In Science, our curriculum intent is:
The two-year Physics A Level course covers a range of topics from across the wide spectrum of Physics. Mechanics make up a large portion of the course but other areas such as the nature of light, electricity and space are covered in some depth.
In your first year, you will study particles and radiation, waves and oscillations, mechanics and materials, electricity.
In your second year, you will study further mechanics and thermal physics, fields and their consequences, nuclear Physics and an optional topic chosen from, astrophysics, medical physics, engineering physics, turning points in physics, electronics
34% – Written Exam 1
34% – Written Exam 2
32% Written Exam 3
Books:
Stephen Hawking and Leonard Mlodinow: The Grand Design
Stephen Hawking: A Brief History of Time
Brian Cox & Jeff Forshaw: Why Does 𝐸 = 𝑀𝐶2
Brian Cox and Jeff Forshaw: The Quantum Universe: Everything that can happen does happen
Peter Ackroyd: Newton
Helen Czerski: Storm in a Teacup, The Physics of Everyday Life
Simon Singh: Big Bang
Marcus Chown: The Ascent of Gravity
Janna Levin: How the Universe Got It’s Spots
Jon Butterworth: Smashing Physics
Manjit Kumar: Quantum
Websites:
The institute of physics – https://www.iop.org
Curious and quirky videos describing the various symbols used in physics and astronomy – http://www.sixtysymbols.com/(opens in new tab)
Stay up to date with the latest breakthroughs in physics – https://physicsworld.com/
CERN, home of the world’s largest particle accelerator – https://home.cern/science/accelerators/large-hadron-collider
A level Physics is seen as a challenging, academic and rigorous A level that will impress a lot of universities and employers.
A level Physics is crucial for those students wanting to study physics, astrophysics, aeronautical engineering, electronic and mecha cal engineering at university.
Graduates of A level physics can also apply for many other degree courses such as mathematics, medicine, computing, architecture and even sport. Many physicists also gain careers in areas such as engineering, banking, accountancy, computer-aided design and research.
