Physics

Course summary

Students will need to recognise, recall and show understanding of scientific knowledge select, organise, and communicate relevant information in a variety of forms. Analyse and evaluate scientific knowledge and process; apply scientific knowledge and processes to unfamiliar situations including those related to issues; assess the validity, reliability, and credibility of scientific information. They will also need to demonstrate and describe ethical, safe, and skillful practical techniques and processes, selecting appropriate qualitative and quantitative methods; know how to make, record and communicate reliable and valid observations and measurements with appropriate precision and accuracy; analyse, interpret, explain and evaluate the methodology, results, and impact of their own and others' experimental and investigative activities in a variety of ways. Content: ● Measurements and their errors ● Particles and radiation ● Waves ● Mechanics and materials ● Electricity ● Further mechanics and thermal physics ● Field theory ● Nuclear physics ● Astrophysics In addition to the theoretical content, there is a strong focus on the practical nature of the subject. Students will undertake a minimum of 12 assessed practicals, however, there are many other practical sessions the students will complete to illustrate the content taught. These practical sessions aim to reinforce the theoretical content and to put ideas into practice. It also prepares the students for the demands of degree-level courses in physics and engineering. All practical work will focus on five key competencies: ● The ability to follow written procedures ● How well do students apply investigative approaches and methods when using instruments and apparatus ● The importance of safety and the ability to recognize and minimize risk. ● The ability to make and record information in a clear, organized, and logical manner. ● How well students can undertake independent research and reference that research when producing an independent report based on findings within the laboratory.