Physics

Curriculum Intent

In Science, our curriculum intent is:

  • To deliver an engaging and challenging curriculum, which enables students to reach their maximum potential by building upon and developing their scientific knowledge, working scientifically and mathematical skills
  • To make connections between science and Catholicity, and science within local and wider contexts

Course Overview

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

Assessment

34% – Written Exam 1

34% – Written Exam 2

32% Written Exam 3

Exam Board Information

AS and A-level Physics

Reading List

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

Future Steps

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.