PHYSICS

  Department Teachers

Ms C. Stirling - PT Chemistry and Physics

Mr G. Bernard

Mrs G Biennier PT Guidance & Raising Attainment (Arran – A2)

Mr S. Gibson

Miss L. Mulherron PT Guidance & Raising Attainment (Arran – A1/2)

Physics, the cornerstone of the natural sciences, is the study of matter, motion and energy, expressed through the language of mathematics, with an ultimate aim of better understanding the workings of our Universe. Our Physics curriculum has been designed to enthuse pupils, nurturing their scientific curiosity about the universe in which they live, and its future. Students are encouraged through experiment and observation to evaluate evidence, solve problems and form logical arguments to support their ideas and deepen their understanding of physical concepts.

Course Outline

The S3 Physics course builds on skills and knowledge gained in S1 and S2 Science and introduces material that will be developed and applied all the way through to Advanced Higher Physics in S6.

Unit 1 - Dynamics – the study of motion – including experience of speed, acceleration, and plotting and analysing speed/time graphs.

Unit 2 - Forces – Newton’s Laws of Motion governed by balanced and unbalanced forces, gravitation, friction and air resistance

Unit 3 - Space – The scale of the Universe, light years, The Big Bang theory, space exploration, exoplanets, satellite communication

Unit 4 - Electricity - circuits, Ohm’s Law, resistance, power

Unit 5 - Radiation - types and properties of ionising radiation, detection, uses, nuclear power

Unit 6 - Waves - wave properties, sound waves, electromagnetic waves

National 4 and National 5 Physics - In National 4 and 5 Physics similar topics to those in S3 will be studied and expanded upon - the challenge increases from National 4 to National 5. There will also be an assignment undertaken by students that involves carrying out an investigation and producing a scientific report that makes up 20% of the final grade at National 5.

Higher Physics – consists of three units – Our Dynamic Universe, Particles and Waves and Electricity. Students also have to complete an assignment on a chosen area of the course making up 20% of the overall marks for the course assessment. The assignment assesses the application of skills of scientific inquiry and related physics knowledge and understanding.

Advanced Higher Physics – consists of three units – Rotational Motion & Astrophysics, Quanta and Waves and Electromagnetism. Students also have to undertake a project making up 25% of the overall marks for the course assessment. The purpose of the project is to allow the candidate to carry out an in-depth investigation of a physics topic and produce a project report.