Physicists study the world and universe in which we live, attempting to understand and interpret it. On this course you will look at both matter and energy in their different forms and the interchange between them, from the very smallest subatomic building blocks – quarks, leptons and photons – all the way up to the entire universe.


This is a new linear course and all content is examined at the end of the second year. Throughout the course you will build up a portfolio of your practical work.Module 1: Development of practical skills in physics
Module 2: Foundations of physics
Module 3: Forces and motion
Module 4: Electrons, waves and photons
Module 5: Newtonian world and astrophysics
Module 6: Particles and medical physics

(Exam board: OCR)
(Specification: Physics option A H556)

 

Throughout the course you will develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods; develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem-solving skills; develop an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject; understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how physics contributes to the success of the economy and society.Extensive use is made of electronic methods of delivering the course. You will be enrolled onto a major online resource called Kerboodle which gives you online access to the digital textbook as well as many learning resources and question sheets.

Component 1: Modelling physics, 2hr 15, 100 marks, modules 1,2,3,5
Component 2: Exploring physics, 2hr 15, 100 marks, modules 1,2,4,6
Component 3: Unified physics, 1hr 30, 70 marks, all modules

You must have at least one of the following:
• Grade 6 in both grades of Combined Science
• Grade 6 at GCSE Physics

In addition you must have a grade 6 in GCSE Maths and an average GCSE score of 5.5. In this subject, particular skills and aptitudes will be required, many of which will be demonstrated by students’ GCSE profiles.

If you are likely to pursue a physics based qualification after A Levels it is highly recommended that you also take A Level Maths.In this subject, particular skills and aptitudes will be required, many of which will be demonstrated by students’ GCSE profiles.Students will also need to meet the general College entry requirements. Entry requirements are subjects to change.

 

Most Physics students progress to higher education taking courses in all types of Engineering, Pure Sciences and in many branches of Applied Science. Many go on to work in a science-based industry or business, and increasingly in areas of Medical Physics such as Radiography and Medical Imaging.

You are expected to complete at least five hours per week of work on your own, outside lesson times, and are encouraged to ask for help if there are any difficulties with any aspect of your work. Progress is monitored by tests during each stage of the course and by mock examinations.

 

Subjects that go well with Physics include Chemistry, Computing, IT, Biology, Geology, Geography, Economics and Business Studies.