Physics

Sedbergh Senior School - Science, Physics, Image

Introducing pHYSICS

Physics at Sedbergh combines a traditional course with an emphasis on real-life applications and interesting experimental work. The department is particularly proud of the amount of practical work that we include in our studies. We also embrace our location within the national park emphasising astrophysics using the dark skies that surround us.

The physics department has four teaching staff and an experienced lab technician. It has three laboratories and two additional teaching rooms. One of our laboratories is equipped as a data logging computer suite.

All rooms have multimedia facilities which are used when appropriate.
The aims of the department are:
 To teach physics in the most engaging way possible.
 To help every pupil attain the highest exam grade that they possibly can.
 To develop practical skills in every pupil. To nurture in every pupil a love of the sciences.
 To raise the profile of physics within the school community.
 To make physics a main stream A' Level choice.
 To encourage pupils to consider careers in physics, engineering and related fields.
 To make physics the most popular lesson in every pupils' week.

year 9

In Year 9 we get straight underway learning the AQA Physics course, beginning with Energy. This gives us more time in Year 11 to tailor revision topics to individual classes and practice exam technique

GCSE

GCSE Physics provides a coherent and logical journey through the working laws of the universe that surrounds us. This new Physics course includes the traditional knowledge that has stood the test of time whilst including the modern Science investigated today. Questions in the written exams will draw on the knowledge and understanding pupils have gained by carrying out practical activities encountered throughout the course. These questions will count for at least 15% of the overall marks for the qualification. This course will also give a solid foundation for those progressing to A-Level Physics.

Summary of content

  1. Forces
  2. Energy
  3. Waves
  4. Electricity
  5. Magnetism & Electromagnetism
  6. Particle Model of Matter
  7. Atomic Structure
  8. Space Physics

Specification link: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/physics-8463

Assessment

Pupils sit two written papers each 1 hour 45 minutes at the end of the course. The questions range from multiple choice, closed, short answer and open response.  The GCSE qualification is graded 9 to 1 (grade 9 being the highest).

a level

gcse science pathways

Sedbergh Senior School - Biology

Physics is a popular A' Level choice at Sedbergh, with many pupils going on to study Engineering or Physics at university including Oxbridge.

The Sixth Form course follows the AQA A' Level specification. This builds on the skills acquired at AQA GCSE level. The syllabus includes the main theoretical concepts which are fundamental to the subject, a section on some current applications of physics, and a strong emphasis on advanced practical skills. Practical skills are constantly assessed.

The emphasis throughout is on the understanding of concepts and the application of physics ideas in novel contexts as well as on the acquisition of knowledge. The course will foster creative thinking and problem-solving skills which are transferable to any future career path, and AS and A' Level Physics is ideal for students who want to study physics or a wide variety of related subjects at university or to follow a career in science.

Specification link:            https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/physics-7407-7408