COURSE DECRIPTION

COURSE ASSESSMENT

AS LEVEL

Unit 1       Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity

Unit 2       Mechanics, Materials and Waves

Unit 3       Investigative and Practical Skills in AS Physics

A2 LEVEL

Unit 4       Fields and Further Mechanics

Unit 5       Nuclear and Thermal Physics, plus an Optional Topic yet to be decided.

Unit 6       Investigative and Practical Skills in A2 Physics

ENTRY QUALIFICATIONS

You should be enthusiastic about Physics.  A good grade at GCSE – preferably A or B in Additional Science GCSE or equivalent, and grade B or higher in Maths.  It would help you if you are also taking A-level Maths.

TEACHING/LEARNING STYLES

There are normally eight lessons per week, which may be split between two teachers.  Towards the end of each module you will be given revision notes.  Practical work is an integral part of the course.  Coursework is in the style of the coursework investigations carried out for AQA GCSE Science and Additional Science.

INDEPENDENT STUDY

In addition, at A-level pupils must be willing to spend 5-8 hours a week outside timetabled lessons to complete written work, to revise etc. 

RESIDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS/OUT OF SCHOOL TRIPS

PROGRESSION ROUTES

A-level Physics is a recommended or required subject in many university courses including Physics, Applied Physics, Electronics, most Engineering courses (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronic, Civil, Aeronautical, etc.) as well as many medical courses including Dentistry, Health Physics, Radiography, etc.  Physicists are heavily involved in hi-tech industries such as computer design and robotics, communications, imaging, etc.

The way in to many such courses is to take A-levels in Physics and Maths, with perhaps one more (Computing, Chemistry, Design etc.).