What will students study in Physics this year? Exam Board: OCR A

Over the two-year course you will learn:

• Module 1 - development of practical skills in physics
• Module 2 - foundations of physics
• Module 3 - forces and motion
• Module 4 - Electrons, waves and photons
• Module 5 - Newtonian world and astrophysics
• Module 6 - particles and medical physics

There is a large practical component to A Level Physics and students will complete regular practical work throughout the course where their ability to follow complex instructions, risk assess, analyse, evaluate and research will be greatly enhanced.

What are the major assessments this year?

Students will sit in-school exams at the end of each term, as well less formal ongoing assessments within lessons.

External exams (A Level exams) will be sat at the end of the year 13 in the Summer Term

What do assessments test?

The in-school assessments will assess the content that has been taught up till that point in the course.

The Final exams consist of three separate exams

• Paper 1 assesses content taught in the first year
• Paper 2 assesses content taught in the second year
• Paper 3 assesses content from both years

What are the expectations of my child in A Level Physics?

All students are expected to attend all lessons and complete all class work and homework to a good standard. If a student misses school for any reason they will be expected to catch up with any work missed. Students are expected to spend 10 hours a fortnight working outside of lessons: revising previous content, practising past papers, and reading around the subject

What should students do if they are struggling in Physics?

If a student is struggling with the course they can speak to their class teachers or speak to Mr Elstone, Director of Physics. Regular completing of past paper questions, available to download on the OCR website, will allow your child to practise answering exam questions and build confidence.

How can I best support my child in Physics?

You can support your child throughout the course by encouraging them to complete all work to a good standard and on time. Asking your child questions from their work will also help them to be able to recall definitions, key concepts and equations. Show an interest in what they are studying at school and encourage them to talk about what they have been learning.

Whom should I contact for further advice or information?

If you would like any further advice or information please contact Mr Elstone, Director of Physics: aelstone@carshaltongirls.org.uk