Physics
Head of Department
Mr L Mescia
Qualification
A Level
Exam Board
OCR
Entry Requirements
GCSE Physics – grade 7 or above (combined science 77 with a 7 in the physics unit)
GCSE Maths – grade 7 or above
GCSE English language – grade 6 or above
Why study this course
A Level Physics is not only for students wishing to study subjects such as Physics, Astronomy, Engineering and Electronics at University. It is welcomed and valued in courses such as Architecture, Computing, Dentistry, Forensic Science, Geology, Medicine, Optometry, Physiotherapy and Veterinary Science – to name just a few. The reason is simple. Knowledge of Physics helps you to understand the increasingly complex Science and Technology used in many professions. A level physics will help to develop a wide range of skills that future employers value highly such as problem solving, critical thinking and practical skills. A Level Physics is an excellent choice to help you on the ladder to a wide range of careers and is highly regarded by all universities
Course Overview
OCR A specification - Content Overview:
Content is split into six teaching modules. Modules 3 – 6 are each divided into 5 topics.
Module 1 – Development of practical skills in physics
Module 2 – Foundations of physics
2.1 Physical quantities and units
2.2 Making measurements and analysing data
2.3 Nature of quantities
Module 3 – Forces and motion
3.1 Motion
3.2 Forces in action
3.3 Work, energy and power
3.4 Materials
3.5 Newton’s laws of motion and momentum
Module 4 – Electrons, waves and photons
4.1 Charge and current
4.2 Energy, power and resistance
4.3 Electrical circuits
4.4 Waves
4.5 Quantum physics
Module 5 – Newtonian world and astrophysics
5.1 Thermal physics
5.2 Circular motion
5.3 Oscillations
5.4 Gravitational fields
5.5 Astrophysics and cosmology
Module 6 – Particles and medical physics
6.1 Capacitors
6.2 Electric fields
6.3 Electromagnetism
6.4 Nuclear and particle physics
6.5 Medical imaging
Assessment Overview
Paper 1 - Modelling physics (100 marks 2 hours 15 minutes written paper 37% of total) Paper 2 - Exploring physics (100 marks 2 hours 15 minutes written paper 37% of total) Paper 3 - Unified physics (70 marks 1 hour 30 minutes written paper 26% of total) Practical Endorsement in physics (non-exam assessment).
exam Specification
SoW
Module 1 Development of practical skills in Physics Topic Checklist
Module 2 Foundations of Physics Topic Checklist
Module 3 Forces and Motion Topic Checklist
Module 4 Electrons Waves and Photons Topic Checklist
Module 5 Newtonian World and Astrophysics Topic Checklist
Module 6 Particles and Medical Physics Topic Checklist
Enrichment
Physics Olympiad
Possible trip to CERN
Future Pathways
Physics, technology and science-based degrees such as astrophysics, all disciplines of engineering (I.e., aeronautical, civil, mechanical, electrical etc...), architecture, AI systems, computer science and medical physics.
Some students go onto degree apprenticeships with companies such as BT, BAE systems and Jaguar.
Some students will go onto careers in the finance industry due to the highly valued skill set they develop by doing a physics-based degree.