Physics A Level
Physics A Level gives you the foundations you need for a wide range of science-based courses at University. The critical thinking, data analysis and investigative skills you will learn here can be applied to almost all careers in the field. So, even if you’re not quite sure what industry you’d like to work in just yet, you can be positive you will have the skills and confidence to succeed!
COURSE CONTENT
Physics gives you the opportunity to explore the phenomena of the universe and look at theories that explain how the world around us works. 
This subject combines practical skills with theoretical ideas, so you will learn about everything from kinematics to cosmology and many recent developments in fascinating topics, such as particle physics. If you are interested in the limits of space, the beginning of time and everything in between this is the subject for you. Physics is more than a subject – it trains your brain to think beyond boundaries!
You will learn:
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Particles and Quantum Phenomena
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Waves and Optics, Forces
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Newton’s Laws of Motion, Momentum, Work, Energy and Materials
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Electricity and DC Circuits
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Circular Motion
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Simple Harmonic Motion
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Thermal Physics and Gases
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Gravitational Fields, Electric Fields, Capacitors, Magnetic Fields and Electromagnetic Induction
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Radioactivity and Nuclear Energy
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You can also choose one optional topic from different fields:
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Astrophysics
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Medical Physics
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Engineering Physics
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Turning Points in Physics and Electronics
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Keep in mind that the course is a mixture of highly conceptual thinking and very practical applications. You need to be able to think about abstract ideas, but be able to apply those ideas to how, for instance, electric motors work.
So, you can’t expect to spend a lot of time in the lab putting theories to the test!
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
There are three theory papers and a practical skills assessment. Your grade is determined by how well you do on the theory papers, while your result in the practical is noted as an endorsement alongside your A Level grade. The papers are: •2 papers each covering about half of the main course content. •A third paper with data response / synoptic questions which can come from any part of the specification, plus questions on the option topic. •The practical skills assessment involves performing a series of twelve experiments in class time which are assessed. What are the entry requirements? 5 GCSEs grade 5 or above as well as grade 6 in Maths and Physics (or a 66 in Combined Science). Where will this take me? The sky’s the limit – though it will all mostly depend on what your interests are.
