A Level - Level 3
You will gain an awareness of the on-going development of new ideas in physics and of the application of in-depth knowledge of well-established topics such as electricity. Particle physics introduces you to the fundamental properties and nature of matter, radiation and quantum phenomena. In contrast, the study of electricity builds on and develops previous GCSE knowledge and understanding and provides opportunities for practical work and looks into important applications. You will also explore the mechanics, materials and waves that builds on the knowledge and skills gained at GCSE.
At A Level you will further develop skills and understanding of mechanics and complement this with topics relating to magnetic and electrical fields that naturally leads into studying capacitors and how quickly they charge and discharge through resistors.
Course Content
Year 12 Units
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Particles and Radiation
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Waves and Optics
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Mechanics and Materials
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Electricity
Year 13 Units
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Further mechanics and thermal physics.
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Fields and their consequences.
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Nuclear physics.
Optional Units (only 1 selected)
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Astrophysics.
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Medical physics.
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Engineering physics.
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Turning points in physics.
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Electronics.
Assessment
As with Biology and Chemistry, Physics is taught as a linear course that is assessed by examinations in June.
Paper 1: Sections 1-5 and 6.1, 2 hours, 85 marks, 34% of A-Level. 60 short and long answer questions split by topic. 25 multiple choice questions.
Paper 2: Sections 7.8 & 6.2 with assumed knowledge
from sections 1-5. 2 hours, 85 marks, 34% of A-Level. 60 short and long answer questions split by topic. 25 multiple choice questions.
Paper 3: Practical skills, data analysis and option module. 2 hours, 80 marks, 32% of A-Level. 45 marks of short and long answer questions on practical skills and data analysis.
Progression Routes
Physics is highly regarded and considered a ‘facilitating subject‘ for the top universities in the country, regardless of the degree that you wish to study. It provides an excellent grounding for those wishing to progress onto Law and other ‘humanities‘ subjects but also for Medicine and Veterinary Science as well as Business or Management. Physics is a good choice for students looking to progress into careers such as Engineering, Electronics, Education, IT and Software Design, Medicine, Domestic Energy Supply, Dentistry and Veterinary Science.