TThe A Level Physics course is divided into six modules:

AS Physics
Module 1: Forces and Electricity
Module 2: Waves, Medical Imaging and Photons
Module 3: Practical Exam

A2 Physics
Module 1: Thermal Physics, Motion and Nuclear
Module 2: Field Theory and Particle Physics
Module 3: Practical Exam

Mathematics forms a significant portion of the A-Level course but specific mathematical
requirements for the A-Level course will be taught as part of the A-Level Physics programme.

Pupils who have completed Double Award Science at GCSE can take Physics to A-level and some of these students have come out top at the end of the course.

A-Level results over the last few years have been very good with an average of 80% of students obtaining a grade ‘C’ or better, over 70% gaining A/B.

There is no doubt that where pupils have applied themselves consistently to their work over two years, good grades have been obtained. A high grade at GCSE Level is no guarantee of a good pass at A-Level, indeed hard-working pupils with lower grades have often out-performed more able pupils who have not worked hard for their A-Levels.

There are 2/3 sets and pupils are unstreamed. The nine periods are divided up into six teaching periods and three practical periods.

Assessment is an integral part of the course, with regular end-of-topic tests supplementing the normal examination process.

An increasing number of girls are opting to study A-Level Physics, and very often obtain top grades.

In common with all A-Level courses A-Level Physics will have two distinct periods of
examination. AS Physics will be sat in June of the Lower Sixth year. A2 Physics will be sat in May of the Upper Sixth year for students who have already completed their AS Physics.

•Pupils can complete an AS Level Physics and not proceed to a full A-Level.

Entry Requirements

• Grade A in Mathematics (Higher Tier)
• Grade B in Physics GCSE or at least AA grades at Double Award GCSE or the
equivalent.
• Those who have achieved BB will be admitted if they have achieved 80% or more in
the Physics component of Double Award or the equivalent.
• All others achieving BB will be considered in rank order of achievement in Physics
and at the discretion of the Head of Department.