Physics A level

For entry into the Sixth Form to study 3 A' Levels, students are required to achieve 5 grades at 9-5 (or where applicable A*-C) including English Language and Mathematics at Grade 4 or above.

In exceptional cases, students that do not reach the entry criteria based on their attainment in English or mathematics will be admitted to the 6th form with the addition of GCSE retake classes in the appropriate subject to their timetable. This based on 6th form discretion.

While we would encourage students to study 3 A levels, in exceptional cases and following conversation at interview we may support a student to study 4. All students will have the option to study for Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) alongside their A levels.

A grade 6 is recommended in any subject that a student wishes to continue at A Level. Students are welcome to discuss entry criteria for specific subjects and to ensure that their subject choices match their goals and aspirations.

Students wishing to study Mathematics require a grade 6 and in Further Maths require a Grade 7 in the subject at GCSE.

Physics
AS & A level OCR H156, H556
An opportunity to study historical and modern ideas in physics, apply them to problems, to see how the different areas of physics ultimately connect with each other and explore how they explain and relate to the world around us. The aim is to develop interest, enthusiasm and skills in the subject to encourage further study or careers in physics. This includes an important practical component throughout the course.

You will need a sound grasp of the elements of Physics covered at GCSE and the application of Mathematics to graph plotting, handling large and small numbers, trigonometry and rearranging formulae as well as general numeracy, literacy and ICT skills.

Course details:
Module - Development of Practical Skills in physics
Focused on the Skills of planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation in a practical frame work that is embedded to the other modules and units of teaching.
Module 2 – Foundations of Physics
A look at the general principals that govern science and the basic building block of physics including;

• Physical quantities and units
• Making measurements and analysing data
• Nature of quantities.

Module 3 – Forces and motion
This module covers the general physics of motion, energy and the behaviour of materials, picking up from GCSE Includes:

• Motion
• Forces in action
• Work, energy and power
• Materials
• Newton’s laws of motion and momentum.

Module 4 – Electrons, waves and photons
This module extends work on electricity, goes on to use wave models to explain everyday phenomena and introduces quantum physics. Includes:

• Charge and current
• Energy, power and resistance
• Electrical circuits
• Waves
• Quantum physics.

Module 5 – Newtonian world and astrophysics (A level only)
This unit studies Newton’s ideas on gravity. It moves on to oscillations and circular motion, thermodynamics and the structure and evolution of the universe. Includes:

• Thermal physics
• Circular motion
• Oscillations
• Gravitational fields
• Astrophysics.

Module 6 – Particles and medical physics (A level only)
Extensive unit of work covering more advanced areas such as magnetic/electric fields, capacitors, nuclear science, medical imaging Includes:

• Capacitors
• Electric fields
• Electromagnetism
• Nuclear and particle physics
• Medical imaging.

To complete an A Level in this subject it is necessary to achieve a Grade 5 at GCSE, although we strongly advise that students should be looking at achieving at least a Grade 6 at GCSE to have a secure platform for entry on to the course.

Where does Physics lead you?
Many students will go on to complete degrees and careers in engineering, physics or specialist areas of physics such as astrophysics. However, science qualifications can lead to careers and courses in diverse areas such as economics, accountancy, business, nursing, geological and environmental sciences, in fact any area that needs an ability to think logically, question ideas and problem solve.