Sixth Form Physics
Edexcel GCE A Level in Physics
Physics really is at the heart of everything. It encompasses the basic ideas of matter, force and energy to explain almost every aspect of our world from the smallest parts of our bodies to the greatest clusters of galaxies.
The Benefits of Studying Physics
The employment prospects for those with qualifications in Physics are very good. Physics provides a route into many careers including research, IT, medicine, finance, marketing, business and management. The transferable skills of scientific modelling, analysis, problem-solving and communicating complex ideas can be applied effectively to most areas of an organisation’s activities.
The Government and industry regard Physics as the passport to the country’s success. Physics is relevant to almost every human activity; jobs and careers, hobbies, interests and leisure pursuits; and the systems that modern technology offers which can improve our health and well-being.
Why this course?
This course has been designed in collaboration with the Salters Horners Advanced Physics project, a leader for many years in developing innovative approaches to teaching and learning. Many of the ideas in Physics are developed through their applications, rather than theory alone. It allows flexible teaching; by either a concept or context led approach which can be mixed to suit the preferred learning style of the student.
Complimentary A level subjects
Physics can be studied equally well as a stand alone science or alongside Biology and Chemistry. Mathematics compliments the subject well, but it is not essential to study A level Mathematics to succeed in Physics.
Attributes of a successful Physics student
Experience has shown that to be successful at Physics at this level, students should have a minimum of Science and Additional Science at grade B and Mathematics at grade C.
Students must also be prepared to:
- Work hard, seeking help when necessary.
- Read around the subject.
- Hand in completed work on time.
- Attend revision sessions before examination seasons.
The Course
It includes all of the major areas of Physics and builds on knowledge from GCSE Science and Additional Science. It is not necessary to have studied Separate Sciences at GCSE level.
AS Physics consists of 3 units; 1, 2 and 3.
A2 Physics consists of 6 units; 1, 2,3,4,5 and 6.
| UNIT |
ASSESSMENT |
% OF AS MARKS |
% OF A2 MARKS |
| Unit 1: Physics on the Go |
Examination
1 h 30 mins |
40 |
20 |
| Unit 2: Physics at Work |
Examination
1 h 30 mins |
40 |
20 |
| Units 3: Exploring Physics |
Coursework |
20 |
10 |
| Unit 4: Physics on the Move |
Examination
1 h 35 mins |
N/A |
20 |
| Unit 5: Physics from Creation to Collapse |
Examination
1 h 35 mins |
N/A |
20 |
| Unit 6: Experimental Physics |
Coursework |
N/A |
10 |
Units 3 and 6 are coursework and are based on practical experiments.
What kinds of activities are involved?
In this Physics course students can expect to complete significant amounts of practical work. They will have opportunities to work both in groups and individually, developing independent learning skills. Students will learn how to model complex situations to solve problems and analyse data to draw valid conclusions. They will be involved in active class discussions. Homework is a key part of success and is set regularly. It will include a whole range of activities from preparing a report to more formal practice examination questions. Students will also complete a comprehensive revision course to help them achieve their potential.
Who needs Physics?
Everyone. Physics qualifications are highly regarded and sought after. It can be used to gain entry to virtually every university course, but it is especially useful for anyone hoping for a career in:
- Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Electronic, Chemical etc.)
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Veterinary Medicine
- Radiography
- Earth Sciences
- Computer Science and IT
- Accountancy
- Business and Management
- Aeronautics and Aerospace.