Physics
National 4/National 5
Course Overview
The general aim of this course is to develop skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding of Physics. Pupils will apply these skills when considering the applications of Physics on our lives, as well as the implications on society/the environment. This can be done by using a variety of approaches, including investigation and problem solving. Pupils will research issues, apply scientific skills and communicate information related to their findings, which will develop skills of scientific literacy.
The Course has three mandatory Units, as listed below.
These Units are designed to provide progression to the Units with similar titles at National 5/Higher.
Faculty Principal Teacher
Mr M Stage
Electricity and Energy (N4)
Generation of electricity
Electrical power
Electromagnetism
Practical electrical and electronic circuits
Gas laws and the kinetic model
Waves and Radiation (N4)
Wave characteristics
Sound
Electromagnetic Spectrum
Nuclear radiation
Dynamics and Space (N4)
Speed and acceleration
Relationship between forces, motion and energy
Satellites
Cosmology
Electricity and Energy (N5)
Conservation of energy
Electrical charge carriers and electric fields
Potential difference (voltage)
Practical electrical and electronic circuits
Ohm’s Law
Electrical power
Specific heat capacity
Gas laws and the kinetic model
Waves and Radiation (N5)
Wave parameters and behaviours
Electromagnetic spectrum
Light
Nuclear radiation
Dynamics and Space (N5)
Velocity and displacement — Vectors and scalars
Velocity–time graphs
Acceleration
Newton’s Laws
Projectile motion
Space exploration
Cosmology
Assessment Methods
National 4
There is no final exam. The course is assessed on an ongoing basis through coursework and class assessments.
National 5
There is an Assignment (20 %) and an end of year exam (80 %), which will be externally assessed by SQA and will be graded (A-D).
Learning and Teaching Approaches
A wide range of teaching strategies are used with classes, such as practical and experimental work, direct teaching, paired and/or group work. Pupils will prepare presentations, projects and carry out structured practical investigations. Work in class is supported through the use of course plans, ICT and other media. Pupils will be involved in setting their own targets and evaluating their own as well as others progress. Pupils are expected to take responsibility for their learning at an early stage.