A Level Physics
Overview:
Physics is a demanding A Level requiring strong mathematical and laboratory skills as well as a deep conceptual understanding and problem-solving. Topics vary from force and mechanics to quantum physics and astrophysics.
Students have to demonstrate a high level of numeracy in their exams and practical assessment, and are also assessed on their communication skills in a materials project presentation.
Our extra-curricular offer is second to none. We have been world champions in the Youth Rocketry Challenge and have an Electron Microscope Research Group. Students enjoy working with younger students in lessons and in science clubs both at NHGS and in local primary schools.
The aim of the course is to develop knowledge and understanding of different areas of Physics and how they relate to each other. Demonstrate skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods. Develop competence in practical, mathematical and problem solving skills.
“I enjoyed learning the complex theories with simple, fun practical tasks. The teachers were very helpful when I was stuck.”
Course Structure and Content:
The course is taught over six themes, which combined with the Practical Endorsement, constitute the full A Level.
- Module 1 - Development of practical skills in Physics.
- Module 2 - Foundations in Physics.
- Module 3 - Forces and Motion.
- Module 4 - Electrons, Waves, and Photons.
- Module 5 - Newtonian World and Astrophysics.
- Module 6 - Particles and Medical Physics.
Six of the twelve modules require practical experiments are covered in the Lower Sixth, and six in the Upper Sixth. Practical work is highly valued at NHGS and there are many more practical demonstrations and experiments embedded into the Lower Sixth and the Upper Sixth curriculum. Topics extend the work covered at GCSE and underpin the understanding of Physics for example forces, motion, energy and waves. In addition we will look at materials and quantum physics by looking at further mechanics, nuclear physics, thermal physics, fields and astrophysics.
Click here to download a course flyer
Assessment:
At the end of the Lower 6th, students sit an exam on all of the Lower Sixth content. This does not count towards the final grade, but assesses the content at this half-way point before progression to the Upper Sixth. The final A Level exams, at the end of the Upper Sixth, are split into three separate papers and assess content from the whole two year course. There is also a separate, non-examinable Practical Endorsement which is assessed throughout the two years of the course.
- Assessment 1 - 37% 2 hours 15 minutes written paper based on modules 1, 2, 3 & 5 (100 marks).
- Assessment 2 - 37% 2 hours 15 minutes written paper based on modules 1, 2, 4 & 6 (100 marks).
- Assessment 3 - 26% 1 hour 30 minutes written paper based on all modules (70 marks).
Future Career Opportunities:
With a Physics qualification, the career opportunities are numerous and varied. For example a wide variety of Engineering disciplines, Physics research, Computing, Medicine (e.g. Doctor, Radiographer, Medical Physicist, Optometry), Finance and Law.