Physics

Entry Requirements.

A minimum of a B grade on higher Double or Separate award paper at GCSE. Mathematics AS-level is to be taken in conjunction with Physics.

What does studying Physics involve?

We are all born with the urge to understand the world around us. Our enquiring minds often ask the questions ‘Why?’ and then later ‘How?’. The study of Physics deals with answering these sorts of questions.

Physics is concerned with observing the natural phenomenon and man-made systems in the world around us, trying to understand them and predict what might happen in new and unknown situations. Physics deals with profound questions about the nature of the universe and with some of the most important practical, environmental and technological issue of our times. It is also a creative subject, with the ideas and techniques from physics driving developments in related subject areas including chemistry, computing, engineering, materials science, mathematics, medicine and meteorology.

Studying physics will bring lots of knowledge and skills that are also valuable outside of physics: practical skills such as a practical approach to problem solving, the ability to reason clearly and communicate complex ideas, the facility to use ICT and self study techniques, developing mathematical skills. As part of the course you will be able to explore and investigate certain aspects of the world around us that is of interest to you, through discussion, presentations and other coursework.

How will I know if I will be good at it?

Physics is ideal for students who have an interest in the world around us and how things work. A sound background knowledge in mathematics is essential.

Modules that you will cover and assessment.

Physics in Action, Understanding Processes, Physics in Practice, Rise and Fall of the Clockwork Universe, Field and Particle Pictures, Advances in Physics.

The AS year has two written papers and three pieces of coursework.

The A2 year has three written papers and two pieces of coursework.

Exam Board: OCR - We follow the advancing Physics course which was developed by the Institute of Physics: http://advancingphysics.iop.org/

What Skills will I develop and where could studying this subject lead?

You will develop practical skills in using scientific equipment and ICT, you will enhance your ability to communicate effectively through presentation and written skills, and you will also learn how to reason clearly on complex issues. Through various visits and study sessions you will also be able to further apply your knowledge in the real world.

Traditionally Physics was used as a route to studying Science related subjects at university, like medicine, engineering and pure physics. This however has changed and physics can be combined with many other areas of interest, for example: languages (usually with a year abroad); music; finance; computing. Physics can also be a good base for a range of different careers like teacher training, working in defence, communications, medical physics, architecture and surveying.

Online Book List

Visit Amazon to buy our recommended text books. If you choose to order books via Amazon please read their terms and conditions.

Heinemann Advanced Science Physics, by Patrick Fullick

Advanced Physics, by Tom Duncan

Calculations for A-level Physics, by T.L.Lowe, J.F.Rounce

Access to Advanced level Physics (Stanley Thornes)

The following CDRom, compiled by the Institute of Physics, is available for purchase: Advancing Physics AS and A2 2000 CDRom (IOP) click here for details.

Downloads

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