Physics - A Level
Physics is the science of the physical world, aimed at understanding how the universe behaves. The A Level course covers a broad range of topics centred on the study of matter, motion, space, time, force, energy, mass mechanics, heat, gravity, magnetism, electricity, waves and light. The transition from GCSE to A Level is relatively straightforward, involving similar themes that the student has encountered previously, but in greater detail and depth. You will develop your skills in applying abstract physics concepts to real life situations through topic material covered in the syllabus and practical coursework projects. Lansdowne has great experience of and an excellent track record in, supporting students through the A Level course to achieve the absolute best they are capable of. Great emphasis is placed on exam technique and style, and the practice of past examination papers.
What will I study in Physics?
AS Units 1, 2 and 3
Physics on the Go: How do the laws of mechanics govern speed and acceleration? How is energy transferred between objects and from one form to another? How do materials behave when stretched? You will study motion, force, energy and power and the properties of solids, liquids and gases. You will also study fluid flow around fast sports cars and projectile motion in sports. Practical applications of physics covered in this unit may include spare part surgery for joint replacements.
Physics at Work: How does electricity move through electric circuits? What theories have been developed to understand the behaviour of electrons: for example, Quantum Physics? Can we consider electrons as behaving more like waves? How do we calculate the frequency of sound waves from a guitar or clarinet? Practical applications of physics may include lens implant technology.
Coursework: During the AS portion of the syllabus you will conduct an experiment based on a case study of a practical application of physics.
A2 Units 4, 5 and 6
Physics on the Move: How does mechanics theory explain the momentum of objects such as those in circular motion? What effect do electric and magnetic fields have on small particles? What does a capacitor do? LHC-type particle physics and Einstein's famous mass-energy matter/anti-matter E=mc2 equation will also be studied.
Physics: from Creation to Collapse - Turning to the fields of astrophysics and cosmology we will address questions relating to the nature of stars, planets and space. How did the universe begin – we consider the evidence from physics. How are stars formed and what happens when stars die? What are the physics governing the movement of planets in space? What are the main aspects of astronomy? How does radioactivity originate and how does it behave? Practical applications in this field relate to space technology and current theories regarding the history and future of the universe. Also oscillating systems, thermal/heat physics and kinetic theory of motion of gas molecules will be covered.
Coursework: The A2 project requires you to devise, plan, conduct and analyse results from your own physics experiment.
How will I be assessed?
The course is assessed by four examination papers, each containing multiple choice and short answer questions – two in the AS year and two in the A2. You will also conduct an internally assessed, externally moderated practical coursework for the AS and the A2.
Do I need to have studied Physics before?
It would be beneficial to have studied Physics at GCSE as part of a Double Award Science or separate Physics course, ideally at grade B standard or above. You should also have a reasonable grasp of GCSE Mathematics.
Who will teach me?
James Hilder BSc, PGDip is a graduate of University College, London. He is a highly experienced tutor and examiner of A Level Physics and a keen astronomer. He has worked at Lansdowne for over ten years.
Robin Hradsky has a BSc (Hons) degree from Queen Mary, a M.Sc. in Nuclear Physics from Birkbeck and a PGCE from the Institute of Education. He has taught in school and colleges across the whole secondary age range and has developed strategies for teaching Physics which encourage the firing of the imagination.
Which subjects complement Physics?
Physics is a core science discipline and links naturally with Mathematics, Chemistry, Computing and Biology.
Which careers can Physics lead to?
Physics could lead to careers in academic advanced physics, meteorology or astronomy. It is also a very suitable qualification for those wishing to study Engineering, Medicine, Dentistry, Computing or Philosophy. As a qualification requiring a high degree of numeracy, Physics provides excellent training and skills for graduates wishing to pursue careers in business, industry and the financial sector.