Electronics
Head of Science and Technology: P.C. Clark, BSc (London) ARCS CPhys MinstP
Head of Department: M.N. Wells, MA (Cambridge)
Course Specification: AQA 1431/2431
Electronics underpins the industry and communications of our society. An
understanding of electronics is critical to the appreciation of practical
advances in current technology. The aim of this course is to develop knowledge
and understanding of the principles of the subject and of their applications.
Particular emphasis will be placed on instrumentation and microprocessor and
control systems.
Electronics in the Sixth Form will be a chance to combine practical work with
detailed theory. The project work provides the opportunity to show initiative
and demonstrate creative and practical problem-solving skills. The course
follows on naturally from GCSE, is complementary to the A Level Sciences,
and emphasises links with them and their need for instrumentation. However,
pupils do not need to have studied GCSE Electronics. Project work undertaken
as part of the course can be developed and used in support of university applications
for the Physical Sciences and Engineering.
Pattern of Assessment
| AS Unit 1 ELEC1 Introductory Electronics 1½ hours examination [15%] |
Basic analogue and digital electronics including the use of Boolean algebra and Karnaugh maps in logic systems. |
| AS Unit 2 ELEC2 Further Electronics 1½ hours examination [20%] |
Timing circuits, sequential logic, counter systems and amplifiers. |
| AS Unit 3 ELEC3 Practical System Development Coursework [15%] |
A 30 hours project based on at least three active devices. |
| A2 Unit 4 ELEC4 Programmable Control Systems 1½ hours examination [15%] |
This unit covers microprocessor and control circuits, programming and interfacing to inputs and outputs, leading to applications in robotics. |
| A2 Unit 5 ELEC5 Communications Systems 1½ hours examination [20%] |
This unit covers the use of electronics in radio, telephone, mobile telephone and digital communications. |
| A2 Unit 6 ELEC6 Coursework [15%] | A 30 hours project based on the content of A2. This is often a project which involves interfacing a PC or microcontroller to control some hardware. |
Pupils who opt to take the Electronics AS will complete their examinations in the Trinity Quarter of the Lower Sixth.