Physics
Head Of Department: Mr D Smith
Contact Details: dts@felsted.org
Twitter: @FelstedScience
IB
Why study Physics?
Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences, as it seeks to explain the universe itself – from the very smallest particles, to the vast distances between galaxies.
Where will it lead me?
The course allows pupils to develop traditional practical skills and techniques and to increase facility in the use of mathematics, which is the language of physics. It also allows pupils to develop interpersonal skills, and information and communication technology skills, which are essential in modern scientific endeavour and are important life-enhancing, transferable skills in their own right.
Course structure
There are eight core topics that include both standard and higher level:
1. Space, time and motion
2. The particulate nature of matter
3. Wave behaviour
4. Fields
5. Nuclear and quantum physics
Assessment:
Standard and Higher Level
External Assessment 80%
Paper 1
Multiple-choice questions test knowledge of the core for SL pupils, plus the advanced (AHL) material for HL pupils.
Paper 2 40% for SL, 36% HL Standard Level
Section A: short-answer and extended-response question on core material.
Higher Level
Section A: short-answer and extended-response questions on core and higher level material.
Paper 3 25% for SL, 24% HL Standard Level
Questions on core and SL option material.
Higher Level
Questions on core, AHL and option material.
Internal Assessment 20%
The internal assessment consists of one scientific investigation covering a topic that is commensurate with the level of the course. Pupil work is internally assessed by the teacher and externally moderated by the IBO.
The group 4 project is a compulsory interdisciplinary activity for all science pupils. They work in groups to analyse a common topic or problem. This is a collaborative experience where the emphasis is on the processes involved in scientific investigation rather than the products of it.
A Level
Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk
Syllabus Code: 7408
Why study Physics?
“Not only is the universe stranger than we imagine, it is stranger than we can imagine.” – Sir Arthur Eddington.
Eddington provided the experimental evidence which verified Einstein’s theory of special relativity. His work typifies much of what Physics is about: big ideas, scientific investigation and being curious about the world around us. The Physics course here at Felsted aims to challenge the pupils’ perception of how the universe works through developing excellent experimental skills. It offers a natural progression for pupils who have enjoyed GCSE Physics.
Expectations of independent study
Physics requires about one hour independent study for every hour of the subject taught per week, which equates to four to five hours per week. Pupils should also read around the subject in magazines and in the news. For example: BBC Focus, New Scientist or physics.org.uk.
Physicists have many skills; numeracy, research, data collecting, processing and evaluation. Physics gives you all the skills required in the workplace and in further education regardless of whether the career or course involves Physics.
Requirements
Pupils should be aiming for at least a 7 in GCSE Physics or a 77 grade in GCSE Double Award Science (recommended). At least a grade 7 in Mathematics is also recommended.
What do the pupils say?
“It tells me how everything works from neutrinos to the universe.”
“It shows I have a brain – when it comes to a career or a university course they know I will be able to cope.”
What career pathways are open to me if I study this subject?
Physics is the most valuable subject to take in the Sixth Form as there are very few careers and university courses that would not take someone with A Level Physics, for example any career in Science, Medicine, Engineering or IT.
Assessment:
Subject Content:
1. Measurements and their errors
2. Particles and radiation
3. Waves
4. Mechanics and materials
5. Electricity
6. Further mechanics and thermal physics
7. Fields and their consequences
8. Nuclear physics
Options:
1. Astrophysics
2. Medical physics
3. Engineering physics
4. Turning points in physics
5. Electronics
Paper 1 34%
Written exam on Sections 1 – 5 and 6.1 (periodic motion)
Paper 2 34%
Written exam on Sections 6.2 (Thermal physics), 7 and 8. Assumed knowledge from sections 1 to 6.1
Paper 3 32%
Written exam. Section A: Compulsory section: practical skills and data analysis Section B: pupils enter for one of sections 9, 10, 11, 12 or 13
It shows I have a brain – when it comes to a career or university course they know I will be able to cope.
Frederick, U6 pupil