A Level Physics

Why study Physics?

Do you enjoy learning about modern and interesting applications of physics alongside more traditional concepts? Do you enjoy developing your practical, investigative and research skills? If so, then Physics is for you. Both the AS and A2 Physics courses develop knowledge and understanding of physics and an appreciation of the link between theory and experiment. You will learn how physics has developed and is used in present day society, and appreciate physics as a human endeavour which has historical, social, philosophical, economic and technological connections. Importantly, you will sustain and develop your enjoyment of, and interest in, physics.

What will I study?

The A-Level Physics course is made up of 6 modules:

Development of Practical Skills in Physics
Fundamental Data Analysis
Physics in Action
Rise and Fall of the Clockwork Universe
Field and Particle Physics

Module 1 - Development of Practical Skills in Physics

Physics is a practical subject, the development of practical skills is key to understanding the nature of physics. Physics B gives learners many opportunities to develop the fundamental skills needed to collect and analyse empirical data. Skills in planning, implementing, analysing and evaluating, are developed in this unit.

Module 2 - Fundamental Data Analysis

Physics B gives students many opportunities to analyse data collected in practical sessions or provided for them. Students are exposed and trained in the techniques of analysis and the handling of experimental uncertainties throughout the course. In particular, the early parts of the course give learners the chance to practise the handling and analysing data.

Module 3– Physics in Action

This module is intended to provide a graduated path from GCSE work into A-Level work, develop the skills and habits of independent working and show a wide range of ways in which physics is put to use. Topics include digital optics, electronics and materials technology,

Module 4– Understanding processes

This module provides progression from the application oriented work in Physics in Action. Understanding Processes is organised around different ways of describing and understanding processes of change: motion in space and time, wave motion, quantum behaviour. It provides a sound foundation in the classical physics of mechanics and waves and takes the story further, touching on the quantum probabilistic view.

Module 5 - Rise and Fall of the Clockwork Universe

This module builds upon the work covered earlier in the course. The first section part of the module uses simple techniques to model radioactive decay, capacitor charging and discharging and simple harmonic motion. In this framework, the formalism of the differential equation is developed along with the concept of field.
Units include
Radioactivity, capacitors and simple harmonic motion
Classical mechanics
Astrophysics including special relativity
Kinetic theory and thermodynamics

Module 6 - Field and Particle Physics

This module introduces the modern picture of fields and particle interactions as fundamental mechanisms of nature.
Units include
Electromagnetism
Field theory
Particle physics
Nuclear physics

Physics Extras
Physics offers a range of opportunities both locally (Cambridge University) and further afield (an annual trip to CERN, Geneva). Links with the Institute of Physics and Cambridge University will enable students to attend lectures and visit laboratories.

Minimum Entry Requirements:

5 x 5s

4 in English and Maths

Subject Specific Entry Requirements:

6 in GCSE Physics if doing single sciences

Or 6,7 in GCSE Double Science

6 in GCSE Maths

* Please note that Level 2 vocational courses are the equivalent of 1 GCSE and only 1 will be counted towards the A-Level pathway entry requirements

What can I do with Physics after sixth form?

Many students follow this course with a physics-related degree. The course also has clear links with a range of other subjects which are popular degree courses such as Mathematics,

Medicine, computing, engineering (electronics / Mechanical) and Architecture. Other students find the skills and knowledge gained from the A-level Physics course useful when pursuing degree courses or careers in other areas including business, finance and management.