Physics

Examination Board: AQA

A-level Physics is a stepping stone to further study of a science-based subject at university. It is an extremely versatile qualification and is essential for Electronics, Engineering and pure Sciences, and very useful for auxiliary Science-based subjects, such as Medicine. The intellectual training that one gets studying Physics, such as the use of applied mathematics and logical reasoning, as well as the scientific approach to problem-solving, can be considered useful for any profession. We follow the AQA Physics Specification 7408. This subject is an essential A-level choice for students who have already made up their minds to study Physics or Engineering at university; it is also useful for students who are considering a degree in any of the Sciences or Social Sciences and students who wish to broaden their education in preparation for university life and the world beyond. A GSCE Mathematics grade 9 to 7 is necessary. It is preferential but not essential to study A-level Mathematics.

Core content

1. Measurements and their Errors 2. Particles and Radiation 3. Waves 4. Mechanics and Materials 5. Electricity 6. Further Mechanics and Thermal Physics 7. Fields and their Consequences 8. Nuclear Physics

You can then pick one A-level option topic from:

9. Astrophysics 10. Medical Physics 11. Engineering Physics 12. Turning Points in Physics 13. Electronics

Assessment criteria

Paper 1 A-level

Sections 1 – 5 and 6.1 (Periodic motion)

Assessed

■ Written exam: 2 hours ■ 85 marks ■ 34% of A-level

Questions

60 marks of short and long answer questions and 25 multiple choice questions on content.

Assessment criteria

Paper 2 A-level

Sections 6.2 (Thermal Physics), 7 and 8 Assumed knowledge from sections 1 to 6.1

Assessed

■ Written exam: 2 hours ■ 85 marks ■ 34% of A-level

Questions

60 marks of short and long answer questions and 25 multiple choice questions on content.

Assessment criteria

Paper 3 A-level

Section A: Compulsory section: Practical Skills and Data Analysis Section B: Students enter for one of sections 9, 10, 11, 12 or 13

Assessed

■ Written exam: 2 hours ■ 80 marks ■ 32% of A-level

Questions

45 marks of short and long answer questions on practical experiments and data analysis. 35 marks of short and long answer questions on an optional topic.