Physics

Physics is the study of everything, from the outer reaches of the Universe, right down to what is inside the nucleus of every atom. Students will have already come across some of the key concepts at GCSE such as Forces, Energy, Waves, Radioactivity, Electricity and Magnetism.

At A Level, students will start to see how these ideas work and link together, and they will start to develop a deeper understanding of the universal principles that define the behaviour of everything from the smallest sub-atomic particles right up to the largest galaxies and beyond.

COURSE CONTENT

We are currently delivering the new Edexcel A Level Physics (2015) course. This is a linear qualification, meaning students requiring a full qualification in A Level Physics will sit all three exams at the end of Year 13. The course content will build on the physics studied in Year 13, with more contemporary topics such as Particle Physics being studied. There will be a much heavier emphasis on the application of knowledge and understanding to unfamiliar situations throughout Year 13.

Term 1

Further mechanics, electric and magnetic fields, nuclear and particle physics

Term 2

Thermodynamics, nuclear radiation, gravitational fields, space and oscillations

Term 3

Revision and review of all work from Year 12 and Year 13

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

More information on the breakdown of topics and resources can be found on the BSAK Physics website: BSAK Physics website

SPECIFICATION LINK

ASSESSMENTS

Students will sit three external exams at the end of Year 13.

A Level Paper 1 – Advanced Physics I (90 marks - 30% weighting - 1 hour 45 minutes)

Working as a Physicist • Mechanics • Electric Circuits • Further Mechanics • Electric and Magnetic Fields • Nuclear and Particle Physics Asdf ● asdf A Level Paper 2 – Advanced Physics II (90 marks - 30% weighting - 1 hour 45 minutes) • Working as a Physicist • Materials • Waves and the Particle Nature of Light • Thermodynamics • Space • Nuclear Radiation • Gravitational Fields • Oscillations

A Level Paper 3 – General and Practical Principles in Physics (120 marks - 40% weighting - 2 hours 30 minutes)

• All topics across the full A Level specification. • Half of the paper will also focus on testing students’ knowledge and understanding of practical skills and techniques.

Practical Endorsement

Exam papers will feature questions allowing students to demonstrate investigative skills in the context of the Core Investigations. Skills and technical competency will be assessed by teachers when completing practical work. This will form the basis for the award of a Practical Endorsement at A Level. This is separate to the A Level grade and if awarded, will be reported as a ‘Pass’ on an A Level certificate.