The Year 11 Chemistry course at Sydney Technical High School introduces students to fundamental chemical principles and processes that underpin the study of matter and chemical reactions. The course builds students’ skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and critical thinking, forming the foundation for success in the HSC course.
The Preliminary course is structured into four modules:
Module 1: Properties of Chemica Substances
Students explore the classification and properties of a range of chemical substances. They investigate elements, compounds, and mixtures, and develop an understanding of how particle models and types of bonding explain macroscopic properties such as conductivity, solubility, and melting points.
Module 2: Introduction to Quantitative Chemistry
This module introduces students to the concept of the mole, chemical formulas, and stoichiometric relationships. Students learn to apply the Law of Conservation of Mass to balanced chemical equations and perform calculations involving molar mass, concentration, and limiting reagents.
Module 3. Reactive Chemistry
Students investigate various types of chemical reactions, including combination, decomposition, displacement, acid-base, and redox reactions. Emphasis is placed on reactivity trends, experimental design, and interpreting observable changes to understand the driving forces behind reactions.
Module 4. Drivers of Reactions
In this module, students explore energy changes during chemical reactions. They examine concepts such as enthalpy, entropy, and the spontaneity of reactions, gaining insight into why some chemical reactions occur while others do not. This module introduces foundational ideas for equilibrium and thermochemistry explored in the HSC course.
Throughout the Preliminary course, students engage in practical investigations and use data to draw conclusions about chemical behaviour. They also consider the role of chemistry in society and the environment, building a strong foundation for further study in the HSC Chemistry course.