A Level Physics

OCR A-Level Physics A is a content-led, modular course that explores the fundamental laws governing the universe, from the sub-atomic scale to deep cosmos.
Students develop advanced problem-solving, mathematical modelling, and analytical skills highly valued by universities and employers in engineering, finance, aerospace, and data science.
The course balances theoretical concepts with extensive hands-on laboratory experimentation.

This course is taught through six modules:

• Module 1: Development of Practical Skills in Physics – Core experimental, data analysis, and evaluation skills woven through laboratory work.

• Module 2: Foundations of Physics – Mastery of physical quantities, scientific symbols, SI units, and vector mechanics.

• Module 3: Forces and Motion – Mechanics, work and energy, projectile motion, power, and structural materials.

• Module 4: Electrons, Waves, and Photons – Electrical circuits, wave properties, superposition, and quantum wave-particle duality.

• Module 5: Newtonian World and Astrophysics – Thermal physics, ideal gases, circular motion, oscillations, gravitational fields, and cosmology.

• Module 6: Particles and Medical Physics – Capacitors, electric/magnetic fields, nuclear radiation, particle physics, and medical imaging

Paper 1: Modelling Physics 37% 2h 15m • 100 marks (15 multiple-choice, 85 structured questions) • Assesses Modules 1, 2, 3, and 5

Paper 2: Exploring Physics 37% 2h 15m • 100 marks (15 multiple-choice, 85 structured questions) • Assesses Modules 1, 2, 4, and 6

Paper 3: Unified Physics 26% 1h 30m • 70 marks (Structured synoptic questions only) • Assesses all Modules (1 to 6)

Practical Endorsement Pass / Fail 2 Years • Non-exam assessment based on 12 Practical Activity Groups (PAGs) • Reported separately alongside final grade

The minimum requirement is 6 GCSE or equivalent passes at grades 9-4 in an appropriate range of subjects, including English Language at grade 4 or above.

The college will accept one BTEC at Merit level as one GCSE equivalent.

Subject specific:
Physics requires a GCSE Grade 6 or above in Maths and Physics or Combined Science.

You could take this course to complement other advanced level courses such as Chemistry and Biology, which could lead onto higher education in a science related subject or more general higher education courses.

With further training, you could go into a job related to Physics such as Science Technician or Electronics Engineer. The course will also help you develop the skills, understanding and knowledge that many employers across lots of industries are looking for.