Head of Department:   Dr K A Moseley          Board:   AQA

The Course

The Physics course comprises three modules that will lead to a GCSE in Physics. The assessment will be spread over the two years of study. Pupils are encouraged to consider scientific concepts and to utilise experimental and investigative techniques. ‘How Science Works’ is threaded through the entire course and is intended to show pupils that scientists arrive at conclusions through systematic and rigorous peer-reviewed procedure. The objective is also to understand the role of Physics in society. This enables pupils to make informed judgements on issues such as nuclear power versus renewable energy, road safety and the increasing use of surveillance technology. Physics also features in the exploration and understanding of our universe.

Assessment

Modules

Timetable

Physics 1   1a (30 mins) – March Form IV; 1b (30 mins) – June Form IV Physics 2 January Form V Physics 3  June Form V – Candidates who are proceeding to the Additional Science qualification will resit appropriate modules with the aim of improving their overall grade.

The Centre Assessed Unit consists of two parts:  Practical Skills Assessment (PSA) is a continuous evaluation of pupils’ ability to carry out experiments competently and safely. This is scored between zero and six. The Investigative Skills Assignment, (ISA) is a specific experiment, set externally by the exam board. The experimental data is then used in a 45 minute written paper, taken under exam conditions a few days later. All of the work is carried out in the department and all the pupils’ work kept there. There is no requirement for an extended project.