Maths for Physics

Why study Maths for Physics?

There is a lot of research to show that being confident in maths throughout the A level Physics course is key to making progress and achieving what you are capable of.  Experience has taught us that if you study Physics without Maths, you may struggle with the mathematical aspects of the course. This course therefore helps you maintain your maths skills while learning more complex techniques such as using logarithms and exponential functions. 

It should be noted however, if you intend on studying Physics or Engineering beyond school, universities will require A level Mathematics as well as Physics. 

Entry requirements

This course is intended for Physics students who are not taking Maths A Level and scored a 6 or 7 at GCSE Maths. We feel that if you achieved a 8 or 9, then your skills should be strong enough already. 

Special features of the course

You will already appreciate that using maths regularly is part of any Physics curriculum. Skills required immediately are the ability to use algebra, a familiarity with trigonometry and turning relationships into straight line graphs. We will make use of the ‘Maths skills for A Level Physics’ textbook (Carol Tear, Nelson Thornes) as a guide, along with resources from the likes of Alevelphysicsonline.com and Learning Dojo to support students practising and learning the key skills at the appropriate place in the course. 

Costs

There are no expected costs

Where can I find out more?

Talk to Mrs Brittain, or you can email her on jbrittain@ahs.bucks.sch.uk.

How is the course organised?

A weekly lesson run by one or two of the Physics teachers

Topics, along with their applications in physics, covered are: 

• Basic skills

  • Rounding and significant figures

  • Conversions 

  • Standard form 

  • Efficient use of calculators 

• Algebra

• Trigonometry including the sine and cosine rules

• Equation of a straight line, gradients and tangents to a curve

• Exponential functions 

• Logarithms 

Assessment

No formal assessment or exam but there may be occasional tests within the classroom setting to support and monitor learning.

Time commitment

1 taught hour per week