Physics

Why choose Physics?

We would describe this as a course that develops your ability to think. This means using your skills in mathematics and scientific reasoning to explain how the Universe works, from the smallest particles imaginable to the vastness of space.

The course is both interesting and relevant to understanding everyday phenomena and technology. Whilst it demands a lot of students it is very highly regarded both at higher education and in many different careers. So if you wish to do well we would urge you to take on the challenge that an AS physics course presents.

Description

There is lots we would like to tell you about the Physics course here. See below on why we think you will find Physics interesting.

What is Physics?

Physics is perhaps the most fundamental of all the sciences. It gives basic explanations of how the stars evolve, planets move and also the nature of subatomic particles. Physics enables us to alter our surroundings - to build bridges, make delicate instruments for microsurgery, and, travel easily across the globe. It has given us the Internet and strong, lightweight sports equipment. It extends into every area of our life.

What is the course about?

Physics is about the search for rules to explain the behaviour of every object in the universe. Many of these rules are best expressed through mathematical relationships. Now this may sound difficult but it’s not. You’ve probably already met V=IR and F=ma … well it’s more things like this. Add in your own common sense and you will do well.

It’s not like science at GCSE. The knowledge covered in GCSE is broad but shallow. In AS and A-level Physics we study fewer topics but much more deeply. And whilst we do practical work to confirm or enhance our learning, we think that Physics is best described as a thinking skills course.

Here are some of the different thinking skills you will use:

• Analytical thinking – what are we trying to explain, precisely?

• Thinking about communication – how can we explain this most clearly?

• Thinking conceptually – are there other ideas or models to help explain this?

• Thinking using maths – what can we usefully calculate with our ideas?

• Abstract thinking – does new knowledge challenge our previous notions?

• Thinking reflectively – are there any limits to what we can think of or explain?

• Creative thinking – how can new ideas be combined with real processes to advance our technology?

How is the course taught?

We approach physics with the idea that you will understand the subject a lot more by applying things into practical situations. Whenever possible we will spend time not just discussing the ideas, but also looking at how theory works in practice.

How do we make physics at Bilborough rewarding?

At Bilborough College we have designed the Physics courses to allow students to improve their thinking skills throughout, and show these abilities through modular examinations. As a consequence our students find the subject stimulating and enjoyable and achieve very good results – for example, last year 49% of our students achieved grades A or B at A-level.

The A-level syllabus we currently follow allows students to choose an option in the second year of study from Engine Processes and Applied Physics or Relativity and Quantum Effects. Most students choose one relevant to the degree course they wish to follow. When it comes to getting onto a degree course at a good university our students find the benefit of a good A-level grade in Physics compared to other subjects.

Popular choices of degree for all our Physics students have been all types of Engineering, Physics, Maths/Computing, Music Technologies or Medicine; however those who have chosen different qualification paths such as Law, Accountancy or Teaching have also found the skills represented by a Physics A-level a real boost to their application.

Nationally there are still too few students taking Physics A-level and progressing on to related degrees so demand is always high and many universities, institutions or employers offer bursaries, sponsorship or enhanced salaries.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment will be by a written paper soon after Christmas in Year 12, and a further written paper in June. There will also be a practical assessment at some stage during Year 12. Details of the specification can be found at www.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/pdf/AQA-2450-W-SP-10.PDF

Resources and Facilities

We have two dedicated physics laboratories and the use of extra labs when needed. All Physics lessons will take place in a lab. Each lab has an interactive whiteboard, a data projector and stereo sound. We have a complement of data logging equipment and a range of simulation software packages. Classes will typically have around twenty Physics students present at once.