Faculty: Science
Subject: GCSE Physics
Subject Leader: Mr Hopkins
Staff: Mr Timney
Key Stage 4 Physics
Physics is the branch of science concerned with the study of the nature and properties of matter and energy across the universe. We look to inspire our students to be curious about the world around them while developing within them the ability to be think scientifically, including the ability to analyse and interpret evidence and data.
We provide a range of practical experiments over the duration of the course to help enthuse our students while developing the skills they need to be the scientists and engineers of the future should they wish to.
A Physics qualification provides the necessary skills to follow any science-related profession. It is also accepted for non-science careers and is seen as a qualification that develop the ability to solve complex problems and is therefore a useful qualification to have in any job application.
We follow the AQA syllabus which includes the following modules:
- Energy
- Electricity
- Particle Model of Matter
- Atomic Structure
- Forces
- Waves
- Magnetism and Electromagnetism
- Space Physics (Physics only)
- Key Ideas
With the exception of Physics Unit 8 – Space Physics, all students study all the topics listed no matter which route they take, though those studying Triple Science will study extended versions of each topic. Within each topic are higher and foundation tier objectives.
Key Stage 5 Physics
Exam Board and Entry Requirements
OCR Physics A (H556) – the course will be examined in May/June of Year 13 through two 2 exams of 2 hour 15-minute duration and a one final paper of 1 hour 30 minutes, covering both subject knowledge and practical skills. Papers include a mixture of short answer, extended writing, and multiple-choice questions. There is no coursework at A-Level. Practical and experimental skills are assessed through the final exams and through a separate pass/fail practical endorsement which is assessed throughout the course as students complete practical work.
Entry requirements are two Science GCSEs at grade 6 or above (including Physics if triple science has been taken) and Maths at minimum grade 6 in the higher tier paper.
Course Content
The course builds on topics studied at GCSE but introduces many new concepts. To gain a full A-Level, students study six modules. Modules 1 & 2 provide the basic mathematical and experimental skills that students will then continue to use and develop further throughout the course. Through Module 3, students learn the key aspects of forces and motion. Module 4 deals with the physics of electrons and photons, including electricity and wave motion. Module 5 focuses on the Newtonian world of gravity and astrophysics. Finally, in Module 6 you will study nuclear & particle physics before looking into aspects of medical physics. Practical skills are studied and developed throughout the course through the completion of series of required practical experiments. Knowledge and understanding of these experiments is also assessed through the final examinations.
Useful Subject & Revision Websites
- https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/physics-a-h156-h556-from-2015/
- http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/index.html
- https://isaacphysics.org/
- http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/
- https://www.savemyexams.com/a-level/physics/
- https://evantoh23.wordpress.com/
- http://revisionworld.com/a2-level-level-revision/physics-level-revision
- Lessons on contamination by radioactive waste.
- Renewable energy sources.