Physics Post 16
Physics
Entry Guidance:
5 GCSEs at grades A* to C or equivalent.
Grade B in GCSE Physics, including at least a grade B in unit P2 (additional physics), and grade B in one other GCSE Science or double B in double award GCSE Science (core and additional) higher tier. Students with the minimum grade B will be accepted on the course for an initial trial period.. This course will only run if a sufficient amount of students express an interest.
Syllabus Outline:
Student will follow the new AQA Physics course A which picks up on familiar areas like Electricity and Forces and Motion as well as introducing new topics such as Particles and Quantum Phenomena.
The A2 course takes the Forces component further, whilst introducing students to Fields, the Nature of Light and Special Relativity.
Practical work is integrated into the course throughout the two years, and forms part of the assessment process, as does an ongoing programme of past examination questions.
Methods of Assessment:
The AS Course is assessed by three units
Unit 1 Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity - 40% of total AS
Unit 2 Mechanics, Materials and Waves - 40% of total AS
Unit 3 Investigative and Practical Skills - 20% of total AS
Units 1 and 2 are both assessed by a 75 minute written exam made up of 6 or 7 structured qiestions. Practical and Investigative skills are assessed internally by the College.
The A2 course is also assessed by three units
Unit 4 Fields and Further Mechanics - 40% of total A2
Unit 5 Nuclear and Thermal Physics and Turning Points - 40% of total A2
Unit 6 Investigative and Practical SKills - 20% of total A2
Unit 4 is examined by multiple choice and structured questions.
A complete A level qualification is made up from the AS and A2 marks.
General Comments:
In recent years, to supplement the course, students have visited the Physics Departments at the Universities of Manchester and Leeds, and taken part in lecture presentations and performances by the 'Unlimited Theatre Company'.
Students are advise to think carefully about their other A level options. The numerical nature of Physics makes it highly desireable to continue their studies of Mathematics at Advanced Level, although not essential.
