Physics
The most important requirement in the study of Physics is a passion for the understanding of how the world works and a drive to master the key concepts governing the physical world. Whilst examination results are obviously important, it is this understanding that illuminates our world and helps explain why the sun turns red in the evening, how we can speak across continents and why some bridges resonate and fall down.
GCSE
Students will learn to approach the real world with an analytical eye and logically apply the ideas and skills learnt in Physics to each situation. The course offers a chance to put practical skills and academic knowledge together, aiding students to develop through kinesthetic learning and more traditional learning styles. Students will also further develop their analytical skills as data is collected and processed, helping them to reach valid and reliable conclusions. These skills will be vital in studying A-level and beyond, as well as being sought after by employers especially in Physics, Engineering, Computer Science and other related fields.
What will I learn?
The course comprises 8 topic areas covering Energy; Electricity; Model of Matter; Radioactivity; Forces; Waves; Magnetism and electromagnetism; Space. Throughout the course we aim to develop the knowledge and understanding in Physics through both working practically and through scientific thinking. Ideas of how the universe began to current day thinking on climate change are discussed, with each student considering their experiences and responsibilities in a rapidly changing world. Students will also develop their mathematical skills, whilst molecular Chemistry and Human Biology lend themselves to the content of the Physics course.
How is the course structured?
Content is delivered one topic at a time through classroom teaching; debates and discussions; practical experiments and demonstrations; questions and assessments; online digital simulations. However, as the students build their knowledge and understanding, links between the topic areas are built and explored.
How is the course examined?
The AQA Physics GCSE 9-1 course has 2 exam papers in which knowledge, practical understanding, application and evaluation skills are assessed. There is no practical assessment involved, but questions within the exam papers will have practical elements.
• Paper 1 (1h45 - 100 marks)assesses topics 1-4: Energy; Elect ricity; Model of Matter; Radioactivity
• Paper 2 (1h 45 - 100 marks) assesses topics 5-8: Forces; Waves; Magnetism and Electromagnetism; Space
A Level
Physics is fundamental in explaining how the world around us works, and doesn’t work. From the structure of the proton to the expansion of the universe, the subject investigates, evaluates evidence and produces theories. It is a subject that can enhance a logical, ordered structure to life, whilst also suggesting the chaotic and unimaginable such as quantum mechanics.
What will I learn?
Students will investigate the physical world through practical work whilst also reviewing the theories developed through such work. Increasingly, digital software can be used to enhance the individual understanding, with data-logging, simulators and analytical packages commonly used. There is also a development of mathematical skills to evaluate data sets, providing insight into the relationship between quantities. To add to the student experience, the Department regularly runs a trip to CERN in Geneva, the largest particle accelerator in the world. This opportunity to view the cutting edge research taking place and meet leading scientists and engineers is key to inspiring the next generation of physicists.
How is the course structured?
The course is structured into modules throughout the two years and each class will be taught by two specialist Physics teachers. Lessons are taught in fully equipped laboratories with an emphasis on practical work.
- Year 12: mechanics; materials; electricity; waves; quantum mechanics.
- Year 13: thermal physics and ideal gases; further mechanics including circular motion and SHM; gravitational, electric and magnetic fields; capacitance; cosmology and astrophysics; nuclear and particle physics; radioactivity; medical physics.
How is the course examined?
The course is examined by three written papers:
- Paper 1 (37%) Modelling Physics: 2 hours 15 minutes /100 marks
- Paper 2 (37%) Exploring Physics: 2 hours 15 minutes /100 marks
- Paper 3 (26%) Unified Physics: 1 hours 30 minutes / 70 marks
In addition, there are 12 Practical Assessments (over the 2 years and in labs) which develop and assess the practical skills of each student. This produces a PASS/FAIL result, but does not directly affect the A-level grade awarded.
What could I do next?
Gaining a Physics A-level illustrates that a student is able to solve problems, work practically, research logically and produce reliable solutions. Students often go onto further study or careers in Engineering, Astronomy, IT, Medicine or further academic research. Additionally, a wide range of employment, such as the finance and commercial world, look for the analytical and logical mind of the physicist.