Physics A – AS & A Level

AQA

AS Physics – Year 12

There are two theory units providing alternative starting points for the AS course. We start with Unit 2.

Unit 1 allows students to begin their course by venturing into the field of Particle Physics so providing a new interest and dimension to their knowledge of the subject.

Unit 2 allows a progression from GCSE, to develop topics already familiar from previous studies.

A2 Physics – Year 13

Unit 4 develops further the knowledge, understanding and applications of Mechanics and Fields.

Unit 5 covers Nuclear and Thermal Physics in section A and in section B, a unit called Turning Points in Physics, allows students to appreciate, from an historical viewpoint, the significance of major conceptual shifts in the subject. 

Type and Nature of Work Involved

The course involves theoretical study and extensive practical work.

Method of Assessment

AS Unit 1:

Particles, quantum phenomena and electricity - cover the nature of matter and builds on GCSE knowledge of electricity.

1¼ hour examination                                                                    20% of total A Level mark

AS Unit 2:

Mechanics, materials and waves – covers vectors, forces and energy, properties of materials and properties of waves.

1¼ hour examination                                                       20% of total A Level mark

AS Unit 3:

Investigative and Practical skills                                    10% of total A Level mark

A2 Unit 4:

Fields and Further Mechanics – circular and oscillatory motion, electric and magnetic fields, capacitors and the generation and transmission of A.C.

1¾ hour examination                                                                    20% of total A Level mark

A2 Unit 5:        

Nuclear Physics, Thermal Physics + one additional topic - describes the characteristics and properties of the nucleus, thermal properties of materials and the nature of gases. Option D, Turning points in physics is also studied.

1¾ hour examination                                                                    20% of total A Level mark

A2 Unit 6:

Investigative and Practical skills                                      10% of total A level mark

Specific Entry Requirements: A minimum of two Grade As in GCSE Science and grade B in GCSE Mathematics.  It is recommended that at least an AS level in Mathematics is studied, (preferably Pure with Mechanics).

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