What Board do we do? AQA, A Level code: 7407/7408
What is Physics?
Physics is the science of how matter interacts and it spans the whole range from the very smallest particles right up to the universe itself. As a physical science, there is an emphasis on predicting behaviour and testing through observation and measurement.
Which subjects combine well with Physics?
Mathematics, Chemistry, and Computer Science.
What careers and university courses can Physics lead to?
Physics students can pursue further study at university in Physics, Engineering, or Computer Science degrees. However, the analytical skills developed make Physics a highly sought-after qualification in other careers such as medicine, computer programming, intellectual property, finance and economics.
AS
Students start AS Physics by venturing into the field of particle physics, providing a new interest and dimension to their knowledge of the subject. As well as gaining insight into the standard model of particle physics, topics covered in this section include wave-particle duality, the photoelectric effect and atomic energy levels. There is also an electrical section which develops basic concepts like current, voltage and resistance in direct current circuits. Students will get a more in-depth treatment of topics like kinematics, dynamics, statics and energy which they were introduced to during their GCSE’s. This is combined with a study of the properties of materials to complete the mechanics component. Additionally there is a study of the properties of waves, which includes a look at progressive and standing waves, refraction, diffraction and interference.
AS Paper 1 (7407/1): 50%
70 marks of short and long answer questions split by topic
AS Paper 2 (7407/2): 50%
Section A: 20 marks of short and long answer questions on practical skills and data analysis
Section B: 20 marks of short and long answer questions from across all areas of AS content
Section C: 30 multiple choice questions
AS practical
Over the year students will perform six assessed laboratory exercises individually and as part of larger groups. The goal in the experiments is to further develop their understanding of the physics involved in various scenarios but also for the student to gain experimental skills so that they may undertake their own investigations. The practical work is now internally assessed.
A Level
In addition to all the topics covered in AS; the new linear, A Level syllabus requires an in-depth application of these concepts. So we take force and energy and apply them to harmonic oscillations and circular motion. It also introduces the concept of the force field and how we use this to store electrical energy and in determining satellite orbits. The connections between electricity and magnetism are investigated to demonstrate the principles of motors, generators and transformers. Developments in nuclear power and radioactivity are covered along with ideal gases and thermal physics. The syllabus provides a choice of optional topics: we will do the astrophysics module. This gives students a view of the universe at large including dark matter and energy, black holes and quasars along with knowledge of the tools used by astronomers to see to the edge of space and time.
A Level Paper 1 (7408/1): 34%
60 marks of short and long answer questions and 25 multiple-choice questions on content.
A Level Paper 2 (7408/2): 34%
60 marks of short and long answer questions and 25 multiple-choice questions on content.
A Level Paper 3 (7408/3): 32%
45 marks of short and long answer questions on practical experiments and data analysis.
35 marks of short and long answer questions on optional topics.
A Level practical
Over the year students will perform 12 assessed laboratory exercises, both individually and as part of larger groups. The goal in the experiments is to further develop their understanding of the physics involved in various scenarios but also for the student to gain experimental skills so that they may undertake their own investigations. The practical work is now internally assessed. Full specification available at: www.AQA.org.uk
