Uganda Senior Three Chemistry Curriculum

This curriculum outline is based on the Chemistry Syllabus from the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC) in Uganda. It details the topics covered in Senior Three Chemistry, focusing on developing learners' understanding of chemical concepts and principles through scientific inquiry and practical application. The curriculum emphasizes active, learner-centered approaches, integrating generic skills and cross-cutting issues to prepare students for further learning and application of chemistry in various contexts.

Term 1

• Carbon in Life (30 Periods): This topic explores the diversity of organic carbon compounds found in living organisms and materials derived from them. Learners investigate the classification, properties, and uses of various organic compounds, including alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, and carboxylic acids. They also learn about the processes of fractional distillation of crude oil and the production and uses of biogas.
• Structures and Bonds (18 Periods): This topic delves into the fundamental structure of matter, starting with atoms as building blocks. Learners explore the concepts of elements, atoms, molecules, and compounds, and how they are related. They investigate atomic structure, including subatomic particles and their properties, relative atomic mass, isotopes, and electron arrangement. The topic also covers the formation and properties of ionic, covalent, and metallic bonds.

Term 2

• Formulae, Stoichiometry and Mole Concept (30 Periods): This topic focuses on quantitative aspects of chemistry. Learners develop an understanding of relative atomic mass, relative molecular mass, and the mole concept. They learn to analyze relationships between moles, particles, mass, and volume of gases. The topic also covers the construction of chemical formulae and the interpretation and balancing of chemical equations.
• Properties and Structures of Substances (18 Periods): This topic builds on the concepts of bonding and structure from Term 1. Learners investigate the properties of different types of structures, including giant molecular, giant ionic, and giant metallic structures. They relate these properties to the underlying bonding and explore stoichiometric calculations using the mole concept.

Term 3

• Fossil Fuels (20 Periods): This topic explores the origins, types, and uses of fossil fuels as energy sources. Learners investigate the formation and composition of fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and natural gas. They also consider the environmental impact of using fossil fuels and the concept of sustainability.
• Chemical Reactions (28 Periods): This topic focuses on the dynamics of chemical reactions. Learners investigate factors affecting the rate of chemical reactions, such as temperature, concentration, and particle size. They also explore the concept of reversible reactions and their importance in industrial processes.

This detailed curriculum provides a comprehensive framework for Senior Three Chemistry in Uganda, enabling learners to develop a strong foundation in chemical principles and their applications in various contexts.