Physics

Physics encompasses the whole of the universe from the largest galaxies to the smallest of subatomic particles. It is therefore the most basic and fundamental science. It is crucial to understanding the world around us, the world inside us, and the world beyond us. This understanding can then challenge our imaginations which eventually leads to great discoveries and technologies that can change the lives of us all.   

 A study of physics provides a basis to many of the other sciences, including biology, chemistry, the medical sciences, oceanography, seismology, and astronomy as well as all areas of engineering.   

We have developed a physics curriculum that supports the development of the students in terms of both their subject knowledge and the practical skills required of a physicist.  

Year 9

Students follow a bespoke curriculum that provides them with a solid foundation to progress into study at GCSE. We begin with an introduction to making measurements using technology (in this case an oscilloscope) and we use the experimental study of wave phenomena to introduce students to the ideas and skills required to design, conduct, analyse and evaluate experiments.  

 Four main topic areas, covering the major area of physics, culminate in a team project that enables the students to demonstrate their acquired subject knowledge and practical skills.   

1. Energy and Electricity 
2. Forces and Motion  
3. Pressure and Moments  
4. Space and Gravity

In the final half-term of the year students undertake a cross-curricular project that focuses on the scientific challenges of colonising Mars. The physics element focuses upon the safe delivery of the colonising team from Earth to Mars – from the rocket launch on Earth to the safe landing onto Mars.  

Assessment takes place at the end of Key Stage 3 with a 1 hour exam

Years 10 and 11

We follow the AQA 8463 GCSE Physics Specification.   

The GCSE course begins by looking at how Energy is transferred between different stores and can be used to explain a range of physical phenomena. From there, we look at the building blocks of the world by studying the Particle Model of Matter and Atomic Structure. With an understanding of energy and subatomic particles, students then look at Electricity and Magnetism building up to an ability to explain how electromagnetic devices work. Finally, in Year 10, we look at Waves including sound and electromagnetic waves.

In Year 11 we begin by studying Forces including Newton's laws of motion and gravity and measuring velocity and acceleration. As part of the Forces topic we look at collisions and vehicle safety.There is an emphasis on mathematical problem-solving skills in this unit. At the end of the course we take a step back and study Space, including the orbits of objects in the Solar System and the evidence for an expanding universe.