Physics
Warminster School - Wiltshire
01985210100
Church Street, Warminster, Warminster, BA12 8PJ
Course summary

There are eight core topics in the specification, together with an optional topic. Topic 1: Measurements and their errors The content in this topic underpins much of your experimental work, by focusing on the nature of measurement, as well as uncertainties and their numerical treatment. The ability to carry out reasonable estimations is a skill that you will require throughout the course. Topic 2: Particles and radiation This topic encompasses study of the most up-to-date theories in this area including the fundamental properties of matter, electromagnetic radiation and quantum phenomena. Topic 3: Waves The characteristics, properties, and applications of progressive and stationary waves are examined, deepening knowledge of refraction, diffraction, superposition and interference. Topic 4: Mechanics and materials An enhancement of your knowledge of forces, energy and momentum is followed by a study of materials including their bulk properties and tensile strength. Topic 5: Electricity This topic extends your earlier study of these phenomena at GCSE, and includes many opportunities for the development of practical, investigative skills through the study of current, resistivity, electromotive force and internal resistance. Topic 6: Further mechanics and thermal physics The earlier study of mechanics during Topic 4 is advanced through a consideration of circular motion and simple harmonic motion. In addition, the thermal properties of materials, the properties and nature of ideal gases, and molecular kinetic theory are studied in depth. Topic 7: Fields and their consequences The ideas of gravitation, electrostatics and magnetic field theory are developed within this topic; its unifying nature means that it draws upon many aspects from earlier in the course, including mechanics and electricity. Practical applications that you will study include: planetary and satellite orbits; capacitance and capacitors; and electromagnetic induction. Topic 8: Nuclear physics This topic builds on Topic 2 to link the properties of the nucleus to the production of nuclear power, the properties of unstable nuclei, and the link between energy and mass. Topic 9: Optional topic Possible options which may be offered during the second year of study include: astrophysics; medical physics; engineering physics; turning points in physics; and electronics.

Entry requirements

GCSE grade 7 in physics and GCSE grade 7 in mathematics.

How you'll be assessed

Assessment is by written examination only, with the content of the papers employing a variety of question styles ranging from long written answers to multiple choice questions. Questions will be included on the practical skills developed during the course.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth West
Local AuthorityWiltshire
Ofsted Rating
Gender TypeCo-Educational
ISI ReportView Report
Boarding Fee£9,747 - £19,521
Sixth Form Fee£9,747 - £19,521
AddressChurch Street, Warminster, Warminster, BA12 8PJ