A Level Physics
Exam Board: OCR
Why study this subject?
Physics is the study of energy and matter and the interaction between the two. Students will develop a broad range of analytical and experimental skills as they try to answer fundamental questions about the interaction of matter and energy through both experiments and observations. Physics students will gain an insight into the applications of science in engineering, astronomy and medicine.
How is the course assessed?
There are six modules taught over the two years with three external written exam papers. The final A Level is based on 100% external exams.
- Modelling physics — (2h15mins, 37% of A-level)
- Exploring physics — (2h15mins, 37% of A-level)
- Unified physics — (1h30mins, 26% of A-level)
Modelling Physics: Assesses understanding of practical skills, foundations of physics, forces and motion and Newtonian World and astrophysics, through multiple choice questions, short answer question styles and extended responses.
Exploring Physics: Assesses understanding of practical skills, foundations of physics, electrons, waves and photons, and particles and medical physics, through multiple choice questions, short answer question styles and extended responses.
Unified Physics: Assesses all topics from the course through short answer question styles and extended responses.
There is a separate Practical Endorsement which is assessed by the teacher throughout the course. A pass in the Practical Endorsement will be reported on the certificate.
Where can this subject lead?
Physics provides students with a wealth of theoretical and experimental experience, as well as mathematical applications to a variety of physical scenarios. Many students choose to apply for science based courses at university where their physics background will provide opportunities to study any science at a higher level, including engineering, civil engineering, medicine, astronomy, construction, and aviation. An increasing number of students are looking at higher level and degree level apprenticeships in industries such as mechanical engineering