'A' Level Physics

An AS or A-Level in Physics will cover a range of topics all linked by the underlying themes of energy. Students studying Physics will follow a course designed to inspire, nurture their passion for the subject and lay the foundations for further study and their future professions.

Practical work is at the heart of all good science teaching, and the required practical activities will give students the opportunity to embed their skills and knowledge. The A- level practicals ensure that students are able to access the range of practical skills needed in the modern scientific workplace and beyond.

Exam Board

AQA A Level Physics A (7407/7408)

Course Details

Module 1: Measurements and their errors (studied in both year 1 and year 2)

Practical skills assessed in a written examination
Practical skills assessed in the practical endorsement

Year 1

Module 2 Particles and radiation

Quarks, Leptons and Bosons
Fundamental interactions
Quantum Mechanics

Module 3 Waves

Standing Waves
Progressive Waves
Optics

Module 4 Mechanics and materials

Classical mechanics
Materials science

Module 5 Electricity

Ohm’s Law
EMF & resistivity
Circuits & characteristics

Year 2 – A Level Physics

Module 6 Further mechanics and thermal physics

Circular Motion & SHM
Thermodynamics

Module 7 Fields and their consequences

Electric Field
Magnetic Fields
Gravitational Fields

Module 8 Nuclear physics

Radioactive decay
Fission & Fusion

Module 9/10/11/12/13 (option unit)

Either

Astrophysics, Medical physics, Engineering physics, Turning points in physics or Electronics

What do I need to study A Level Physics?

We recommend the following:

Grade 6-6 in Combined Science (Higher Tier)
Grade 6s in Separate Science (Physics)
Grade 6 in GCSE Maths
Grade 5 in GCSE English

Where can A Level Physics take me?

If you are considering university, this course can lead you to study into programs such as: Engineering, Materials Science, Astrophysics, Cybernetics, Robotics, Telecommunications, Electrical engineer, Medical technician, nuclear technicians, particle physics and quantum field chromodynamics to name but a few.

If you are considering apprenticeships, there are several large companies who look for students with A Level Physics. They include: Raytheon, Texas Instruments, Google, Samsung, Rolls- Royce, and Apple.