Physics

Why choose Physics?

Physics is considered to be the most fundamental of all sciences; it addresses issues of the universe around us. People who enjoy this subject are good mathematically and enjoy problem solving; they often think of questions about the world around us and then try to find answers.

It is a demanding subject but will prepare you well for on-going study at university or industry. There is a substantial practical component and so your ability to design and modify experiments will be enhanced, along with a critical eye to analyse and evaluate results that you generate.

What will you learn?

Physics at A Level builds on the work you have met at GCSE. The course is organised in six modules:

Module 1 Development of practical skills in Physics: skills of planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation

Module 2 Foundations of Physics: physical quantities and units; scalars and vectors; measurements

Module 3 Forces and motion: motion; forces in action; work, energy and power; materials; Newton’s laws of motion and momentum

Module 4 Electrons, waves and photons: charge and current; energy, power and resistance; electrical circuits; waves; quantum physics

Module 5 Newtonian world and astrophysics: thermal Physics; circular motion; oscillations; gravitational fields; astrophysics

Module 6 Particles and medical Physics: capacitors; electric fields; electromagnetism; nuclear and particle physics; medical imaging. There is a practical component which is endorsed at the end of two years of study.

Physics is very closely related to Maths – it teaches you how the world works.

Physics Student

Student view

Here are some comments from a previous cohort

– It is very closely related to Maths – it teaches you how the world works. – Physics has great practical experiments with great theory behind it but it is hard to learn – It is more fun than GCSE as everybody wants to be there. – A Level Physics is GCSE Physics with a few more theories. – If you are good at Mathematics you will be good at Physics – Physics is easier than Maths. It’s more fun than I thought it would be.

Entry Requirement

A Grade 7 or above in either separate sciences or combined and Grade 7 in Maths.

GCE Advanced Physics Examination Board

OCR-A Physics (H556)