Physics
Physics looks at some of the most fascinating and challenging aspects of Particle Physics, Quantum Phenomena and Turning points, a topic referring to all theories that have changed Physics across the centuries.
Practical work is at the heart of Physics and features heavily within the A Level curriculum; students will have to keep a practical lab book and will be assessed on their investigative skills in a written exam.
The Physics A Level course content is split into three sections, taught across the two years of the course. Students in the Upper 6th also do an optional topic; the school believes that the historical study of some of the key discoveries in this subject is the most suitable as this offers students a deeper understanding of how science works.
To find out more about Physics at GCSE Level, please see GCSE Science.
Curriculum
A Level - Physics
Potential students will need to have achieved a 7 in GCSE Physics or 7-7 in Double Award Science and should be confident in using Mathematics, a 7 is recommended at GCSE.
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COURSE CONTENT |
ASSESSMENT |
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Content is split into different sections: 1. Measurements and their errors 2. Particles and radiation 3. Waves 4. Mechanics and materials 5. Electricity 6. Further mechanics and thermal Physics 7. Fields and their consequences 8. Nuclear Physics 9-13. Optional topics such as Turning Points |
Paper 1: Sections 1-5 and 6.1 (periodic motion) (34%) Paper 2: Sections 6.2 (thermal physics) and 7-8 (34%) Paper 3: Section A: Practical skills and datd analysis & Section B: Optional Topic (32%) Practical endorsement in Physics |
Beyond the Course
Physics remains a highly regarded A Level subject and its study brings with it many transferable skills which evidence an organised, dextrous and questioning intellect. Through studying Physics, a wide range of degree courses are open to you, for instance: Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Material Sciences, Geology, Architecture, Astronomy and Astrophysics, Medicine, Mathematics and Particle Physics, to name just a few. All these courses open doors into careers in industries such as aerospace, defence, education, energy, engineering, instrumentation, manufacturing, science and telecommunications.
If you choose the route of an apprenticeship in research or industry environment, an A Level in Physics is often compulsory. The National Physical Laboratory (NPL), training provider Gen2, the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) are some examples of apprenticeships where an A Level qualification in Physics is essential.
More information can be found on the Institute of Physics website, Your future with physics: A guide for young people https://www.iop.org/careers-physics/your-future-with-physics
Enrichment
In the Science Department, learning does not stop when students leave the classroom, and we provide a multitude of extra activities for interested students to get involved with. We believe that it is vital that student enthusiasm be fuelled, and that some of the best learning happens outside of the classroom when students are passionate about the subjects they are studying.
In addition to subject-specific activities and events, the department facilitates an ever-evolving programme of activities designed to inspire and enthuse. Recent examples of these include:
- Minecraft STEM Club: developing understanding of science-based ideas and concepts through modelling and building
- 6th Form Science Journal Club: provides opportunities for scientists at all levels to develop critical reading skills by evaluating scientific literature and thereby improving their scientific literacy, introducing them to new concepts and techniques, and, most importantly, improving confidence and communication skills.
- Local trips: Science Museum, Royal Institution, GCSE Science Live
- All 6th Form scientists and psychologists attended the annual UNESCO conference.
