Physics

Back to courses

The Physics course gives a content-led, flexible approach where the specification is divided into topics, each covering different key concepts of physics.

As you progress through the course you will build on your knowledge of the laws of physics, applying your understanding to solve problems on topics ranging from sub-atomic particles to the entire universe. For A Level, the Practical Endorsement will also support the development of practical skills.

Mr Nicholson
Head of Physics
[email protected]

“I am pleased I chose Physics because it has developed my attitude towards problem solving and developed my understanding of how everyday items function and the mathematical concepts behind them. I have enjoyed the many practical lessons in Physics which enables the visualisation of concepts such as sound waves, electricity and projectile motion. For example, to develop our understanding of projectile motion we conducted an experiment which involved trying to fire a nerf gun into a container by calculating the angle, height and distance needed, putting knowledge into practice. If I had the chance to do things differently, I would become more involved with the practical side of lessons and do more practice questions to apply the learnt knowledge – it’s one thing understanding the information but it’s another applying it in an exam question.” (Arran)

The Course
We follow the OCR Physics A specification which
aims to encourage learners to:

  • Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other.
  • Develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods.
  • Develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematics and problem solving skills.
  • Develop your interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject.
  • Understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.

The Physics Practical Endorsement consists of twelve pieces of work which build up to a portfolio of evidence.

The structure of the course is as follows:

  • Development of practical skills in physics
  • Foundations of physics
  • Forces and motion
  • Electrons, waves and photons
  • Newtonian world and astrophysics
  • Particles and medical physics

Assessment
Component One: Modelling Physics (assesses content from modules 1, 2, 3 and 5 above) consists of a written examination lasting 2 hours 15 minutes. It is worth 100 marks, 37% of the total A Level.

Component Two: Exploring Physics (assesses content from modules 1, 2, 4 and 6) consists of a written examination lasting 2 hours 15 minutes. It is worth 100 marks, 37% of the total A Level.

Component Three: Unified Physics (assesses content from all modules) consists of a written examination lasting 1 hour 30 minutes. It is worth 70 marks, 26% of the total A Level.

Practical Endorsement in Physics: this is a non-exam assessment.

Entry Requirements
Minimum 66555 including 6 in Physics (or Combined Science) and 5 in Mathematics.

X