Physics
Head of Science and Technology: P.C. Clark, BSc (London) ARCS CPhys MinstP
Head of Department: M.N. Wells, MA (Cambridge)
Course Specifications: AQA 1451/2451and CIE Pre-U
The Physics Department offers two courses: AQA Physics A Level and CIE Physics
Pre-U. It is anticipated that most pupils will take the A Level course but
those taking Further Mathematics might take the Pre-U.
Physics is concerned with discovering the basic principles of the universe.
The beauty of Physics lies in the simplicity of the underlying physical theories,
and in the manner in which a small number of fundamental concepts and assumptions
can alter and expand our view of the world around us.
It is no longer a disadvantage for Sixth Formers to choose Physics without
choosing A Level Mathematics.
Pattern of Assessment
| AS Unit 1 PHYA1 Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity 1¼ hours written exam [20%] |
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| AS Unit 2 PHYA2 Mechanics , Materials and Waves 1¼ hours written exam [20%] |
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| AS Unit 3 PHYA3 Investigative and Practical Skills in AS Physics practical assessment [10%] |
Practical skills are assessed during the course and investigative skills are assessed in a written test in lesson time. |
| AS Unit 4 PHYA4 Fields and Further Mechanics 1¾ hours written exam [20%] |
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| A2 Unit 5 PHYA5A-D Options 1¾ hours written exam [20%] |
Common topic: Nuclear and Thermal Physics and an option from: Option A: Astrophysics Option B: Medical Physics, Option C: Applied Physics, Option D: Turning Points in Physics |
| A2 Unit 6 PHYA6 Investigative and Practical Skills in A2 Physics Practical assessment [10%] . |
Practical skills are assessed during the course and investigative skills are assessed in a written test |
Pupils who opt to take Physics AS only will complete their examinaltions in the Easter Quarter of the Upper Sixth.
Pre-U Physics
The Pre-U is an exciting opportunity to study Physics in greater depth. The material covered is similar to that in the A-level course but the approach is more mathematical and the ideas are taken further. The examinations can only be taken at the end of the Upper Sixth. This allows for a more flexible approach to teaching but also one which is more coherent, bringing out connections between the topics and ideas.
In addition to the topics covered in the A-level course, the Pre-U includes rotational dynamics, special relativity, statistical mechanics, entropy, quantum theory, astronomy and cosmology. Calculus, including differential equations, is used in the course.
The Personal Investigation is an opportunity to carry out, in depth, experimental study on a topic of particular personal interest or relevance to a future course or career. The emphasis is on research being guided by previous results. This will be done in January of the Upper Sixth year.
Pupils wishing to take Pre-U Physics must choose Physics as one of their four main subjects and Pre-U Physics as their Short Extension Course.
Pattern of Assessment for Pre-U Physics
| Component 1 1¼ hours written exam [20%] |
Multiple Choice All questions are compulsory. |
| Component 2 2 hours written exam [30%] |
Structured Paper All questions are compulsory. |
| Component 3 3 hours written exam [35%] . |
Long Answer paper Section A: all questions are compulsory. Section B: 3 from 6 questions |
| Component 4 coursework [15%] |
Personal Investigation 20 hours work |