Physics A-Level

Course summary

Why choose Physics? Physicists look for all the hidden laws that explain why all matter (that’s every physical thing) and energy in the known universe exists, where it comes from and how it behaves the way it does. So if you’re wondering how forces of nature, like gravity, work or how aircraft stay up in the air, you’ll need to go to a physicist like Brian Cox, Stephen Hawking or Albert Einstein for an explanation. Physicists use the laws they uncover to develop new materials, machinery, and technology to improve our lives and help us explore the universe further, from computers to telescopes and spacecraft. Physics is taught mainly as a content-led approach. Teaching of practical skills is integrated with the theoretical topics and they’re both assessed through written papers and, for A-Level only, a teacher assessed Practical Endorsement. The Edexcel Physics specification aims to encourage you to develop: Essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other. A deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods. Competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills. Course Details The specification is divided into topics, each covering different key concepts of physics: • Topic 1 – Working as a physicist • Topic 2 – Mechanics • Topic 3 – Electric Circuits • Topic 4 – Materials • Topic 5 – Waves and Particle Nature of Light • Topic 6 – Further Mechanics • Topic 7 – Electric and Magnetic Fields • Topic 8 – Nuclear and Particle Physics • Topic 9 – Thermodynamics • Topic 10 – Space • Topic 11– Nuclear Radiation • Topic 12 – Gravitational Fields • Topic 13 – Oscillations Physics brings a lot of scientific theory and thinking together, and a good A-Level grade in the subject demonstrates that a student can apply themselves in problem solving, practical skills and scientific writing; all of these qualities are highly prized in today’s competitive job market.