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"We find out about wacky things, it's cool." - Former Student |
This new AQA A specification is designed to encourage candidates to progress smoothly from previous GCSE studies in physics. You will develop in-depth knowledge and understanding of the principles of physics, and gain hands-on practical skills and data analysis skills. You will gain an appreciation of How Science Works and its relevance beyond the laboratory, and you will also see how physics links to other sciences and how the subject underpins important technologies. You will study a range of topics from the very small - inside the atom, to the very large - the formation and history of the universe. Some of the topics you will have touched on at school, such as electricity and magnetism and Newton's laws of motion. You will also encounter some new topics such as materials, communications, quantum mechanics and fundamental particles.
AS Topics Unit 1: Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity
Unit 2: Mechanics, Materials and Waves
Unit 3: Investigative and Practical Skills
A2 Topics
Unit 4: Fields and Further Mechanics
Unit 5: Nuclear and thermal physics plus one option unit Unit 6: Investigative and Practical Skills
Where does it lead? A Physics A level qualification can lead to degree courses in Physics, Engineering, Dentistry, Computing, Architecture, and Medicine. Physics is currently the most desired degree qualification by a wide range of employers in the UK. Many physics graduates find work in the finance sector as well as the more obvious jobs related to science.Why you should study Physics? Physics is often described as the most fundamental science. We’ll look at the world around us and try to describe and explain what’s going on. An important part of this is the numbers, so you need to be confident with Maths. You don’t have to do Maths A level too but it certainly helps. We’ll study the physics of particles like quarks and at the opposite end of the scale the Universe and how it was formed. We’ll look at the technology of materials and how they’re used. There’s much, much more, come and talk to us about it all, it’s great. You’ll develop skills in thinking logically and explaining your ideas in technical language concisely. Most of all you’ll be challenged. Physics is hard at times but it’s worth the effort. What skills do I need to be successful in this subject? You will need to carry out experiments, explain them clearly and concisely and then do some calculations. You must be able to rearrange equations confidently and then substitute in values to find the right answer. You need to be able to work in groups with others and work on your own when the need arises. Assessment AS Unit 1 and Unit 2 written examinations of 1hr 15mins, each representing 40% of the total AS mark. One Investigative Skills Assignment, representing 20% of the total AS mark. A2 Unit 4 and Unit 5 written examinations of 1hr 45mins, each representing 40% of the total AS mark. One Investigative Skills Assignment, representing 20% of the total AS mark.
Other Information There is a textbook which accompanies and supports the course. You will find it an advantage to have a computer with internet connection. Use will be made of e-mail and internet research. The college has very good IT facilities to support your studies. To find out more about taking physics A level take a look at the following websites: http://www.iop.org/ http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/physics_a_new.php http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/
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