Electronics A Level

Electronics

What is this course about?
To develop essential knowledge and understanding in electronics and to gain the skills needed to apply the theory to practical situations.

What topics will I study?

AS Units

• Digital Systems : logic gates, system design, sequential logic systems, amplifiers.
• Circuits & Components : circuit principles, components, timing circuits, semiconductor diodes, signal sources, switching circuits.
• Control System Project: using software to programme a microcontroller.

A2 Units

• Communication Systems : Filters, modulation techniques, radio, digital communication systems.
• System Applications : Counting, microcontroller systems, power, instruments, high power switching systems, audio.
• Major Design Project : Practical project planning, development, testing and reporting.

How will my work be assessed?
In the first year (AS) units 1 and 2 count for 35% each and are examined in January and June. The remaining 30% is assessed by the control system project (unit 3) which will take place during the winter.

In the A2 year unit 4 (30% of the A2) is examined in January with unit 5 in June (40%). The major design project accounts for 30% and takes place during the winter term.

Frequently asked questions

What skills do I need to succeed?
The specification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed in GCSE Science.

Students will need to be able to use Mathematical (computation, algebra and graphs) and IT skills during the course.

What knowledge do I need to succeed?
Knowledge of the quantities associated with electricity (voltage, current, resistance and power) and the relationships between them and their SI units.

What are the lessons like?
Most of the theoretical work in electronics can be tested practically and lessons usually contain a mixture of theory and group practicals. The project work in the first year is mainly ICT based. In the second year the major project is designed and developed on an individual basis with one-to-one advice and guidance given when needed.

What have I got to do to do well?
Develop an interest in electronics and pursue this in further study in your own time, use appropriate methods to answer questions and solve problems, analyse, interpret and communicate evidence and ideas.

What students say about this course?
It goes really well with Maths and Physics.

I really enjoy the practical work.

It overlaps and helps with Physics in the lower 6th.

What do people do with A level Electronics?
It is an excellent preparation for most physical science first degrees, particularly those in engineering and research disciplines. Electronic Engineering at university can lead to an international job market with many vacancies throughout Europe. Good electronics engineers are scarce and starting salaries often reflect this. For those not intending to take the subject to a higher level, an appreciation of the fundamental concepts of electronics is useful in careers such as the armed forces, aviation, computing and many technological industries.

Will there be any significant costs related to this subject apart from normal stationery?
Scientific calculator £10