Physics

  • Board: AQA
  • Syllabus: AS – 1451; A2 – 2451
Modules
  1. AS Particles, quantum phenomena and electricity – You will study theories of the fundamental properties and nature of matter, radiation and quantum phenomena. You will pursue the study of electricity introduced at GCSE.
  2. Mechanics, materials and waves – You will study motion, forces, energy and waves and phenomena such as refraction, diffraction and superposition as well as looking at the bulk properties of materials.
  3. Investigative and Practical Skills – An internal assessment that includes making observations and measurements, analysing and evaluating results.
  4. A2 Fields and Further mechanics – You will study electromagnetic induction, momentum, oscillations, resonance, and circular motion. Electric fields, gravitational fields and capacitors are also covered.
  5. Nuclear Physics, Thermal Physics and Turning Points in Physics – Here you study the characteristics and properties of the nucleus, the thermal properties of materials, and the properties and nature of gases. Turning Points in Physics includes study of the discovery of the electron, quantum physics and the theory of relativity.
  6. Investigative and Practical Skills – An internal assessment that includes making observations and measurements, analysing and evaluating results.
Method of Assessment

AS Two written exams of 1 hour 15 mins each (20% for each) and one externally assessed assignment (10%) in Investigative and Practical Skills

A2 Two written exams of 1 hour 45 mins each (20% for each) and one externally assessed assignment (10%) in Investigative and Practical Skills

Further information

A Level Physics deals with looking at and solving problems concerning the way the physical world works, from the scale of the universe to inside the nucleus. You learn how both numerical data and abstract thought can be used to explain and compare observed phenomena and about the limitations of measurements, and the applicability of theories, models and formulae. We look at how theories and ideas have evolved and changed and at the need for theory and experiment to be mutually supportive.

The exams are mainly based on structured questions and calculations. It is not essential to have studied separate GCSE Physics to do A Level but of course it does help. It would suit those who have done well at GCSE in Mathematics. There is a fair amount of background reading and review required, but the best qualification of all is to have a real interest in the subject, a willingness to try questions and calculations, and to be prepared to discuss ideas and theories. The careful undertaking and analysis of practical work and experiments is also important.

In Physics you will learn skills which are directly applicable in many professions and careers: Engineering, Mathematics, Science, Medicine, Accountancy, Architecture and ICT are the obvious ones but many other professions also have a fair share of people trained in Physics.