Description
International A Level Physics provides the foundations for understanding the material world. Scientific understanding is changing our lives and is vital to the world’s future prosperity.
Whilst you will gain a good basis for Physics, you will also learn how to analyse, interpret and evaluate scientific information.
Gaining an A-level in this subject opens up a vast range of opportunities for both university degrees and career options.
Difference between Cambridge & Edexcel Exam Boards
Cambridge and Edexcel A Levels are international qualifications. Cambridge A-Levels can be taken worldwide including the United Kingdom, whereas Edexcel A-Levels can only be taken outside of the United Kingdom. Both Cambridge and Edexcel courses are Full A Level qualifications allowing you to apply to universities internationally.
For the sciences, (biology, chemistry and physics) there are some differences between the specifications. One main difference which will sometimes sway a decision is the assessment:
Edexcel
With Edexcel all of the specification including practical is taught in theory and as a result you will be assessed by written exam papers only.
Cambridge
If you take the sciences with Cambridge, you will have written exams but you will also need to complete practical endorsements. In order to do so, your exam centre will need to cater for both the written and practical exams.
Students will be required to arrange and pay for their examinations / practicals at an approved centre. We can provide an extensive list of these centres for you.
Progression
An A level in Physics can open up a wealth of career paths. These include jobs within the following fields: Medicine and healthcare, Science and research, Aerospace and defence, Engineering, Energy and renewable energy, Meterology and climate change, Telecommunications and Education.
Not only will you gain an understanding for the different areas of Physics the course will also help you develop your problem solving and reasoning skills which are highly valued by employers.
Courses which compliment the A Level in Physics include Chemistry, Computer Science and Mathematics.
Cambridge Specification
Awarding Body: Cambridge
Cambridge Course Code: 9702
Cambridge Exams: June & November (exams also available in March in India)
Cambridge Study Hours: 300 – 360 hours
Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)
This International A’ Level Physics Course with Cambridge builds on the skills acquired at GCSE (or equivalent) 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 assessed in a timetabled practical examination.
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 encourages creative thinking and problem-solving skills which are transferable to any future career path. Cambridge International AS and A Level Physics is ideal for learners who want to study physics or a wide variety of related subjects at university or to follow a career in science.
How will I benefit from the International A Level Physics Cambridge course?
The aims of this course are to enable learners to:
- acquire knowledge and understanding and develop practical skills, including efficient, accurate and safe scientific practices
- learn to apply the scientific method, while developing an awareness of the limitations of scientific theories and models
- develop skills in data analysis, evaluation and drawing conclusions, cultivating attitudes relevant to science such as objectivity, integrity, enquiry, initiative and inventiveness
- develop effective scientific communication skills, using appropriate terminology and scientific conventions
- understand their responsibility to others/society and to care for the environment
- enjoy science and develop an informed interest in the subject that may lead to further study.
Key Concepts
The key concepts for Cambridge International AS & A Level Physics are:
Models of physical systems
Physics is the science that seeks to understand the behaviour of the Universe. The development of models of physical systems is central to physics. Models simplify, explain and predict how physical systems behave.
Testing predictions against evidence
Physical models are usually based on prior observations, and their predictions are tested to check that they are consistent with the behaviour of the real world. This testing requires evidence, often obtained from experiments.
Mathematics as a language, and problem-solving tool
Mathematics is integral to physics, as it is the language that is used to express physical principles and models. It is also a tool to analyse theoretical models, solve quantitative problems and produce predictions.
Matter, energy and waves
Everything in the Universe comprises matter and/or energy. Waves are a key mechanism for the transfer of energy and are essential to many modern applications of physics.
Forces and fields
The way that matter and energy interact is through forces and fields. The behaviour of the Universe is governed by fundamental forces with different magnitudes that interact over different distances. Physics involves study of these interactions across distances ranging from the very small (quantum and particle physics) to the very large (astronomy and cosmology).
Cambridge Physics Content Overview
YEAR 1 – IAS
Candidates for Cambridge International AS Level Physics study the following topics:
- Physical quantities and units
- Kinematics
- Dynamics
- Forces, density and pressure
- Work, energy and power
- Deformation of solids
- Waves
- Superposition
- Electricity
- C. circuits
- Particle physics
AS Level candidates also study practical skills.
YEAR 2 – IA2
Candidates for Cambridge International A Level Physics study the AS Level topics and the following topics:
- Motion in a circle
- Gravitational fields
- Temperature
- Ideal gases
- Thermodynamics
- Oscillations
- Electric fields
- Capacitance
- Magnetic fields
- Alternating currents
- Quantum physics
- Nuclear physics
- Medical physics
- Astronomy and cosmology
A level candidates also study practical skills.
Cambridge Assessment
There are three routes learners can take when completing exams for the Physics course with Cambridge
- AS Level Qualification only – Learners take all AS exam papers (Paper 1, Paper 2 & Paper 3) in one exam sitting.
- Full A Level over 2 years – At the end of year 1, learners take all AS exam papers (Paper 1, Paper 2 & Paper 3) in one exam sitting. In a separate exam sitting at the end of year 2, learners then take all A2 papers (Paper 4 & Paper 5). If learners achieve a pass in all five papers, they will be awarded their Full A Level in Physics.
- Full A Level – Learners take all papers for AS and A2 in one sitting (Paper 1, Paper 2, Paper 3, Paper 4 & Paper 5).
Exam Papers
Paper 1: Multiple Choice
Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Availability: June and November (March in India only)
Assessment Overview: Multiple Choice questions based on the AS Level syllabus content.
40 marks
Paper 2: As Level Structured
Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Availability: June and November (March in India only)
Assessment Overview: Structured questions based on the AS Level Syllabus content
60 marks
Paper 3: Advanced Practical Skills
Time: 2 hours
Availability: June and November (March in India only)
Assessment overview: Practical work and structured questions based on the experimental skills in the Practical assessment section of the syllabus.
40 marks
Paper 4: A Level Structured Questions
Time: 2 hours
Availability: June and November (March in India only)
Assessment Overview: Structured questions based on the A Level syllabus content; knowledge of material from the AS Level syllabus content will be required.
100 marks
Paper 5: Planning, Analysis and Evaluation
Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Availability: June and November (March in India only)
Assessment Overview: Questions based on the experimental skills of planning, analysis and evaluation.
30 marks
Edexcel Specification
Course Code(s): International AS Level Physics XPH11, International A Level Physics YPH11
Edexcel Exams: January, June & October
Edexcel Study Hours: 300 – 360 hours
Pearson Edexcel
This International A’ Level Physics Course with Edexcel will develop and use a range of mathematical skills which support your knowledge and understanding of Physics.
You will also gain experience in a variety of practical techniques and procedures, which will be assessed separately within Unit 3 and Unit 6.
The content is relevant for students who have achieved a GCSE in Physics and who want to study the subject at a higher level. It covers the major topics in Physics, including Mechanics, waves and electricity, thermodynamics as well as associated experimental skills.
How will I benefit from the International A Level Physics Edexcel course?
The aims of this course are to enable learners to develop:
- essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
- a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
- competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem-solving skills
- their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject.
Key Concepts
The key concepts for Edexcel International AS & A Level Physics are:
Structure
The Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Subsidiary in Physics and the Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in Physics are modular qualifications. The Advanced Subsidiary can be claimed on completion of the International Advanced Subsidiary (IAS) units. The International Advanced Level can be claimed on completion of all the units (IAS and IA2 units).
Content
The content is relevant for learners who have achieved an International GCSE in Physics and who want to study this subject at a higher level. The course covers major topics in physics, including mechanics, materials, waves, electricity, fields, thermodynamics, radiation, particles, oscillations and cosmology.
Assessment
Assessment consists of three written papers at IAS level that are externally assessed. The International A level consists of three further written papers that are externally assessed.
Approach
Learners will develop their knowledge and understanding of physics by applying the concepts in this specification to a range of different problems that include a variety of contexts. Problems will require the application of mathematical skills.
Learners will also develop their practical skills. The specification includes 16 core practical activities. The practical activities are assessed through written examinations with Edexcel.
Edexcel Physics Content Overview
YEAR 1 – IAS
TOPIC 1: MECHANICS
1A Motion
1A.1 Velocity and acceleration
1A.2 Motion graphs
1A.3 Adding forces
1A.4 Moments
1A.5 Newton’s laws of motion
1A.6 Kinematics equations
1A.7 Resolving vectors
1A.8 Projectiles
1B: Energy
1B.1 Gravitational potential and kinetic energies
1B.2 Work and power
1C: Momentum
1C.1 Momentum
1C.2 Conservation of linear momentum
TOPIC 2: MATERIALS
2A: Fluids
2A.1 Fluids, density and upthrust
2A.2 Fluid movement
2A.3 Viscosity
2A.4 Terminal velocity
2B: Solid Material Properties
2B.1 Hooke’s law
2B.2 Stress, strain and the Young modulus
2B.3 Stress–strain graphs
TOPIC 3: WAVES AND THE PARTICLE NATURE OF LIGHT
3A: Basic Waves
3A.1 Wave basics
3A.2 Wave types
3B: The Behaviour of Waves
3B.1 Wave phase and superposition
3B.2 Stationary waves
3B.3 Diffraction
3B.4 Wave interference
3C: More Wave Properties of Light
3C.1 Refraction
3C.2 Total internal reflection
3C.3 Polarisation
3D: Quantum Physics
3D.1 Wave–particle duality
3D.2 The photoelectric effect
3D.3 Electron diffraction and interference
3D.4 Atomic electron energies
TOPIC 4: ELECTRIC CIRCUITS
4A: Electrical Quantities
4A.1 Electric current
4A.2 Electrical energy transfer
4A.3 Current and voltage relationships
4A.4 Resistivity
4A.5 Conduction and resistance
4A.6 Semiconductors
4B: Complete Electrical Circuits
4B.1 Series and parallel circuits
4B.2 Electrical circuit rules
4B.3 Potential dividers
4B.4 emf and internal resistance
4B.5 Power in electric circuits
YEAR 2 – IA2
TOPIC 5: FURTHER MECHANICS
5A: Further Momentum
5A.1 Energy in collisions
5A.2 More collisions
5B: Circular Motion
5B.1 Circular motion basics; 5B.2 Centripetal force
TOPIC 6: ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS
6A: Electric Fields
6A.1 Electric fields
6A.2 Radial electric fields; 6A.3 Coulomb’s law
6B: Capacitors
6B.1 Capacitor basics
6B.2 Charging and discharging capacitors; 6B.3 Capacitor mathematics
6C: Electromagnetic Effects
6C.1 Magnetic fields
6C.2 Electric motors; 6C.3 Magnetic forces
6C.4 Generating electricity
TOPIC 7: NUCLEAR AND PARTICLE PHYSICS
7A: Probing Matter
7A.1 A nuclear atom
7A.2 Electrons from atoms
7B: Particle Accelerators and Detectors
7B.1 Particle accelerators
7B.2 Particle detectors; 7B.3 The Large Hadron Collider
7C: The Particle ZOO
7C.1 Particle interactions
7C.2 The particle zoo; 7C.3 Particles and forces
7C.4 Particle reactions
TOPIC 8: THERMODYNAMICS
8A: Heat and Temperature
8A.1 Heat and temperature
8A.2 Heat transfer
8A.3 Internal energy
8A.4 Ideal gas behaviour
TOPIC 9: NUCLEAR DECAY
9A: Radioactivity
9A.1 Nuclear radiation
9A.2 Rate of radioactive decay
9A.3 Fission and fusion
TOPIC 10: OSCILLATIONS
10A: Oscillations
10A.1 Simple harmonic motion (SHM); 10A.2 SHM mathematics
10A.3 SHM energy; 10A.4 Resonance and damping
TOPIC 11: ASTROPHYSICS AND COSMOLOGY
11A: Gravitational Fields
11A.1 Gravitational forces
11A.2 Gravitational fields
11B: Space
11B.1 Starshine; 11B.2 Stellar classification
11B.3 Distances to the stars
11B.4 The age of the Universe; 11B.5 The fate of the Universe
Edexcel Assessment
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Subsidiary in Physics
This qualification consists of three externally examined units. The International Advanced Subsidiary is the first half of the International Advanced Level qualification and consists of three IAS units, Units 1, 2 and 3. This qualification can be awarded as a discrete qualification or can contribute 50 percent towards the International Advanced Level qualification. The qualification will include questions that target mathematics at Level 2 or above (see Appendix 6: Mathematical skills and exemplifications). Overall, a minimum of 40% of the marks across the papers will be awarded for mathematics at Level 2 or above.
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in Physics
This qualification consists of six externally examined units. The International Advanced Level consists of the three IAS units (Units 1, 2 and 3) plus three IA2 units (Units 4, 5 and 6). Candidates wishing to take the International Advanced Level must, therefore, complete all six units. The qualification will include questions that target mathematics at Level 2 or above (see Appendix 6: Mathematical skills and exemplifications). Overall, a minimum of 40% of the marks across the papers will be awarded for mathematics at Level 2 or above.
Exam Papers
Paper 1: Mechanics and Materials
Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes
Availability: January, June and October
Assessment overview:
Section A: multiple choice questions
Section B: mixture of short-open, open-response and calculation questions.
80 marks
Paper 2: Waves and Electricity
Written Examination: 1 hour 30 minutes
Availability: January, June and October
Assessment overview:
The paper may include multiple-choice, short-open, open-response, calculations and extended-writing questions.
80 Marks
Paper 3: Practical Skills in Physics I
Written Examination: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Availability: January, June and October
Assessment overview:
This unit will assess candidates’ knowledge and understanding of experimental procedures and techniques that were developed in Units 1 and 2.50 marks
Paper 4: Further Mechanics, Fields and Particles
Written Examination: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Availability: January, June and October
Assessment overview:
The paper may include multiple-choice, short-open, open-response, calculations and extended-writing questions.
90 marks
Paper 5: Thermodynamics, Radiation, Oscillations and Cosmology
Written Examination: 1 hour 45 minutes
Availability: January, June and October
Assessment overview:
The paper may include multiple-choice, short-open, open-response, calculations and extended-writing questions. Candidates will be expected to apply their knowledge and understanding to familiar and unfamiliar contexts. This paper may contain some synoptic questions which require knowledge and understanding from Units 1, 2 and 4.
90 marks
Paper 6: Practical Skills in Chemistry I
Written Examination: 1 hour 20 minutes
Availability: January, June and October
Assessment overview:
The paper may include short-open, open-response, calculations and extended-writing questions. This unit will assess candidates’ knowledge and understanding of the experimental procedures and techniques that were developed in Units 4 and 5.Candidates will be expected to apply their knowledge and understanding of practical skills to familiar and unfamiliar situations.
50 marks
