Cracking Chemistry is a complete package fulfilling all the requirements of the new Leaving Certificate Chemistry specification.

This engaging textbook covers all five key strands of the new course: the nature of science; the nature of matter; the behaviour of matter; the interactions of matter; and matter in our world.

The Cracking Chemistry package includes:
Textbook (with eBook) • Student portfolio • Skills book
Online teacher and student resources.

Click here to view Sample Chapters

Student Textbook

Cracking Chemistry is a carefully constructed textbook that, in appropriate detail, prompts students to question, connect and integrate the various aspects of the new course. It will empower students to develop a scientific habit of mind and a secure understanding of the core concepts and fundamental principles of chemistry. Students will be able to apply these confidently to analyse and solve problems.

• Each chapter begins with a student checklist to guide learning and study. This is a clear list of what students must know and be able to do to fulfill the learning outcomes.
• All definitions are clearly highlighted (and a comprehensive list of all definitions will be available in the online resources).
• Higher Level only content is clearly marked throughout, making it easy to distinguish between Ordinary Level & Higher Level content.
• Calculations: All calculations are broken down into step-by-step instructions to aid student learning.
• The AAC: The book includes a student guide to the Chemistry in Practice (CIP) Investigation.

Student Portfolio Book

Students will complete experiments, experimental investigations and research investigations using the student portfolio. The student portfolio contains:

• All required experiments (including required chemicals & apparatus, step-by-step methods, risk assessments and questions to test knowledge and understanding).
• A structured approach to the experimental investigations (marked EI). 
• A structured template for the four required research investigations. 

Skills book

• This contains further questions and activities linked to each chapter in the textbook to enhance and reinforce learning.

Resources for Teachers

Comprehensive resources will be provided online for teachers, including:

• The syllabus ‘unpacked’ – a checklist for the entire specification. 
• A teacher guide to the AAC.
• Teacher material for each experiment – how to prepare (a ‘to do’ list, along with instructions on making up required solutions), additional notes, answers to portfolio questions, etc.
• Complete worked solutions to all calculation questions (in both the workbook and textbook).
• Class notes/student notes for each chapter – condensed down to the essentials.
• Stimulus material, activities and ideas for class.

These resources will be regularly updated with extra materials (worksheets, tests, revision material, and more).

The author

Catherine Clayton is an experienced Science and Chemistry teacher, currently teaching at St Louis High School, Dublin. She completed her undergraduate degree at Trinity College Dublin and USCB (University of California Santa Barbara), followed by a Masters in Education at University College Dublin. Follow her on Instagram: @CrackingChemistry.