IB DP 1 Chemistry (SL)
Ancourage Academy · IB DP · DP 1
Content reviewed: Jan 2026
IB DP 1 Chemistry (SL) tuition at Ancourage Academy in Singapore (Bishan & Woodlands) offers intimate groups of up to 6 students, aligned with the IB Diploma Programme Group 4 syllabus. Weekly 2-hour lessons use our ESB methodology to develop stoichiometry skills, bonding understanding, and practical laboratory technique. "Chemistry clicks when students visualise molecular interactions, not just memorise equations," notes our curriculum team. Our structured approach helps students build confident chemical reasoning and examination technique for science foundations.
What Makes Us Different
Our proven teaching methodology combines evidence-based approaches for maximum learning effectiveness
Ebbinghaus Memory Theory
Self-directed retrieval scheduling where students learn to identify their own weak areas and plan review cycles accordingly — developing the metacognitive skills essential for A-Level success and independent university study.
Socratic Questioning
Rigorous dialectic questioning where students must justify their reasoning and consider counterarguments — 'What evidence supports this?' and 'Where could this logic break down?' — building the analytical rigour expected in higher education.
Bruner's Scaffolding
Minimal scaffolding with maximum autonomy — tutors pose challenging problems and observe, intervening only when students are genuinely stuck — preparing students to structure their own approach to unfamiliar problems.
Key Learning Outcomes
Master Key Concepts
Deep understanding of core topics aligned with MOE syllabus
Critical Thinking
Develop analytical and problem-solving skills
Exam Confidence
Strategic exam techniques and time management
Consistent Results
Improved grades and academic performance
Course Structure
Duration
2 hours per lesson
Full coverage with interactive learning time
Class Size
3-6 students per class
Close guidance, timely feedback, and ample practice
Materials
All materials provided
No material fees — all worksheets and resources included
Curriculum Overview
- ✓Stoichiometry — Mole concept, chemical equations, empirical/molecular formulas, reacting masses, gas laws.
- ✓Atomic structure — Subatomic particles, electron configuration, and periodic trends.
- ✓Bonding and structure — Ionic, covalent, metallic bonding; molecular geometry (VSEPR); intermolecular forces.
- ✓Energetics — Exothermic/endothermic reactions, enthalpy changes, calorimetry.
- ✓Kinetics — Rates of reaction, collision theory, experimental measurement.
- ✓Equilibrium — Dynamic equilibrium, Le Chatelier's Principle, equilibrium constants.
- ✓Acids and bases — Properties, pH, neutralisation, titration experiments.
- ✓Redox processes — Oxidation/reduction, electrochemical cells, reactivity.
- ✓Organic chemistry (introductory) — Functional groups, naming and structures, basic reactions.
- ✓Practical investigations — Lab safety, experimental design, accurate data collection and evaluation.
What IB DP 1 Chemistry SL students commonly work on
- 1
Stoichiometry calculations — performing mole calculations and balancing equations accurately
- 2
Bonding concepts — understanding ionic, covalent, and metallic bonding at the molecular level
- 3
Practical skills — designing experiments and collecting reliable data
- 4
Chemical vocabulary — using precise terminology in written responses
- 5
Equilibrium understanding — applying Le Chatelier's principle to predict changes
Learning Progression
Builds On
MYP Sciences with chemistry foundations and practical lab skills
Prepares For
DP 2 Chemistry SL with exam preparation and IA completion
Key Transition
DP 1 builds quantitative foundations — mastering stoichiometry and bonding prepares students for Year 2 applications.
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Frequently Asked Questions
SL covers core topics without advanced organic mechanisms or thermodynamics depth. SL has fewer teaching hours and shorter exams. Choose SL if chemistry supports other subjects rather than being central to university plans.
Chemistry SL requires comfortable manipulation of equations and mole calculations. Maths AI SL or AA SL provides sufficient preparation. Students should be comfortable with significant figures and unit conversions.
IA planning should begin mid-DP 1. The IA is a 10-hour scientific investigation. Practical work may need to be coordinated with school lab access, so early planning is important.
Our small-group classes are intentionally kept between 3 and 6 students so every learner receives close guidance, timely feedback, and ample practice.
Each lesson is 2 hours, providing ample time for thorough coverage of topics and interactive learning.
Yes. All lesson materials and worksheets are provided and included in the fees. Students should bring regular stationery and, where applicable, school textbooks/workbooks for reference.
Yes. Our materials and pacing align with the MOE syllabus. External syllabuses (e.g. IGCSE, IB) are available upon request.
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