Physics
Course summary
Physics is the study of everything there is, even if it is hard to see, and sometimes hard to understand, from the subatomic to the infinity (possibly) of space. It is also a very practical subject and we will learn through practical activities throughout the course. You will learn to explore and evaluate the theories that attempt to explain the entire universe and everything it contains. Scientists know that we cannot explain everything, but it cannot, and should not, stop us trying. There is currently no understanding of why we cannot see most of the universe we know is there, so each generation has new problems to solve and this is part of the excitement. Scientists do know why the sky is blue and why every rainbow is unique to you. If your immediate response to not knowing something is to probe and question, then Physics is for you. You will learn to investigate, analyse, evaluate and interpret, work independently and collectively, and if you are very lucky you may find out if duck quacks echo. Course content The course includes the Foundations of Physics, Energy and Electricity, Thermal Physics, Astrophysics, Quantum Physics, Nuclear and Particle Physics, Waves and Medical Science. COURSE OVERVIEW 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)
Entry Requirements
Checked against your grades — every rule traces to the school's published source.
| Requirement | Rule | You |
|---|---|---|
Physics | Grade 6 in Physics | — |
Combined Science Alternative route | Grade 7-6 in Combined Science | — |
Mathematics | Grade 6 in Mathematics | — |
English Language | Grade 5 in English Language | — |
English Literature | Grade 5 in English Literature | — |
As published by the school
Students must have a minimum point score of 5.5 or above for their best 8 GCSE subjects. Please use the following when calculating average point score: BTEC subjects (Distinction star= 8, Distinction=7, Merit=5.5, Pass=4) Students must have at least a GCSE grade 5 or above in Maths and English Additional GCSE Criteria: 6 in Maths and at least 1 grade 7 and 1 grade 6 in Science (triple science students must have a minimum grade 6 in the subject they wish to study) *We will consider each student’s application on an individual basis. Students who achieve a high 5 in English or Maths would be considered for entry into the Sixth Form.
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Assessment
ASSESSMENT OVERVIEW Modelling physics (01) 100 marks 2 hours 15 minutes written paper 37% of total A Level Exploring physics (02) 100 marks 2 hours 15 minutes written paper 37% of total A Level Unified physics (03) 70 marks 1 hour 30 minutes written paper 26% of total Practical endorsement in physics (04)* (non-exam assessment) Reported separately.
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