Physics

Why study this course?

Studying A Level Physics will develop your reasoning, problem-solving and analytical skills to the next level. This will position you ideally for university level study or the workplace. Due to the heavy mathematical element to physics, a qualification can also help you explore mathematical studies and career paths.

What interests should you have?

An interest in understanding of some of the basic principles of the world. Physics seeks to develop your understanding of how the world works from the smallest point to our largest understanding. You should be interested in things like mechanics and materials, mathematical calculations and possess a fascination as to how things really work.

How will you be assessed?

• Paper 1: 2-hour written exam:
  85 marks, 34% of A Level
• Paper 2: 2-hour written exam:
  85 marks, 34% of A Level
• Paper 3: 2-hour written exam:
  80 marks, 32% of A Level

What will the course cover?

• You will be learning measurements and their errors
• Particles and radiation
• Waves
• Mechanics and materials
• Electricity
• Further mechanics
• Thermal physics
• Fields and their consequences
• Nuclear physics

Career choices

• Geophysicist/field seismologist
• Healthcare scientist
• Medical physics
• Radiation protection practitioner
• Research scientist (physical sciences)
• Scientific laboratory Technician
• Higher education lecturer
• Secondary school teacher
• Meteorologist
• Structural engineer
• Acoustic engineer
• Product/process
• Development scientist
• Systems developer
• Technical author