PHYSICS
A LEVEL
OCR PHYSICS A (h556) - Course Overview
The course covers all the key concepts of Physics. As learners progress through the course they will build on their knowledge of the laws of Physics, applying their understanding to solve problems on topics ranging from sub-atomic particles to the entire universe.
The course aims to:
Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
Develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills.
Develop practical skills which are assessed through the Practical Endorsement. This is excellent preparation for your university course
Develop interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject
Develop understanding of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the Sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society (as exemplified in ‘How Science Works’).
welcome Video
Target Audience
If you have an enquiring mind, always asking why things happen, then Physics will help you find the answers. It forms the basis of most modern technologies and holds the key to the future for global well-being.
Year 12 Units
Module 1 - Practical Skills
Physics is a practical subject. The development and acquisition of practical skills is fundamental. The Physics A course provides learners with the opportunity to develop experimental methods and techniques for analysing empirical data. Skills in planning, implementing, analysing and evaluating will be assessed in all modules throughout the course
Module 2- Foundations of PHYSICS
The aim of this module is to introduce important conventions and ideas that permeate the fabric of physics. Understanding of physical quantities, S.I. units, scalars and vectors helps physicists to effectively communicate their ideas within the scientific community
Module 3 - Forces and Motion
A resultant force acting on an object can accelerate the object in a specific direction. The subsequent motion of the object can be analysed using equations of motion. Several forces acting on an object can prevent the object from either moving or rotating. Forces can also change the shape of an object. There are many other things that forces can do. In this module, learners will learn how to model the motion of objects using mathematics, understand the effect forces have on objects, learn about the important connection between force and energy, appreciate how forces cause deformation and understand the importance of Newton’s laws of motion.
Module 4 - Electrons, waves and photons
The aim of this module is to ultimately introduce key ideas of quantum physics. Electromagnetic waves (e.g. light) have a dual nature. They exhibit both wave and particle-like behaviour. The wave–particle dual nature is also found to be characteristic of all particles (e.g. electrons). Before any sophisticated work can be done on quantum physics, learners need to appreciate what electrons are and how they behave in electrical circuits. A basic understanding of wave properties is also required. In this module, learners will learn about electrons, electric current, electrical circuits, wave properties, electromagnetic waves and, of course, quantum physics.
Year 13 Units
Module 5 - Newtonian World and ASTROPHYSICS
The aim of this module is to show the impact Newtonian mechanics has on physics. The microscopic motion of atoms can be modelled using Newton’s laws and hence provide us with an understanding of macroscopic quantities such as pressure and temperature.
Newton’s law of gravitation can be used to predict the motion of planets and distant galaxies. In the final section we explore the intricacies of stars and the expansion of the Universe by analysing the electromagnetic radiation from space. As such, it lends itself to the consideration of how the development of the scientific model is improved based on the advances in the means of observation .
In this module, learners will learn about thermal physics, circular motion, oscillations, gravitational field, astrophysics and cosmology.
Module 6 - Particle and Medical Physics
In this module, learners will learn about capacitors, electric field, electromagnetism, nuclear physics, particle physics and medical imaging.
This section introduces the basic properties of capacitors and how they are used in electrical circuits. The use of capacitors as a source of electrical energy is then developed. This section introduces the mathematics of exponential decay, which is also required for the decay of radioactive nuclei.
Students study how the developments in medical imaging have led to a number of valuable non-invasive techniques used in hospitals. Not all hospitals in this country are equipped with complex scanners. Learners have the chance to discuss the ethical issues in the treatment of humans and the ways in which society uses science to inform decision making
Student testimonials
Weekly Support sessions
Support sessions run on Wednesday and Thursday 3.30 pm - 4.30 pm
Students have opportunity to work in a dedicated 6th form Physics Lab under supervision of Physics Specialist to provide support with homework and wider study.
Advanced Performance Tracking
The Physics department use specifically designed assessments to track the performance of each student on a question by question basis: The understanding and comprehension of specific OCR assessment objectives (as demonstrated in controlled assessments) are logged and analysed.
Each student is provided with a comprehensive record of which assessment criteria have been demonstrated as 'fully understood' along side those which require additional work .
This personalised feedback is combined with consolidation activities to facilitate further progress.
Higher Education Progression Routes
PhYsics
A-levels (or equivalent) usually required
Maths
Physics
Useful to have
Chemistry
Further Maths
Engineering
A-levels (or equivalent) usually required
Maths
Physics
Useful to have
Computer Science
Further Maths
Radiography
A-levels (or equivalent) usually required
Maths
Physics
Useful to have
Biology
Further Maths
Future Careers
Where can A degree in Physics take you?
Astronomy
Engineering
Education
Robotics
Finance and Law
Meteorology and Climate Science
Renewable Energy
Radiography
As a facilitating subject, the opportunities are endless