Physics
A-level
One-year AS/two-year A-level
Physics is about the physical world at every level, from the smallest particle to galaxies remote in space and time. You will study a wide range of topics, including forces and motion, electrons, protons and waves. You will consider how physics plays a part within medicine, industry and cosmology.
Required qualifications
You will need to have averaged B grades across the majority of your GCSE subjects including BB for science and at least a grade C for mathematics. Physics is a challenging A-level which you are strongly advised to research well before choosing as one of your subject options. If you are studying GCSE applied science you will not be able to take science A-levels but could study level 3 BTEC extended diploma in applied science or BTEC subsidiary diploma applied science forensic focus or medical focus.
What will I study?
The course will focus on:
- forces and motion
- electrons and protons
- waves
- Newtonian physics
- fields, particles and space.
On the course you will:
- carry out practical lab work including planning your own investigations
- visit universities, museums and observatories
- use IT to support and enhance your work.
Method of assessment
Each unit is assessed separately by an examination. Both AS and A-level include a 20% assessment of your skills through assessed practicals.
What will I be able to progress to?
Studying physics will provide you with a useful foundation for a variety of degree courses including electronics, engineering, architecture, medicine and physical sciences. The skills and knowledge you will learn are also transferable to many other fields, such as finance and business.
More
Yumna Islam (ex-Plashet School) studied this subject as one of her A-levels and achieved a grade A. She is now studying chemical engineering at University College London.