Physics
Course Outline
Qualification Information:
Level: AS/A2
Syllabus: WJEC
Duration: 1 Year for AS. 2 Years for A2
If you love a challenge and often wonder how the world works, then physics is the course for you. You will already be familiar with many of the topics that you will study, including forces, waves, radioactivity, electricity and magnetism. At A-level, you will look at these areas in more detail and find out how they are interconnected. You will also learn how to apply maths to real-world problems and explore new areas such as particle physics, cosmology and how lasers work. Practical work is an intrinsic part of the new course. It is vitally important in developing a conceptual understanding of many topics and it will very much enhance your experience and enjoyment of physics.
Entry Requirements
Essential
Grade B at GCSE Biology or BB at Double Award Science. Grade B at GCSE English Language and Maths.
Desirable
A grades in Science, Maths and English.
What Will I Study?
AS
Unit 1: Motion, energy & matter (20% of A-level)
Unit 2: Electricity & light (20% of A-level)
A2
Unit 3: Oscillations and nuclei (25% of A-level)
Unit 4: Fields + options unit (25% of A-level)
Unit 5: Practical exam (10% of A-level)
How Will I Be Assessed?
Units 1 & 2 Both are assessed with an externally set exam paper (1 hour 30 minutes)
Unit 3 Assessed with an externally set exam paper (2 hours 15 minutes)
Unit 4 Assessed with an externally set exam paper (2 hours)
Unit 5 Assessed with 2 externally set practical exam papers (1 hour 30 minutes and 1 hour)
Career Opportunities & Progression
A-level Physics is essential if you want to do a degree in physics, cosmology or engineering, but students go on to study journalism, law and medicine too. You will develop skills that can be transferred to just about any area of work, from setting up a business to saving the planet. Even if you don’t want to become a physicist, learning to think like one will help you get to the root of any problem and draw connections that aren’t obvious to others.
Physics won’t give you all the answers, but it will teach you how to ask the right questions.