Physics
Physics is the type of subject that encompasses everything. You will need to use mathematical skills to model everything from the tiniest Quark to the largest galaxies.
You will need to be able to explain how materials have the properties they do and explain the physics behind everything from touchscreens to the first few nanoseconds after the Big Bang occurred. The analytical skills that you develop are of value in all walks of life; Including the multidisciplinary teams of scientists, medical physicists, banking and finance, engineering, mineral searches, broadcasting and even law.
Specification: OCR A H556
Programme of Study
Content is split into six teaching modules: The main content is in modules 3,4,5 & 6.
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Module 1 – Development of Practical Skills in Physics
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Module 2 – Foundation of Physics
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Module 3 – Forces and motion
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Module 4 – Electrons, waves and photons
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Module 5 – Newtonian world and astrophysics
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Module 6 – Particles and medical Physics
Year 12
During year 12, you will study modules 1,2,3 & 4.
Year 13
During year 13, you will study modules 1, 5 & 6.
Skills
A positive attitude to Physics is essential. You will need to be able to model concepts in your mind, like visualising electron movement as a particle or a wave is needed. Taking pleasure in solving Physics problems using mathematics and logic is needed for your success in this subject.
Year 13 Public Examinations
Component 1: Modelling physics – 37% (100 marks, 2 hour 15 minutes written paper)
Component 1 assesses content from modules 1, 2, 3 and 5.
Component 2: Exploring physics – 37% (100 marks, 2 hour 15 minutes written paper)
Component 2 assesses content from modules 1, 2, 4 and 6.
Component 3: Unified physics – 26% (70 marks, 1 hour 30 minutes written paper)
Component 3 assesses content from all modules.
Component 4: Practical Endorsement in Physics
The Practical Endorsement in Physics will be graded Pass or Fail. This will be reported separately. Students will complete and keep a record of assessed practical tasks throughout the two years.
The Key Stage 5 Physics Curriculum Plan can be found at the bottom of the page.
Enrichment
Presentation skills will be used alongside a wide variety of research tools to complete your work. Investigations will be conducted in the use of sensors and new materials. You will be given the opportunity to research an individual topic that interests you and you will be given time to investigate in the lab any experimental area you wish.
For further details, please contact Mr G Holvey.
All current plans for sixth form programmes of study at Bishop Stopford School are provisional, dependent on student numbers and government policy.