A-Level Physics
A-Level Physics
Course Level – 3
Course Type – A-Level
Specific Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs at grade 5-9 including English and Maths with GCSE Double Science (6-6) or Triple Science (6-6-5) with Physics being at grade 6. Must be taken with A-Level Maths.
Duration – 2 Years
Student Age – 16-18
About The Course
This course will make you think about Physics and its application to the world. It aims to give you a greater understanding of key physical concepts. The course has a mixture of theory, application and practical work.
In the first year, you will cover the first 4 modules: Development of skills in physics; Foundations of physics; Forces and motion; Electrons, waves and photons.
In the final year, you will cover the 2 additional modules: Newtonian world and astrophysics; Particles and medical physics.
How Is The Course Taught?
You will learn about physics in many different ways including discussions of physical ideas, carrying out calculations with physical quantities, observing and measuring physical quantities and behaviour.
In lessons, you are expected to take careful notes on what you are learning and are expected to organise your learning resources and practical investigations into a detailed physics folder which will help you revise for formal exams.
How will I be Assessed?
You will be assessed throughout the year through a series of formative assessment methods, including mock exams and end of year progression assessments, to check you are keeping pace and understand the content taught.
At the end of two years, you will sit 3 externally set examinations: Paper 1 Modelling Physics (37% weighting); Paper 2 Exploring Physics (37% weighting); Paper 3 Unified Physics (26% weighting).
To achieve the endorsement, you must successfully complete all PAGs, which are practical experiments with differing skill sets. This demonstrates to universities that you are competent in the laboratory.
What does it lead to?
On completion of this course, you are likely to move onto university to study a science-based or maths degree. An A-level in Biology is required for occupations such as a Physicist, Nuclear Engineer and a Civil Engineer.
Salaries in this field are in excess of £43,000. This course can also lead you to a range of higher-level apprenticeships in the construction, engineering and laboratory industry sectors.
