Physics
What is Physics A level about?
From the birth and death of stars to the fleeting interactions of tiny particles, Physics studies how our world works. To do this it uses ideas ranging from Force and Energy, easily understood and everyday, to Strangeness and Charm, rather more abstract and fanciful! It is a fascinating subject, driven by the desire to find out how and why matter behaves the way it does.
Physics is not only interesting, it is also highly marketable. With an A level in Physics you have proved that you possess a wide range of Key Skills, exactly what employers and universities are looking for today. Indeed there can be few subjects at A level that cover such a wide range of transferable skills – from the use of IT in data-logging experiments (downloading data from sensors to spreadsheets); to the numerical skills that are the bedrock of the subject, essential in problem-solving and in practical work; to skill in written expression needed to write explanations.
What does the AS consist of?
- Unit 1: Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity
- Unit 2: Mechanics, Materials and Waves
- Unit 3: Investigative and Practical Skills in AS Physics
The AS/A2 syllabus has improved the course by making the transition from GCSE much smoother; Maths skills are built up during the AS year, with harder Maths only in the A2.
What does the A2 consist of?
The units are as follows:
- Unit 4: Fields and Further Mechanics
- Unit 5: Nuclear and Thermal Physics is the compulsory element. The Option topic will be Astrophysics
- Unit 6: Investigative and Practical Skills in A2 Physics
Whom does the subject suit?
Physics suits someone who is fascinated by how things work, by fundamental questions about the way the world is and by the exactness of science which alone can try to uncover truths about the world. Studying the subject you will feel that what you learn builds upon what you did at GCSE but in a more mathematical way. You must practice the use of maths in the subject so that it becomes natural to you so you can begin to concentrate on the ideas themselves as they become more complex.
We will answer questions such as 'Do you want a car to crumple or remain rigid in a crash?', 'How are harmonics created on a guitar string?' and 'Why does it get colder when you climb up a mountain?' (If you can answer these questions now please move on to university!)
Physics is most often studied alongside Maths, Economics, Biology, Computing or Chemistry, but – as an AS or a full A level – it can give an analytical edge to any portfolio of subjects. It suits someone who enjoys problem-solving, is interested in explaining how the material world works and would like a practical subject.
We find that a grade B or above in Maths at GCSE is a good starting point to do well in Physics but it is not necessary to continue Maths at A level. To get an idea of the increased level of Maths in the A level compared to GCSE, look through one of the standard A Lev el Physics texts such as that written by Tom Duncan or Roger Muncaster and say to yourself 'I shall soon understand all of this!'
If you pursue the subject at university you will find that Physics graduates are in great demand, as pilots, engineers, accountants, management/computer analysts, in the City – anywhere where profound analytical skills are required; and starting salaries can be more than £2,000 higher than across all subjects.
How is Physics taught at d'Overbroeck's?
We chose the AQA syllabus because it has interesting, modern topics such as Particles Physics and Astrophysics; the ultimate study on the smallest and largest scale.
Lessons generally begin with new ideas being given to you either using a whiteboard or projector. The class then discuss the implications of what has been covered and solve standard questions to practise using the new formulae. There is a worksheet that takes no more than 45 minutes to do after each theory lesson to make sure you have understood the ideas.
In practical lessons you carry out important experiments to aid your understanding of the theory or to learn how to use increasingly sophisticated apparatus. Eventually, you will be assessed on your skills and perform experiments under exam conditions for your practical grade. You will soon get used to using data-logging sensors in practical work and realise how much they ease the process of taking measurements.
What are the department's resources like?
Networked computers to allow all students to use IT in practical work.
Datalogging in practical work is very much encouraged, we have all the appropriate sensors to cover practical work at AS and A2 level.
We have all the equipment necessary to set up quite advanced demonstrations such as Electron Diffraction and Harmonics on a guitar string. There is a lab projector to show animations and images from the internet during teaching.
The Physics website contains resources to aid the independent study of each student.
Who will teach me?
Paul Baily graduated with a degree in Physics and Philosophy from Oxford (many years ago!), gaining a CertEd before teaching for three years in a comprehensive, becoming Head of Physics before joining d'Overbroeck's in 1980.
Chris Carter graduated from Exeter University with a degree in Physics and Geophysics (much more recently!) coming to us after being Head of Physics at the Newbury College of Further Education. Chris has written a revision text on Physics for the OUP.
Charlie Currie graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Physics (much much more recently!). His up-to-date degree experience has greatly refreshed the department.
What might the subject lead onto?
Physics is a subject very well regarded by universities and is important if you want to study Engineering. It is also useful for Economics, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and Computing to name just a few degree subjects. Many of our Physics students have gone on to study Physics, Economics, Veterinary Science, Computing, Mathematics and Engineering at universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, King's College London, Imperial College and Bristol.