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WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?

The Physics A level course is exciting, rewarding and challenging.

Students will be involved in a wide range of activities from developing materials for artificial joints to designing fusion reactors that replicate the sun!

Through the study of the particles or the observation of the outer regions of the universe, you will be able to appreciate the everyday world around you and answer questions like “how does an aeroplane fly?” and “why is the sky blue?”

If you have an enquiring mind, are adaptable and like challenges, then A level Physics is for you.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

You will require at least a Grade 5-5 in GCSE Science (Higher Tier), or a single Physics GCSE of Grade 5 or higher (Higher Tier); and a Grade 5 or higher in Mathematics (Higher Tier) and English Language.

Studying  Mathematics at A level will complement and support Physics A level, but is not essential.

SYLLABUS

YEAR 12

  • Measurements, errors and practical skills
  • Forces and motion
  • Waves
  • Materials
  • Electricity
  • Quantum Physics

YEAR 13

  • Thermal physics and gas laws
  • Circular motions and oscillations
  • Gravitational fields
  • Stars and cosmology
  • Electric fields and capacitance
  • Further mechanics and thermal physics
  • Magnetic fields
  • Radioactivity and nuclear physics
  • Medical imaging

Practical work is at the heart of Physics as A Level. Practical skills are continuously assessed throughout the 2-year course and may also be part of the written examination.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED AND EXAMINED?

There will be internal examinations at the end of Year 12 and external examinations at the end of Year 13.

Questions are a combination of multiple choice, structured questions and extended response covering theory and practical skills.

In addition to the written exams, you will be assessed on your practical skills throughout the course and be given a practical endorsement at the end of the course.

FUTURE COURSES AND POSSIBLE CAREERS

The knowledge and skills studied at A level mean that Physics qualifications are recognised and respected as sound preparation for many scientific and non-scientific careers.

A Physics qualification is highly valued by many employers and there is a tremendous demand from universities for students with some Physics  background.

Physics forms a firm basis for further study in areas such as Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, Meteorology and Medicine, as well as indirectly in other areas such as Law and Accountancy.

A large majority of the students who have studied Physics at A level at Little Heath School have gone on to study Physics or Engineering at university because they enjoyed Physics so much!

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