Curriculum – KS5 Physics

About this subject

Examination Board: Edexcel

Units Taken: All

Link to Specification: Click here.

Course Content

By studying Physics students should develop an understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other to gain a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods involved in being a physicist. They will need a variety of practical, mathematical and problem-solving skills as well as an interest in and enthusiasm for the subject. They will develop an understanding of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how physics contributes to the success of the economy and society.

Areas of study include:

Year 1:  Mechanics, Electric Circuits, Materials, Waves and Particles, Nature of Light.

Year 2: Further Mechanics, Electric and Magnetic Fields, Nuclear and Particle Physics, Thermodynamics, Space, Nuclear Radiation, Gravitational Fields, Oscillations

At A level students will be assessed separately for the Science Practical Endorsement via 16 Assessed Core Practicals.
The Endorsement will not contribute to the overall grade for this qualification, but the result will be recorded on the student’s certificate.

Skills Gained from Taking this Course

These specifications provide opportunities for the development of the Key Skills of:
 
  • Communication
  • Application of Number
  • Information Technology
  • Working with Others
  • Improving Own Learning and Performance
  • Problem Solving

St Marylebone Entry Requirements

To gain entry into the sixth form at St Marylebone School, students must gain a minimum of five 9-6 grades at GCSE and a 5 grade in English and Maths GCSE.

Subject Specific Entry Requirements

Combined Science students: A Grade 7  in Combined Science.

Separate Sciences: Grade 7 in GCSE single science Physics.

Also, all students must gain Maths  at grade 7.

Entry Suggestions

The maths in Physics requires a fluency in rearranging equations and some concepts such as logarithmic scales and exponential functions as well as trigonometry beyond GCSE Maths level. Pupils need to be able to show clear, logical progression of ideas. A level Maths is not required but is strongly recommended, and if not chosen some areas will need additional catch up classes.  Maths is however, essential if you have any intention to possibly continue your study of Physics or Engineering beyond A level. If you take Maths  you must take the Mechanics options.

If you are made an offer, you will be expected to complete the following before your first lesson in September:

Buy and work through the CGP ‘Head start to A Level Physics’ booklet. ISBN 9781782942818

Resources Needed for this Course:

None.