Physics Courses
S3 Physics
Physics is the study of everything from smaller than an atom to the entire universe. During S3 pupils will work on level 4 broad general education then will make a start into National 4 and National 5 work. Staff and pupils will discuss which level will best serve the needs and ability of individual pupils.
There are three units of work studied during S3:
- Waves & Radiation
- Electricity & Energy
- Dynamics & Space
Pupils will continue their broad general education, studying up to level 4 Science. They will then progress towards the National level courses.
S4 Physics
During S4 pupils will still study the same topics as they did in S3, however, by this stage pupils will be working towards either National 4 or National 5. Pupils will sit a prelim exam, covering all of the course from S3 and S4, as well as an investigative research topic. A busy year ahead.
During S4, pupils work on assignments, AVU's and write up experiments in preparation for the Prelims. After the prelims decisions will be made about the level the pupils will be presented at.Then for some the big push towards the final exams.
S5 National Physics
This intensive course covers the whole of National 5 in a single year. Pupils will focus only on National 5, and will ensure that all pupils know what is needed to achieve success.
National 5 Physics during S5 is a very comprehensive course covering all aspects on the course in a single year. To achieve this, pupils attend 6 periods per week.
A combination of practical and theory as well as scope for problem solving, investigations and research, this course is sure to interest everyone.
S5/6 Higher Physics
The higher physics course is full of depth and will be sure to spark the interest of all pupils. From the study of motion to quantum theory, from Einstein's famous equation E=mc2 to electron band theory. Or how about some relativity make your brain sweat?
Our Dynamic Universe
The general aim of this Unit is to develop skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding of our dynamic universe. Learners will apply these skills when considering the applications of our dynamic universe on our lives, as well as the implications on society/the environment. This can be done by using a variety of approaches, including investigation and problem solving. The Unit covers the key areas of kinematics, dynamics and space-time. Learners will research issues, apply scientific skills and communicate information related to their findings, which will develop skills of scientific literacy.
Particles and Waves
The general aim of this Unit is to develop skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding of particles and waves. Learners will apply these skills when considering the applications of particles and waves on our lives, as well as the implications on society/the environment. This can be done by using a variety of approaches, including investigation and problem solving. The Unit covers the key areas of particles and waves. Learners will research issues, apply scientific skills and communicate information related to their findings, which will develop skills of scientific literacy.
Electricity
The general aim of this Unit is to develop skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding of electricity. Learners will apply these skills when considering the applications of electricity on our lives, as well as the implications on society/the environment. This can be done by using a variety of approaches, including investigation and problem solving. The Unit covers the key areas of electricity, and electrical storage and transfer. Learners will research issues, apply scientific skills and communicate information related to their findings, which will develop skills of scientific literacy.
Researching Physics
The general aim of this Unit is to develop skills relevant to undertaking research in Physics. Learners will collect and synthesize information from different sources, plan and undertake a practical investigation, analyse results and communicate information related to their findings. They will also consider any applications of the physics involved and implications for society/ the environment. The Unit offers opportunities for collaborative and for independent learning. Learners will develop knowledge and skills associated with standard laboratory apparatus and in the recording and processing of results.
S6 AH Physics
For the real enthusiast, we can push the pupil's knowledge of Physics to the very limits of man kind's understanding. These complex areas of study are so interesting, that they are still being examined by the best physicists in the world.
Rotational Motion and Astrophysics
This Unit develops knowledge and understanding and skills in physics related to rotational motion and astrophysics. It provides opportunities to develop and apply concepts and principles in a wide variety of situations involving angular motion. An astronomical perspective is developed through a study of gravitation, leading to work on general relativity and stellar physics.
Quanta and Waves
This Unit develops knowledge and understanding and skills in physics related to quanta and waves. It provides opportunities to develop and apply concepts and principles in a wide variety of situations involving quantum theory and waves. The Unit introduces non-classical physics and considers the origin and composition of cosmic radiation. Simple harmonic motion is introduced and work on wave theory is developed.
Electromagnetism
This Unit develops knowledge and understanding and skills in physics related to electromagnetism. It provides opportunities to develop and apply concepts and principles in a wide variety of situations involving electromagnetism. The Unit develops knowledge and understanding of electric and magnetic fields and capacitors and inductors used in d.c. and a.c. circuits.
Investigating Physics
In this Unit, learners will develop key investigative skills. The Unit offers opportunities for independent learning set within the context of experimental physics. Learners will identify, research, plan and carry out a physics investigation of their choice.