National 5 Physics

Course Overview

Through a range of experimental and research activities you will develop your skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding in the context. You will explore the role of Physics in scientific issues and relevant applications in society and the environment. You will enhance your proficiency in scientific numeracy and literacy.

Course Content

The course is divided into five units.

1. Dynamics and Space Vectors and scalars

The areas covered in this unit include: Velocity-time graphs, acceleration, Newton’s laws, energy,projectile motion, space exploration and cosmology.

2. Electricity

The areas covered in this unit include: Electrical charge carriers, potential difference (voltage), Ohm’s law, practical electrical and electronic circuits, electricity, electrical power.

3. Properties of Matter

The areas covered in this unit include: Specific heat capacity, specific latent heat, the gas laws and the kinetic model.

4. Waves

The areas covered in this unit include: Wave parameters and behaviours, the electromagnetic spectrum , refraction of light.

5. Radiation

The areas covered in this unit include: Nuclear radiation, units, prefixes and scientific notation.

Assessment

The course is assessed externally through a question paper and submission of an assignment.

Entry Requirements

Achievement of Level 4 Physics and Maths in S3.

The study of N5 Maths alongside N5 Physics.

Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the sciences, learners may benefit from studying N5 Physics along with other N5 science subjects, as this may enhance their skills, knowledge and understanding.

Progression

This course may provide progression to Scientific Technologies, Higher Physics or related areas, further study, employment or training.