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Case studyMillie
Case study
"I've just finished my first year at university studying Astrophysics and I think Oldham Sixth Form really helped me succeed and helped me achieve my goals."
I've just finished my first year at university studying Astrophysics and I think OSFC really helped me succeed and achieve my goals.
Physics (A Level)
- Assessment
- Year 1 & 2
100% Exam - Exam board
OCR - Specific entry requirements
Two Grade 5s in GCSE Science.
*This course cannot be studied as part of a blended programme.
What Will You Learn?
Physics is the most fundamental of all the sciences. You will study the physical properties of objects ranging in size from massive galaxies down to tiny sub-atomic particles. Physics is a challenging subject because it is an exact science, yet good fun because it is lively and practical. You will develop practical skills as you complete a wide variety of experiments, illustrating and exploring the subjects studied.
Modules
Year 1
Module 1: Development of Practical Skills
Physics is a practical subject and this module gives you the opportunity to develop experimental methods and techniques for analysing data.
Module 2: Foundations of Physics
You will learn about the basic ideas that underpin all aspects of the subject. Quantities and units, scalars and vectors are the ideas that run through the very fabric of Physics.
Module 3: Forces and Motion
You will learn how to model the motion of objects using mathematics and understand the effects that forces have on objects. You will explore the link between forces and energy. Newton understood all of this three hundred years ago!
Module 4: Electrons, Waves and Photons
You will learn about electricity and how to build and test electrical circuits.
You will look at the similarities and differences between sound, water and electromagnetic waves. How has quantum physics changed our notion of reality?
Year 2
Module 5: Newtonian World and Astrophysics
Topics in this module include astrophysics, thermal energy, circular motion and gravitational fields.
How can we use physics to understand the origin and ultimate fate of the universe?
Module 6: Particles and Medical Physics
You will learn about electric and magnetic fields and how they are used in everyday life: from loudspeakers to mass spectrometers!
You will study nuclear physics and radioactivity. Both have profoundly changed the world we live in!
You will explore the standard model of particle physics and how we can probe the very structure of matter using particle accelerators. You will also learn how we use physics to diagnose and treat diseases: imaging techniques include X-rays, ultrasound and PET scans.
Special Features
- You will study Physics in a suite of state-of-the-art laboratories full of high technology equipment, including computer data logging equipment.
- You will develop your practical skills and gain a practical endorsement by completing experiments using a wide range of apparatus and techniques.
- You will have the opportunity to enhance your learning through trips. Past trips have included a residential visit to CERN in Geneva, Switzerland and Reykjavik in Iceland.
- Guest lectures from experts in their field are open to all Physics students.
- All students studying a science course are able to become a Science Ambassador. This allows students to take part in events both at college and external trips to local universities and to promote science to younger students from local secondary and primary schools.
Where Will This Lead?
Physics is essential for many Science and Engineering degree courses and particularly useful for careers in astrophysics, architecture and engineering. The skills you will develop are valued by employers, including the ability to construct logical arguments, pay attention to detail and approach problem solving logically.