PHYSICS
A Level
A level Physics lets you explore the universe from the comfort of the KGV labs.
You will learn all about theories that explain what is observed throughout the universe which will give you a chance to decide what you believe. You will combine practical skills and your study of theories to develop your understanding of the solar system that we live in.Learn all you need to know about cosmology and kinematics along with a range of fascinating topics.
Think you've got what it takes to think outside the box? Physics may be the subject for you! For further information, scroll down...
Preparing for this course
There is a large emphasis based on mathematical skills on the A-level course and you should already be very comfortable with the following:
- Rearranging equations
- Converting units
- Trigonometry
- Calculating areas and volumes
- Calculating gradients
- Finding the equation of a straight line graph ( y=mx + c )
To help bridge the gap between you should practice GCSE AQA Physics exam questions. Marking schemes are included to check your answers. It would also be useful to be up to date with what is going on in the world of Physics.
More about the course
What will I study
Physics will open more doors to a successful career than any other subject. Studying Physics can lead to opportunities in fields as diverse as Engineering, Cosmology, Medicine and even Law. Achieving a good grade demonstrates to potential employers you have a logical mind and are able to solve complex problems in a variety of fields. The understanding of physics helps to develop new technologies to solve current problems facing our society and helps us understand our place in the universe.
Physics involves studying the composition and laws of the universe that surrounds us, from the atom to galaxies. You will study topics such as:
- Particles and radiation
- Electricity
- Thermal physics
- Nuclear physics.
There is also a practical element where specific practicals must be completed across the two years. This aspect of the course assesses your skills and understanding in relation to the practical work.
Why choose Physics at KGV
Studying Physics at A Level helps to provide you with a deeper understanding of the concepts studied at GCSE and helps you to make clearer links between everything in the physical world. At A Level we place a greater emphasis on developing problem solving skills and analysis rather than simply a regurgitation of knowledge. Therefore, a greater expectation is placed on you in becoming an independent and proactive learner. However, should you need a little bit of extra help, small group sessions are always available. On the other hand, if you are wishing to extend your knowledge beyond the curriculum, then these sessions can be used to provoke your thinking and present you with more challenging problems to solve.
Previous students have gone on to study at universities across the country, progressing onto a range of different science courses as well as more specialised aspects of physics, including Astrophysics at the University of Sheffield, Mechanical Engineering at the University of Manchester and Architecture at the University of Bath.
Entry Requirements
Standard
5 GCSEs at grades 9 - 5 and or including, English Language and Maths at grade 4 or above.
Course specific
You will need a grade 6 or above in Maths, plus a grade 6 in Physics or a 66 in Combined Science.