A / AS Level Physics

Physics is an exciting subject which aims to explain how things work from the smallest to the largest of scales, from nanotechnology to the universe itself. It takes in practice and theory, specialist pure research and applications in the surroundings of everyday life. It is no surprise that those with a physics degree are in demand by many employers. As a discipline, physics is used in many areas of professional activity including engineering, health and biomedicine, the public services and utilities, environmental monitoring, education, and computing.

These specifications have been especially developed for candidates who wish to continue with a study of Physics after GCSE and to develop interest and enthusiasm in the subject, although anyone interested in maths and science should be able to do this course even without any previous knowledge. Some candidates may wish to follow a course for only one year as an AS GCE, in order to broaden their curriculum. Others will continue for a further year extending their course to Advanced GCE. Such a course will prepare candidates to progress into further or higher education, to follow courses in Physics or other science and maths related ones.

This is a well–structured programme, organised into six essential components:

AS

• PHYA1 – Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity (40%)
• PHYA2 – Mechanics, Materials and Waves (40%)
• PHYA3 – Investigative and Practical Skills AS (20%)

A2

• PHYA4 – Fields and Further Mechanics (40%)
• PHYA5 – Nuclear and Thermal Physics + Applied Physics (40%)
• PHYA6 – Investigative and Practical Skills A2 (20%)

Physics A has been designed to foster a variety of teaching styles, using appropriate contexts and applications to bring the subject alive and emphasise its relevance and key role in today’s technological society. Students are encouraged to explore the subject, take responsibility for their own learning and monitoring their own progress, and work in cooperation with their class peers.
The college virtual learning environment, accessible at college and from home, is used for computer based learning, assessment and support materials.