Physics OCR A Why study Physics? In the technological world in which we live, knowledge of Physics is essential, no matter what career you follow. Physics is needed for all branches of Engineering, be it Civil, Mechanical, Automotive or Aeronautical. It is also widely accepted in the world of science and technology, business, banking and accountancy as well as for work in the media. Physics can also be found firmly rooted in medicine and veterinary science. With a qualification in Physics, you might just as easily become a bank manager or an accountant, as you would an engineer.
Entry Requirements To succeed with the demands of the new A Level Physics course, a student should preferably have a grade 7 or above in GCSE Physics but a grade 6 will be considered under certain circumstances.
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course? You will require a deep understanding of the topics covered during your GCSE Physics course and strong mathematical skills will support you in this subject. This course should appeal to all students who have an interest in life in the 21st Century. Subjects which go well with Physics at A Level are Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geography and Mathematics. Physics is a useful choice for students specialising in Business, Economics or Music.
Content covered in A level Physics A two year linear course following the OCR A Level (code OCR H556) will be three papers: two papers of 2.25 hours each, followed by the third and final 1.5 hour paper assessing all topics, with a focus on practical skills and data analysis. • Development of practical skills in physics
• Waves
• Physical quantities and units
• Quantum physics
• Making measurements and analysing data
• Thermal physics
• Nature of quantities
• Circular motion
• Motion
• Oscillations
• Forces in action
• Gravitational fields
• Work, energy and power
• Astrophysics and cosmology
• Materials
• Capacitors
• Momentum
• Electric fields
• Charge and current
• Electromagnetism
• Energy, power and resistance
• Nuclear and particle physics
• Electrical circuits
• Medical imaging
Emphasis throughout the course is on developing knowledge, competence and confidence in practical skills and problem solving. Students may also choose to take part in British Physics Olympiad challenges throughout their A level course, and we have previously had groups complete the EDT Industrial Cadets engineering programme.