Course at a glance
Examining Board: Edexcel
Next Examination Period: May / June 2023
Exam Specification Code: 9PH0
Coursework Element: None
Practical Element: Yes
Course Fee Includes: Online course materials and tutor support. Additional materials available at extra cost.
Standard Option: Physics A Level
Payment Options: Interest free instalment plans available
Edexcel A Levels are available for study anywhere in the world. Examinations can be taken at any registered examination centre in the world. It is recommended students check with examining centres that the chosen exam is available.
Introduction
This A level course is based on the Edexcel Advanced General Certificate Education; (A-GCE) Specifications for Physics, which became available from 2015 teaching series for first examination in 2017.
The Learning programme for the student, offers choice and scope in regards to the wider study of the sciences. The course follows the core aims of the Edexcel framework, (students can also prepare with this material to sit the Edexcel Examination) which are to:
– Set out a robust and internationally comparable post-16 academic course of study to develop that knowledge, skills and understanding.
– Enable higher education institutions to identify accurately the level of attainment of students.
– Provide a benchmark of academic ability for employers.
This course allows students to go on to Higher Education to study a wide range of science courses, including: physics; mathematics; biology; chemistry and behavioural sciences.
Fast Track A Level Physics Entry Requirements
Although the Fast Track A Level Physics programmes build on the course content of GCSE, it is not necessary to have this qualification before undertaking an A-Level. However, in order to meet the demands of the course, it is recommended that candidates have literacy and communication skills equivalent to C or higher at GCSE. Please note that full tutor support is still provided throughout your course duration.
All students must be 16 years of age or above.
Fast Track A Level Physics Course Duration
1 year.
Study Hours Required
Approximately 350 hours.
Awarding Body
Edexcel A Levels are available for study anywhere in the world. Examinations can be taken at any registered examination centre in the world. It is recommended students check with examining centres that the chosen exam is available.
Examination Information
Students are required to arrange and pay for their examinations and manage the course work element if the subject requires this. Students must check the relevant examination board website for further information and final examination sitting dates for the specification.
All examinations are held during the May / June exam period of every year.
Further information on exam centres can be found here: https://www.oxfordcollege.ac/examination-centres/
Fast Track A Level Physics Course Content
The whole ‘A’ level has THREE (3) specific units of study, which are sub-divided into THIRTEEN (13) THEMES across the SIX (6) Units. The themes of study that cross the spectrum of the learning programme.
In our studies embark on forming an understanding of the complex and necessary concepts, approaches, and elements; through subjects like: the Physicist; Mechanics; Materials, Light, Waves & Particles, Thermodynamics, Quantum, Space, Nuclear Radiation, Gravitational Fields and Oscillation.
The study offers students a depth of knowledge that enables the development of the scientific mind, involving formula, mathematics and other processes that underpin the complexity of physical science and beyond.
Further Reading
Although the course programme is ‘self contained’ the student may wish to obtain further materials in regards to learning. The following materials are in the main useful, but not essential to guide learning: –
Course Exemplars
Exemplars Work with Commentaries
Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Physics
Pearson Education Limited 2014
Textbooks
Andrew Northedge – The Good Study Guide Open University
All of the above can also be obtained in an electronic format.
Assessment
Awarding Body Syllabus
The course has ‘course work’ element and is end loaded as part of the final assessment by a THREE (3) papers across the four syllabus units of learning, that amount to 5.2 hours in total examination time, which are divided into THIRTEEN (13) TOPICS across THREE (3) studied units.
To ensure that the four assessment objectives (AOs) are clearly placed and assessed prior to the final examination, the TMA’s are weighted in accordance with these AO statements below:
AO1: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, processes, techniques and procedures
AO2: Apply knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, processes, techniques and procedures: in a theoretical context, in a practical context, when handling qualitative data, when handling quantitative data
AO3: Analyse, interpret and evaluate scientific information, ideas and evidence, including in relation to issues, to: make judgements and reach conclusions, develop and refine practical design and procedures
Progression
Our Fast Track A Level Physics programmes are eligible for UCAS points, making them a great choice for students aiming to progress to University. UCAS points are awarded according to the grade earned, please see below for details.
A levels are also widely recognised by employers and are useful for students looking to progress their careers or meet requirements for promotion.
UCAS Points Table
A* = 56
A = 48
B = 40
C = 32
D = 24
E = 16