Physics
Contact : Mr S D Ward Email : wards @ pocklingtonschool . com
Course : A Level Physics Exam Board : OCR
Mobile phones , satellite television , microwave ovens , GPS navigation , computer gaming … all technologies that we take for granted and without which our lives would be very different . Yet , if it were not for J J Thomson ’ s discovery of the electron , these would probably not exist .
Physics may be defined as the study of the properties and interaction of matter and energy . This means that physicists are ever in pursuit of the answer to the ubiquitous WHY ? They ask fundamental questions regarding the tiniest of events , but also delve into the mysteries of outer space , aiming to discover knowledge through experimental observation . Physics is truly the universal subject !
CONTENT OF COURSE
Lower Sixth is a natural extension to GCSE . The emphasis is more on understanding general principles and being able to apply this knowledge to new situations . The course gives students an excellent grounding in physics . Teaching is divided between three teachers and practical work is integral to the course . Students learn techniques in using simple and advanced equipment , including the use of data logging .
Four modules make up the course , ‘ Practical Skills ’, ‘ Foundations of Physics ’, ‘ Forces and Motion ’, and ‘ Electrons , Waves and Photons ’.
At Upper Sixth , the depth and mathematical element of the course take a sharp upturn . A further two modules , ‘ Newtonian World and Astrophysics ’, and ‘ Particles and Medical Physics ’ are studied . Practical assessment takes place , leading to the Practical Endorsement , alongside two 2 hour 15 minute exams , and a 90 minute exam leading to full A level qualification .
COURSE ENTRY AND QUALIFICATIONS
The study of physics demands strong analytical and numerical skills .
Experience suggests that students with less than grades 7 to 9 in both GCSE Mathematics and Physics will find the course very difficult .
Students going on to study physics or engineering at university will also need to take A level Mathematics .
PHYSICS AS A QUALIFICATION FOR FURTHER STUDY AND CAREER OPTIONS
Physics is an exciting field in its own right , leading to a greater awareness and understanding of the fundamental laws of the Universe .
Sixth Form studies in physics are a necessary foundation for all engineering disciplines and for many of the sciences .
The subject is strongly applicable to future careers in medicine , design , and computer programming .
It is also highly valued by the business and finance sectors . http :// www . physics . org / careers
COURSE OUTLINE
A level ( examining all components of the 2 year course )
CONTENT OVERVIEW ASSESSMENT OVERVIEW MARKS AVAILABLE
Content is split into six teaching modules : Module 1 – Development of practical skills in physics Module 2 – Foundations of physics Module 3 – Forces and motion Module 4 – Electrons , waves and photons Module 5 – Newtonian world and astrophysics Module 6 – Particles and medical physics Component 01 assesses content from modules 1 , 2 , 3 and 5 . Component 02 assesses content from modules 1 , 2 , 4 and 6 . Component 03 assesses content from all modules ( 1 to 6 ).
Modelling physics ( 01 ) 100 marks 2 hours 15 minutes written paper
Exploring physics ( 02 ) 100 marks 2 hours 15 minutes written paper
Unified physics ( 03 ) 70 marks 1 hour 30 minutes written paper
Practical Endorsement in physics ( 04 ) ( Non-exam assessment )
37 % of total A level
37 % of total A level
26 % of total A level
Reported separately
35