PHYSICS

Physics is the branch of science concerned with the nature and properties of matter and energy. The subject matter of physics includes mechanics, heat, light and other radiation, sound, electricity, magnetism, and the structure of atoms. Physicists ask really big questions like:

How did the universe begin?

How will the universe change in the future?

How does the Sun keep on shining?

What are the basic building blocks of matter?

The A-level works on the principle that all physics is built on basic principles and laws of which the whole Universe must obey. This is reflected in the structure of the course, in the first year, by focusing on the fundamental knowledge and principals that describe many everyday phenomena.  The second year of study uses these concepts to underpin and enhance the understanding of more complex physical processes such as PET scanning, Cosmic Redshift and the Standard Model.   

Course Content

Our course is designed not only to give you the best possible A-level but also to get you ready for your next step whatever they may be. Each unit uses a ‘flipped learning’ model. You make the basic notes at home meaning we can spend more time in class exploring the content whether that is in practical, discussion, modelling or just questioning. 

Module 1 - Development of Practical Skills in Physics

• Skills of planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation.

Module 2 - Foundation of Physics

• Physical quantities and units

• Making measurements and analysing data

• Nature of quantities

Module 3 - Forces and Motion

• Motion

• Forces in action

• Work, energy and power

• materials

• Newton's laws of motion and momentum

Module 4 - Electrons, waves and photons

• Charge and current

• Energy, power and resistance

• Electrical circuits

• Waves

• Quantum physics

Module 5 - Newtonian world and astrophysics

• Thermal physics

• Circular motion

• Oscillations

• Gravitational fields

• Astrophysics

Module 6 - Particles and medical physics

• capacitors

• Electric fields

• Electromagnetism

• Nuclear and particle physics

• Medical imaging

To study this course requires a minimum Grade 5 in separate physics, or a 5-5 in combined science, and a minimum grade 5 in mathematics.