Physics
Physics is ambitious in its remit. It attempts to understand the nature of energy and matter - in other words it covers almost everything. From the unimaginably small components of matter to the mind-blowing vastness of the universe, we will give you an introduction to some of the ideas that underlie Physics and the advances we have made in understanding them.
WHAT WILL I BE STUDYING ON THE COURSE?
The course covers fundamental ideas in Physics.
In the AS course you will study:
· atomic physics
· particle physics
· quantum physics
. circuit electricity
. mechanics
. waves
. materials
In the A2 course you will study:
. further mechanics
. simple harmonic motion
. fields
. electromagnetic induction
including an optional topic drawn from one of the following:
· astrophysics
· medical physics
· applied physics
. turning points in physics
WHAT WILL I BE DOING IN LESSONS?
We very much believe in hands-on physics and giving you the chance to see things happen. We always include as many different types of activity as possible:
· practical work with a partner or on your own
· demonstrations of physical principles
. quizzes using electronic voting
· questions requiring written answers or carrying out comprehension exercises
· using the course textbooks and online resources
· discussing concepts and their implications
· thinking
HOW WILL THE COURSE BE ASSESSED?
AS - three units, including two written papers and a practical unit:
· Unit 1 - Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity
· Unit 2 - Mechanics, Materials and Waves
· Unit 3 - Investigative and Practical Skills in AS Physics
A2 – three units, including two written papers and a practical unit:
· Unit 4 - Fields and Further Mechanics
· Unit 5 - Thermal and Nuclear Physics plus an option unit - see list above
· Unit 6 - Investigative and Practical Skills in A2 Physics
WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED TO TAKE THE COURSE?
You should have at least a grade B in Mathematics and in both GCSE Core and Additional Science (equivalent to two GCSEs) or in Physics at GCSE. It is not compulsory that you study AS Mathematics (Mechanics is the best fit). However, students who do not intend to study AS level Mathematics alongside Physics will be supported with an extra session each week in the first year.
WHAT OTHER SUBJECTS COULD I DO WITH PHYSICS?
Both Chemistry and Mathematics combine particularly well. Other suitable accompanying subjects are Biology, Computing, Electronics, Design Technology (Resistant Materials), Economics, Geography and any foreign language. Students last year combined Physics with almost every subject on offer.
AND AFTER THE COURSE?
A pass in Physics is essential for many careers including those in science, engineering and the medical field, but don’t forget that Physics is a highly regarded A level whatever your future choice of career. Physics graduates are highly valued for their problem-solving and numeracy . Some example of other ccareers open to you include: architecture, merchant banking, oceanography, photography, cartography, science broadcasting or journalism, computer-aided design, quantity surveying, graphic art and technical jobs in media.
