Lady Lumley's School

KS5 Physics

Why choose Physics A/AS Level?

A neutron walked into a bar and asked, "How much for a drink?" The bartender replied, "For you, no charge."

The Advancing Physics A Level provides a distinctive structure within which you will learn about both fundamental physical concepts and about physics in everyday and technological settings. A primary aim of the course is to show you how Physics is practised and used today. You will also be able to impress your friends and family with your ability to illustrate the kind of impact which discoveries in Physics have had on the way people live. It will also complement other A-Level courses as you develop transferable skills such as your mathematical application, problem solving abilities and ICT skills. Most importantly of all however, you will be studying a fascinating subject with a huge variety of applications. Why not find out how Physics could help YOU to get a career in Formula 1, Medicine, or even help you to discover the very origins of our Universe…?

Your modules

Post 16 Physics is divided into six units:

Unit 1 – Physics in Action
Unit 2 – Understanding Processes, Experimentation and Data Handling
Unit 3 – Physics in Practice
Unit 4 – Rise and Fall of the Clockwork Universe
Unit 5 – Field and Particle Pictures
Unit 6 - Researching Physics

There is a strong emphasis on guided independent study and research throughout the course. You will need to be well organised and highly motivated, making good use of private study time to explore further aspects of the syllabus or the subject in general.

On your marks...

Year 12	Raw Score Max Mark	UMS	Examination
G491: Physics in Action • Communication • Designer Materials.	60	90	1hr Exam
G492: Understanding Processes, Experimentation and Data Handling • Waves and Quantum Behaviour • Space, Time and Motion.	100	150	1.75hr Exam
G493: Physics in Practice • Quality of Measurement • Physics in Use.	30	60	Coursework
Year 13
G494: Rise and Fall of the Clockwork Universe • Models and Rules • Matter in Extremes.	60	90	1.25hr Exam
G495: Field and Particle Pictures • Fields • Fundamental Particles.	100	150	2hr Exam
G496: Researching Physics • Practical Investigation • Research Briefing.	30	60	Coursework

To put this in perspective…

Year 12 (AS Level)	UMS	Grade
	240	A
	210	B
	180	C
	150	D
	120	E
Year 13 (A Level)	UMS	Grade
	480	A
	420	B
	360	C
	300	D
	240	E

You can also achieve an A* in your A Level if you achieve an A overall and you average 90% in your A2 modules.

We follow the OCR Physics B (Advancing Physics) scheme of learning. Click on the following link to access more information on the scheme of learning, formula booklet and support materials:

http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/type/gce/physics/b/documents/index.html

A great website to look at is http://www.s-cool.co.uk/alevel/physics.html. This is more of a revision site but contains lots of theory, questions and worked answers. Questions are either in the format of exam style questions or multiple choice questions. It is important to note that the exam style questions are not necessarily from this program of study but are very helpful nonetheless.

The site also contains hints and tips about passing your exams and career advice.

Who takes this course?

We advise that anyone who achieves a grade C or above in their GCSE Science and Maths exams is suitable.

What skills will I learn?

In Advancing Physics there are opportunities for you to:

Develop practical skills ( in choosing and using materials and equipment);
Practice data-handling skills (estimating, presenting and analysing data);
Use your imagination (suggesting an explanation);
Place Physics in a social or historical context and argue about the issues that arise;
Be rewarded for initiative and interest in learning – for finding out for yourselves;
Use information and communication technology as an integral part of learning Physics;
Communication skills, through both written and oral explanations;
Increased responsibility for your own learning.

What could this lead to in the future?

A-Level Physics will enable you to consider a wide range of degree and career prospects including business and marketing, accountancy, teaching, finance, IT, computer programming, any form of scientific research and development, scientific journalism and of course particularly any aspect of physics or engineering.

Employers value the analytical skills of physicists highly as experience shows them that these can be applied in a surprising variety of ways.

How will this fit into my life?

Students who take Physics often also study from a wide range of subjects such as Chemistry, Biology, Design and Technology and Business Studies and allows you to gain a non-arts/humanities qualification.

What do I do now?

Talk to your Science teacher and get some advice as to whether the course could be right for you. Making an appointment to see your school careers advisor is also a good idea.

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Page last modified on: 04/23/12 09:34:19

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