Physics

Assessment

Students studying for the A level will sit three papers on Modules 1-6 at the end of the second year. Paper 1 (Modelling Physics) covers Modules 1, 2, 3 and 5. Paper 2 (Exploring Physics) covers Modules 1, 2, 4 and 6. In both papers, at least 15% of the question paper assessment covers knowledge and understanding of practical skills. 40% of the question paper assessment covers mathematical skills. Paper 3 (Unified Physics) covers Modules 1-6 and contains short answer questions and extended response questions. Papers 1 and 2 are worth 37% of the A level and last 2 hours 15 minutes each. Paper 3 is worth 26% and lasts 1 hour 30 minutes. Practical assessments no longer contribute to the final grade at A level. However, students must complete a minimum of 12 practical activities to demonstrate practical competence. Performance is reported separately to the A-level grade and will be marked as either pass or fail.