AQA A-Level Physics – 7408
Course Leader: Karen de Boer – karendeboer@kba.uk
WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?
Triple Science: Minimum Grade 7 in GCSE Physics and minimum Grade 6 in the other sciences.
Combined Science: Minimum Grade 7–6.
GCSE Mathematics: Grade 6.
Students should have an interest in understanding how the world and universe work, enjoy mathematical problem-solving and be willing to develop their analytical and practical scientific skills.
WHAT WILL I DO?
A-Level Physics develops your understanding of the fundamental principles that govern the universe, from the behaviour of subatomic particles to the motion of galaxies.
You will explore how and why things happen, investigating the forces, energy and interactions that shape the world around us. The course combines mathematical problem-solving, practical investigation and scientific reasoning, helping you develop valuable analytical, evaluative and problem-solving skills.
Practical work is an essential part of the course. You will carry out a range of experiments and investigations, developing your ability to plan experiments, collect and analyse data, evaluate results and draw scientific conclusions.
Physics is an excellent choice for students who are curious about the world around them and are interested in pursuing further study or careers in science, engineering and technology.
COURSE CONTENT AND COMPONENTS
The AQA A-Level Physics course is a two-year qualification covering a range of fundamental and advanced topics.
Topics include:
- Particles and Radiation
- Waves
- Mechanics and Materials
- Electricity
- Further Mechanics and Thermal Physics
- Fields and Their Consequences
- Nuclear Physics
- Astrophysics
Through these topics, you will investigate the behaviour of matter and energy, explore the principles behind electricity and magnetism, and develop an understanding of the physical laws that govern the universe.
Practical Work
Practical investigation is an important part of A-Level Physics. Students complete 12 required practical activities throughout the course, developing essential experimental and data-analysis skills.
These activities help you to:
- Plan and carry out scientific investigations.
- Use scientific equipment accurately and safely.
- Collect, process and analyse experimental data.
- Evaluate results and identify sources of error.
- Apply practical knowledge to examination questions.
Students also complete a separate Practical Endorsement, which assesses their practical competency throughout the course.
ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK
AQA A-Level Physics is assessed through three written examinations at the end of Year 13.
Paper 1
- 2 hours
- 34% of the final A-Level grade
- Covers topics 1–5, including relevant practical skills.
Paper 2
- 2 hours
- 34% of the final A-Level grade
- Covers topics 6 and 7, alongside relevant topics from earlier in the course.
Paper 3
- 2 hours
- 32% of the final A-Level grade
- Section A: Practical skills and data analysis.
- Section B: Astrophysics option.
Practical Endorsement
Alongside the written examinations, students complete the AQA Practical Endorsement. This is assessed separately and reported as a Pass or Not Classified. It does not contribute to the final A-Level grade.
Independent Study
Students are expected to complete approximately 6–8 hours of independent study each week, as directed by their teachers. This includes pre-reading, consolidating work covered in lessons and completing examination practice tasks.
PROGRESSION – WHAT CAN I DO AT THE END OF THE COURSE?
A-Level Physics provides excellent preparation for university courses and careers across a wide range of scientific and technical fields.
Students may progress to university courses and careers in areas such as:
- Physics and Astrophysics
- Engineering
- Aerospace and Space Science
- Medical Physics
- Computer Science and Data Science
- Mathematics
- Technology and Research
The mathematical, analytical, practical and problem-solving skills developed through Physics are highly valued by universities and employers, providing a strong foundation for further study and future careers.