Oundle School
Pupils who opt to take Physics AS only will complete their examinaltions in the Easter Quarter of the Upper Sixth.
Pre-U PhysicsThe 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 after two years. 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 aspirations. 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.
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
(2450) and and 
Specification
in full [674 KB]
CIE
Pre-U
From 2008 the Physics Department will offer 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.
The core modules cover a wide range of fundamental ideas in Physics and these are developed in the options. Candidates must choose from one of the option modules: Astrophysics, Medical Physics, Applied Physics and Turning Points in Physics.
Astrophysics is concerned with measurement of the universe and Cosmology. Applied Physics covers Rotational Dynamics and Thermodynamics. Turning Points in Physics introduces Quantum Mechanics and Special Relativity. The Medical Physics option will be of particular interest to those who wish to study Medicine or Veterinary Science.There are two short pieces of coursework - one as part of the AS, the other as part of the A2.
Course Requirements
Those taking the course need to have studied Dual or Triple Award Science and, in most circumstances, should have secured at least a grade B.Subject Combinations
These can be as varied as pupils choose. Sixth formers often take A Level Mathematics with Physics, but it is certainly no longer a disadvantage if they do not unless they are considering applying to Oxford or Cambridge to read Physics, Engineering or Natural Science, in which case Further Mathematics will be expected.Higher Education
Most degree courses will accept A Level Physics. Physics is an essential A Level for Engineering
Pattern
of Assessment (Pre-U Physics)