Sixth Form Course Booklet 2013 - Bromsgrove School

PHYSICS
WHY STUDY PHYSICS?
The universe is a mysterious place. From the microscopic world of sub-atomic particles to the macroscopic world in
which we live, and beyond, its complexity appears to stretch beyond the limits of any understanding. Yet here is
physics, undefeated but respectful of this impossible puzzle, patiently through the centuries furthering its
understanding. Maybe physics will never come close to understanding the universe in its entirety, maybe the more
puzzles we solve the more questions we generate, but the road to understanding is both elegant and fruitful. Elegant in
its rationale, in its patience to model all of what we see around us and all of what we do not; and fruitful in what it
develops, for did not the study of physics, not by design but by pure thirst for understanding, yield the technology we
take for granted today? Who would not want to study physics?
AIMS OF THE COURSE
To sustain and develop enjoyment of, and interest in, physics and to bring together knowledge of ways in which
different areas of physics relate to each other. This is achieved through a broadly based subject content that is up-todate
with examples of modern physics and its applications, to communicate the results clearly and logically.
SKILLS NEEDED FOR AND DEVELOPED IN THE COURSE
Many of the skills developed in GCSE Science, GCSE Additional Science and GCSE physics are enhanced further in AS
and A2 physics. You will be able to understand the fundamentals of physics and you will have an awareness of physics
in a wider context. In addition, you will be able to work independently and communicate effectively about topics you
have studied. In practical work you will develop the ability to devise and plan safe experiments, and to communicate
the results clearly and logically. In short, you will have commitment and interest.
REQUIREMENTS FOR STARTING THE COURSE
A minimum of a B grade in GCSE or IGCSE Mathematics and a minimum of either:
Grade B in the physics component of GCSE Additional Science or IGCSE Double Award Science, or
Grade B in GCSE or IGCSE physics.
Course followed: Physics
Examination Board: AQA
CONTENT OF THE COURSE UNITS
Unit 1
Unit 2
Unit 3
Unit 4
Unit 5
Unit 6
Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity. (Particles and radiation. Electromagnetic radiation and
quantum phenomena. Current electricity.)
Mechanics, Materials and Waves. (Moments. Projectile Motion. Work, energy and power. Newton’s
laws. Materials. Basic wave theory.)
Experimental work. (Practical exercises are designed to develop practical skills, but they also require
candidates to use their theoretical knowledge of physics and to apply it to a practical situation.)
Fields and Further Mechanics. (Momentum. Circular motion. Oscillations. Work and Energy. Electric
and Gravitational Fields. Magnetic fields. Capacitance.)
Nuclear Physics, Thermal Physics and Astrophysics. (Radioactivity. Nuclear Energy. Thermal Physics.
Lenses and Optical Telescopes. Non-optical Telescopes. Classification of Stars. Cosmology.)
Experimental work. (Practical exercises are designed to develop practical skills, but they also require
candidates to draw on knowledge, understanding and skills gained throughout their study of A level
Physics and apply them to a particular experimental context.)
METHODS OF ASSESSMENT
AS: Unit 1: Written examination on Unit 1 (1¼ hours, contains short answer and structured questions)
Unit 2: Written examination on Unit 2 (1¼ hours, contains short answer and structured questions)
Unit 3: Practical examination (1 hour, internally assessed practical exam)
A2: Unit 4: Written examination on Unit 4 (1¾ hours, contains multiple choice, short and structured questions)
Unit 5: Written examination on Unit 5 (1¾ hours, contains short answer and structured questions)
Unit 6: Practical examination (1 hour, internally assessed practical exam)
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