KS5 COURSE OVERVIEW - PHYSICS

Course Content and Assessment

Aims

The AS and A Level Physics courses are intended to encourage candidates to:

1. Develop essential knowledge and understanding in Physics and, where appropriate, the applications of Physics, and the skills needed for the use of this in new and changing situations;
   
2. Develop an understanding of the link between theory and experiment;
   
3. Appreciate how Physics has developed and is used in present day society;
   
4. Show the importance of Physics as a human endeavour which interacts with social, philosophical, economic and industrial matters;
   
5. Sustain and develop their enjoyment of, and interest in, Physics;
   
6. Recognise the quantitative nature of Physics and understand how mathematical expressions relate to physical principles;
   
7. Bring together knowledge of ways in which different areas of Physics relate to each other;
   
8. Study how scientific models develop.

The AS course has 3 modules in Year 12:

1. Particles, Radiation and Quantum Phenomena
   
2. Mechanics and Molecular Kinetic Theory,
   
3. Current Electricity and Elastic Properties of Solids

The A2 course in Year 13 has 3 further modules:

1. Waves, Fields and Nuclear Energy
   
2. Nuclear Instability, and
   
3. Astrophysics

Both courses are examined by written tests and a practical examination, set by the Examining Board.

Higher Education and Careers

Mathematics is important to those students wishing to take Physics further, or hoping to follow a career in mechanical, civil or aeronautical engineering. Other subjects which combine well with Physics are the other Sciences and Geography.

Employers today respect and seek out people who have learnt to think logically and clearly, know how to solve problems, are creative and love a challenge. These are exactly the sort of qualities you will develop through a study of physics.

Entry Requirements

In order to follow the Physics courses, students should have at least grade B in GCSE Science, and at least grade C, but preferably a B, in Mathematics at that level. There is a strong emphasis on Mathematics in Physics at A level and beyond, so although not essential, Mathematics is a very helpful subject to take along with Physics