Physics studies the way the world works and the process of scientifically describing the universe in which we live. If you are to make informed choices later in life you will need some knowledge of Physics. Physics covers the principles behind the workings of the nucleus of an atom to the motion of galaxies in the universe, along with everything in between.
The hardest part of Physics for many pupils is applying these principles clearly and logically to solve problems in unfamiliar situations. Consequently, Physics is a highly desirable subject to study due to its practical content and training it provides in problem solving.
Studying Physics will open up many avenues and careers for students to explore further or take forward to higher education. Some areas that former Gresham’s pupils have moved into are, Computer Science, Finance, Engineering, and Medicine.
- GCSE PHYSICS
Exam Board. Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Physics / Edexcel Combined Science
The GCSE course follows the Edexcel exam board qualification and there are two routes. Combined Science or Separate Science.
The topics you will encounter for each course are below.Combined Science (2 Periods of Physics each week)
- Key concepts in Physics
- Motion and Forces
- Conservation of Energy
- Waves
- Light and the EMS
- Radioactivity
- Energy and Work
- Forces and their Effect
- Electrical Circuits
- Magnetism
- Electromagnetic Induction
- Particle Models
- Forces and Matters
Separate Science (3 periods of Physics each week)
- Key concepts in Physics
- Motion and Forces
- Conservation of Energy
- Waves
- Light and the EMS
- Radioactivity
- Astronomy
- Energy and Work
- Forces and their Effect
- Electrical Circuits
- Static Electricity
- Magnetism
- Electromagnetic Induction
- Particle Models
- Forces and Matter
- A LEVEL PHYSICS
Entry requirements: Grade 7 in GCSE Physics or 7:7 in Combined Science.
A physics qualification opens the doors to all sorts of jobs and courses. All the technology that surrounds us is based on the principles of physics, so if you are considering working in any area related to technology from music to medicine, or lasers to law – studying physics is an essential first step.
Do you want to investigate the limits of space, the beginning of time and everything in between?
How about understanding how the technology around you works? Want to save the planet or maybe just help people get better when they are ill?
Studying Physics can develop: Technology in our everyday lives, help you understand your surroundings along with shaping and building a sustainable future.
For everything Physics take a look at www.iop.org
We follow OCR A Physics, which covers the following topics.
The six modules are each divided into key topics:
Module 1: Development of practical skills in physics
- Practical skills assessed in a written examination
- Practical skills assessed in the practical endorsement
Module 2: Foundation in physics
- Physical quantities and units
- Making measurements and analysing data
- Nature of quantities
Module 3: Forces and motion
- Motion
- Forces in action
- Work, energy and power
- Materials
- Newton’s laws of motion and momentum
Module 4: Electrons, waves and photons
- Charge and current
- Energy, power and resistance
- Electrical circuits
- Waves
- Quantum physics
Module 5: Newtonian world and astrophysics
- Thermal physics
- Circular motion
- Oscillations
- Gravitational fields
- Astrophysics and cosmology
Module 6: Particles and medical physics
- Capacitors
- Electric fields
- Electromagnetism
- Nuclear and particle physics
- Medical imaging
Assessment:
The course is assessed with three exams at the end of year 13. Pupils also gain practical skills throughout the course. These are assessed in the written examinations and in the practical endorsement.
- IB PHYSICS
Entry requirements: Grade 7 in GCSE Physics or 7:7 in Combined Science
A physics qualification opens the doors to all sorts of jobs and courses. All the technology that surrounds us is based on the principles of physics, so if you are considering working in any area related to technology from music to medicine, or lasers to law – studying physics is an essential first step.
Do you want to investigate the limits of space, the beginning of time and everything in between?
How about understanding how the technology around you works? Want to save the planet or maybe just help people get better when they are ill?
Studying Physics can develop:
Technology in our everyday lives, help you understand your surroundings along with shaping and building a sustainable future.
For everything Physics take a look at www.iop.org
Standard level topics and options
Measurements and uncertainties, Mechanics, Rotational mechanics (option), Thermal physics, Thermodynamics (option), Energy production, Circular motion and gravitation, Oscillations and Waves, Electricity and magnetism, Atomic and nuclear physics, Global energy transfer.
Higher level topics and options
SHM and Waves AHL, Resonance (HL option), Fields (AHL), Electricity and magnetism (core + AHL), Atomic, nuclear and particle physics (core + AHL), Fluids (HL option), Global energy transfer.
Assessment:
The IB course will be assessed with terminal exams after two years of studying. There will be a practical assessment throughout the two years in the form of lab reports in both courses.