Page 35 - Kingham Hill School Sixth Form Prospectus

Course Catalogue A-Z

Physics
(AQA)

A level Physics is a stimulating and challenging course that allows pupils to appreciate how
fundamental science works, and also to choose an optional topic to study in depth. The
course provides a useful route to careers in engineering, technology, astronomy, music,
manufacturing and a multitude of other options. The syllabus challenges pupils to think
beyond boundaries and begin to grasp the universal principles that apply to everything
from the smallest atoms to the largest galaxies. It is, by nature, a very practical subject and
numerous opportunities are provided for exploration and application of the concepts covered.
There is no coursework as such but practical skills and knowledge will be examined in the
final exams and a certificate of practical competency awarded to pupils who successfully fulfil
the required criteria and demonstrate appropriate skills throughout the course.
The course involves a great deal of mathematics, mostly algebra based; determination and
tenacity will certainly be required to become proficient at problem solving using numbers –
the natural language of expression of Physics.
Topics covered in this course:
• Measurements and their errors • Further mechanics and thermal physics
(A level only)
• Particles and radiation
• Fields (A level only)
• Waves
• Nuclear physics (A level only)
• Mechanics and materials
• Optional topic
• Electricity
Entry requirements:
A minimum of two grade 6s in Science at GCSE, although grade 7s are preferred. It will be
advantageous to have studied Triple Science and pupils will be accepted onto this course if
they have achieved a grade 6 for Physics overall and passed the other two Sciences with a
grade 5 above. Pupils will also need to have passed Mathematics with a grade 6 as there is a
high level of mathematical skills required.

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Kingham Hill 2018 Sixth Form Prospectus A5 40pp.indd 35 10/11/2017 12:04