How will humans get to Mars? What makes up proton and neutrons? How will cars be powered in the future & what materials will they be made from? How will we travel between countries at faster speeds? Can you travel faster than the speed of light? How will information be transmitted and stored? How will we generate electricity in the future? Is there a limit to the tallest skyscraper or longest bridge?
COURSE CONTENT AND AIMS
Intrigued by these questions then A level physics is for you. From investigating the tiny particles that make up everything, to how the universe works, A-level physics delves into both the smallest and largest, and ultimately explains how everything behaves and works.
Without physics there would be no: laser scanner at the supermarket, space rockets, light bulbs, digital cameras, mobile telephones & their communication network, cars, solar cells, computers, flat-screen TVs.
Be prepared to be challenged when you take on A-level physics, but the skills and knowledge you gain during the course will make you highly desirable to universities and employers. With physics be prepared to take your life in the direction you choose.
PROGRESSION
The skills gained whilst studying A level Physics are the gateway to many courses and occupations. Typical careers include Applied Physics, Astrophysics, Geophysics, Material Technology, Forensic Science, Engineering, Meteorology, Medical Physics and the Space Industry. Physics complements intended careers in Medicine, Mathematics, Computing, Finance, Law, Accountancy and many more areas.
ASSESSMENT
Assessment at the end of Year 13
| Paper | Details | Topics Covered |
| 1 | A 1 hour and 45 minutes 90 mark examination worth up to 30% of the overall assessment content is covered in this paper. | Working as a Physicist / Mechanics Electric circuits / Further mechanics Electric and magnetic fields / Nuclear and particle physics |
| 2 | A 1 hour and 45 minutes 90 mark examination worth up to 30% of the overall assessment. The other half of the specification content is covered in this paper. | Working as a Physicist / Materials Waves and the particle nature of light / Thermodynamics Space / Gravitational fields / Oscillations |
| 3 | A 2 hour and 30 minutes 90 mark examination worth up to 40% of the overall assessment. All specification content is covered in this paper. | All topics from the whole 2 year course. |
Assessment of practical competency
There is a teacher assessment throughout the whole 2 year course of a student’s performance in 16 core practicals.
Competency is reported separately to the final A level grade.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
For admission to A Level Physics, our usual minimum requirements are:
- Students wishing to study Science or Maths at A level will need to achieve a grade 7.
