Physics
Intent
Physics is the study of energy and matter and their interactions. The Physics courses at AES provide an interesting and challenging experience to link key physical ideas and understand how they relate to each other.
The course aims for all students to:
- develop essential knowledge, understanding and application of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
- understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how Physics contributes to the success of the economy and society
- develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills
- develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
- promote students’ interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject.
Implementation
Physics is a practical subject where students are given frequent opportunities to investigate physical concepts through experimentation. The courses are divided into topics, each topic covering different key concepts of physics. Practical activities are embedded within the theoretical topics, enhancing learners’ understanding of physics and practical skills. Students are continually challenged and moved forward, with curiosity and enquiry encouraged throughout. A wide variety of approaches to teaching are used during lessons, which usually begin with a knowledge review. The use of Bloom’s taxonomy within the assessment framework encourages students to create, evaluate, and synthesise, all helping to broaden and deepen understanding so students can apply their knowledge and understanding in a range of familiar and unfamiliar contexts. Synoptic challenge is provided at key points through the programme. Beyond the specification, students engage with Physics Olympiad competitions. Transferable problem solving, research, decision making, mathematical skills and analytical skills are promoted through individual and group activities.
Impact
Students will:
- Develop confident understanding of Physics knowledge and an ability to apply this knowledge to familiar and unfamiliar situations.
- Develop secure application of specialist Physics vocabulary and methods.
- Prepare for assessment in internal and external examinations
- Gain awareness of career opportunities in engineering, manufacturing, pharmaceutical industries and in areas such as aviation, space, transport, environmental protection, healthcare, law and finance.
- Build key skills in problem solving, research, decision making, mathematical skills and analytical skills.
- Understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues.