Physics

Physics is a subject that covers all dimensions from the smallest known particle (the quark), to the very edges of the universe (if it has one?).  In physics you will discuss how the very atoms you were made from came into being.  That all the atoms in our bodies were once star dust, and how the universe one day might come to an end.  Less esoteric topics are investigated as well, for instance how does that remote control that is lost down the side of the sofa manage to change channels?  Social issues are considered and an understanding of risk is explored.  What are the dangers of mobile phones, and what are the dangers of radioactive substances that are all around us and are naturally occurring?  How are the forces that an astronaut feels compared to the forces you feel on a ride at Alton Towers?  Can you accelerate without going faster?  Find out in Physics.  Follow the inspirational theories and ideas of great scientists like Madame Currie, Newton and Einstein, and many more.

The course structure enables pupils with a number of learning styles to access the full curriculum through practical work, discussion, student research and presentation, pupil participation demonstrations, audio visual displays, role play, peer teaching, ICT including data logging and many other teaching methods.

Extra curricular activities have included aero engineering during science club and visits to a local hospitals to observe the physics involved in today’s high tech medicine.

Physics graduates are amongst the highest percentage of graduates reaching employment after graduation.

What follows are the topics covered in chronological order for a Year 7 pupil following through to her final A2 exam.

Year 7
Heating, density and expansion
The transfer of energy Reflection of light
The solar system Earth and Moon
An introduction to magnetism

Year 8
Refraction of light
Sound Simple electricity
The planets

Year 9
Motion Forces and moments
Energy resources and effects

Year 10
Further electricity
Waves Mechanics Energy

Year 11
Electronics Seismic waves
Atomic and nuclear physics
Solar system and the Universe

Year 12 (AS)
Forces and motion
Electrons and photons
Practical examination

Year 13 (A2)
Forces, fields and energy
Synoptic and practical exam
Options in physics