"The important thing is not to stop questioning … One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvellous structure of reality."

Albert Einstein

The world we live in has been completely transformed by the scientific developments of the last 200 years. These developments have been built upon the work of scientists like Isaac Newton, James Clerk Maxwell and Albert Einstein who sought to discover and describe the physical laws that govern this amazing universe we live in. In GCSE Physics, you will have been introduced to some of these people and their discoveries, but A level Physics gives you a closer look and a deeper understanding of the laws of the universe.

What is Physics @ DLD?

Over the course of two years you will explore:

• the different properties of materials; why certain materials are used to make computers, buildings and replacement body parts
• the existence and behaviour of waves; how musical instruments produce their notes
• the wave-particle paradox
• how electricity is created; how early televisions were invented
• how atoms were discovered; what you get when you smash an atom into pieces
• how we have developed theories of the lives of stars and the size of the universe without ever leaving the Solar System.

How is it assessed?

What do I need?

Physics requires an enquiring mind, a desire to see how things work and to uncover the basic rules which govern the universe. You should be a person who never accepts blindly what you are told but always looks for the evidence which backs it up.

Good subject combinations

You need to be comfortable with using Maths as a tool. Although it is not essential to take Maths at A level you will find it a great help - indeed many students study Maths and Further Maths along with Physics. Chemistry and Biology are obvious choices to study alongside Physics if you want to study a science based course at university, Economics if you are thinking of an Engineering or Economics course and Art if you are considering Architecture or Design.

After DLD

Physics trains you to think logically, develop reasoned arguments and look for relevant information in a large amount of data. Some career choices are obvious: physics, engineering, aeronautics, and Architecture for example. However, the skills you will develop are also highly desirable for careers in law, finance and management.

Questions

Can I study the course in one year? YES BUT ONLY IF YOU ALREADY HAVE EXPERIENCE AT A LEVEL OR EQUIVALENT. A ONE YEAR A LEVEL COURSE IS NOT SUITABLE FOR A STUDENT WHO HAS JUST COMPLETED YEAR 11.
Is Easter Revision available? YES