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Physics

About the course:

These specifications have been developed for students who wish to continue with a study of Physics after GCSE. Some students may wish to follow a physics course for only one year as an AS GCE, in order to broaden their curriculum. Others will continue their course to Advanced GCE. Such a course will prepare students to progress into further education, to follow courses in physics, engineering, one of the other sciences or related subjects, or to enter employment where a knowledge of physics would be useful.


Topics Covered:

AS Physics (Year 12)

  • Measurements and their errors
  • Particles and radiation
  •  Waves
  • Mechanics and materials
  • Electricity

A2 Physics (Year 13)

  • Further mechanics and thermal physics
  • Fields and their consequences
  • Nuclear physics

In addition pupils can select an optional unit from the following

  • Astrophysics
  • Medical physics
  • Engineering physics
  • Turning points in physics
  • Electronics

What is expected of you:

You will be expected to attend all lessons and complete all tasks on time. You will need to have a passion for Physics and be able to cope with the pressures of a demanding course. You will also need to enjoy and understand Mathematics to a high standard.

What it prepares you for:

Higher Education  

  • Physics
  • Engineering
  • Medicine
  • Astronomy
  • Architecture

Careers

  • Architect  
  • Vet
  • Engineer
  • Forensic science
  • Radiographer

How will it be assessed?

Paper 1: Sections 1 to 5 and 6.1 (Periodic motion). Written exam: 2 hours, 85 marks, 34% of A-level

Paper 2: Sections 6.2 (Thermal Physics), 7 and 8 and assumed knowledge from sections 1 to 6.1. Written exam 2 hours, 85 marks, 34% of A-level

Paper 3: Section A Compulsory section: Practical skills and data analysis Section B: optional module. Written exam 2 hours, 80 marks, 32% of A-Level 


Entry requirements:

  • At least five GCSEs at grades 5-9 including 6 or above in GCSE physics or 6-6 in Combined Science
  • Students who wish to take A-Level Physics need to achieve grade 6 minimum in GCSE Maths

Qualification details:

AQA AS/A2 Physics

Specification code: Physics  - 7407/7408


For more information:

If you are an internal applicant, please talk to your science teacher about the possibility of studying A-Level Physics in the sixth form. Alternatively, you may choose to talk to Mrs K Weston (Senior Lead Science)

If you are an external applicant and would like more details about this course please email sixthform@mosslands.wirral.sch.uk