Examining Board - AQA Specification A

AS Module 1

Particles, Radiation and Quantum Phenomena
The two themes explored in this module are those of particles and of electromagnetic radiation and quantum phenomena. The concept of anti-particles is introduced, as are quarks and anti-quarks. The particle and the wave models are brought together. Most of this module consists of material from the AS criteria for Physics and develops material studied in the Key Stage 4 science courses.

AS Module 2

Mechanics and Molecular Kinetic Theory
This module contains principally simple mechanics and initial ideas on the molecular kinetic theory model. Most of the module consists of material from the AS criteria for Physics and some topics which have been introduced in Key Stage 4 Science courses.

AS Module 3

Current Electricity and Elastic Properties of Solids
This module contains simple current electricity including alternating currents and the use of the oscilloscope. Some work on elastic properties of solids is also included. Most of this module consists of material from the AS Criteria for Physics.

A2 Module 4

Waves, Fields and Nuclear Energy
This is the first A2 module building on the key ideas and knowledge covered in AS. The properties of waves are covered, gravitational and electric fields are introduced, as are the magnetic effects of currents. Candidates will also study the practical application of nuclear fission as a source of energy.

A2 Module 5 - Nuclear Instability

This A2 module builds on the ideas introduced in Module 1. Students will gain knowledge and understanding of the present-day views of the particle nature of matter.

A2 Module 6D - Turning Points in Physics

This option is intended to enable key developments in Physics to be studied in depth so that students can appreciate, from a historical viewpoint, the significance of major conceptual shifts in the subject both in terms of the understanding of the subject and in terms of its experimental basis. Many present day technological industries are the consequence of such key developments and the topics illustrate how unforeseen technologies develop from new discoveries.

METHODS OF STUDY

Study methods will include practical work, much of this will be short experiments but some will form part of the assessment and will extend over several lessons. Practical demonstrations, these involve a great deal of thinking and discussion. Some lesson time and quite a lot of homework time is spent on numerical problems. Data logging is a powerful way to make measurements and record data and there will be a number of significant opportunities during the course possibly as part of the practical assessment.

METHODS OF ASSESSMENT

Each module is externally assessed. All questions are compulsory.
At AS level each of the three modules' examination papers are made up from short structured questions.
Practical coursework will be set on some aspect of the AS material, this is internally assessed.
At A2 level the examination papers are made up from short structured questions and multiple choice questions.
The final paper is a synoptic paper made up from structured questions examining material from units 1 to 5.
Practical coursework will be set on some aspect of the A2 material, this is internally assessed.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

• Students should have achieved grade C or above in GCSE Physics or CC in Coordinated Science
• Mathematical skills- Students need to have a grade C or above at GCSE, it is not necessary to be studying Maths at AS level, but the ability to rearrange equations and use a calculator is needed.