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Physics

Studying physics at secondary school and sixth form is essential because it helps us understand the fundamental principles that govern the universe—from the motion of planets to the behaviour of atoms. It sharpens our problem-solving skills, encourages logical thinking, and nurtures curiosity about how things work. Physics is not just about equations; it’s about exploring the “why” behind everyday phenomena. Pursuing physics can lead to exciting careers in engineering, medicine, environmental science, space exploration, and cutting-edge technology like quantum computing and renewable energy. It opens doors to a future where you can help shape the world through innovation and discovery.

Physics is studied by all pupils from Years 7 to 11.

Aims

In the department we aim to stimulate curiosity and provide a positive atmosphere for the girls to hypothesise, take risks and succeed.

  • To use experimentation and modelling to develop explanations.
  • To encourage critical and creative thinking.
  • To develop the pupils’ scientific literacy, allowing them to make decisions based on scientific understanding and questioning the reliability and validity of evidence presented to them.
  • To encourage pupils to apply their scientific understanding throughout the school especially in other STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Maths) subjects.

Curriculum and Assessment Maps

Here’s a more cohesive and parent-focused version of your message:

Supporting Your Child’s Physics Journey in Year 7

In Year 7, pupils begin their exciting journey into physics by exploring three engaging topics across the academic year. Each topic is framed around a Big Question, designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding of key scientific concepts.

Every lesson is carefully structured to build the knowledge and skills needed to confidently answer the Big Question by the end of the topic. To support this learning, pupils will also be given homework tasks that encourage independent research and critical thinking—helping them take ownership of their learning.

At the end of each topic, pupils will complete an assessment that includes a mix of short-answer questions and an extended writing task. This allows them to demonstrate both their factual understanding and their ability to explain and apply what they’ve learned in a meaningful way.

Due to the hands-on, practical nature of many lessons, some titles listed below may take more than one lesson to complete. This flexibility ensures pupils have the time they need to fully engage with experiments and investigations.

We’re excited to support your child as they develop their scientific thinking and curiosity throughout the year.

Lessons overview

Autumn Term

 Lessons overview

Spring Term

 Lessons overview

Summer Term
The Big Question explored in the topic of Forces:

What would it take to walk, run or jump on every planet in our Solar System?

1. Speed

2. Forces

3. Resistive forces p1

4. Resistive forces p2

5. Opposing forces

6. Resultant forces

7. Weight and mass

 The Big Question explored in the topic of Space:

What are the possibilities of Alien Life in our galaxy?

 

 

1. The night sky, stars and galaxies

2. Planets and the solar system

3. The Earth

4. The Moon

5. Gravity

 The Big Question explored in the topic of Electricity: Explain common warning hazard signs associated with electricity.

1. Static electricity

2. Making circuits

3. Electric current

4. Voltage

5. Resistance

6. Ohms Law
Assessment: mixture of short answer question and extended writing task answering the Big Question in Forces Assessment: mixture of short answer question and extended writing task answering the Big Question in Space Assessment: mixture of short answer question and extended writing task answering the Big Question in Electricity

Here’s a home-friendly list of online resources for Year 7 students studying electromagnetism, waves, simple machines, elasticity, and motion graphs, all aligned with the UK curriculum and ideal for independent or supported learning at home:

Forces – Learn and Explore at Home

  • Oak National Academy – Forces
    Free video lessons and quizzes that explain how forces like gravity and friction work. Great for watching together and discussing.
    Visit Oak Academy Forces
  • BBC Teach – Forces Activities
    Short videos and simple experiments you can try at home using everyday items.
    Explore Forces with BBC Teach

Space – Discover the Universe

  • BBC Bitesize – Space
    Interactive pages with animations and quizzes about the solar system, stars, and gravity.
    Explore Space on Bitesize
  • NASA Space Place
    A colourful, kid-friendly site with games, facts, and DIY space crafts. Perfect for curious minds!
    Visit NASA Space Place

Electricity – Bright Ideas for Learning

  • BBC Bitesize – Electricity
    Easy-to-understand explanations of circuits, current, and voltage, with fun quizzes to test knowledge.
    Learn Electricity on Bitesize
  • EdPlace – Year 7 Electricity Worksheets
    Interactive worksheets and revision activities that can be done independently or with a parent.
    Try EdPlace Electricity

These resources are all free or offer free content, and they’re designed to be engaging and accessible for students learning at home.

Supporting Your Child’s Physics Journey in Year 8

In Year 8, pupils continue their exciting journey into physics by exploring three engaging topics across the academic year. Each topic is framed around a Big Question, designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding of key scientific concepts.

Every lesson is carefully structured to build the knowledge and skills needed to confidently answer the Big Question by the end of the topic. To support this learning, pupils will also be given homework tasks that encourage independent research and critical thinking—helping them take ownership of their learning.

At the end of each topic, pupils will complete an assessment that includes a mix of short-answer questions and an extended writing task. This allows them to demonstrate both their factual understanding and their ability to explain and apply what they’ve learned in a meaningful way.

Due to the hands-on, practical nature of many lessons, some titles listed below may take more than one lesson to complete. This flexibility ensures pupils have the time they need to fully engage with experiments and investigations.

Lessons overview

Autumn Term

 Lessons overview

Spring Term

 Lessons overview

Summer Term
The Big Question explored in the topic of Electromagnetism: you’ve been commissioned by a small village in the UK to ensure they have electricity that is cheap and available all year round. What would it take to do this?

 

1- Circuit models

2- Magnetic fields

3-Electromagnetism

4- Generating electricity

5- Renewable and non-renewable energy sources

6a-Paying for electricity – Power

6b-Paying for electricity – Bills

 The Big Question explored in the topic of Waves:

Describe the day of an Alien species that can hear in the range of 20-50,000 Hz and can see visible light as well as UV and infrared.

1. Sound Introduction.

2. Reflection, Absorption and the Speed of Sound.

3. Ultrasound

4. Sound and Light

5. Reflection

6.  Lenses and the eye

7. The retina and film

9. Coloured light

10. Coloured Objects and Filters

11. Water waves and superposition

 The Big Question explored in the topic of Forces part 2:

You’ve been hired to help design a theme park ride. What do we need to know about forces to design a ride that is thrilling and safe? This question links with the trip to LegoLand.

1. Motion graphs

2. Changing motion

3. Work done and deformation

4. Hooke’s law

5. Levers and moments

6. Moments and balance

7. Simple machines
Assessment: mixture of short answer question and extended writing task answering the Big Question in Electromagnetism Assessment: mixture of short answer question and extended writing task answering the Big Question in Waves Assessment: mixture of short answer question and extended writing task answering the Big Question in Forces part 2

Here’s a home-friendly list of online resources for Year 8 students studying electromagnetism, waves, simple machines, elasticity, and motion graphs, all aligned with the UK curriculum and ideal for independent or supported learning at home:

Electromagnetism

  • BBC Bitesize – Electromagnets
    Clear explanations, animations, and quizzes on magnetic fields, electromagnets, and their uses.
    Explore Electromagnets on Bitesize
  • PhET Interactive Simulations – Magnet and Electromagnet
    A hands-on virtual lab where students can explore how electromagnets work.
    Try the Simulation

Waves

  • BBC Bitesize – Waves
    Covers sound and light waves, wave properties, and the electromagnetic spectrum.
    Learn About Waves
  • Quizizz – Year 8 Waves Worksheets
    Printable worksheets and interactive quizzes to reinforce wave concepts.
    Explore Waves on Quizizz

Simple Machines

  • BBC Bitesize – Forces and Machines
    Introduces levers, pulleys, and gears with animations and real-life examples.
    Learn About Simple Machines
  • PhET Simulation – Balancing Act
    A fun simulation to explore levers and balance using virtual objects.
    Try Balancing Act

Elasticity

  • BBC Bitesize – Forces and Elasticity
    Explains stretching, compression, and Hooke’s Law with interactive content.
    Explore Elasticity
  • PhET Simulation – Hooke’s Law
    Experiment with springs and measure force and extension in a virtual lab.
    Try Hooke’s Law Simulation

Motion Graphs

  • BBC Bitesize – Distance-Time Graphs
    Teaches how to read and interpret motion graphs with examples and quizzes.
    Learn About Motion Graphs
  • PhET Simulation – Graphing Motion
    A visual tool to help students understand how motion is represented graphically.
    Try Graphing Motion

Supporting Your Child in Year 9 Physics: Building Strong Foundations for GCSE Success

In Year 9, pupils begin their GCSE Physics journey by focusing on three of the most fundamental topics: Energy, The Particle Model of Matter, and Atomic Structure. These core areas form the foundation for much of the content assessed in the Paper 1 GCSE Physics exam AQA Exam Board in Year 11. To help students become familiar with the exam format early on, we introduce them to simple GCSE-style questions in lessons and through homework. Each student receives a dedicated homework booklet for these three topics, filled with past exam questions to reinforce their understanding and exam technique. Assessments also mirror the GCSE format, using real exam questions to build confidence and familiarity. Alongside content knowledge, we place strong emphasis on developing practical skills, scientific vocabulary, and the mathematical techniques needed to succeed—particularly the ability to substitute into and rearrange equations, which is a crucial skill throughout the course.

Lessons overview

Autumn Term

 Lessons overview

Spring Term

 Lessons overview

Summer Term
Energy topic:

1. Energy Changes and Stores

2a. KE and GPE using PHET simulation

2b. KE and GPE practical

3.  Elastic Potential Energy

3a. Energy calculations

4. Weight and Energy Calculations

5. Forces basics

6. Work done and energy transfer

7. Power

8. Conservation of energy and efficiency

9. Investigation

 10. Conduction

11. Insulation and thermal conductivity (req prac 2)

12. Energy demands

13. Structured research (computer room)

14. Nuclear energy debate + energy resources Qs

Particle Model of Matter topic:

1. Density of solids

2. Density of Irregular solids and fluids

3. Density, convection and conduction

4a. Specific heat capacity equation

4b. Specific heat capacity required practical

5. States of matter

 6. Heating and cooling curves

7. Specific latent heat

8. Pressure in Gases and Solids

9. Gas pressure laws

10. Work done on/by a gas

Atomic Structure topic:

1. The structure of the atom and development of atomic model

2. Radioactive Decay and nuclear radiation

3. Ionising radiation and nuclear equations

Will continue into year 10
Assessment: Mid-Energy Topic Test

Each assessment is followed by a reflection sheet. We highly encourage parents/carers to ask to view the test as well as checking the reflection sheet and reading the comment, which pupils are asked to write following feedback on the assessment.

 Assessment: Whole Energy Topic Test

Each assessment is followed by a reflection sheet. We highly encourage parents/carers to ask to view the test as well as checking the reflection sheet and reading the comment, which pupils are asked to write following feedback on the assessment.

 Assessment: Particle Model of Matter Topic Test

Each assessment is followed by a reflection sheet. We highly encourage parents/carers to ask to view the test as well as checking the reflection sheet and reading the comment, which pupils are asked to write following feedback on the assessment.

Here are some excellent, home-friendly online resources for Year 9 students studying GCSE Physics, specifically the topics of Energy, Particle Model of Matter, and Atomic Structure. These are aligned with the UK curriculum and ideal for independent learning or revision at home:

AQA website for specification and past exam papers: AQA | Physics | GCSE | GCSE Physics

Energy

  • BBC Bitesize – Energy (AQA GCSE)
    Covers energy stores, transfers, efficiency, and conservation with videos, quizzes, and diagrams.
    Explore Energy on BBC Bitesize
  • Seneca Learning – Energy & Efficiency
    Interactive quizzes and revision notes tailored to the AQA GCSE Physics course.
    Learn Energy on Seneca [1]

Particle Model of Matter

Atomic Structure


References

[1] Grade 9 – Energy & Efficiency – Physics: AQA GCSE Higher – Seneca

[2] Particle model of matter – GCSE Physics (Single Science) – BBC

[3] AQA GCSE (9-1) Physics Revision – PMT – Physics & Maths Tutor

Supporting Your Child in Year 10 Physics

In Year 10, pupils continue to build on the strong foundation laid in Year 9, further developing their practical, investigative, and mathematical skills in physics. They become increasingly confident in applying equations to solve problems, a key aspect of success at GCSE level. The year begins by continuing the topic of Atomic Structure, which was introduced at the end of Year 9, and is enriched by integrating the life cycle of stars from the Space topic. Pupils then move on to study Electricity, completing the content required for Paper 1 of the GCSE Physics exam. Following this, they begin the topic of Waves, which also includes elements of the Space topic. Assessment becomes more challenging, with pupils tackling GCSE-style exam questions that are more demanding than those in Year 9. For homework, students continue to receive structured booklets for each topic, filled with past exam questions to reinforce their learning and exam technique. Pupils also have a Common Assessed Homework (CAH), which will be marked by the teacher and feedback provided. We highly recommend that parents/carers ask to see the completed reflection following feedback on this homework task.

Lessons overview

Autumn Term

 Lessons overview

Spring Term

 Lessons overview

Summer Term
Atomic Structure cont:

Recap radioactivity

3. Half life

4. Exposure to radiation

5. Uses for radioactivity (computer room)

6. Fission and Fusion

7. Life cycle of stars

Electricity:

 

1. Potential and current

2. Static electricity

3. Electric fields and static CL Qs

4. Circuit terms & Series circuits

5. Parallel circuits and booklet Qs

 6. Resistance Required Practical (R.P)

7. Resistance R.P analysis

8. Resistance and length R.P

9. Filament lamps R.P

10. LDR and thermistors

11. Power

12. Mains electricity

13. Diodes R.P

14. The National Grid

Waves:

 

1. The Nature of Waves

2. Wave calculations

3. EM Waves

 4. Doppler effect and red-shift

5. Hubble law and the Big Bang

6. Reflection

7. Colours

8. Infrared radiation R.P

9. Backbody radiation and the Earth

10. Refraction

11. Convex lenses

13. Sound waves

Continued in Year 11
Assessment: Atomic Structure Topic Test

Each assessment is followed by a reflection sheet. We highly encourage parents/carers to ask to view the test as well as checking the reflection sheet and reading the comment, which pupils are asked to write following feedback on the assessment.

 Assessment: How Science Works Assessment with Focus on Electricity

Each assessment is followed by a reflection sheet. We highly encourage parents/carers to ask to view the test as well as checking the reflection sheet and reading the comment, which pupils are asked to write following feedback on the assessment.

 Assessment: End of Year 10 Whole School Exams

Each assessment is followed by a reflection sheet. We highly encourage parents/carers to ask to view the test as well as checking the reflection sheet and reading the comment, which pupils are asked to write following feedback on the assessment.

AQA website for specification and past exam papers: AQA | Physics | GCSE | GCSE Physics

Here’s an updated list of useful websites and direct links for Year 10 GCSE pupils to revise Atomic Structure, Electricity, Waves, and How Science Works vocabulary, along with resources for further exploration:

Atomic Structure

Electricity

Waves

  • BBC Bitesize – Waves
    Covers transverse and longitudinal waves, the electromagnetic spectrum, and sound.
    BBC Bitesize – Waves
  • Save My Exams – Waves
    Includes diagrams, worked examples, and exam-style questions.
    Save My Exams – Waves

How Science Works Vocabulary

  • BBC Bitesize – Working Scientifically
    Explains key terms like hypothesis, variables, accuracy, and reliability.
    BBC Bitesize – Working Scientifically
  • Seneca Learning – Working Scientifically
    Interactive quizzes and vocabulary practice.
    Seneca – Working Scientifically


References

[1] Atomic structure – GCSE Physics (Single Science) – BBC

[2] AQA GCSE Physics Topic 4: Atomic Structure Revision – PMT

[3] Atomic Structure | AQA GCSE Physics – savemyexams.com

Supporting Your Child in Year 11 Physics

In Year 11, pupils continue to strengthen the practical, investigative, and mathematical skills developed in Year 10, becoming increasingly proficient in applying physics equations and using SI prefixes in their calculations. The year begins by continuing the topic of Waves, which was introduced at the end of Year 10. Pupils then progress to the topic of Forces, where they explore key concepts such as motion, momentum, and pressure, with lessons on orbits and satellites from the Space topic integrated into this unit. The final topic covered is Electromagnetism, which completes the content required for Paper 2 of the GCSE Physics exam. Assessment becomes more rigorous, with pupils tackling more challenging GCSE-style exam questions to prepare them for final exams. Homework continues to be structured through topic-specific booklets, each containing past exam questions to reinforce learning and exam technique. Pupils also have a Common Assessed Homework (CAH), which will be marked by the teacher and feedback provided. We highly recommend that parents/carers ask to see the completed reflection following feedback on this homework task.

Lessons overview

Autumn Term

 Lessons overview

Spring Term

 Lessons overview

Summer Term
Waves Cont:

 

14. Ultrasound

15a. Waves in materials – string

15b. Waves in materials – Seismic waves

16. Waves in water – ripple tank

 

Forces:

 

1. Resultant forces

2. Resolving forces

3. Acceleration (part 1 + R.P)

3. Acceleration (part 2)

4. Circular Motion and Satellites

5. Motion graphs

5. Motion graphs cont

6. Gravity and terminal velocity

6. Gravity and terminal velocity cont

 

 7. Forces and braking

8a. Momentum and conservation of …

8b. Change in mom. And impulse

9. Hooke’s Law (R.P)

10. CoM, moments and gears

11. Pressure in fluids and upthrust

 

Electromagnetism:

 

1. Magnetic fields and electromagnets

2. Uses of electromagnets

3. The motor effect and left hand rule

4. F=BIL and Simple motor

5. Induction

6. Transformers, loudspeaker and microphone

 This term is reserved for any catch up or dedicated revision time.
Assessment: Year 11 Whole School Mock Exams

Each assessment is followed by a reflection sheet. We highly encourage parents/carers to ask to view the test as well as checking the reflection sheet and reading the comment, which pupils are asked to write following feedback on the assessment.

 Assessment: Forces Topic Test

Each assessment is followed by a reflection sheet. We highly encourage parents/carers to ask to view the test as well as checking the reflection sheet and reading the comment, which pupils are asked to write following feedback on the assessment.

 GCSE Public Examinations

AQA website for specification and past exam papers: AQA | Physics | GCSE | GCSE Physics

Here’s a carefully selected list of useful websites and direct links for Year 11 AQA GCSE Physics pupils to revise the topics of Waves, Forces, and Electromagnetism, as well as to develop their How Science Works vocabulary. These include both core revision and opportunities for further exploration:

Waves

  • BBC Bitesize – Waves
    Covers wave properties, electromagnetic waves, sound, and required practicals.
    BBC Bitesize – Waves
  • Physics & Maths Tutor – Waves (AQA)
    Includes summary notes, flashcards, and past paper questions by subtopic.
    PMT – Waves [1]
  • Save My Exams – Waves
    Detailed revision notes, worked examples, and exam-style questions.
    Save My Exams – Waves [2]

Electromagnetism

Forces

How Science Works Vocabulary

  • BBC Bitesize – Working Scientifically
    Covers key terms like accuracy, precision, repeatability, and control variables.
    BBC Bitesize – Working Scientifically
  • Seneca Learning – Working Scientifically
    Interactive and gamified learning of scientific vocabulary and methods.
    Seneca – Working Scientifically


References

[1] AQA GCSE Physics Topic 6: Waves Revision – PMT – Physics & Maths Tutor

[2] Waves | AQA GCSE Physics – savemyexams.com

Welcome to A-Level Physics! Over the course of Year 12, you will be taught by two specialist teachers, with a total of 10 lessons per fortnight. We follow the AQA Physics specification, and your learning will be supported by regular homework assignments using exam-style questions to help consolidate your understanding. You’ll be provided with a textbook on loan, along with access to an online version for flexible study. Assessments will always include past exam questions to prepare you for the real thing. In September, you’ll complete a transition assessment to help bridge the gap from GCSE to A-Level. While taking A-Level Maths is not a requirement, we strongly encourage those who aren’t to make good use of the “Maths for Physics” worksheet we provide. At the end of the year, students will work on producing and presenting an academic poster on a physics area of their choice.

Studying Physics at A-Level opens doors to a wide range of exciting futures—from engineering and medicine to finance, data science, and beyond.

Lessons overview

Autumn Term

 Lessons overview

Spring Term

 Lessons overview

Summer Term
Teacher 1:

Topic 1 – Measurements and error

1. Use of SI units and their prefixes

2. Standard form and HSW vocab

3. Uncertainties

4. Vernier and micrometre

5. Graphs and Error bars

6. Order of magnitude estimates

Topic 2 – Particles and Radiation

1. Constituents of the atom and specific charge

2. Strong nuclear force

3. Alpha and beta decay

4. Particles and anti-particles

5. Annihilation and pair production

6. Four fundamental interactions and exchange particles

7. Feynman diagrams

8. Classification of particles and conservation laws

9. Applying conservation laws

10. Quarks and anti-quarks

11. Photelectric effect

 Teacher 2:

Topic 4 – Mechanics:

1. Scalar and vector addition

2. Resolving vectors

3. Co-planar forces practice

4. CoM and moments

5. Couples and moments practice

6a. Motion graphs – displacement-time

6b. Motion graphs – velocity-time

7. Equations for uniform acceleration (SUVAT)

8. Falling bodies (g by free-fall R.P)

8. Falling bodies cont

9. Terminal velocity and Projectile motion

10. Projectile motion cont

 Teacher 1:

Topic 3- Waves

1. GCSE recap and phare difference

2. Polarisation and Speed of Sound Practical

3. Superposition and interference

4. Stationary and Standing

Practical (standing waves on string)

5. Single slit and diffraction

6. Diffraction grating experiment

7. Refraction (geometry lesson)

8. Snells’s law and TIR

 Teacher 2:

Topic 4 cont

11. Newton’s laws

12a. Momentum

12.b. Elastic and inelastic collisions

13. Work, energy and power

14. Conservation of energy

Topic 5 – Electricity

1. Basics of electricity

2. I-V characteristics and semi-conductors

3. Resistivity, superconductivity and R.P

4 and 5. Resistors in combination

6. Potential divider

7. EMF and internal resistance

8. EMF and internal resistant R.P

 Teacher 1:

 

Topic 4 – Materials

1. Density

2. Hooke’s law

3a. Deformation of materials

3b. Young’s modulus R.P

Posters

 Teacher 2:

Topic 6- Further mechanics – Periodic Motion

1. Circular motion

2. Centripetal force

3. Solving circular motion problems

4. SHM characteristics and conditions

5. SHM graphs

6. Pendulum R.P

7. Spring R.P

8. Resonance

9. Damping

Posters
Assessment: end of topic test on Topic 1 and 2 Assessment: end of topic test on Topic 4 part 1 Assessment: end topic test on Topic 3 Assessment: end of topic test on Topic 4 part 2 and Electricity Assessment: whole school mock examinations Assessment: whole school mock examinations

AQA’s website for Specification and Exam Papers AQA | Physics | A-Level | A-level Physics

Here’s a curated list of helpful links for Year 12 AQA Physics students, covering revision, exploration beyond the curriculum, and careers in physics:

AQA Physics Revision Resources

  1. Physics & Maths Tutor – AQA A-Level Physics
    Topic notes, past paper questions, and mark schemes.
    Visit PMT AQA Physics
  2. Seneca Learning – A-Level Physics (AQA)
    Interactive revision courses tailored to the AQA spec.
    Visit Seneca Learning
  3. Isaac Physics – A-Level Physics Practice
    Problem-solving questions and tutorials to deepen understanding.
    Visit Isaac Physics
  4. Kerboodle – Online textbook and questions

Kerboodle – Sign In

Explore Physics Beyond the Curriculum

  1. PhET Interactive Simulations
    Free simulations from the University of Colorado to explore physics concepts hands-on.
    Explore PhET Simulations
  2. Veritasium

Engaging, well made and professionally made videos on challenging concepts in physics and maths

Veritasium – YouTube

Careers in Physics

  1. Institute of Physics – Careers with Physics
    Explore career paths, real-world stories, and downloadable guides.
    Explore IOP Careers
  2. TutorChase – Career Options with A-Level Physics
    A breakdown of industries and roles where physics is highly valued.
    Read TutorChase Guide

A-Level Courses – Physics Career Opportunities
Insight into research, engineering, and other physics-related careers.
Explore Career Opportunities

The Physics Department at King Edward VI Handsworth School for Girls has chosen Astrophysics as the optional module of A-level Physics.

The A-level Exams assessment structure is below:

Lessons overview

Autumn Term

 Lessons overview

Spring Term

 Lessons overview

Summer Term
Teacher 1:

 

Topic 9 – Astrophysics

0.Recap of GCSE physics of lenses and ray diagrams

1. Refractive telescope

2. Relative merits of refractors and reflectors

3. Optical vs Radio telescopes research

4. Angular resolution

5. CCDs

6. Distances in Astronomy + Retrieval

7a. Magnitude scales

7b. Magnitude scale calculations

8. Wien’s displacement law

9. Stefan’s Law

10. Spectral classes and life cycle of stars

11. HR diagram

12. Supernova, neutron stars and blackholes

13. Doppler effect and red-shift

14. Hubble’s law and Big Bang

15. Quasars and exoplanets

 Teacher 2:

 

Topic 6 – Thermal Physics

1. Heat and Temp, SHC theory

2. SHC prac

3. SLH prac

4. Gas laws

5. Gas laws R.P

6. Kinetic theory

7. Work done on/by a gas

Topic 8 – Nuclear Physics

1: Rutherford

2: Nuclear radius

3: Radius and density

4: Background and GCSE Recap types of radiation

5: More about alpha beta gamma

 Teacher 1:

 

Topic 7- Gravitational fields

1. Gravitational fields and potential

2. Gravitational forces

3. Escape velocity + Kepler’s Laws

4. Satellites and energy consideration

Topic 7 – Electric fields

5. Coulomb’s Law

6. Electric Field Strength

7. Electric Potential

7. Electric potential cont + summary of gravitational and electric fields

Topic 7 – Magnetic Fields

11. Magentic Flux Density + R.P

12. Moving charges in a magnetic field + motors

 Teacher 2:

 

Topic 8 – Nuclear Physics cont

6: Inverse gamma

6a: Inverse gamma practical (demo) analysis

7: Half life and decay constant

8: Density and instability

9: Instability pt 2 (MD & BE)

10: At the power station

11: Evaluating the risks

 Teacher 1:

 

Topic 7 – Magnetic fields cont

13. Faraday and Lenz’s laws

14. Generators and transofmers

15. AC and DC

16. Search coil R.P

 Teacher 2:

 

Topic 7 – Capacitors

8 + 9. Capacitance and parallel plate capacitor and energy stored in capacitors

8 + 9. Capacitance and parallel plate capacitor and energy stored in capacitors

10. Charge and dischanrge  / Required Practical
Assessment: Astrophysics end of topic test Assessment: Thermal Physics end of topic test Assessment: whole school mock examinations Assessment: whole school mock examinations Assessment: Fields end of topic test Assessment:

Nuclear end of topic test

AQA’s website for Specification and Exam Papers AQA | Physics | A-Level | A-level Physics

Here’s a curated list of helpful links for Year 13 AQA Physics students, covering revision, exploration beyond the curriculum, and careers in physics:

AQA Physics Revision Resources

  1. Physics & Maths Tutor – AQA A-Level Physics
    Topic notes, past paper questions, and mark schemes.
    Visit PMT AQA Physics
  2. Seneca Learning – A-Level Physics (AQA)
    Interactive revision courses tailored to the AQA spec.
    Visit Seneca Learning
  3. Isaac Physics – A-Level Physics Practice
    Problem-solving questions and tutorials to deepen understanding.
    Visit Isaac Physics
  4. Kerboodle – Online textbook and questions

Kerboodle – Sign In

Explore Physics Beyond the Curriculum

  1. PhET Interactive Simulations
    Free simulations from the University of Colorado to explore physics concepts hands-on.
    Explore PhET Simulations
  2. Veritasium

Engaging, well made and professionally made videos on challenging concepts in physics and maths

Veritasium – YouTube

Careers in Physics

  1. Institute of Physics – Careers with Physics
    Explore career paths, real-world stories, and downloadable guides.
    Explore IOP Careers
  2. TutorChase – Career Options with A-Level Physics
    A breakdown of industries and roles where physics is highly valued.
    Read TutorChase Guide
  3. A-Level Courses – Physics Career Opportunities
    Insight into research, engineering, and other physics-related careers.
    Explore Career Opportunities

Further information

The Department boasts a wide range of experience. Current staff are:-

  • Mrs P Ijakipour (Subject Leader)
  • Miss J Merrick
  • Mr A North
  • Mr J Parkin
  • Mr C Trotter (Assistant Headteacher)
  • Mr A Lock (Physics Technician)

Physics opportunities parents can provide:

please refer to the links provided under the table containing lesson overview

An A-level in Physics can lead to a variety of courses at university such as Geophysics, Architecture, Computer Science, Finance and Economics, Materials Science etc. as well as the more traditional routes into Physics, Astronomy and Engineering.

One possibly appealing aspect of studying Physics at university is the diversity of physics careers, which are not set in any one direction. Physics graduates have skills that are in high demand in diverse sectors. These include skills relating to numeracy, problem-solving, data analysis and the communication of complex ideas, as well as a wider understanding of how the world works, on a scientific and human level.

This highly transferable and valued skillset also means physics graduates earn more. According to the Institute of Physics (IOP) those with a BSc in Physics earn 14% more than other graduates, and this increases to 18% more for those with a Master of Physics (MPhys).

Physics graduates are in demand in many industries such as research, education, finance, automotive and aerospace industries, defence, the public sector, healthcare, energy, materials, technology, computing and IT, meteorology.

Physics opportunities outside of lessons:

  • Science club for years 7 and 8.
  • STEM club for Key Stage 4 and 5
  • Regular external competitions advertised on the notice boards
  • Activity day trip to GCSE Live (y10)
  • STEM activity day events (y9)
  • Birmingham University evening lecture series
  • EDT Headstart courses for y12
  • Nuffield Bursary placements in y12
  • Library:
    • Periodicals: Physics review, New Scientist magazine, FLIPSIDE,
    • Books: Bad Science, Alice in Quantum Land, and many others
Contact us…

King Edward VI Handsworth School,
Rose Hill Road, Birmingham B21 9AR

T: 0121 554 2342

E: office@han.kevibham.org

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