Boston College

AS and A2 (full A-level)
Physics

INTRODUCTION

This A/ AS level course follows the AQA  Physics A  syllabus and aims to provide an appreciation and understanding of the theories and principles of Physics and to emphasise the relevance of Physics in modern life. You should also develop a scientific approach to solving problems and the skills necessary to work safely with apparatus and experiments. 

WHAT WILL I DO

·     Unit 1 PHYA1 – Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity

·     Unit 2 PHYA2 – Mechanics, Materials and Waves

·     Unit 3 PHYA3x – Assessment of Practical Units

Units 1 and 2 are examined by written exam in year 1 and consist of short answer and structured questions.

Unit 3 will involve the centre assessment of practical and investigative skills. Centres will be required to provide an assessment of practical skills throughout the course. In addition there will be an awarding body set investigative skills assignment (ISA) which will be assessed by centres. There will be an assignment for each module, although only one would need to be completed.

A2 Units and modules: Year 2

·     Unit 4 PHYA4 –

Module 1: Experiences Out of this World

Module 2: What Goes Around Comes Around

Module 3: Imaging the Invisible

·     Unit 5 PHYA5 –

Module 1: Matter under the Microscope

Module 2: Breaking Matter Down

Module 3: Energy from the Nucleus

·     Unit 6 PHA6x - Centre assessed Practical Physics unit

Unit 4 contains structured questions and Unit 5 also includes synoptic assessment and a comprehension question.

Unit 6 will involve the centre assessment of practical and investigative skills. Centres will be required to provide an assessment of practical skills throughout the course. In addition there will be an awarding body set investigative skills assignment (ISA) which will be assessed by centres. There will be an assignment for each module, although only one would need to be completed.

You will have access to well-equipped laboratories and computer facilities during your course.  You will also have a Personal Tutor who will help support your study.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE

AS and A2 (full A-level) courses may be studied on a part-time basis but students must be able to fit into the full-time time table. You can achieve an AS qualification in one year.  The full A Level requires two years of study.

ENTRY QUALIFICATIONS

You should have 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above, with a grade B minimum in GCSE Science and preferably grade B in Maths. (Or equivalent in other qualifications to be discussed at interview).

WHERE COULD IT LEAD

Successful students will have a valuable basis for careers or Higher Education in the fields such as: Science, Engineering, Meteorology, Medical Physics, Materials Science, Electronics, Communications or the Armed Forces.

FEES

Full time Courses are free for those who are under 19 on 31 August of the year they start their course. For others, fees may vary depending on personal circumstances. Please enquire for details.

Full time Courses are free for those who are under 19 on 31 August of the year they start their course. For others, fees may vary depending on personal circumstances. Please enquire for details.

International and EU Students, please contact the International Office on +44 (0)1205 313212 or enquiry@boston.ac.uk for details on Fees.

ADDITIONAL COSTS

Approximate additional costs: £40

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Where courses last for more than one year, only the first year’s fees are shown.

HOW TO APPLY

You can apply for this course using an application form from the College prospectus or from the Information Officer on 01205 313218.

Please note that the majority of courses have a September start date.

For more information, please contact the Information Officer.

The Information on this Course Information Sheet is correct at time of print, but can be subject to change at anytime.