Physics

Course summary

Edexcel offers a concept-led approach to studying Physics. This approach begins with a study of the laws, theories and models of physics and finishes with an exploration of their practical applications. You will require: a curiosity about how and why things in the world around you work, an ability to solve problems and use mathematical tools to model various situations, and a positive and organised attitude towards your studies. Physics is essential for any Engineering or Computing based courses. It is highly useful for health-related careers such as biomechanics and radiotherapy. Studying Physics can lead to a range of possible careers including astronomy, medical physics, software engineering and nuclear engineering. Course content You will learn about modelling a variety of physical concepts, and will develop your ability to work as a physicist, developing practical and scientific communication skills. In Year 12 you will study topics that develop ideas further from the GCSE Sciences. The topics include mechanics, electric circuits, materials, waves and particle nature of light, and electric and magnetic fields. In Year 13 the ideas covered in Year 12 are further developed through these topics, nuclear and particle physics, thermodynamics, space, nuclear radiation, gravitational fields and oscillations. All aspects of the course (including practical skill and knowledge) will be assessed through exam papers at the end of the two year course. There is an expectation that the time given to lessons each week will be matched by students outside of school as time to undertake independent study and homework.