Physics (OCR)

A philosopher once said, `It is necessary for the very existence of science that the same conditions always produce the same results.’ Well, they don’t!’’ (1965) Richard P. Feynman

Physics really is the most exciting and interesting of all the sciences. If you want to know the answer to questions starting “How?” Or “Why?”, Physics can probably help you find the answers. An enquiring mind and an interest in the world around you are key attributes for prospective Physicists. At Sexey’s School we encourage students to broaden their minds and stretch their thinking to the limits. Whilst we, of course, are working hard towards good exam grades, we encourage students to read widely and enjoy the subject.

A Level

Year12

Module 1: Development of Practical Skills in Physics

Module 2: Foundations of Physics

Module 3: Forces and Motion

– Motion

– Forces in Action

– Work, Energy and Power

– Materials

– Momentum

Module 4: Electrons, Waves and Photons

– Charge and Current

– Energy, Power and Resistance

– Electrical Circuits

– Waves

– Quantum Physics

Year 13

Module 5: Newtonian World and Astrophysics

– Thermal Physics and Ideal Gases

– Circular Motion and Oscillations

– Gravitational Fields

– Stars and Cosmology (the Big Bang)

Module 6: Field and Particle Physics

– Capacitance and Electric Fields

– Magnetic Fields

– Particle Physics

– Radioactivity and Nuclear Physics

– Medical Imaging

Assessment:

Paper 1: Written exam: Modelling Physics, 2 hours 15 mins, 37% of A Level, covering modules 1, 2, 3 & 5

Paper 2: Written exam: Exploring Physics, 2 hours 15 mins, 37% of A Level, covering modules 1, 2, 4 & 6

Paper 3: Written exam: Unified Physics, 1 hour 30 mins, 26% of A Level, covering all modules

Practical endorsement: non-exam assessment that is reported separately to the A Level grade.

MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:  Five GCSEs at Grade 5 or above, including Grade 6/6 in Double Science or Grade 6 in Physics as a separate science. Due to the increased mathematical emphasis of the course we also require GCSE Mathematics Grade 6 and strongly suggest taking Mathematics A-level as an additional option.

Updated September 2023