Higher Physics

Physics gives an insight into the underlying nature of our world and its place in the universe. From the sources of the energy we use, to the exploration of space, it covers a range of applications of the relationships that have been discovered through experiment and calculation, including those used in modern technology. An experimental and investigative approach is used to develop knowledge and understanding of physics concepts. This course enables candidates to develop a deeper understanding of physics concepts and the ability to describe and interpret physical phenomena using mathematical skills. They develop scientific methods of research in which issues in physics are explored and conclusions drawn.

A qualification in physics is essential if you wish to study engineering, radiography, avionics, dentistry, architecture, computer programming and meteorology. It is recommended if you wish to study medicine or pharmacy in higher education, or if you wish to work as a laboratory technician, or in some areas of the armed forces. 

The course content includes the following areas of physics:

Our dynamic Universe

The topics covered are:

•  motion — equations and graphs

• forces, energy, and power

• collisions, explosions, and impulse

• gravitation

• special relativity

• the expanding Universe

Particles and waves

The topics covered are:

• forces on charged particles

• the Standard Model

• nuclear reactions

• inverse square law

• wave-particle duality

• interference

• spectra

• refraction of light

Electricity

The topics covered are:

•  monitoring and measuring AC

• current, potential difference, power, and resistance

• electrical sources and internal resistance

• capacitors

• semiconductors and p-n junctions

The course aims to:

•  develop and apply knowledge and understanding of physics

• develop an understanding of the role of physics in scientific issues and relevant applications of physics

• develop scientific inquiry and investigative skills

• develop scientific analytical thinking skills, including scientific evaluation, in a physics context

• develop the skills to use technology, equipment and materials safely, in practical scientific activities

•  develop planning skills

• develop problem-solving skills in a physics context

• use and understand scientific literacy to communicate ideas and issues and to make scientifically informed choices

• develop the knowledge and skills for more advanced learning in physics

• develop skills of independent working

The course will be assessed through two question papers (exams) and an assignment, which will be marked by SQA and graded A to D. The marks are scaled so that the question papers together make up 80% of the total assessment mark and the assignment makes up 20%.

The assignment topic is chosen with guidance from the teacher and must involve experimental work.

Question Paper 1 Multiple choice questions (25 marks) 45 minutes

Question Paper 2 Restricted-response and extended-response questions (130 marks) 2 hours 15 minutes

Assignment Two stages: research and report.

The whole assignment is recommended to take 8 hours max and the report is written up under timed conditions (maximum 2 hours) and is worth 20 marks.

Homework required

Homework is issued every week and regular revision of 3-4 hours is recommended a week (more when approaching assessments).