AS Physics
AS PHYSICS CIE 9702
Entry Guidance
AS Physics is for students who have an interest in Physics or who require the course for their further studies. The course is offered for students who have achieved a B grade or higher in IGCSE Physics or a comparable course.
What the course leads to
A-Level Physics gives access to a large range of university courses and majors. It is a required course for degrees in Engineering and most sciences, and it is also essential for degrees in Cosmology, Materials Science, and Electronics. Careers in scientific research and in emerging technologies, such as Nanotechnology, Quantum Information and Communication Systems, depend on a solid foundation in Physics.
Course Aims
The course aims to:
- Provide a good foundation for future study of science or engineering
- Give a thorough introduction to the study of physics and introduce the physical characteristics of the universe
- Enable students to become confident citizens in a technological world and to make informed decisions in scientific matters
- Develop practical skills including a concern for accuracy and precision, objectivity and initiative, integrity and the skills of inquiry
- Stimulate interest in Physics so students enjoy and are satisfied with their studies
- Enable students to recognise the usefulness and limitations of the scientific method and to appreciate its applicability in other disciplines and in everyday life
- Develop the awareness in students that the implications of physics may be both beneficial and detrimental to the individual, the community and the environment
Course Content
AS Physics students will study and be assessed on the following topics:
- Physical quantities and units
- Measurement techniques including uncertainty
- Kinematics
- Dynamics
- Forces, density and pressure
- Work, energy and power
- Deformation of solids
- Waves
- Superposition
- Electric fields
- Current of electricity
- D.C. circuits
- Particle and nuclear physics
Course Assessment
In May/June, students will sit an externally assessed examination, consisting of three papers:
- Paper 1 is a multiple-choice paper worth 31% of the AS Level
- Paper 2 is a structured question paper worth 46% of the AS Level
- Paper 3 is a practical paper worth 23% of the AS Level
Opportunities for Enrichment
Students are encouraged to complete Physics extended projects and to engage in learning science beyond the classroom. Students can also participate in the Physics Olympiad and Physics Projects Club.
