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Optional subject

Physics

Level: A level Examination board: AQA Specification: A level 7408
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Physics is a challenging and exciting study of the Universe from the smallest to the largest scale. Such knowledge is basic to scientific progress. A Physics student will be distinguished as a numerate and scientifically competent member of society in a world where these skills are increasingly important.

Year 12 course outline

  1. Measurements and their errors
  2. Particles and Radiation
  3. Waves
  4. Mechanics and Energy
  5. Electricity

Year 13 course outline

  1. Further Mechanics and Thermal Physics
  2. Fields
  3. Nuclear
  4. Physics

Plus one option from:

  • Astrophysics
  • Medical Physics
  • Engineering Physics
  • Turning Points in Physics
  • Electronics

Opportunities beyond the classroom

There will be lectures relating to the subject during the year – in both the 6th Form lectures and the general audience Smalley Lectures, which will broaden students' understanding of the application of science. There will be more opportunities in the course, to develop their experimental skills, an essential feature of higher education in Physics and Engineering. There are also opportunities to visit establishments for visits and lectures as well as places to find challenging and demanding work experience placements.

Course requirements (GCSE grades/interests)

Grade 6 in GCSE Physics or Trilogy Science. Maths to grade 6 and study of Maths at A level is highly desirable.

Assessment

Coursework

No coursework but 6 nominated practicals to be completed and assessed for Practical Endorsement.

Examinations

Paper 1: Content | Units 1-5 + Periodic motion | 2 hrs | 85 marks | 34% of A level.

Paper 2: Content | Units 6-8 | 2 hrs | 85 marks | 34% of A level.

Paper 3: All content | Practical skills | Data analysis | Optional topic | 2 hrs | 80 marks | 32% of A level.

Higher education courses linked to the subject

Aeronautical Engineering, Agricultural Science, Astronomy, Engineering, Medicine, Computing, Environmental Science, Forensic Science, Marine Science, Oceanography, Pharmacy and Radiography amongst many others.

Careers linked to the subject

Physics is the study of the fundamental laws of nature. In this course students will learn a wide range of skills useful for further study of Physics and Engineering, as well as an excellent grounding in numeracy and analysis, highly prized in many careers. A level Physics is a very useful qualification and can lead to a very wide range of careers. Careers, involving the direct application of physics, include applied physics, astrophysics, geophysics, material technology, forensic science, engineering, meteorology, medical physics. Physics A level is also seen as essential or highly desirable for intended careers in medicine, mathematics, computing, business, finance, accountancy, law and many more areas.

I think that physicists can do pretty much anything. Our training can be applied to almost any activity, and it allows us to see things in a way that might not be obvious to others. Simon Singh, science writer and broadcaster

Get in touch

For more information contact the Head of Department.

Name: Dr Satya Sookhun

Email: Satya.Sookhun@lvs.ascot.sch.uk