PHYSICS

BOARD: AQA, SPECIFICATION: A7408

Units

Compulsory:

1. Measurements and their errors

2. Particles and radiation

3. Waves

4. Mechanics and materials

5. Electricity

6. Further mechanics and thermal physics

7. Fields and their consequences

8. Nuclear physics.

Chosen option

9. Turning points in Physics

Method of Assessment

Three examinations

1. Paper 1: 2 hours, 34% of A Level (Sections 1 to 5 and 6.1 (Periodic motion))

2. Paper 2: 2 hours, 34% of A Level (Sections 6.2 (Thermal Physics), 7 and 8)

3. Paper 3: 2 hours, 32% of A Level (Practical skills and data analysis and the chosen optional topic)

Further Information

Either GCSE/IGCSE Physics or a GCSE/IGCSE Double Award Combined Science course is suitable preparation for this course. You will probably need a grade 6 or above in all your Physics modules. A good performance in GCSE Mathematics is also important. Studying A Level Mathematics is not essential but you may struggle without it.

A Level Physics focuses on solving problems concerning the way the physical world works, from the scale of the universe to the inside of the nucleus. You learn how both numerical data and abstract thought can be used to explain and compare observed phenomena and you also learn about the limitations of measurements, and the applicability of theories, models and formulae. We look at how theories and ideas have evolved and changed and at the need for theory and experiment to be mutually supportive.

In Physics you will learn skills which are directly applicable in many careers. Engineering, Mathematics, Science, Medicine, Accountancy, Architecture and ICT are the obvious ones but many other jobs also have a fair share of people who have studied Physics.