Physics
Culford School - Suffolk
01284728615
Culford, Bury St Edmunds, IP4 4SN
Course summary

From smaller than the nucleus of an atom, to the expanse of the universe, from events that take place in less than a billionth of a second to those which last an eon, you will study a range of topics in a practical way. The course emphasises the importance of practical work to support your understanding and allows you to explore your own interests. This course would suit anyone with a passion for discovering how the universe works as it covers a range of core physics topics as well as some novel, up-to-date applications. A Level Students will study six modules. Module 1: Development of Practical Skills in Physics Through a range of practical investigations you will develop skills in planning, implementing, analysing and evaluating experiments. Module 2: Foundations of Physics The aim of this module is to introduce important conventions and ideas that permeate the fabric of physics such as S.I. units, scalars and vectors which help physicists to communicate their ideas effectively. Module 3: Forces and Motion This module covers how to model the motion of objects using mathematics, the effect forces have on objects, the connection between force and energy, how forces cause deformation and Newton’s laws of motion. Module 4: Electrons, Waves and Photons The aim of this module is ultimately to introduce key ideas of quantum physics. Electromagnetic waves exhibit both wave and particle-like behaviour. The wave-particle dual nature is also found to be characteristic of all particles (e.g. electrons). Before any sophisticated work can be done on quantum physics, electron behaviour in circuits is explained and basic wave properties are covered. Module 5: Newtonian World and Astrophysics The aim of this module is to show the impact Newtonian mechanics has on physics. The microscopic motion of atoms can be modelled using Newton’s laws, leading to an understanding of macroscopic quantities such as pressure and temperature. Newton’s law of gravitation can be used to predict the motion of planets and distant galaxies. In the final section we explore the intricacies of stars and the expansion of the Universe by analysing the electromagnetic radiation from space. Module 6: Particles and Medical Physics In this module, you will learn about capacitors, electric field, electromagnetism, nuclear physics, particle physics and medical imaging.

Entry requirements

Level 8 or above in GCSE physics or Level 8 in double science with Level 8 in GCSE mathematics.

How you'll be assessed

The A Level is assessed through three examinations and an internal practical endorsement. The three examinations are: 1. Modelling Physics (2 hours 15 minutes – 100 marks) This component is split into two sections and assesses content from teaching modules 1, 2, 3 and 5. Section A (15 marks) contains multiple choice questions. Section B (85 marks) includes short answer question styles (structured questions, problem solving, calculations, practical) and extended response questions. 2. Exploring Physics (2 hours 15 minutes – 100 marks) This component is split into two sections and assesses content from teaching modules 1, 2, 4 and 6. Section A (15 marks) contains multiple choice questions. Section B (85 marks) includes short answer question styles (structured questions, problem solving, calculations, practical) and extended response questions. 3. Unified Physics (1 hour 30 minutes – 70 marks) This component assesses content from across all teaching modules 1 to 6. Question styles include short answer (structured questions, problem solving, calculations, practical) and extended response questions.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionEast of England
Local AuthoritySuffolk
Ofsted Rating
Gender TypeCo-Educational
ISI ReportView Report
Boarding Fee£30,075 - £37,155
Sixth Form FeeDay £23,655
AddressCulford, Bury St Edmunds, IP4 4SN