Physics

Studying Physics

Our aim is to encourage a genuine interest in, enthusiasm for and enjoyment of Physics, as well as a sound knowledge and understanding of the fundamental concepts. Pupils learn primarily through experimental work. Written work, though important, is minimised with the use of printed gap-fill notes, allowing more time for practical activities. Class discussions are encouraged and topics are chosen to inspire questions. The three-year course covers a range of Physics topics which will form a solid base for GCSE work or simply a useful cross section of the subject for a future in a world which is ever more dependent on Physics and its applications.

Physics in First Year

A brief introduction to simple measurement, including a range of SI units, is followed by an investigation of energy, focussing on energy transfers in everyday objects and the generation of electricity. The Earth and Space module explains how the movement of the earth relative to the sun accounts for day, night and the seasons and asks what is beyond the solar system. In relation to this part of the course, pupils undertake an individual research project in an area of personal interest to them. This advances both their knowledge and familiarises them with the school library. Other topics studied in First Year include forces, magnetism and electricity.

Physics in Second Year

Pupils are introduced to the theories of electrostatics and density. Building on First Year work, more concepts of electricity and electromagnetism are considered and explored through practical activities. Pupils investigate how sound is produced, how it travels and how the ear works. Subsequently, we experiment with light, gaining an understanding of rectilinear propagation and shadows, which leads to the study of eclipses. Pupils make and use a simple pinhole camera and investigate reflection. Colour is studied, including the dispersion of white light to form a spectrum. Also covered is the expansion of matter due to heat and an investigation of how heat is transferred by conduction, convection and radiation. We further develop pupils' independent research skills with a research project about an invention which is presented as a newspaper front page.

Physics in Third Year

Pupils build on prior learning in topics including light, electronics, electricity and forces. This includes study of the eye and the way electricity is used safely in the home, including fuses, the 3-pin plug and alternating current. We return to forces, this time with the focus on Hooke's Law and the idea of direct proportionality. Finally, pupils experiment with the ticker-timer and use it to learn about velocity and acceleration. The independent research project this year focuses on Physics in the present and again pupils are able to choose an area of Physics to explore which is of interest to them.

Clubs and Activities

The department runs an Astronomy Club, the direction of which is led by pupil interest with previous topics including observing planets and stars, using filters and Star Atlases and astrophysics. Pupils have been taught how to use our 10cm reflecting telescope and are allowed to take it home to carry out their own observations. The 3m dish for our radio telescope has now been installed and is ready to use.