Physics

A Level Physics (AQA)

Aims

The specification encourages students to:

• Develop their interest and enthusiasm for physics, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with physics
• Develop essential knowledge and understanding of difference areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
• Develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
• Develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills
• Understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society
• Use theories, models and ideas to develop scientific explanations
• Use knowledge and understanding to pose scientific questions, define scientific problems, present scientific arguments and scientific ideas
• Use appropriate methodology, including information and communication technology (ICT), to answer scientific questions and solve scientific problems
• Carry out experimental and investigative activities, including appropriate risk management, in a range of contexts
• Analyse and interpret data to provide evidence, recognising correlations and causal relationships
• Evaluate methodology, evidence and data, and resolve conflicting evidence
• Know that scientific knowledge and understanding develops over time
• Communicate information and ideas in appropriate ways using appropriate terminology
• Consider applications and implications of science and evaluate their associated benefits and risks
• Consider ethical issues in the treatment of humans, other organisms and the environment
• Evaluate the role of the scientific community in validating new knowledge and ensuring integrity
• Evaluate the ways in which society uses science to inform decision making.

Content

1. Measurements and their errors
2. Particles and radiation
3. Waves
4. Mechanics and materials
5. Electricity
6. Further mechanics and thermal physics
7. Fields and their consequences
8. Nuclear physics
9. Astrophysics
10. Medical physics
11. Engineering physics
12. Turning points in physics
13. Electronics

Assessment