Physics

 

I H Burns, BSc (Head of Department)
G Addison, BSc
W P Eastwood BSc
Dr A M Goodall, MA, PhD
J G Hulme, BSc
Dr P D Prideaux, BSc, PhD
        
   
Why Physics?
Physics examines the basic questions of “how” and “why” producing theories to explain what happens, while developing new and worthwhile applications.  What is matter made of? Is an electron a particle or a wave? Why is the sky blue? What exactly is a CT or MRI scan?

A-level Physics is one of the most useful qualifications for a student intending to pursue a scientific career, and is essential for disciplines such as engineering.  Physicists need to be naturally curious, able to adapt easily to new, unique – and sometimes complex – problems.  A-level Physics not only gives an insight into recent scientific thinking, ranging from the origin of the universe to the latest developments in Particle Physics, but also provides a worthwhile and challenging course of study.

The Course
AS Physics
The Physics course consists of 2 full modules and practical exam.  The emphasis is on developing skills from GCSE and building on them so that the course raises the pupil’s awareness of the standards expected at sixth form level in both theoretical and practical work.  [AS modules are Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity and Mechanics, Materials and Waves.  These are studied for 5½ lessons per week]. Two examinations are taken and the practical component counts for 20% of the AS (10% of the final A-level).

A-level
The second year of the course is available to students who wish to convert their AS into a full A-level and the standard is going to be higher than that expected in the Lower Sixth although there should not be too much of a shock as the first year has built up skills well above GCSE.  In the Upper Sixth two modules are taken with a practical exam as in the year before.  The two modules are Fields and Further Mechanics and one option.

Modern books dedicated to the actual examination being studied are used in both Lower and Upper Sixth with an expectation that students will study independently for roughly 3 hours per week.

Course Details
We offer AQA Physics A - 2450, including practical exam.

Entry Qualifications
A minimum grade B is normally required in GCSE Physics. Pupils who have taken a Dual Award course would be expected to gain A/A grades in core and additional science. We would expect pupils to also have achieved a ‘pass’ in GCSE Mathematics.  Physics does depend increasingly on a facility in Maths in the Sixth Form and anyone weak in Maths should think seriously before taking up Physics at AS or A-level.  Students who are also studying Maths at AS or A-level usually find that they have an advantage in Physics.

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