Chemistry is a core science subject in the Competency Based Curriculum (CBE) Senior School pathway. Grade 10 Chemistry introduces learners to foundational concepts that explain the composition of matter, chemical reactions, and their applications in daily life and industry.
Strand 1.0: Inorganic Chemistry
This strand introduces learners to fundamental chemical principles and the structure of matter.
Sub-strands include:
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Introduction to Chemistry as a field of science
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Branches of Chemistry: organic, inorganic, physical, analytical, biochemistry, and industrial chemistry
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Chemistry in daily life including food, medicine, agriculture, energy, environment, and manufacturing
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Effects of drug and substance use in day-to-day life
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Structure of the atom
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Atomic number and mass number
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Isotopes and relative atomic mass
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Electron arrangement using s and p notation
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Development and organization of the periodic table
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Chemical bonding including ionic, covalent, dative covalent, and metallic bonding
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Periodicity and trends in physical and chemical properties of elements
Learners relate electron arrangement to position in the periodic table and derive valency, oxidation numbers, and chemical formulae.
Strand 2.0: Physical Chemistry
Physical Chemistry focuses on the behavior of substances and chemical reactions.
Key areas covered include:
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Characteristics of acids and bases in aqueous solutions
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Chemical properties of acids and bases
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Classification of acids and bases into strong and weak
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Use of universal indicators and the pH scale
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Electrical conductivity of acids and bases
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Uses of acids and bases in everyday life
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Introduction to salts
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Classification of salts into normal, acidic, basic, and double salts
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Preparation of salts using laboratory methods
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Behavior of salts when exposed to air (hygroscopic, deliquescent, efflorescent)
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Applications of salts in agriculture, medicine, food industry, glass making, and water treatment
This strand strengthens laboratory skills and scientific investigation.
Strand 3.0: Organic Chemistry
Organic Chemistry introduces learners to carbon compounds and their importance.
Focus areas include:
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Introduction to organic chemistry
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Importance of organic compounds in daily life
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Application of organic chemistry in industries such as medicine, agriculture, textiles, and energy
This strand lays a foundation for advanced Chemistry learning and innovation.
General Learning Outcomes
By the end of Senior School, learners should be able to:
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Acquire scientific knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes
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Conduct scientific investigations and analyze data
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Use scientific language in Chemistry
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Relate Chemistry to industrial processes and real-life situations
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Apply Chemistry principles to environmental conservation and sustainable development
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Develop interest and appreciation of Chemistry as a subject
Grade 10 CBE Chemistry provides learners with a strong scientific foundation through structured strands and sub-strands. The curriculum promotes inquiry, creativity, critical thinking, and practical application of Chemistry concepts, preparing learners for further education, training, and science-based careers.
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