Physics
What is Physics?
Physics is the Science that deals with the structure of matter and the interactions between the fundamental constituents of the observable universe. In the broadest sense, Physics is concerned with all aspects of nature on both the macroscopic and sub-microscopic levels. Its scope of study encompasses not only the behaviour of objects under the action of given forces but also the nature and origin of gravitational, electromagnetic, and nuclear force fields. Its ultimate objective is the formulation of a few comprehensive principles that bring together and explain all such disparate phenomena.
What will I study?
The course will cover all key aspects of Physics, including: Measurements and their Errors, Particles and Radiation, Waves, Mechanics and Materials, Electricity, Oscillations, Thermal Physics, Fields (Gravitational, Electric and Magnetic) and their Consequences, and Nuclear Physics.
Upon completing the course, as well as an in-depth understanding of the natural world, you will also have many transferable skills including numeracy, problem-solving, organisation, independent research and analysis, all of which are incredibly important for University studies or Employment.
How will I be assessed?
External assessments take place at the end of Year 13 and are 3 x 2 hour exams. In addition, students are assessed throughout Years 12 and 13 on at least 12 Core Practicals which, if successfully completed, leads to the awarding of the Practical Endorsement.
Who should study A-level Physics?
Students intending to study Physics or Natural Sciences at University will find A-level Physics an excellent preparation for their Higher Education studies. In addition, many students who study A Level Physics do so in order to apply their Physics knowledge in another subject area at University. Examples of this are the many branches of Engineering, Electronics and Meteorology. For these careers, A-Level Physics is essential. Another group of students choose Physics because they feel that it will be useful even if not essential for their career, such as those intending to follow a career in Medicine or Biochemistry. Others follow a career in a completely unrelated area such as Law or Accountancy, who may have chosen Physics simply because they enjoy it or because they know that it is highly regarded by Universities as evidence of a high level of numeracy, problem-solving ability and logical thought.