Physics

Physics A Level is a course for people that are curious about the world around them; from the largest to the smallest scales. The course builds on GCSE Science, taking topics such as forces and electricity further to deepen understanding and introduce exciting new ground like quarks and relativity.

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Course Information

Subject specific entry requirement:	Standard entry criteria plus 2x Grade 6 in GCSE Science, including Physics and Grade 6 in GCSE Maths
Qualification:	A Level
Topics and areas covered:	Year 12 Measurements and their errors Particles and radiation Electricity Mechanics and materials Waves Year 13 Further Mechanics Thermal Physics Fields and their consequences Nuclear Physics Periodic Motion Turning points in Physics
Future career path:	Physicists can think clearly and imaginatively to solve problems and use Maths to model situations to deal with big numbers - so they are in great demand (and well paid). For many professions and degree courses A Level Physics is essential. Architect, Broadcasting, Cameraman, Design, Engineering, Finance, Geology, Health Services, Investigation and Forensics, Journalism, Kinetics, Lighting and SFX, Management Consultants, Nuclear Science, Oceanography, Pilot, Radiographer, Space Science, Transport, Underwater Engineering, Volcanology, Water Management, Yacht Design, zinc and precious metal prospecting.
Examination information:	Paper 1: Content: Sections 1–5 and 6.1 (Measurements and their errors, Particles and radiation, Waves, Mechanics and materials, Electricity, and Periodic motion) Duration: 2 hours Weighting: 34% of A-level Question Types: 60 marks of short and long answer questions and 25 multiple choice questions on content Paper 2: Content: Sections 6.2 (Thermal Physics), 7 (Fields and their consequences), and 8 (Nuclear physics) Duration: 2 hours Weighting: 34% of A-level Question Types: 60 marks of short and long answer questions and 25 multiple choice questions on content. Paper 3: Content: Section A: Compulsory section on practical skills and data analysis Section B: Turning points in physics Duration: 2 hours Weighting: 32% of A-level Question Types: 45 marks of short and long answer questions on practical experiments and data analysis. 35 marks of short and long answer questions on the chosen optional topic. Practical Assessment: At least 15% of the overall assessment focuses on practical skills. Students must complete a minimum of 12 practical activities during the course. Practical skills are assessed through written exams and are not separately reported. Mathematical Requirements: Approximately 40% of the overall assessment will assess mathematical skills equivalent to Level 2 or above. Skills include data analysis, statistical tests, and interpreting graphical data.
Additional information:	We offer lunchtime support sessions, extra lectures and activities with other schools and study trips.