Key Stage 4
Physics stimulates and excites pupils’ curiosity and their interest in the world around them. Through their work in Physics, students begin to understand major scientific ideas, to appreciate how these develop and contribute to technological change. Physics offers pupils the opportunity to take part in a range of practical activities that allow them to link scientific theory to actual experience.
This Specification builds on the knowledge, skills and understanding developed through the Northern Ireland curriculum for science at Key Stage 3. The Specification should help facilitate the study of Physics and related subjects at a more advanced level, for example Advanced Subsidiary Physics and Advanced Physics. For those progressing directly into employment, a GCSE in Physics is relevant not only to the fields of science and engineering, but also to areas of commerce and public service that value problem-solving and practical skills.
The course is divided into 2 units:
Unit 1 Motion, Force, Density and Kinetic Theory, Energy, and Atomic and Nuclear Physics
(Taught in Year 11)
Force and Motion
In this section, pupils investigate the relationship between force and motion. They meet Newton’s first and second Laws of Motion and use the mathematical form of the second Law to carry out calculations. They study graphical methods of describing motion, momentum and how momentum is taken into account when designing the safety features of cars.
Energy
Pupils examine the various forms of energy and the Principal of Conservation of Energy. They study the environmental impact of the use of various energy resources and are introduced to the concept.
Moments
Pupils meet the concept of centre of gravity and explore its effect on the stability of an object. They examine the Principle of Moments.
Radioactivity
In this section, students study the particle structure of both the atom and the nucleus. They examine radioactivity as a consequence of unstable nuclei and study the properties of alpha, beta and gamma radiation. They are introduced to the terms ‘background’ and ‘half-life’. They discuss the damaging effect that nuclear radiations have on our bodies. They learn about fusion and fission as sources of energy.
Unit 2 Waves, Light, Electricity, Magnetism, Electromagnetism and Space Physics
(Taught in Year 12)
Waves, Sound and Light
Pupils are introduced to the two main categories of waves, as well as the terms used to describe the various properties of waves. They study sound and its applications. They explore the electromagnetic spectrum and examine the use of the various types of electromagnetic wave. Students also study the reflection and refraction of light.
Electricity
Pupils study electrostatics and how it is applied in practical situations. They also investigate electrical circuits and draw them using the correct symbols. They examine series and parallel circuits, and investigate the rule for currents and voltages in each type of circuit. They also study the transfer of electrical energy and electricity in the home.
The Earth and Universe
Pupils are introduced to the variety of objects that make up our Solar System. They understand how the objects move and the force that keeps them in orbit. The nebular model of the formation of the Solar System is outlined. The Big Bang and supporting evidence are studied. The layered structure of the Earth and the concept of plate tectonics are also covered.
Assessment
Pupils will be examined by both the assessment of practical skills and THREE Examinations.
Unit 3 which is worth 25% of the total GCSE score, is based on Practical Skills. Pupils will carry out two pre-release practical tasks, each taking one hour for completion, in the final year of study and, in addition, sit a one-hour examination consisting of compulsory, structured questions that include short responses, extended writing and calculations, all set in a practical context.
Unit 1 1 hour and 15 minutes, written examination paper 35%
Unit 2 1 hour and 30 minutes, written examination paper 40%
For both unit 1 and 2 examinations, pupils also answer compulsory, structured questions that include short responses, extended writing and calculations.