Physics
Advanced Subsidiary GCE in Physics
Course Overview
- A-level Physics is a stepping stone to future study, the specifications will support, inspire students, nurture a passion for Physics and lay the groundwork for further study in courses in science and engineering.
- Physics is fundamentally an experimental subject and provides numerous opportunities to use practical experiences to link theory to reality, and equip students with the essential practical skills they need.
In addition to the exams students are required to complete the practical endorsement. This will be assessed by teachers and will be based on direct observation of students’ competency in a range of skills that are not assessable in written exams.
Visits to local universities to complete the practical endorsement using the latest equipment and techniques is a key aspect of the A Level course.
Qualification Details
- Qualification: Advanced Subsidiary GCE in Physics
- Exam Board: AQA
Course Teacher Profile
Mr G. Loveday
CTL
Mr Loveday is the Curriculum Team Lead for Physics in the Amethyst Sixth Form
Course Requirements
To enrol for the A Level Physics course you must have the following…
- Physics/Science Grade 6 or grade 44 in Combined Science Trilogy
- English Grade 5
- Maths Grade 6
- Must have GCSE
Year 1 Summary
- Unit 1 Measurements and their errors
- Unit 2 Particles and radiation
- Unit 3 Waves
- Unit 4 Mechanics and materials
- Unit 5 Electricity
Assessment Information
AS Physics consists of 2 Papers, each 1.5 hours long.
Paper 1 – Sections 1-5
50% of AS Level
Paper 2 – Sections 1-5
50% of AS Level
Year 2 Summary
- Unit 6 Further mechanics and thermal physics
- Unit 7 Fields and their consequences
- Unit 8 Nuclear physics
- Optional Unit Astrophysics
Assessment Information
A Level Physics consists of 3 Papers, 2 hours long.
Paper 1 – Sections 1-5 and 6.1 (Periodic Motion)
34% of A Level
Paper 2 – Sections 6.2 (Thermal Physics), 7 and 8. Assumed knowledge from sections 1-6.1
34% of A Level
Paper 3 – Section A: Practical Skills and Data Analysis. Section B: Students choice of 5 topics.
32% of A Level
Careers and Next Steps
A physics qualification is a great starting point for a career in scientific research, as well as in a range of careers in the business, finance, IT and engineering sectors.
Skills developed include;
- Analytical Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Communication
- Leadership
Careers choices for pupils who have studied Physics at A Level:
- Acoustic Consultant
- Geophysicist
- Metallurgist
- Meteorologist
- Research Scientist