Chemistry is a key subject for science students writing the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or General Certificate Examination (GCE). It forms the foundation for careers in medicine, engineering, pharmacy, and other science-based fields.
This guide provides the official 2025 Chemistry syllabus for WAEC and GCE, the structure of the exam, essential topics, and proven strategies to help you succeed.
Objectives of the Chemistry Syllabus
The WAEC/GCE Chemistry syllabus is designed to:
- Promote understanding of basic chemistry concepts and principles.
- Encourage the application of chemistry to industry and everyday life.
- Develop skills in scientific methods and laboratory techniques.
- Prepare students for further studies in science and technology.
WAEC & GCE Chemistry Exam Format (2025)
Paper 1 – Objective Test
- Content: 50 multiple-choice questions
- Duration: 1 hour
- Marks: 50
Paper 2 – Essay (Theory)
- Content: 6–7 questions; answer 4
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Marks: 100
Paper 3 – Practical or Alternative to Practical
- School Candidates: Real laboratory practical
- GCE Candidates: Alternative to Practical (theory-based)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Marks: 50
2025 WAEC & GCE Chemistry Syllabus Topics
1. Introduction to Chemistry
- Nature and scope of chemistry
- Scientific methods
- Safety in the laboratory
2. Chemical Combination
- Atomic structure and the periodic table
- Ionic and covalent bonding
- Chemical symbols and formulae
3. States of Matter
- Kinetic theory
- Properties of solids, liquids, and gases
- Gas laws (Boyle’s, Charles’, Ideal gas equation)
4. Acids, Bases, and Salts
- Properties and uses
- pH scale and indicators
- Neutralization reactions
- Preparation of salts
5. Chemical Reactions
- Types of chemical reactions
- Energy changes (exothermic and endothermic)
- Factors affecting rates of reaction
- Catalysts
6. Periodic Table and Periodicity
- Groups and periods
- Trends in physical and chemical properties
- Transition elements
7. Organic Chemistry
- Introduction to hydrocarbons
- Alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alcohols, carboxylic acids
- Chemical properties and reactions
- Simple polymers and their uses
8. Water and Solutions
- Properties and importance of water
- Hardness of water
- Solubility and concentration of solutions
9. Electrolysis
- Principles of electrolysis
- Electrolytes and non-electrolytes
- Faraday’s laws
- Applications (electroplating, extraction of metals)
10. Chemical Industry
- Extraction of metals (iron, aluminum, etc.)
- Petroleum and petrochemicals
- Fertilizers, soap, and glass industries
11. Environmental Chemistry
- Air pollution, acid rain, greenhouse effect
- Water and soil pollution
- Sustainable practices
Chemistry Practical Topics
Whether you're taking the lab-based or alternative practical, topics often include:
- Identification of unknown substances
- Titration (acid-base)
- Preparation of standard solutions
- Heat of reaction, solubility curves
- Qualitative analysis (tests for gases, ions, and salts)
- Observation, inference, and deduction skills
Recommended Chemistry Textbooks
- New School Chemistry by Osei Yaw Ababio
- Essential Chemistry by S.L. Salau
- WAEC Past Questions & Solutions (Chemistry)
- Practical Chemistry for Senior Secondary Schools
WAEC & GCE Chemistry Exam Tips (2025)
- Study the Syllabus Closely – Know what topics to focus on and avoid wasting time on irrelevant materials.
- Practice Past Questions – Repeatedly solve WAEC/GCE Chemistry past questions.
- Understand, Don’t Memorize – Focus on understanding reactions, processes, and principles.
- Master Calculations – Practice gas laws, molar concentration, titration, and empirical formula.
- Prepare for Practical/Alternative to Practical – Know how to write observations, inferences, and draw conclusions.
- Revise Daily – Make use of a well-structured revision timetable and flashcards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do GCE candidates do chemistry practicals?
No. GCE (private) candidates write an Alternative to Practical, which is a theory-based paper testing practical knowledge.
2. Is Chemistry compulsory in WAEC?
It is compulsory for science students and those planning to study medicine, engineering, pharmacy, and similar courses.
3. What topics are frequently asked in WAEC Chemistry?
Acids and bases, electrolysis, chemical bonding, organic chemistry, and gas laws are popular topics.
4. Can I pass WAEC Chemistry without attending a lab?
Yes, GCE candidates pass without using a lab by mastering Alternative to Practical concepts.
5. What’s the best way to answer practical questions?
Be specific with observations, write accurate inferences, and support answers with chemical reasoning.
Conclusion
Success in WAEC or GCE Chemistry begins with understanding the syllabus and practicing consistently. The 2025 Chemistry syllabus is designed to test your grasp of theory, calculations, and practical applications. Whether you’re in school or writing as a private candidate, commit to your preparation and approach the exam with confidence.
