Physics
Collaboration between QEII & CRHS
Details of the Examination Specification
Physics (A) OCR H556
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?
To gain entry to the course you must have achieved at least a Grade 6-6 in Pearson Edexcel Combined Science; we also strongly advise a B in GCSE Mathematics. The course is intensive and requires extensive outside study to gain the top grades regardless of ability level, as do all A Levels.
What will I learn on this A Level course?
Essential knowledge and understanding of Physics and its applications
Skills needed to use your knowledge in new and changing situations
How Physics has developed and is used in present day society
The importance of Physics as a human endeavour which interacts with social, philosophical, economic and industrial matters
What kind of student is this course suitable for?
This course will appeal to students who:
Wish to pursue a career in a Science related profession
Have completed IGCSE Physics or Dual Award Science and wish to further their study
Enjoy studying a subject that affects their own everyday lives
Want to keep their options open. Physics can be combined with a wide range of science and humanities subjects
Enjoy applying Science and Mathematics to real world problems
What subjects go well with Physics?
Maths, Further Maths, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, Music
What examinations will I have to take to get my qualification?
The three exams for A Level are taken at the end of Year 13 and are as follows:
Module 1: Practical skills
Module 2: Foundations of Physics (quantities, units and data)
Module 3: Forces and Motion
Module 4: Electrons, waves and photons
Module 5: Newtonian World and Astrophysics
Module 6: Fields, Particles and Medical Physics
A ‘Practical Endorsement’ (pass or fail) is reported separately from the final grade.
Students leaving the course after completing Units 1-4 in Year 12 may take two exam papers and gain an AS Level in Physics.