Physics

Vocational qualification

In Thames Ditton

Price on request

Description

  • Type

    Vocational qualification

  • Location

    Thames ditton

Physics helps us to understand nature from the smallest possible scale deep inside the atom to the largest conceivable distance, stretching across the entire Universe. You will discover how physicists use observations and measurements to devise theories and laws which are then refined through further testing. You will examine the application of Physics to the development of a wide range of.

Facilities

Location

Start date

Thames Ditton (Surrey)
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KT7 0JB

Start date

On request

About this course

Aside from the general entry criteria that the College requires, you will also need to achieve at least a minimum of GCSE grade C in Mathematics plus a minimum of GCSE grade C in Physics or CC in Science and Additional Science. All these subjects must have been studied at Higher level rather than Foundation level. Note that Applied Science GCSE is not a suitable foundation for this course.

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Course programme

Exam Board:AQA specification A

What is this subject about?
Physics helps us to understand nature from the smallest possible scale deep inside the atom to the largest conceivable distance, stretching across the entire Universe. You will discover how physicists use observations and measurements to devise theories and laws which are then refined through further testing. You will examine the application of Physics to the development of a wide range of technologies.
For the AS level you will study:
The AS year builds on topics already familiar to you. Electricity provides opportunities for practical work and looks into important applications. Mechanics and Materials develop your understanding of forces and energy and their effects on solids. The properties and applications of Waves are examined. You will also venture into the more modern fields of Particle Physics and Quantum Phenomena where you will be introduced to the fundamental properties and nature of matter and radiation. Your investigative and practical skills will be developed through a variety of experimental activities.
For the A2 level you will study:
The A2 year builds on the ideas encountered in AS Physics. Further Mechanics introduces circular and oscillatory motion. You will explore Gravitational, Electric and Magnetic fields and examine applications such as capacitors. Nuclear Physics looks at the properties of unstable nuclei and how energy is obtained from the nucleus and Thermal Physics investigates the thermal properties of materials, gases in particular. In the Astrophysics option you will discover how many of these fundamental principles are applied to the study of the Universe. There is also further development of your investigative and practical skills.
How is the course assessed?
Over the two years, teacher assessment of investigative and practical skills is worth 20% and written examinations are worth 80%.
What skills will I need and develop in this course?
You will need to have developed a good range of mathematical skills at GCSE, particularly in the fields of algebra, geometry, trigonometry and graph work. You will extend these skills and also learn to reason clearly, communicate ideas, interpret data and solve problems. You will advance your ability to interpret, explain and evaluate the results of experimental activities.
Subject combination advice:
Physics is a mathematical science and the vast majority of students take Mathematics A level alongside Physics. You will not be able to study Physics, Engineering or Computer Science at university without Mathematics and you may well find that you will need to attend extra support sessions at certain points in the A level Physics course. Please speak to one of the Physics staff if you are certain that you do not want to study Mathematics.
What can the course lead to in terms of higher education and future careers?
When combined with Mathematics, Physics A level will enable you to progress to Higher Education and careers in fields such as Physics, Astrophysics, Medical Physics, Geophysics, Space Science, Telecommunications, Engineering and Computer Science. Materials Science and Chemical Engineering are options if you study Chemistry in addition to Physics and Mathematics. Many Financial Institutions actively seek Physics graduates.
What are the formal entry requirements for this course?
Aside from the general entry criteria that the College requires, you will also need to achieve at least a minimum of GCSE grade C in Mathematics plus a minimum of GCSE grade C in Physics or CC in Science and Additional Science. All these subjects must have been studied at Higher level rather than Foundation level. Note that Applied Science GCSE is not a suitable foundation for this course.
What extra support / enrichment activities are on offer?
All students are invited to attend a Physics in Action day in London in the Autumn Term. We enter a team for the Surrey Problem-solving Challenge and small groups of students attend occasional lectures at local universities. In Wider Skills Week we arrange a visit to the Royal Observatory at either the Sussex or the Greenwich site.
Extension activities include the opportunity for a small group of students to attend a Particle Physics Masterclass and lunchtime sessions in college on advanced topics chosen by the students.
Regular support clinics are provided for any students experiencing difficulties.
Should I take Further Mathematics A level with Physics and Mathematics?
To be able to study Physics, Engineering or Computer Studies at a highly selective university you will need to take Further Mathematics alongside Physics and Mathematics. Please talk with Mathematics department staff to check your suitability to study Further Mathematics.

Physics

Price on request