S3 Physics

Course level

In S3 Physics you will be working at Level 4. It is recommended that you have an average of 50% or more in your S1 and S2 topic tests, and that you have attained Level 3 Maths in S2.

Your S2 Science teacher will advise you on whether S3 Physics is an appropriate level of course for you. Studying Level 4 Maths alongside this course is also strongly recommended.

Course content: what will you learn?

Dynamics

You will learn about the relationships between speed, distance, time and acceleration, and you will carry out practical experiments to measure values. You will begin to learn about scalars and vectors, and you will use equations to calculate values. You will learn about forces and Newton’s Laws, and how everything is not as it seems when it comes to weight.

Waves and Radiation

You will learn about wave characteristics and how to describe the different properties of waves; with a focus on sound waves and how SONAR is used. You will learn about the different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, including X-rays and gamma rays, and how these are used in everyday applications. You will use various equations to carry out calculations. You will investigate some of the properties of light, with a focus on refraction. You will also learn about nuclear radiation, along with its applications in the medical industry and the energy sector, and the risks involved.

Energy

You will learn about the coldest temperature possible, and about the kinetic theory of gases, which will help you to understand the relationship between pressure, temperature and volume. You will carry out experiments to test your understanding.

Space

The practical applications of what you have learnt will then be looked at in the context of space. You will go on a (virtual!) exploration of space to learn about the scale of the universe and some of the theory surrounding its age, space exploration and its benefits and challenges, and the possibility of life on another planet.

Electricity

You will look at various definitions and formulas relevant to electrical circuits, including a focus on charge, current, voltage, resistance and power. You will build your own circuits – including circuits which automatically switch other components on or off – and learn how to measure various quantities.

Skills

Along with the topics above, you will learn how to use the correct units, prefixes and Scientific Notation; how to carry out experiments and investigations safely; how to draw graphs and analyse them in order to draw conclusions and make evaluations. A keen interest in, and aptitude for, Maths is a valuable asset for this course.

Teaching – what will you do?

You will learn through teacher-guided activities, including practical experiments and investigations, written work, calculations, research and presentation tasks.

Assessment – how will you be assessed?

You will be assessed as follows:

· End of topic assessments, covering knowledge & understanding and problem solving.

· Practical investigations, including planning, carrying out and reporting on an experiment.

· End of course exam which will form the basis for recommendations as to progression to National 4 or National 5 in S4.

Homework

You will be given regular homework tasks including practice questions, research and revision tasks.

Progression – what can you do next?

Students who achieve Level 4 in S3 can progress on to National 5 Physics in S4. Pupils who are working towards achieving Level 4 would be recommended to pursue National 4 Physics in S4, with the potential to continue on to National 5 Physics in S5.

Careers

There is a vast range of jobs and careers open to those who have studied Physics at any level. Physics qualifications can lead to diverse careers in engineering, technology, scientific research, finance and healthcare. Careers directly related to Physics include Medical Physicist, Aerospace Engineer, Data Scientist, Astronomer, Geophysicist, Renewable Energy Specialist, Sound Engineer and Software Developer; and there are, of course, many more.