
cover the requirements of the Practical Endorsement.
Sample planning tables

The following sample tables are also available as editable Word files on Interchange.
The Activities column is left blank for centres to complete. This reflects the fact that OCR does not
specify particular practical activities that need to be carried out.
The Examinable skills column suggests which practical skills assessed in the written
examinations could be developed in the context of particular types of activities. This is a nonprescriptive and non-exhaustive list; centres should adjust this information according to their
selected activities and their overall scheme of work.
Certain skills may be expected to form part of any practical activity. These are not explicitly
referenced in the table, and include:
presenting observations and data
processing and interpreting results.
Certain other skills could be developed in almost any practical activity. These include:
experimental design
evaluation of method
evaluating results
identifying limitations in procedures.
However, there are certain types of procedure that particularly lend themselves to developing
problem solving and evaluation skills, and these have been identified in the tables.
Finally, certain skills will be limited to certain types of activity. This primarily concerns skills related
to recording, processing and evaluating quantitative measurements, and the controlling of
variables. Opportunities for developing these skills are identified in the tables.
The Other LOs supported column can be used to identify other learning outcomes within the
specification that can be taught through the practical activities. Again, the opportunities identified in
the sample tables are non-prescriptive and non-exhaustive.

GCE Chemistry
21
Chemistry A sample planning table

Other LOs
supported
PAG
2.1.3(i) the techniques and procedures required during

experiments requiring the measurement of mass, volumes of
solutions and gas volumes
E.g. 1.1.2(b), 1.1.3(b),

1.1.3(c), 1.1.4(a), 1.1.4(c),
1.1.4(d)
2.1.4(d) the techniques and procedures used when preparing a

standard solution of required concentration and carrying out acid
base titrations
E.g. 1.1.2(b), 1.1.3(b),

1.1.3(c), 1.1.3(d) (if performing
titration using a pH probe),
1.1.4(a), 1.1.4(b), 1.1.4(d)
E.g.
2.1.4(c)(i),
2.1.4(e)
3.1.4(a) qualitative analysis of ions on a test-tube scale;

processes and techniques needed to identify the following ions in
an unknown compound:
(i) anions:
2
+
CO3 , by reaction with H (aq) forming CO2(g)
2
2+
SO4 , by precipitation with Ba (aq)
E.g. 1.1.1(a), 1.1.4(a)
E.g.
2.1.4(c)(ii),
3.1.3(g)
3.2.1(h) the techniques and procedures used to determine

enthalpy changes directly and indirectly
E.g. 1.1.2(b), 1.1.3(b),

1.1.3(c), 1.1.3(d), 1.1.4(b),
1.1.4(c), 1.1.4(d)
E.g. 3.2.1(d),
3.2.1(e),
3.2.1(g)
3.2.2(e) the techniques and procedures used to investigate

reaction rates including the measurement of mass, gas volumes
and time
E.g. 1.1.2(b), 1.1.3(b),

1.1.3(c), 1.1.3(d), 1.1.4(a),
1.1.4(b)
E.g. 3.2.2(a),
3.2.2(b)
E.g. 1.1.1(b), 1.1.4(a)
E.g. 3.2.3(b)
Activity/ies
Examinable skills
Learning outcome
All practical activities

support 1.1.2(a), 1.1.2(c),
1.1.3(a)
Cl , Br , I
+
(ii) cations: NH4 , by reaction with warm NaOH(aq) forming NH3
3.2.3(d) the techniques and procedures used to investigate

changes to the position of equilibrium for changes in
concentration and temperature
22

GCE Chemistry
Examinable skills
Other LOs
supported
E.g. 1.1.1(c)
LOs from
Module 4
relating to
the reaction
carried out.
9,10
E.g. 1.1.1(b) (in PAG10),

1.1.2(b), 1.1.3(b), 1.1.3(c),
1.1.3(d), 1.1.4(a), 1.1.4(b)
E.g. 5.1.1(b
g)
E.g. 1.1.1(b), 1.1.2(b),

1.1.3(b), 1.1.3(c), 1.1.4(a),
1.1.4(c), 1.1.4(d)
E.g. 5.1.2(e),
5.1.2(f)
E.g. 1.1.1(a) (in PAG11)
LOs from
section 5.1.3
relating to
the activity
carried out.
E.g. 1.1.2(b), 1.1.3(b),

1.1.3(c), 1.1.4(a), 1.1.4(c),
1.1.4(d)
E.g. 5.2.3(e)
E.g. 1.1.1(b), 1.1.2(b)
E.g. 5.2.3(h),
5.2.3(i)
Learning outcome
PAG
4.2.3(a) the techniques and procedures for:

(i) use of Quickfit apparatus including for distillation and heating
under reflux
(ii) preparation and purification of an organic liquid including:
use of a separating funnel to remove an organic layer from an
aqueous layer
drying with an anhydrous salt (e.g. MgSO4, CaCl2)
redistillation
5.1.1(h) the techniques and procedures used to investigate
reaction rates by the initial rates method and by continuous
monitoring, including use of colorimetry
5.1.2(c) the techniques and procedures used to determine
quantities present at equilibrium
5.1.3(o) the techniques and procedures used when measuring pH
with a pH meter
11
5.2.3(d) the techniques and procedures used when carrying out
2
2+
redox titrations including those involving Fe /MnO4 and I2/S2O3
5.2.3(g) the techniques and procedures used for the
measurement of cell potentials of:
(i) metals or non-metals in contact with their ions in aqueous
solution
(ii) ions of the same element in different oxidation states in
contact with a Pt electrode

GCE Chemistry
Activity/ies

support 1.1.2(a), 1.1.2(c),
1.1.3(a)
23
Examinable skills
Other LOs
supported
E.g. 1.1.1(a), 1.1.4(a)
E.g.
2.1.4(c)(ii),
3.1.3(g),
5.3.1(j)
6.2.5(a) the techniques and procedures used for the preparation

and purification of organic solids involving use of a range of
techniques including:
(i) organic preparation
use of Quickfit apparatus
distillation and heating under reflux
(ii) purification of an organic solid
filtration under reduced pressure
recrystallisation
measurement of melting points
E.g. 1.1.1(c)
LOs from
Modules 4 &
6 relating to
the reaction
carried out.
6.3.1(c) qualitative analysis of organic functional groups on a testtube scale; processes and techniques needed to identify the
following functional groups in an unknown compound:
(i) alkenes by reaction with bromine
(ii) haloalkanes by reaction with aqueous sliver nitrate in ethanol
2
(iii) phenols by weak acidity but no reaction with CO3
(iv) carbonyl compounds by reaction with 2,4-DNP
(v) aldehydes by reaction with Tollens reagent
(vi) primary and secondary alcohols and aldehydes by reaction
with acidified dichromate
2
(vii) carboxylic acids by reaction with CO3
E.g. 1.1.1(a), 1.1.4(a)
E.g. 4.1.3(f),
4.2.1(c),
4.2.2(a),
6.1.1(h),
6.1.2(a),
6.1.2(d),
6.1.2(e),
6.1.3(b)
Learning outcome
PAG
5.3.2(a) qualitative analysis of ions on a test-tube scale:

processes and techniques needed to identify the following ions in
an unknown compound:
2
Activity/ies

support 1.1.2(a), 1.1.2(c),
1.1.3(a)
(i) anions: CO3 , Cl , Br , I , SO4

+
2+
2+
3+
2+
3+
(ii) cations: NH4 , Cu , Fe , Fe , Mn , Cr
24

GCE Chemistry
Chemistry B (Salters) sample planning table

Other LOs
supported
PAG
EL(b)(ii) the techniques and procedures used in experiments to

measure masses of solids
DF(a) the techniques and procedures used in experiments to
measure volumes of gases
E.g. 1.1.2(b), 1.1.3(b),

1.1.3(c), 1.1.4(a), 1.1.4(c),
1.1.4(d)
EL(c)(ii) the techniques and procedures used in experiments to

measure volumes of solutions; the techniques and procedures
used in experiments to prepare a standard solution from a solid or
more concentrated solution and in acidbase titrations
E.g. 1.1.2(b), 1.1.3(b),

1.1.3(c), 1.1.3(d), 1.1.4(a),
1.1.4(b), 1.1.4(d)
E.g. EL(c)(i)
E.g. 1.1.1(a), 1.1.4(a)
Other
aspects of
EL(s)
2+
EL(s) use of ions as tests e.g. Ba as a test for SO4 ; a

sequence of tests leading to the identification of a salt
Activity/ies
Examinable skills
Learning outcome

support 1.1.2(a), 1.1.2(c),
1.1.3(a)
EL(t) techniques and procedures for making soluble salts by

reacting acids and bases and insoluble salts by precipitation
reactions
DF(f) techniques and procedures for measuring the energy
transferred when reactions occur in solution (or solids reacting
with solutions) or when flammable liquids burn; the calculation of
enthalpy changes from experimental results
E.g. EL(s)
E.g. 1.1.2(b), 1.1.3(b),

1.1.3(c), 1.1.3(d), 1.1.4(b),
1.1.4(c), 1.1.4(d)
E.g. DF(g)
DF(j) techniques and procedures for cracking a hydrocarbon

vapour over a heated catalyst
Other
aspects of
DF(j)
ES(c) techniques and procedures in the electrolysis of aqueous

solutions
Other
aspects of
ES(c)
ES(f) techniques and procedures in iodinethiosulfate titrations

GCE Chemistry
E.g. 1.1.2(b), 1.1.3(b),

1.1.3(c), 1.1.4(a), 1.1.4(c),
1.1.4(d)
25
Examinable skills
Other LOs
supported
E.g. 1.1.2(b), 1.1.3(b),

1.1.3(c), 1.1.3(d), 1.1.4(a),
1.1.4(b)
Other
aspects of
OZ(f)
WM(d) techniques and procedures for making a solid organic

product and for purifying it using filtration under reduced pressure
and recrystallisation (including choice of solvent and how
impurities are removed);
techniques and procedures for melting point determination and
thin layer chromatography
E.g. 1.1.1(c)
LOs relating
to the
reaction
carried out.
WM(e) techniques and procedures for preparing and purifying a

liquid organic product including the use of a separating funnel and
of Quickfit or reduced scale apparatus for distillation and heating
under reflux
E.g. 1.1.1(c)
LOs relating
to the
reaction
carried out.
CI(c) techniques and procedures for experiments in reaction

kinetics; use of experimental data [graphical methods (including
rates from tangents of curves), half-lives or initial rates when
varying concentrations are used] to find the rate of reaction, order
of a reaction (zero-, first- or second-order), rate constant and
construction of a rate equation for the reaction
9,10
E.g. 1.1.1(b) (in PAG10),

1.1.2(b), 1.1.3(b), 1.1.3(c),
1.1.3(d), 1.1.4(a), 1.1.4(b)
Learning outcome
PAG
OZ(f) techniques and procedures for experiments in reaction

kinetics including plotting graphs to follow the course of a reaction
CI(h) techniques and procedures for experiments to determine

equilibrium constants
Activity/ies

support 1.1.2(a), 1.1.2(c),
1.1.3(a)
E.g. 1.1.1(b), 1.1.2(b),

1.1.3(b), 1.1.3(c), 1.1.4(a),
1.1.4(c), 1.1.4(d)
E.g. CI(f),
other aspects
of CI(h)
PL(a)(ii) techniques and procedures for paper chromatography
O(b)(iii) techniques and procedures for measuring the energy

transferred in experiments involving enthalpy changes in solution
E.g. 1.1.2(b), 1.1.3(b),

1.1.3(c), 1.1.3(d), 1.1.4(b),
1.1.4(c), 1.1.4(d)
Other
aspects of
O(b)
O(k) techniques and procedures to measure the pH of a solution
11
E.g. 1.1.1(a) (in PAG11)
LOs relating
to pH.
26
E.g. PL(a)(i)

GCE Chemistry
Examinable skills
Other LOs
supported
E.g. 1.1.1(b), 1.1.2(b)
Other
aspects of
DM(d)
Also e.g.
DM(e), DM(f)
DM(n) techniques and procedures to measure concentrations of

solutions using a colorimeter or visible spectrophotometer
9
(potentially)
E.g. 1.1.3(d)
E.g. DM(k),
DM(m)
CD(f) testing for functional groups in a compound, using reactions

mentioned in the specification
E.g. 1.1.1(a), 1.1.4(a)
E.g. DF(o),
WM(c),
WM(d),
PL(h), PL(j),
PL(n), CD(i)
Learning outcome
PAG
DM(d)(iii) techniques and procedures to set up and use

electrochemical cells

GCE Chemistry
Activity/ies

support 1.1.2(a), 1.1.2(c),
1.1.3(a)
27
Appendix 1: Health and safety

This appendix provides information on handling Health and safety issues while carrying out
practical experiments.
Before carrying out any experiment or demonstration based on this guidance, it is the
responsibility of teachers to ensure that they have undertaken a risk assessment in
accordance with their employers requirements, making use of up-to-date information and
taking account of their own particular circumstances. Any local rules or restrictions issued
by the employer must always be followed.
Useful information can be found at www.cleapss.org.uk (available to CLEAPSS members only).
Hazard labelling systems

The CLP regulations were launched in 2010, and fully implemented across the EU in 2015. The
CHIP system is no longer in active use, but some older containers may still carry the CHIP
symbols, and learners may come across them in older reference works. It is important that learners
are taught to use both systems, particularly if centres are still using chemicals carrying CHIP
hazard symbols.
OCR recognises the CLP system as the default system in current use. OCR resources indicate
hazards using the CLP system.
Oxidising
Highly flammable
Corrosive
Toxic
Indicates that the

chemical could
cause serious long
term health effects.
Indicates less
serious health
hazards (e.g. skin
irritants).
Oxidising
Toxic
Highly Flammable
Harmful or Irritant
CLP pictograms are

also accompanied by a
signal word to indicate
the severity of the
hazard.
DANGER for more
severe; WARNING for
less severe.
CHIP system
(being phased out)
Corrosive
28

GCE Chemistry
Risk assessments
In UK law, health and safety is the responsibility of the employer. Employees, i.e. teachers,
lecturers and technicians, have a duty to cooperate with their employer on health and safety
matters. Various regulations, but especially the COSHH Regulations 2002 and the Management of
Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, require that before any activity involving a hazardous
procedure or harmful micro-organisms is carried out, or hazardous chemicals are used or made,
the employer must provide a risk assessment. A useful summary of the requirements for risk
assessment in school or college science can be found at
http://www.ase.org.uk/resources/health-and-safety-resources
For members, the CLEAPSS guide, Managing Risk Assessment in Science* offers detailed
advice. Most education employers have adopted a range of nationally available publications as the
basis for their Model Risk Assessments. Those commonly used include:
Safety in Science Education, DfEE, 1996, HMSO, ISBN 0 11 270915 X.

Now out of print but sections are available at
http://www.ase.org.uk/resources/health-and-safety-resources;
Topics in Safety, 3rd edition, 2001, ASE ISBN 0 86357 316 9;
Safeguards in the School Laboratory, 11th edition, 2006, ASE ISBN 978 0 86357 408 5;
CLEAPSS Hazcards.*
CLEAPSS are in the process of updating the Hazcards, the latest edition being the CLP
Edition, 2014. At present, CLP Hazcards have only been published for some chemicals. For
other chemicals, the CHIP Hazcard is referenced and should be consulted.
CLEAPSS Laboratory Handbook*;
Hazardous Chemicals, A Manual for Science Education, 1997, SSERC Limited

ISBN 0 9531776 0 2.
Where an employer has adopted these or other publications as the basis of their model risk
assessments, the teacher or lecturer responsible for overseeing the activity in the school or college
then has to review them, to see if there is a need to modify or adapt them in some way to suit the
particular conditions of the establishment.
Such adaptations might include a reduced scale of working, deciding that the fume cupboard
provision is inadequate or the skills of the candidates are insufficient to attempt particular activities
safely. The significant findings of such risk assessment should then be recorded, for example on
schemes of work, published teachers guides, work sheets, etc. There is no specific legal
requirement that detailed risk assessment forms should be completed, although a few employers
require this.
Where project work or individual investigations, sometimes linked to work-related activities, are
included in specifications this may well lead to the use of novel procedures, chemicals or
microorganisms, which are not covered by the employers model risk assessments. The employer
should have given guidance on how to proceed in such cases. Often, for members, it will involve
contacting CLEAPSS (or, in Scotland, SSERC).
*These, and other CLEAPSS publications, are on the CLEAPSS website. Note that CLEAPSS
publications are only available to members. For more information about CLEAPSS - go to
www.cleapss.org.uk. In Scotland, SSERC (www.sserc.org.uk) has a similar role to CLEAPSS.

GCE Chemistry
29
Appendix 2: Apparatus list

This appendix lists the apparatus likely to be required in order to complete a practical scheme of
work that covers all requirements of the qualification. Teachers and technicians should bear in
mind that activities that would support the qualification may require additional apparatus not on this
list. Resources provided by OCR detail the apparatus needed for individual activities.
Apparatus likely to be required

The following apparatus is likely to be required to complete activities covering all techniques
required by the Practical Endorsement in GCE Chemistry (Section 1.2.2 of the specification).
Balance reading to at least two decimal places
Stop clocks/watches reading to 1 s or better.
Beakers (400 cm3, 250 cm3, 100 cm3)
Pipettes (25 cm3, 10 cm3)
Pipette fillers
Burettes (50 cm3)
Measuring cylinders (250 cm3, 50 cm3, 25 cm3, 10 cm3)
Gas syringes (100 cm3) (can be replaced by inverted burettes, measuring cylinders)
Thermometers (10 to 110C or equivalent, accurate to 0.5C)
Heating apparatus: water baths, or electric heaters, or sand baths

A water bath could consist of a beaker of water on a tripod and gauze over a Bunsen flame.
pH indicator paper, or pH meter, or pH probe

pH probes can be prohibitively expensive, but cheaper alternatives exist that still allow
acceptable results:
Pocket pH meters are available for 3040, e.g. from:
http://www.rapidonline.com/Test-Measurement/Voltcraft-PH-100ATC-pH-Meter-51-5153
Narrow range pH paper offers resolution of 0.20.4 pH.
Quickfit (or microscale) apparatus to carry out distillation and reflux

Note that the requirements for the Practical Endorsement require use of laboratory
apparatus for distillation and reflux, not specifically Quickfit.
Experience of using Quickfit apparatus may be beneficial as preparation for the written
assessments.
30
Retort stands and clamps
Test tubes and boiling tubes
Test-tube holders
Stoppers
Dropping pipettes
GCE Chemistry
Filter funnels, or apparatus to carry out filtration under reduced pressure: Buchner flask and
Buchner funnel or boiling tube with side-arm and Hirsch funnel
Filter paper
Volumetric flasks (250 cm3 or 100 cm3)
Conical flasks (250 cm3, 100 cm3)
Watchglasses
Separating funnels
Melting point apparatus or oil bath/Thiele tubes
Melting point tubes (capillary tubes)
Chromatography paper or thin layer chromatography plates
Voltmeter (or multimeter)
Apparatus for setting up electrochemical cells
Wash bottles with distilled water
Apparatus potentially required

The following laboratory equipment may additionally be required to support further practical work
towards the Endorsement as well as to support teaching of the specification and preparation for the
written examinations.
Plastic/styrofoam cups for use as a calorimeter
Pipeclay triangles
Porcelain crucibles + lid
Bunsen burners
Glass rods
Heat proof mats
Tripods and gauze
Colorimeter
Data loggers
Additional requirements
In order to fulfil the requirements of the skills set out in Section 1.2.1 of the specification,
candidates will require access to the following.
Chemical data or hazard sheets
Graph plotting and data analysis software (e.g. Microsoft Excel)
Textbooks, websites and other sources of scientific information
A means of recording practical activity undertaken towards the Practical Endorsement, for
example a logbook, binder to collect loose sheets, or means to create and store digital files.

GCE Chemistry
31
Lab Books
Learners can keep their records in any appropriate form including the use of a ring binder or other
folder. Should your centre wish to purchase lab books there are educational suppliers who stock a
wide variety of these. Two such suppliers are:
Grosvenor House Paper, Kendal,
www.ghpkendal.co.uk/index.php?route=product/search&filter_name=science
Frank Berry Otter, Chesterfield,
http://www.frankberry.co.uk/storefront/evolution_ProductResults.html?strSearch=Laboratory
32

GCE Chemistry
Appendix 3: Guidance on practical skills
Section 1.2.1 of the specification covers the general practical skills which candidate should develop
and practice during their course. This appendix includes suggestions about how this process of
skills development can be managed.
This section provides guidance which teachers can use to assist how they teach the required skills,
as well as things to look out for in assessing whether candidates are performing the skills
competently. This section is not intended as a mark scheme, or statement of the minimum
standard required for a pass in individual activities.
Practical skills (specification Section 1.2.1)

1.2.1(a) apply investigative approaches and methods to practical work
Candidates are expected to be able to think independently about solving problems in a practical
context. This means that candidates should develop their own ideas about how to approach a task,
before perhaps discussing them with other candidates and joining together as a group to put an
agreed plan into effect.
Demonstrating investigative approaches could include:
choosing the materials, or amounts of materials, to use
choosing which variables to measure and which to control
deciding what measurements or observations to make and when to make them
choosing apparatus and devising a procedure that is safe and appropriate.
Applying investigative approaches should include completing tasks that do not include complete
step by step instructions. However, activities may still be structured in some form. For example:
providing a basic method, with candidates asked to modify this to measure the effect of
changing a certain variable
providing a limited range of equipment, with candidates asked to think about how they can
use what they have been given to solve a practical problem
providing a certain amount of information, allowing candidates to consider how to use

familiar techniques or procedures to investigate and solve a problem.
1.2.1(b) safely and correctly use a range of practical equipment and materials
Candidates should be shown how to use practical equipment when it is first met, through a
demonstration by the teacher or technician. Good quality videos of many techniques are available
online which could be used to complement such a demonstration (see e.g. links in Appendix 8:
Resources). Teacher demonstration should also include the safe disposal of materials at the end of
the laboratory session.
Hazards, and the ways in which risks should be minimised, should be explicitly explained to
candidates whenever equipment is used for the first time, and on subsequent occasions as
required. Candidates should also be shown how to handle materials safely so they adopt a
standard routine whenever they need to use any materials. Some materials are associated with
particular hazards and candidates should be clearly shown how they need to be handled to
minimise the risk involved. In some cases, the hazards may be such that it is good practice for
candidates to use the materials under the direct supervision of the teacher.

GCE Chemistry
33
Increasingly, candidates should be able to use chemicals and common laboratory equipment
safely with minimal prompting. They should be doing this routinely and consistently by the end of
the course.
Candidates will be expected to be able to identify hazards and understand how to minimise risk.
This skill can be developed by asking them to devise their own risk assessments. The risk
assessment should identify the hazards associated with materials and techniques that candidates
will be using, and describe the steps that they will take to minimise the risks involved. In some
cases it may also be appropriate for them to describe how they will safely dispose of materials at
the end of the laboratory session. Teachers should always check risk assessments and make sure
candidates are aware of any errors or omissions before they begin the practical activity.
Risk assessments have been included in the OCR Practical Endorsement structure as part of
PAG5 and PAG6, as organic preparations frequently offer a number of different types of hazard to
consider. However, candidates could demonstrate this skill in the context of any type of activity.
Performing a risk assessment also gives the opportunity to demonstrate research and citation
skills.
More detail about the safe use of equipment and materials is given in Appendix 1: Health and
safety.
1.2.1(c) follow written instructions

In many activities candidates will be asked to follow written instructions. It is helpful if they are first
given the aims of the activity so they are clear what is expected of them and what they should
expect to learn from the activity. An introduction is also a good idea so that candidates can fit what
they are doing into a bigger picture.
It is quite common for candidates to be given too much information and be asked to do too many
things at the same time. Research suggests that when many candidates follow complex
instructions they are not able to think about the theoretical implications and explanations of their
task at the same time. It is probably better to focus on these issues before and after the practical
task itself. Providing candidates with instructions to look through before the practical session allows
them to think about what is needed and to visualise what they will do in advance of the practical
session.
1.2.1(d) make and record observations and measurements

Candidates need to be able to make measurements using a range of equipment. Since some of
these types of measurement are used frequently, teachers might assume a competence in using
familiar devices when the appropriate skill has not yet been sufficiently developed. Taking
measurements is a skill that should be clearly demonstrated to candidates.
See Appendix 4: Measurements and Appendix 5: Units for more detail about how to record
measurements appropriately.
Observations should be recorded using appropriate scientific vocabulary and should be precise.
Candidates can have a tendency to use vague and ambiguous language. Asking candidates to
comment on good and less good practice in recording observations is a good way of raising
awareness of these issues. Examples of ambiguous or incorrect language include:
mentioning colours, but not associating this with a substance or state (e.g. it went brown
rather than the solution went brown or a brown precipitate formed)
giving an accurate observation of the state of a solution or mixture, but not indicating that
nothing has changed (e.g. blue solution rather than solution remains blue or no change)
using clear instead of colourless.
Candidates need opportunities to develop their observational skills in activities where they play an
important role. Qualitative tests (PAG4 and PAG7) are important opportunities for developing the
skill of recording observations accurately, but observations are important in any practical activity.
34

GCE Chemistry
For example, observing the colour change in a titration or clock reaction, or observing when all the
solid has just dissolved in a recrystallisation.
1.2.1(e) keep appropriate records of experimental activities

Candidates should routinely record their observations and measurements so that they have a
permanent record. These records should be made during the laboratory session and are the
primary evidence of the outcomes of experiments. It should be clear to what experiment the
measurements or observations refer.
Where experimental procedures have been provided they do not need to be written out again, but
they should be kept as part of the record. If an activity has involved a more investigative approach
where candidates have developed any part of the procedure, they should keep a record of what
they actually did. For example, if candidates have adapted a basic method to investigate the effect
of changing the concentration of a reactant, they should make a record of the concentration(s)
used and the result in each case.
The record may also show how the candidate has processed raw data, perhaps by using graphs or
calculations, and the conclusions they have drawn. In some cases candidates may also evaluate
their practical activity by calculating errors and/or commenting on the limitations of experimental
procedures. These skills are not assessed in the Practical Endorsement, but are valuable in
understanding the purpose of a practical activity, and will be assessed in the written examinations.
Records may be kept in a laboratory notebook, in a loose-leaf file or electronically. Candidates
should record measurements and observations during laboratory sessions immediately, but these
could be transferred to the permanent record later; for example, if there is no means of entering
data into an electronic record in the lab.
1.2.1(f) present information and data in a scientific way

Candidates should present information and data in ways that are appropriate for that information or
data. In many cases this will involve the use of tables. These should include an explanatory title,
clear headings for columns and relevant units for measurements (see Appendix 4: Measurement
and Appendix 5: Units for further details).
Graphs should be of an appropriate type for the information or data involved. Further detail about
drawing and using graphs is given in Appendix 6: Graphical skills.
Some information is best presented by using clear, well labelled diagrams or potentially using
annotated photographs.
1.2.1(g) use appropriate software and tools to process data, carry out research and
report findings
The most obvious tools and software used for processing data are calculators and spreadsheets.
Spreadsheets provide a very effective way of processing data, particularly when the amount of
data is large. They can be used to sort data, carry out calculations and generate graphs. Graphs
drawn using spreadsheets should not be too small, should have a clear title and the axes should
be clearly labelled. Where more than one graph is drawn using the same axes it should be clear
what each graph refers to.
If records are kept electronically, candidates will routinely make use of a word processing package
to report their findings. Short video clips can be used to show changes over time. Digital images,
podcasts and PowerPoint presentations also provide creative ways in which candidates can
personalise their individual record of practical activities.
Rates experiments and pH titrations lend themselves to use of a data logger, particularly when
very short or very long timescales of data collection are involved. Candidates need training in how
to use both the hardware and associated software to collect data, particularly if choices need to be
made about measurement scales or when a trigger is used to start data collection. It is usually
better to present collected data graphically rather than recording a large amount of raw data.

GCE Chemistry
35
1.2.1(h) use online and offline research skills including websites, textbooks and other
printed scientific sources of information
Candidates should be given opportunities to use both online and offline research skills in the
context of practical activities. A useful starting point might be finding reliable information to devise a
risk assessment for an experiment. Safety data sheets, such as the CLEAPSS Student Safety
Sheets (accessible without a login) are a good place to start. More detail about sources of
information is given in Appendix 1: Health and safety.
In other situations candidates might consult websites, textbooks or scientific journals to clarify or
suggest experimental techniques and/or to provide supporting background theory to practical
activities.
1.2.1(i) correctly cite sources of information

Where a candidate records information that they have looked up they should provide an accurate
reference so that readers can find the information. Details of how to do this are given in Appendix
7: Referencing.
1.2.1(j) use a wide range of experimental and practical instruments, equipment and
techniques appropriate to the knowledge and understanding included in the
specification
It is expected that candidates will carry out practical work throughout their course and will therefore
use a wide range of experimental and practical instruments, equipment and techniques appropriate
to the knowledge and understanding included in the specification. The minimum of apparatus and
techniques that each candidate must use is listed in specification Section 1.2.2. Suggested
apparatus for use during the course is also provided in Appendix 2: Apparatus list.
36

GCE Chemistry
Appendix 4: Measurements
This appendix provides background information on terms used in measurement, and conventions
for recording and processing experimental measurements. This information relates to skills
assessed both in the written examinations and in the Practical Endorsement, notably 1.1.2(c),
1.1.3(c), 1.1.4(b), 1.1.4(d), 1.2.1(d), 1.2.1(f).
Useful terms
Accuracy is a measure of the closeness of agreement between an individual test result and the
true value. If a test result is accurate, it is in close agreement with the true value. An accepted
reference value may be used as the true value, though in practice the true value is usually not
known.
Anomaly (outlier) is a value in a set of results that is judged not to be part of the inherent
variation.
Confidence is a qualitative judgement expressing the extent to which a conclusion is justified by
the quality of the evidence.
Error (of measurement) is the difference between an individual measurement and the true value
(or accepted reference value) of the quantity being measured.
Precision is the closeness of agreement between independent measurements obtained under the
same conditions. It depends only on the distribution of random errors (i.e. the spread of
measurements) and does not relate to the true value.
Repeatability is the precision obtained when measurement results are produced over a short
timescale by one person (or the same group) using the same equipment in the same place.
Reproducibility is the precision obtained when measurement results are produced over a wider
timescale by different people using equivalent equipment in different (but equivalent) places.
Resolution is the smallest change in the quantity being measured that can be detected by an
instrument.
Uncertainty is an estimate attached to a measurement which characterises the range of values
within which the true value is asserted to lie. This is normally expressed as a range of values such
as 44.0 0.4.
Validity can apply to an individual measurement or a whole investigation. A measurement is valid
if it measures what it is supposed to be measuring. An investigative procedure is valid if it is
suitable to answer the question being asked. Validity will be reduced, for example, if no negative
control is included in an investigation into the efficacy of a therapeutic drug.
The ASE booklet The Language of Measurement (Campbell 2010) provides information on these
and other terms along with examples of their use. In particular please not that Reliability will no
longer be used. As the authors of the booklet said:
The word reliability has posed particular difficulties because it has an everyday usage and
had been used in school science to describe raw data, data patterns and conclusions, as
well as information sources. On the strong advice of the UK metrology institutes, we avoid
using the word reliability because of its ambiguity. For data the terms repeatable and
reproducible are clear and therefore better. For conclusions from an experiment,
evaluative statements can mention confidence in the quality of the evidence.
GCE Chemistry
37
Uncertainties
Whenever a measurement is made, there will always be some doubt about the result that has
been obtained. An uncertainty in a measurement is an interval that indicates a range within which
we are reasonably confident that the true value lies.
Uncertainties technically depend on a range of factors related to measurements, including both
systematic and random errors. Determining uncertainties based on the spread of data obtained is
not required within the context of AS and A Level Chemistry. Rather, an estimation of uncertainty is
made based on the characteristics of the equipment used.
Uncertainties in apparatus and equipment

When using any apparatus, learners should check whether the apparatus itself is marked with the
uncertainty. This is, for example, generally the case for volumetric glassware used to measure
specific volumes of liquid, such as volumetric flasks and pipettes. The degree of uncertainty in
these cases depends on the class of apparatus.
For example, a 100 cm3 measuring cylinder is graduated in divisions every 1 cm3.
A Class A measuring cylinder has an uncertainty of half a division or 0.5 cm3 in each
measurement
A Class B measuring cylinder has an uncertainty of a whole division or 1 cm3 in each

measurement.
In the absence of information provided on the equipment, the following assumptions are made
regarding the uncertainty in each measurement:
When using apparatus with an analogue graduated scale, the uncertainty is assumed to be
half the smallest graduation. For example, for a burette graduated in divisions of 0.1cm3,
the uncertainty in each measurement is 0.05 cm3.
When using digital apparatus, the uncertainty is presumed to be the resolution of the
apparatus in each measurement. For example, a two-decimal place balance has an
uncertainty of 0.01 g in each measurement.
Note that this guidance differs from guidance previously provided (and still provided
in many other sources) stating that the uncertainty for digital apparatus is half the
resolution, e.g. 0.005 g for a two-decimal place balance. The guidance here has
been updated for consistency with the approach taken in OCR AS and A Level
Physics qualifications. For assessment purposes, approaches using either the
resolution or half the resolution as the uncertainty will be considered acceptable.
Learners should be able to calculate a percentage uncertainty for a measurement from the
absolute uncertainty for the apparatus used. See worked examples on the next page.
Because of the variability in uncertainties associated with equipment, assessments will frequently
state the absolute uncertainty in any measurement given to allow candidates to calculate the
percentage uncertainty. If no information is given, the uncertainty in each reading is derived from
the resolution of the apparatus used as explained above. For example:
38
A thermometer graduated in divisions of 1C would have an uncertainty of 0.5C in every

reading unless otherwise stated.
A burette graduated in divisions of 0.1cm3 would have an uncertainty of 0.05cm3 in every

reading unless otherwise stated.
A two-decimal place digital balance would have an uncertainty of 0.01g in every reading
unless otherwise stated.

GCE Chemistry
Learners should also be aware of the qualitative difference in uncertainty of different pieces of
equipment. For example, if using a measuring cylinder, the smallest measuring cylinder for the
volume to be measured should be chosen, as this will offer the lowest uncertainty. Measuring
cylinders themselves have higher uncertainty than equipment such as burettes, volumetric pipettes
and volumetric flasks.
Examples of uncertainties
Some examples are shown below. Note that the actual uncertainty on a particular item of
glassware may differ from the values given below.
Volumetric or standard ask (Class B)
A 250 cm3 volumetric flask has an uncertainty of 0.2cm3 or 0.08%.
Pipette (Class B)
A 25 cm3 pipette has an uncertainty of 0.06cm3 or 0.24%.
Worked examples
The significance of the uncertainty in a measurement depends upon how large a quantity is being
measured. It is useful to quantify this uncertainty as a percentage uncertainty.
percentage uncertainty =
uncertainty
100%
quantity measured
For example, a measurement of 2.56 g is taken using a two-decimal place balance with an
uncertainty of 0.01 g.
0.01
100% = 0.39%
2.56
For a mass measurement of 0.12 g, the percentage uncertainty is much greater:
0.01
100% = 8.3%
0.12
For individual mass measurements, it is assumed there is no uncertainty in the tare of the balance.
Multiple measurements
Where quantities are measured by difference, there will be an uncertainty in each measurement,
which must be combined to give the uncertainty in the final value. The principle of the following
example for a mass measurement can be applied to other quantities measured by difference, such
as temperature difference and titre.
For two mass measurements that give a resultant mass by difference, there are two uncertainties.
These uncertainties are combined to give the uncertainty in the resultant mass. The formula for the
percentage uncertainty is then:
2 uncertainty in each measuremen t

100%
quantity measured
For example, using the same two-decimal place balance as above:

Mass of crucible + crystals before heat = 23.45 g
uncertainty = 0.01 g
Mass of crucible + crystals after heat = 23.21 g
uncertainty = 0.01 g
Mass lost = 0.23 g
overall uncertainty = 2 0.01 g

GCE Chemistry
39
There is a negligible percentage uncertainty in each mass measurement, but the overall
percentage uncertainty in the mass loss is much greater:
percentage uncertainty in mass loss =
2 0.01
100% = 8.7%
0.23
Recording measurements
When using a digital measuring device (such as a modern top pan balance or ammeter),
record all the digits shown. (Note, when using a digital timer such as a stopwatch, do not
record to more than two decimal places.)
When using a non-digital device (such as a ruler or a burette),
record all the figures that are known for certain plus one that is estimated.
Reading burettes
A burette is graduated in divisions every 0.1 cm3. A burette is a non-digital device, so we record all
figures that are known for certain plus one that is estimated.
Using the half-division rule, the estimation is one of 0.05 cm3. We therefore record burette
measurements to two decimal places with the last figure either 0 or 5.
The uncertainty in each measurement = 0.05 cm3. The overall uncertainty in any volume measured
always comes from two measurements, so the overall uncertainty = 2 0.05 cm3 = 0.1 cm3.
In a titration, a burette will typically deliver about 25 cm3 so the percentage uncertainty is small.
2 0.05
100% = 0.4%
25.00
For small volumes, the percentage uncertainty becomes more significant. For delivery of 2.50 cm3:
2 0.05
100% = 4%
2.50
Recording volumes during titrations

As shown above, each burette measurements should be recorded to two decimal places with the
last figure either 0 or 5.
During a titration, it is expected that learners will record both initial and final burette readings from
which a titre is calculated by difference. It is usual practice to record titration results in a table of the
type shown on the next page.
Trial
Final burette reading / cm3

Initial burette reading / cm3
Titre / cm3
Mean titre / cm3
When recording the titre, it is normal practice to use two decimal places.
40

GCE Chemistry
Mean titres
When recording a mean titre, it is usual practice to take the mean of the concordant titres, i.e.
those that agree to within 0.1cm3. Where this is not possible, the two titres that have the closest
agreement should be used.
For example, three recorded titres are 25.80cm3, 25.30cm3 and 25.20cm3. The mean titre is the
mean of the 2nd and 3rd titres, as they agree to within 0.1cm3.
mean titre =
25.30 + 25.20
= 25.25cm3
2
Mean titres may be reported to either 2 or 3 decimal places. When using titre values in further
calculations, it is appropriate to use the unrounded value (see Significant figures below).
Presentation of results
Table headings
It is expected that all table column (or row) headings will consist of a quantity and a unit.
The quantity may be represented by a symbol or written in words. There must be some kind of
distinguishing notation between the quantity and the unit. Learners should be encouraged to use
solidus notation, but a variety of other notations are accepted. For example:
T / C
T (C)
T in C
T
C
are all acceptable as column headings.

Learners should avoid notations that do not distinguish between the quantity and the unit, such as
T cm
Tcm
just cm
The logarithm of a quantity has no units. Therefore, the heading for e.g. pH measurements can be
written simply as pH.
Consistency of presentation of raw data

All raw readings of a particular quantity should be recorded to the same number of decimal places.
These should be consistent with the apparatus used to make the measurement (see above).
Significant figures
How many significant figures should be used?
The result of a calculation that involves measured quantities cannot be more certain than the least
certain of the information that is used. So the result should contain the same number of significant
figures as the measurement that has the smallest number of significant figures.
A common mistake by learners is to simply copy down the final answer from the display of a
calculator. This often has far more significant figures than the measurements justify.
Rounding off
When rounding off a number that has more significant figures than are justified (as in the example
above), if the last figure is between 5 and 9 inclusive round up; if it is between 0 and 4 inclusive
round down.
GCE Chemistry
41
For example, the number 3.5099 rounded to:

4 sig figs is 3.510
3 sig figs is 3.51
2 sig figs is 3.5
1 sig fig is 4
Notice that when rounding you only look at the one figure beyond the number of figures to which
you are rounding, i.e. to round to three sig fig you only look at the fourth figure.
How do we know the number of significant figures?

If the number 450.13 is rounded to 2 sig figs, the result is 450.
However, if seen in isolation, it would be impossible to know whether the final zero in 450 is
significant (and the value to 3 sig figs) or insignificant (and the value to 2 sig figs).
In such cases, standard form should be used and is unambiguous:
4.5 102 is to 2 sig figs
4.50 102 is to 3 sig figs.
When to round off

It is important to be careful when rounding off in a calculation with two or more steps.
Rounding off should be left until the very end of the calculation.
Rounding off after each step, and using this rounded figure as the starting figure for the
next step, is likely to make a difference to the final answer. This introduces a rounding
error.
Learners often introduce rounding errors in multi-step calculations.
Example
When 6.074 g of a carbonate is reacted with 50.0 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm3 HCl(aq) (which is an
excess), a temperature rise of 5.5C is obtained. The specific heat capacity of the solution is
4.18Jg1K1,
The energy transferred = 50.0 4.18 5.5 for which a calculator gives 1149.5 J = 1.1495 kJ
Since the least certain measurement (the temperature rise) is only to 2 significant figures,
the answer should also be quoted to 2 significant figures.
Therefore, the heat produced = 1.1 kJ
It should be noted however, that if this figure is to be used subsequently to calculate the
enthalpy change per mole then the rounding off should not be applied until the final answer
has been obtained.
For example, if the carbonate has a molar mass of 84.3 g mol1, the enthalpy change per mole of
carbonate can be calculated from the value above.
Using the calculator value of 1.1495 kJ for the energy transferred,
42
enthalpy per mole = 15.95371255 kJ mol1.
rounding to 2 sig figs gives 16 kJ mol1

GCE Chemistry
Using the rounded value of 1.1 kJ for the energy transferred,
enthalpy per mole = 15.26671057 kJ mol1.
rounding to 2 sig figs gives 15 kJ mol1 and we have a rounding error.
Errors in procedure
The accuracy of a final result also depends on the procedure used. For example, in an enthalpy
experiment, the measurement of a temperature change may be precise but there may be large
heat losses to the surroundings which affect the accuracy of overall result.
Anomalous readings
Anomalies (outliers) are values in a set of results that are judged not to be part of the inherent
variation. If a piece of data was produced due to a failure in the experimental procedure, or by
human error, it would be justifiable to remove it before analysing the data. For example, if a titre is
clearly different to the other readings taken for that particular data point, it might be judged as
being an outlier and could be ignored when the mean titre is calculated. However, data must never
be discarded simply because it does not correspond with expectation.
References
The Royal Society of Chemistry has produced several very helpful documents on measurements
and errors, see:
http://www.rsc.org/Education/Teachers/Resources/Practical-Chemistry/Experimental.asp
The ASE booklet The Language of Measurement (ISBN 9780863574245) provides additional
guidance on many of the matters discussed in this section.

GCE Chemistry
43
Appendix 5: Units
Learners are expected to use the following units for measurements made and in associated
calculations during the course of the practical work carried out to support the GCE Chemistry
qualifications. Records of measurements should always include the relevant units.
44
amount of substance
mol
concentration
mol dm3 or g dm3

OCR specifications do not support the use of M (molar)
energy
enthalpy
kJ mol1
mass
pH
no units
rate of reaction
mol dm3 s1
These units are the standard in the context of reactions
occurring in solution, where the rate is measured in terms of the
rate at which the concentration of one of the reactants falls
temperature
C or K
Standard thermometers measure temperature in C. In certain
practical contexts conversion to K is not required; for example in
enthalpy determinations, the measured temperature difference
is equivalent to the difference in K. However, some practical
contexts may require learners to convert units, for example for
calculations using the ideal gas equation and when using the
Arrhenius equation.
time
potential difference
volume
cm3 or dm3
Measurements using laboratory apparatus will commonly be in
cm3, while concentrations are expressed in terms of dm3.
ml and l are not official SI units and their use is not supported in
OCR specifications

GCE Chemistry
Appendix 6: Tables and graphs
Tables
The following guidelines should be followed when presenting results in tables.
All raw data in a single table with ruled lines and border.
Independent variable (IV) in the first column; dependent variable (DV) in columns to the
right (for quantitative observations) OR descriptive comments in columns to the right (for
qualitative observations).
Processed data (e.g. means, rates) in columns to the far right.
No calculations in the table, only calculated values.
Each column headed with informative description (for qualitative data) or physical quantity
and correct units (for qualitative data); units separated from physical quantity using either
brackets or a solidus (slash).
No units in the body of the table, only in the column headings.
Raw data recorded to a number of decimal places appropriate to the resolution of the
measuring equipment.
All raw data of the same type recorded to the same number of decimal places.
Processed data recorded to up to one significant figure more than the raw data.
Graphs
This appendix provides background information on the following graphical skills:
choice of scale
plotting of points
line of best fit
calculation of gradient
determination of the y-intercept.
This information relates to skills assessed both in the written examinations and in the Practical
Endorsement, notably 1.1.3(d) and 1.2.1(f).

GCE Chemistry
45
Choice of scales
Scales should be chosen so that the plotted points occupy at least half the graph grid in both the x
and y directions.
4.2
4.0
x
x
3.8
3.6
3.4
3.2
Not acceptable - scale in the y-direction is

compressed
x
x
Acceptable - points fill more than half the graph grid

in both the x and y directions
It is expected that each axis will be labelled with the quantity (including unit) which is being plotted.
The quantity may be represented by a symbol or written in words. There must be some kind of
distinguishing notation between the quantity and the unit. Learners should be encouraged to use
solidus notation, but a variety of other notations are accepted. For example:
T / C
T (C)
T in C
T
C
are all acceptable as axis labels.

The logarithm of a quantity has no units. Therefore, the axis label for e.g. pH measurements can
be written simply as pH.
46

GCE Chemistry
The scale direction must be conventional (i.e. increasing from left to right).
10
10
Not acceptable - unconventional scale direction
Acceptable - conventional scale direction
This problem often occurs when scales are used with negative numbers.
Learners should be encouraged to choose scales that are easy to work with.
10
10
10
15
20
Acceptable scale divisions.
25
12
15
Not acceptable - awkward scale on the x-axis.
Learners who choose awkward scales in examinations often lose marks for plotting points (as they
cannot read the scales correctly) and calculation of gradient (x and y often misread again
because of poor choice of scale).

GCE Chemistry
47
Scales should be labelled reasonably frequently (i.e. there should not be more than three large
squares between each scale label on either axis).
10
10
20
Not acceptable - too many large squares with no

label
10
15
20
25
Acceptable - scales have regular labels
There should be no 'holes' in the scale.
10
10
10
15
25
30
Not acceptable - non-linear scale on the x-axis
48
10
15
20
25
Acceptable - scale labelling is regular

GCE Chemistry
Plotting of points
Plots in the margin area are not allowed, and will be ignored in examinations. Sometimes weaker
candidates (realising they have made a poor choice of scale) will attempt to draw a series of lines
in the margin area so that they can plot the 'extra' point in the margin area. This is considered to be
bad practice and would not be credited.
4.2
4.2
4.0
4.0
3.8
3.8
3.6
x
x
x
3.4
3.6
3.4
3.2
3.2
Not acceptable - the last point has been plotted in

the margin area
Acceptable - all plotted points are on the graph grid
It is expected that all observations will be plotted (e.g. if six observations have been made then it is
expected that there will be six plots).
Plotted points must be accurate to half a small square.
Plots must be clear (and not obscured by the line of best fit or other working).
Thick plots are not acceptable. If it cannot be judged whether a plot is accurate to half a small
square (because the plot is too thick) then the plotting mark will not be awarded.
4.2
4.0
x
x
3.8
3.6
x
x
3.4
3.2
x
0
Thick plots not acceptable

GCE Chemistry
49
Line (or curve) of best fit

There must be a reasonable balance of points about the line. It is often felt that candidates would
do better if they were able to use a clear plastic rule so that points can be seen which are on both
sides of the line as it is being drawn.
4.2
4.2
x
4.0
4.0
3.8
3.8
3.6
3.6
x
x
3.4
x
x
3.4
x
3.2
3.2
Not acceptable - too many points above the line
Acceptable balance of points about the line
4.2
x
4.0
3.8
3.6
x
x
3.4
3.2
Not acceptable - forced line through the origin (not appropriate in this instance)
50

GCE Chemistry
The line must be thin and clear. Thick/hairy/point-to-point/kinked lines are not credited.
10
4.2
x
4.0
3.8
3.6
x
x
3.4
x
x
3.2
Not acceptable - thick line
Not acceptable - hairy curve
4.2
x
4.0
3.8
3.6
x
x
3.4
x
3.2
Not acceptable joining point-to-point

GCE Chemistry
51
Determining gradients
All the working must be shown. A 'bald' value for the gradient may not be credited. It is helpful to
both candidates and examiners if the triangle used to find the gradient were to be drawn on the
graph grid and the co-ordinates of the vertices clearly labelled.
The length of the hypotenuse of the triangle should be greater than half the length of the line which
has been drawn.
4.2
4.2
x
4.0
4.0
3.8
x
x
3.4
3.6
3.4
3.8
3.6
3.2
3.2
Not acceptable - the triangle used is too small
Acceptable a large triangle used
The values of x and y must be given to an accuracy of at least one small square (i.e. the 'readoff' values must be accurate to half a small square).
If plots are used which have been taken from the table of results then they must lie on the line of
best fit (to within half a small square).
4.2
4.2
x
4.0
3.8
3.8
x
x
3.4
3.6
3.4
4.0
3.6
3.2
Not acceptable - the data points used which do not

lie on the line of best fit
3.2
Acceptable - plots on line
Candidates should remember to use appropriate units when reporting gradient values.
52

GCE Chemistry
Intercept
The y-intercept must be read from an axis where x = 0. It is often the case that candidates will
choose scales so that the plotted points fill the graph grid (as they should do) but then go on to
read the y-intercept from a line other than x = 0.
10
10
10
Not acceptable the y-intercept is found from the

line x = 5
Acceptable the value taken from the line x = 0
Alternatively, the intercept value can be calculated, recognising that a straight-line graph has the
basic formula y = mx + c. Substituting the gradient value and a set of coordinates on the line of
best fit and solving the equation will give the intercept.

GCE Chemistry
53
Appendix 7: Referencing
One of the requirements of the Practical Endorsement is that candidates demonstrate that they can
correctly cite sources of information. The point of referencing is to provide the sources of
information that have been used to produce the document, and to enable readers to find that
information. There are many different systems of reference in use; the most important thing for
candidates to appreciate this level is that they should be consistent in how they reference, and that
they provide sufficient information for the reader to find the source.
Systems of citation
Wherever a piece of information that has been retrieved from a source is provided in a text, an intext citation should be included that links to the full original source in the reference list.
There are two main systems of in-text citation: the Vancouver system, which uses numerical
citations, and the parenthetical system (of which the Harvard system is the best known version), in
which limited reference information is given in brackets in the text.
Candidates are likely to find the Harvard system easier to handle. However, candidates should be
aware of the Vancouver system as they may come across this system in their secondary research.
It does not matter which system candidates use in the context of the requirements for the Practical
Endorsement. However, referencing should be complete and consistent. If candidates are already
using a particular referencing system in another area of study, for example for an Extended Project
qualification, it would make sense if they use the same system within their Chemistry studies.
Vancouver system
The Vancouver system looks like this:
Titrations using potassium manganate(VII) can be used to determine the concentration of a solution
2+
1
of Fe ions.
The full references are given in a numbered list at the end of the document, with each number
linked to the appropriate reference, e.g.:
1. Bloggs, J. (2011) Manganate(VII) titrations, 2nd ed., Cambridge, Practical Chemistry
Publications
The references are ordered in the sequence in which they are first cited in the text. The
numbers are repeated in the in-text citations as required, so the same number is always
used to cite a given reference.
Parenthetical (Harvard) system

The parenthetical system looks like this:
Titrations using potassium manganate(VII) can be used to determine the concentration of a solution
2+
of Fe ions (Bloggs, 2011).
The author(s) and date of the work are included in brackets at the appropriate point in the text. In
this case, the list of full references at the end of the document is ordered alphabetically, and the
references are not numbered.
54

GCE Chemistry
For multi-author works, the full list of names is usually not given in in-text references. Rather, the
first name is given followed by et al.. This is commonly done for works with more than three
authors.
References
While different referencing systems have minor variations in how they present complete
references, the basic information provided is always very similar, and based on the principle of
providing sufficient information so that the reader can find the information source.
An overview is given below of standard referencing formats for the types of sources that students
are likely to cite.
Books
General reference format:
Authors (year), Title, edition (if relevant), publishers location, publisher
For example:
rd
Atkins, P.W. (1986), Physical Chemistry, 3 ed., Oxford, Oxford University Press
For books that have an editor or editors, include (ed.) or (eds) after the names.
If a book does not have named authors or editors, the reference begins with the title, e.g.:
CLEAPSS Laboratory Handbook (2001), Uxbridge, CLEAPSS School Science Service
Journal articles
Authors (year), Article title, Journal title, vol. no, issue no, pp. xxxxxx
For example:
Asakai, T., Hioki, A. (2011), Investigation of iodine liberation process in redox titration of potassium
iodate with sodium thiosulfate, Analytica Chimica Acta, vol. 689, no 1, pp. 3438
Websites
Authors (year), Title. [online] Last accessed date: URL
For example:
Clark, J. (2002), Some beryllium chemistry untypical of Group 2. [online] Last accessed 3 February
2015: http://www.chemguide.co.uk/inorganic/group2/beryllium.html#top
Webpages and online resources frequently do not have individual authors. In that case, the name
of the organisation is given.
Similarly, it is often not possible to find the year in which online material or documents were
produced. In that case, use the year in which the information was sourced.
Royal Society of Chemistry (2015), Weightlifting: Teacher handout. [online] Last accessed 3
February 2015: http://www.rsc.org/learn-chemistry/resource/res00000858/chemistry-and-sportweightlifting
If no author or organisation can be found, reference the website by title. However, in that case due
consideration should be given as to whether the website is a trustworthy source!

GCE Chemistry
55
Appendix 8: Resources
General resources
There are many resources available to help teachers provide support to candidates. These include
both books and websites.
Useful websites are:
CLEAPSS at www.cleapss.org.uk
the Royal Society of Chemistry at www.rsc.org
Royal Society of Chemistry Practical chemistry videos:

http://www.rsc.org/Education/Teachers/Resources/practical/index3.htm
the ASE at www.schoolscience.co.uk
Chemguide at www.chemguide.co.uk
www.practicalchemistry.org
www.creative-chemistry.org.uk/alevel/
www.periodicvideos.com
www.chemistry-videos.org.uk/chem%20clips/home.html
www.avogadro.co.uk/chemist.htm
www.chem.iastate.edu/group/Greenbowe/sections/projectfolder/flashfiles/redoxNew/redox.
html
CPD
OCR runs CPD courses every year, and these include sessions either wholly or partly to support
the practical assessments, both in the written examinations and through the Practical
Endorsement. More details about CPD provision are available at www.cpdhub.ocr.org.uk
Practical Activity Support Service

OCR Subject Specialists are available to offer support and guidance on all aspects of the practical
assessments. Centres can request guidance with regard to mapping their own activities, or
activities provided by third parties, against the requirements of the Practical Endorsement to
confirm whether the activities meet the requirements for any of the Practical Activity Groups.
Centres can direct queries regarding the Practical Endorsement to the OCR Science Team
through: pass@ocr.org.uk.
For other, more general, queries about any aspects GCE Chemistry specifications, please contact:
ScienceGCE@ocr.org.uk
56

GCE Chemistry
Appendix 9: Interchange help sheet

Activities to support the Practical Endorsement can be obtained via OCRs secure website,
Interchange (https://interchange.ocr.org.uk).
Copies of the Data Sheets for Chemistry A and Chemistry B (Salters), Practical Skills Handbook,
the Tracker and any other supporting documents are also available via Interchange.
Most of the documents are PDF files. You need Acrobat Reader for this. Free copies are available
to download from http://www.adobe.com/uk/products/acrobat
You may also need a zip program such as WinZip or PKZip to extract the files. Most versions of
Windows have a built in zip extractor.
How to use OCR Interchange

Your Examinations Officer is probably using OCR Interchange to administer qualifications already.
If not, they will need to register. The website address for Interchange is:
https://interchange.ocr.org.uk
Your Examinations Officer will be able to:
download the relevant documents for you by adding the role of Science Coordinator to
their other roles or
make you a New User (Science Coordinator role) so that you can access the GCE from
2015 pages and download documents when you need them.
Registering for Interchange

If your Examinations Officer is not already a registered user of Interchange then he/she will need to
register before the activities can be downloaded.
This is a straightforward process:
Go to the website https://interchange.ocr.org.uk ;
The first page has a New User section;
Click on Sign Up to access the OCR Interchange Agreement Form 1;
Download this document and fill in your details;
Return the form by post to OCR Customer Contact Centre, Westwood Way, Coventry, CV4
8JQ or fax the form back to 024 76 851633;
OCR will then contact the Head of Centre with the details needed for the Examinations
Officer to access OCR Interchange.
How the page works

Hovering the mouse pointer over an Activity or document link generates a summary of the file.
Simply clicking on the Activity link allows you to download the zipped material to your desktop. The
zip file contains all three sample activities for a given PAG with a student sheet and a
teacher/technician sheet. All files have a unique name so there is no danger of overwriting material
on your computer.

GCE Chemistry
57
E-mail updates
To be notified by e-mail when changes are made to the GCE Chemistry page on Interchange
please e-mail GCEsciencetasks@ocr.org.uk including your centre number, a contact name and
the subject line GCE Chemistry. It is strongly recommended that all centres register for e-mail
updates.
Log in with
the details
from your
Exams
Officer.
First
click
here
58
Then click here

GCE Chemistry
Qualification level Click GCE from 2015
Click on
your
subject
Scroll down to view materials.
Any important notices

will appear here
How to
sign up
for
updates
Supporting
materials
available to
download, e.g.
Practical Skills
Handbook,
Tracker.
Practical activities.

GCE Chemistry
59
60

GCE Chemistry
OCR customer contact centre

General qualifications
Telephone 01223 553998
Facsimile 01223 552627
Email general.qualifications@ocr.org.uk
For staff training purposes and as part of our quality assurance programme your call may be recorded or monitored.
OCR 2015 Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations is a Company Limited by Guarantee. Registered in England.
Registered office 1 Hills Road, Cambridge CB1 2EU. Registered company number 3484466. OCR is an exempt charity.
ocr.org.uk/alevelchemistry

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AS and A LEVEL

Practical Skills Handbook

We will inform centres about any changes to the specification.

OCR is an exempt charity.

Guidance on uncertainties in use of digital apparatus amended in Appendix 4, page 38, to

Version 1.2 October 2015

Guidance on recording mean titres clarified in Appendix 4.

Version 1.1 September 2015

Clarification of regulations relating to monitoring arrangements, assessment of the Practical

Addition of potential lab book suppliers in Appendix 2.

Addition of a number of terms and definitions relating to the language of measurement in

Modifications to wording on Anomalous readings in Appendix 4.

Addition of guidance on tables in Appendix 6.

2 Overview of practical skills requirements

Summary of the assessment model

3 Practical skills assessed in a written examination

4 Practical skills assessed in the Practical Endorsement

Introduction to the OCR Practical Endorsement

5 Planning your practical scheme of work

Appendix 1: Health and safety

Appendix 2: Apparatus list

Appendix 3: Guidance on practical skills

Appendix 6: Tables and graphs

Appendix 9: Interchange help sheet

OCR 2015/2016 Version 1.3

How to use this handbook

Appendices 47 give additional information on skills related to recording and presenting

Appendix 9 is a guide to finding additional documentation on Interchange.

OCR 2015/2016 Version 1.3

2 Overview of practical skills requirements

The theoretical component is an indirect assessment of practical skills through a written

The practical component is a direct assessment of practical skills displayed by candidates

OCR 2015/2016 Version 1.3

Summary of the practical skills required

Skills assessed through the Practical Endorsement

Use and application of scientific methods and practices

Research and referencing

Instruments and equipment

AS Level candidates and the Practical Endorsement

OCR 2015/2016 Version 1.3

3 Practical skills assessed in a written

experimental design, including to solve problems set in a practical context

identification of variables that must be controlled, where appropriate

evaluation that an experimental method is appropriate to meet the expected outcomes.

OCR 2015/2016 Version 1.3

how to use a wide range of practical apparatus and techniques correctly

appropriate units for measurements

presenting observations and data in an appropriate format.

processing, analysing and interpreting qualitative and quantitative experimental results

use of appropriate mathematical skills for analysis of quantitative data

appropriate use of significant figures

plotting and interpreting suitable graphs from experimental results, including:

measurement of gradients and intercepts.

AS Level Chemistry A, Sample Question Paper 1 question 18(a)

OCR 2015/2016 Version 1.3

Plot a graph from the data provided.