College Prospectus 2010
Physics
Unit
|
Unit Content
|
Assessment and Weighting
|
|
AS
|
Mechanics |
Understanding the key ideas used to describe motion leads to a study of forces, work and energy. Forces and their effects are important to engineers building bridges and making cars safer as well as being the foundation of physics. |
Written Examination |
AS
|
Electrons, Waves and Photons |
Electric charge, current and electrical circuits form a large part of this unit. |
Written Examination 25% |
AS
|
Practical Skills in Physics 1 |
Practical work is an integral part of the course and the skills acquired are assessed in three practical tasks carried out during the year |
Internal Assessment 10% |
A2
|
Newtonian World |
Newton’s Law of motion are applied to collisions, circular motion and oscillations. We study the motion of planets and satellites in gravitational fields and the movement of molecules in hot solids and gases. |
Written Examination 15% |
A2
|
Fields, Particles and Frontiers of Physics |
Topics include electric fields, magnetism, radioactivity, nuclear fission and fusion and elementary particles. We also learn about medical imaging, the evolution of stars and the structure of the Universe. | Written Examination 25% |
A2
|
Practical Skills in Physics 2 |
Practical work is an integral part of the course and the skills acquired are assessed in three practical tasks carried out during the year |
Internal Assessment 10% |
Why should you study AS/A-level
- If you are interested in understanding the nature of the Universe and the particles that comprise it and are curious to explain the things you see around you.
- If you enjoyed studying: forces and energy, electricity, radioactivity and atoms, heat, light and sound waves in your GCSE course and would like to find out more.
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If you can think logically.
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If you are good at mathematics, especially algebra
- If you enjoy doing practical work in Science
- If you wish to keep your career options open
What do you need to study Physics?
-
GCSE pass at grade B or better in either Physics or Additional Science (Applied Science GCSE is not considered adequate for progression to A-level Physics)
- GCSE pass at grade B or better in Mathematics
- Interest in Physics
- Willingness to work conscientiously
AS/A-level
Physics staff are well aware of the difference in demands on the student between GCSE and A-level and make every effort to make this change as smooth as possible. However, A-level Physics, while consolidating and building on GCSE, involves a much deeper knowledge and understanding of the subject than GCSE Science courses and has a much more mathematical approach.
The Teaching
All classes take place in one of the department's well equipped laboratories and are supported by a qualified physics technician. A system of student-based learning is used in order that individual help is available and that there is time for class discussion of difficult points.
What other A-levels should you be studying?
Mathematics is the most useful subject to study with Advanced level Physics and all Physics students should study mathematics to AS level at least. You need to be able to manipulate algebraic equations and also some use of Mathematics beyond GCSE Level will be made. The choice of the third and fourth subject is not as important.
Which careers will Physics be useful for?
Physics is especially useful (and sometimes essential) for scientific, engineering and medical careers. However, the training in logical thinking and problem solving you will experience in your physics course will prepare you for a wide range of career possibilities such as Accountancy, Computing, Education and General Management.
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