Aims of the course: 

• Develop essential knowledge and understanding of physics concepts, principles and processes.   

• Understand how physics contributes to society and addresses real-world issues, linking classroom learning with modern physics applications.   

• Develop competence and confidence in a range of practical, mathematical and problem-solving skills that are fundamental to science.  

• Learn how scientific methods are used to collect evidence, test ideas and evaluate data.   

• Build critical thinking, analytical and communication skills through interpreting information, evaluating evidence and constructing scientific arguments.   

• Prepare for further study and careers in areas such as engineering, nuclear physics, medical physics, astrophysics.    

• Foster interest and enthusiasm for physics and an appreciation of the world around us.  

Content: 

3.1 Measurements and their errors 

Content in this section is a continuing study for a student of physics. A working knowledge of the specified fundamental (base) units of measurement is vital. Likewise, practical work in the subject needs to be underpinned by an awareness of the nature of measurement errors and of their numerical treatment. The ability to carry through reasonable estimations is a skill that is required throughout the course and beyond. 

3.2 Particles and radiation 

This section introduces students both to the fundamental properties of matter, and to electromagnetic radiation and quantum phenomena. Teachers may wish to begin with this topic to provide a new interest and knowledge dimension beyond GCSE. Through a study of these topics, students become aware of the way ideas develop and evolve in physics. They will appreciate the importance of international collaboration in the development of new experiments and theories in this area of fundamental research. 

3.3 Waves 

GCSE studies of wave phenomena are extended through a development of knowledge of the characteristics, properties, and applications of travelling waves and stationary waves. Topics treated include refraction, diffraction, superposition and interference. 

3.4 Mechanics and materials 

Vectors and their treatment are introduced followed by development of the student’s knowledge and understanding of forces, energy and momentum. The section continues with a study of materials considered in terms of their bulk properties and tensile strength. As with earlier topics, this section and also the following section Electricity would provide a good starting point for students who prefer to begin by consolidating work. 

3.5 Electricity 

This section builds on and develops earlier study of these phenomena from GCSE. It provides opportunities for the development of practical skills at an early stage in the course and lays the groundwork for later study of the many electrical applications that are important to society. 

3.6 Further mechanics and thermal physics (A-level only) 

The earlier study of mechanics is further advanced through a consideration of circular motion and simple harmonic motion (the harmonic oscillator). A further section allows the thermal properties of materials, the properties and nature of ideal gases, and the molecular kinetic theory to be studied in depth. 

3.7 Fields and their consequences (A-level only) 

The concept of field is one of the great unifying ideas in physics. The ideas of gravitation, electrostatics and magnetic field theory are developed within the topic to emphasise this unification. Many ideas from mechanics and electricity from earlier in the course support this and are further developed. Practical applications considered include: planetary and satellite orbits, capacitance and capacitors, their charge and discharge through resistors, and electromagnetic induction. These topics have considerable impact on modern society. 

3.8 Nuclear physics (A-level only) 

This section builds on the work of Particles and radiation to link the properties of the nucleus to the production of nuclear power through the characteristics of the nucleus, the properties of unstable nuclei, and the link between energy and mass. Students should become aware of the physics that underpins nuclear energy production and also of the impact that it can have on society. 

3.12 Turning points in physics (A-level only) 

This option is intended to enable key concepts and developments in physics to be studied in greater depth than in the core content. Students will be able to appreciate, from historical and conceptual viewpoints, the significance of major paradigm shifts for the subject in the perspectives of experimentation and understanding. Many present-day technological industries are the consequence of these key developments and the topics in the option illustrate how unforeseen technologies can develop from new discoveries. 

Curriculum map