Physics A Level

PHYSICS (AQA 7408)

Course Overview

Physics is the study of how matter and energy interact. It is a fascinating subject that is interwoven with every aspect of our lives.

In the A-Level course, you will learn about Physics on the grandest scale –what is the nature of the Universe and how has it evolved? You will also delve into the very smallest of scales – what are the particles that are the building blocks of the nucleus?

Physics is a practical subject, and our approach is to couple theoretical lessons with as much practical work as possible. There will also be many opportunities to engage in extra-curricular activities such as the Physics Olympiad and the chance to visit CERN in Geneva.

A-Level Physics Examinations

You will sit an internal exam (usually 2 papers) at the end of year 1. A-Level assessment is by three written papers at the end of the course – details below. Students will also carry out 12 required practical activities.

Paper 1 (Written Exam, 2hrs (85 marks) 34% of A Level)

Paper 1 covers the following topics: Measurements and their errors, Particles and Radiation, Waves, Mechanics and Materials, Electricity, Periodic Motion.

The paper consists of 60 marks of short and long answer questions, and 25 marks of multiple choice questions.

Paper 2: (Written Exam, 2hrs (85 marks) 34% of A Level)

Paper 2 covers the following topics: Thermal Physics, Fields and their Consequences, Nuclear Physics.

The paper consists of 60 marks of short and long answer questions, and 25 marks of multiple choice questions.

Paper 3: (Written Exam, 2hrs (80 marks) 32% of A Level)

Paper 3 covers the following topics: Practical Skills and Data Analysis, plus one chosen from Astrophysics, Medical Physics, Engineering Physics, Turning Points in Physics, Electronics.

The paper consists of 45 marks of short and long answer questions on practical experiments and data analysis, followed by 35 marks of short and long answer questions on the optional topic.

Links to other subjects

A-Level Physics has very close links to Mathematics. Although it is not necessary to study A-Level Maths in order to study Physics, it is recommended. Any students not taking A-Level Maths will receive additional support in the form of a weekly clinic.

Many students also choose to combine Physics with one or both of Chemistry / Biology.

Links to HE courses and beyond

Physics is highly regarded by Universities and employers because of the transferable skills it develops in students. The Russell Group of Universities accepts Physics as part of their entry requirements for nearly all degree subjects.

Please be aware that A-Level Maths is also required for entry to most Physics degree courses, and that A-Level Physics is required for most Engineering courses.

Physicists go on to pursue a huge range of careers – see www.physics.org/careers for more information. 

Academically, it is expected that students entering Birkdale’s Sixth Form will have achieved a minimum of 5 passes (9 to 5) at GCSE, with at least 4 at grade 6 or higher; we would expect 6 or higher GCSE grades in those subjects being studied to A level. A grade 6 is required to study A Level English and Mathematics, although a grade 7 is preferred in Mathematics. Prospective Further Mathematicians should achieve a grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics although a grade 8 is preferred. In addition at Birkdale we look beyond the academic and would wish applicants to become fully involved in the life of the school, offering their skills and abilities in one or more of a number of areas (e.g. drama, sport, music, clubs and societies, etc).