Physics

EXAM SPECIFICATION: OCR A H556 https://www.ocr.org.uk/Images/171726-specification-accredited-a-level-gce-physics-a-h556.pdf

Physics is a subject that encompasses all forms of life from mathematical skills to model the tiniest quark to the largest galaxies. You will require skills to explain how materials have the properties they do in all four states of matter. The analytical skills that you develop are of value in all walks of life; Including the multidisciplinary teams of scientists, medical physicists, banking and finance, engineering, mineral searches, broadcasting and even law.

View the PowerPoint below to get an overview of the course.

STUDENT VIDEO: Current student, Lucy Kendall, describes what it's like to study A Level Physics.

The Course

Year 12 and 13:

Module 1: Practical Endorsement

During year 12 you will complete a total of at least 6 practicals (PAGs) which are written up and submitted. In year 13, you will complete at lest another 6 practicals including one presentation.

Year 12:

Module 2: Foundations of physics

•Physical quantities

•Making measurements and analysing data

•Nature of quantities

Module 3: Forces and Motion

•Forces in action

•Work, energy and power

•Materials

•Newton’s laws of motion and momentum

Module 4 : Electrons, waves and photons

•Charge and current

•Energy, power and resistance

•Electrical circuits

•Waves

•Quantum physics

Year 13

Module 5: Newtonian world and astrophysics

•Thermal physics

•Circular motion

•Oscillations

•Gravitational fields

•Astrophysics and cosmology

Module 6: Particles and medical physics

•Capacitors

•Electric fields

•Electromagnetism

•Nuclear and particle physics

•Medical imaging

Skills

• Reading text books and online articles
• Note taking in class and from books
• Discussions
• Presentations
• Practical skills
• Mathematical skills and calculating uncertainties
• Exam analysis

Examinations

All A-level exams are at the end of Year 13:

• 1x 2 hour 15 minute exam (Modelling physics. 100 marks worth 37% of final A level)
• 1x 2 hour 15 minute exam (Exploring physics. 100 marks worth 37% of final A level))
• 1x 1 hour 30 minute exam (unified physics. 70 marks worth 26% of final A level)
• Practical endorsement. Skills acquired from practical work and submitting experimental work will be assessed in all 3 examinations above.

Enrichment

• CERN trip to Geneva in year 13
• Tutoring program giving year 12 students the opportunity to tutor year 11
• InvestIN career opportunities
• Student-led Physics Society

For further details, please contact Dr Mann, Head of Physics - pmann@bishopstopford.com