Physics

Course summary

Studying A-level physics at George Dixon Academy will enable you to develop: • An enthusiasm for physics and an understanding of how physical concepts are relevant to real-world experiences • Practical skills alongside an understanding of physical concepts and principles • An appropriate and relevant foundation of knowledge that can be used as a stepping stone to the future study of physics in higher education and skills that lay the groundwork for careers in science or engineering Core content: • Unit 1: Measurements and their errors • Unit 2: Particles and radiation • Unit 3: Waves • Unit 4: Mechanics and materials • Unit 5: Electricity • Unit 6: Further mechanics and thermal physics • Unit 7: Fields and their consequences • Unit 8: Nuclear physics Options: • Unit 9: Astrophysics • Unit 10: Medical physics • Unit 11: Engineering physics • Unit 12: Turning points in physics • Unit 13: Electronics Year 12 physics students will study units 1 – 5 Year 13 physics students will study units 6 – 8 One of the option topics (Units 9 - 13) Students at George Dixon Academy usually study unit 9: Astrophysics. A physics qualification sets you up well for research-based roles and positions in other sciences but it is also useful for careers in business, finance, IT, and engineering. Industries employing physicists are varied and include: • Aerospace and defense • Education • Energy • Engineering • Instrumentation • Manufacturing • Oil and gas • Science and telecommunications