Physics
An A Level in Physics enables students to build on their knowledge of the laws of physics, applying their understanding to solving problems on topics ranging from subatomic particles to the entire universe.
Studying physics develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Physicists are versatile, which opens a wide range of future careers, such as engineering, astronomy, computer science, teaching and medicine. Physics is a global enterprise and offers the opportunity to work abroad, or in international research collaborations.
Entry Requirements
GCSE 6/6 in Science and Grade 6 GCSE Physics and Maths.
Content
The OCR A Level Physics course content is in six modules:
- 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
In Year One, students will study the foundations of Physics, Motion, Forces, Energy, Materials, Newton’s laws of momentum, Electricity, Waves and Thermal Physics.
In Year Two, students still study ideal gases, circular motion, oscillations, gravitational fields, stars, cosmology, capacitors, electrical fields, magnetic fields, particle physics, radioactivity, nuclear physics.
Assessment
100% Examinations
Students study the full A level and at the end of the two years the course will be assessed with three external examinations.
| Component One: | Modelling Physics – assessing modules 1,2,3 and 5 |
| Component Two: | Exploring Physics – assessing modules 1,2,4 and 6 |
| Component Three: | Unified Physics – assessing modules 1,2,3,4,5 and 6 |
Am I right for the course?
Physics is about understanding the universe and the world around us. Physicists explore the nature of almost everything we know of; from the fundamental particles that build matter, to the galaxies that make up the universe itself. They also look for all the hidden laws that explain why all matter and energy in the known universe exists, where it comes from and how it behaves the way it does. If this interests and inspires you, then you are right for the course.
Course Highlights
| Hands-on Experience: | Work in well-equipped science laboratories |
| Personal Development: |
Explore and develop your individual scientific practice. |
Where next?
An A Level in Physics is highly regarded by universities and students can go on to degree courses in Physics, Astronomy, Mathematics, Engineering, Research, Financial Management, Law, Medicine and numerous other fields.
Physics can open up career paths in architecture, physics, teaching, research, radiation protection, meteorology, astrophysics chemical physics, computer programming, banking and finance.
FAQ's
- Do I need to be good at Maths to do Physics?
The short answer is yes, you need to be comfortable with numbers to access the course. Physics uses mathematics to help us understand how the world around us works. - Do I need Physics to be an engineer?
It's not compulsory but most students who go on to take an engineering degree have Maths and Physics A Levels, so it's highly recommended. - Is it a 'boy's subject'?
No, there are girls who choose this course every year and in other countries. Physics is a more popular course for girls than boys. This is a course for anyone who enjoys the subject.
Physics A Level Teaching Staff
Subject Leader for Physics
r.cowper@stwilfrids.com