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AS and A level Physics

Course code: CHS

Level: AS Level, A Level

Availability: Day Course

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Summary

Physics is the part of your science course which looks at energy. Across the two years, you will look at how the key Physics concepts are used in modern technology, the forces in space and the fundamental laws of the universe. If you have an enquiring mind, this is the Science subject for you! You will use practical investigations to explore why things happen, rather than just looking at what does happen.

Requirements

At least five GCSEs at grade C or above including English Language, Maths GCSE at grade B and GCSE Science (Additional) at grade B. You must also be taking some additional mathematics course as support, such as AS level or the Intermediate FSMQ in Advanced Mathematics. If you are not taking Maths, you will need to attend a Maths for Scientists course to support you throughout the A level.
because:

• you will have to perform calculations throughout the course.

Course Content

In Year 1 you will study units 1, 2 and 3 for an AS level. In Year 2 you will take units 4, 5 and 6 to complete the full A level.

Unit 1: Physics in action
Can you think of a situation where physics is not in action? This unit looks at the place of physics in some modern technologies including digital imaging and designer materials. This will consolidate and develop your GCSE work on optics, waves, electricity and materials.
You will be assessed by a written examination

Unit 2: Understanding processes
This takes our understanding of light and waves a step further and then contradicts it with a more modern view of physics! At the same time we look at why old ideas of time and motion are still valid today.
You will be assessed by a written examination

Unit 3: Physics in practice
This is a third module which involves one practical investigation and one presentation related to the above modules.
You will be assessed by coursework

Unit 4: Rise and fall of the clockwork universe
Looking out into space we analyse how planets move and look at the calculations used to put satellites into orbit and get man to the moon - if not ‘to infinity and beyond’. We look, too, at the whole universe – its past, present and future – but as we try to analyse it, we find ourselves looking at smaller and smaller details.
You will be assessed by a written examination

Unit 5: Fields and particle pictures
Two very important and relevant aspects of physics are involved here. Firstly, using fundamental and universal laws to make our lives easier and then looking at these laws to help give us a better understanding of the matter and the laws themselves.
You will be assessed by a written examination

Unit 6: Researching Physics
This consists of two pieces of coursework. Firstly, you will be expected to research and write an extended report on an area of physics which is of particular interest. Secondly you are also expected to undertake a practical investigation on a topic of your choice and report your findings. Working independently, developing research and practical skills and writing fluently using suitable images and graphs are considered to be very important by universities and employers.
You will be assessed by coursework

What else do I need to know?

Most important is having an open mind and being prepared to look at new ideas and concepts as well as looking at old ones in a different way.

Physics will go well with any other AS or A level as it encourages development of a logical and analytical way of thinking. Whether you are going on to study science at university, other subjects, or are going straight into employment, having an A level in Physics is considered an advantage.

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