A Level
In previous years, when we ran our Open Evening as a virtual event, we produced video guides to each subject. These remain relevant and are available as a collected playlist on our YouTube Channel.
The introductory video to life in the 6th Form at Borlase, and a virtual tour of the school are also available to watch.
A level Specification and Curriculum Overview
Course entry requirements
Students must have achieved a minimum of an 7-7 grade at GCSE level for Core and Additional Science: double award or an 7 grade in Physics.
Course overview
Physics has always been a popular choice at Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School. An AS/A2 level in physics can lead to a wide range of future careers which value the skills of thought and analysis which the subject develops. It is also a good choice for those who wish to leave their options for future study open. Physics seeks to explore the world around us, attempting to describe and make sense of the way it works. Physics is an exciting and developing subject and is becoming increasingly more important as the pace of technological development in the world accelerates.
Students follow the OCR A course. The course will:
Provide extensive knowledge of physics
Place the development of physics ideas in a social and historical context
Develop the ability to learn independently
Develop a wide range of analytical, practical and other skills
Stimulate curiosity, and provide depth and challenge
This A-level course considers the main topics of mechanics, electricity, wave behaviour, radioactivity, particle physics, and kinetic theory. Topics are presented so that knowledge and understanding of key concepts are treated separately at AS and important links between different areas of physics are largely assessed synoptically at A2. Whilst the teaching of practical skills is integrated with the theoretical topics, and they are assessed within the examinations, there is a pass/fail requirement on the completion of the experiments and the keeping of a laboratory notebook. The syllabus will also include consideration of the latest developments in physics, such as quantum theory, astrophysics, medical imaging and particle physics.
Mathematics and physics go together naturally, and the mathematical requirements of the course should be within the grasp of anyone who has gained an 7 grade at GCSE mathematics at the Higher tier. However confidence and competence in mathematics is extremely important and it is strongly recommended that A level physics students undertake at least an AS level in mathematics. For those intending to read engineering or physics at university, both physics and mathematics at A level are essential. Further mathematics is not required, but is found to be particularly helpful.
The physics department has an excellent record of success at A-level, founded on a high level of commitment from staff and students – essential for what is undoubtedly a demanding but rewarding course. It is vital that students keep up to date with the work set, and are prompt and regular in handing in assignments. Good study habits will be emphasised throughout the course, with plenty of encouragement given to students to develop these. The transition from GCSE to A level can be very daunting, and will be handled with care. Our intention is that study of physics should lead to an informed view of the role of science in an increasingly technological world, and an ability to approach problems in a structured and logical way, no matter what their future career.