Aims and Philosophy
Through the use of a variety of curricular and extra-curricular activities, the Physics department strives to make a positive contribution to pupils’ general education. We also aim to provide subject specific knowledge and understanding, offering an excellent basis for further study in physics related areas at school, college or university.
Our pupils should achieve:
- Knowledge and understanding of physics principles.
- Problem solving skills.
- Responsible attitudes and effective communication skills.
- Practical abilities associated with investigations in physics.
S1
The pre-Christmas block consists of three major topics:
- Introducing science
- Cells and body bits
- Acids, Alkalis and other Chemicals
The post-Christmas topics are:
- Sight and Sound
- Chemicals and Rocks
- Force and Space
This course allows pupils to develop literacy, communication skills and numeracy skills, to evaluate environmental, scientific and technological issues, and to apply critical thinking in new contexts. It encourages teamwork and the development of scientific skills
Pupils will have the opportunity to work independently and collaboratively in both theoretical and practical situations.
S2
The pre-Christmas block consists of three major topics:
- Physics (Forces, Heat transfer, Electricity and Magnetism)
- Biology (Populations, Plants, Micro-organisms, Variation)
- Chemistry (Elements and Compounds, Chemical Reactions)
The post-Christmas topics are:
- Energy and Sustainability
- Sports Science and Health
- Pollution, Fertilisers and Food
The course allows learners to develop literacy and numeracy skills, to evaluate environmental, scientific and technological issues, and to apply critical thinking in new contexts. It encourages teamwork and the development of scientific skills.
Homework is integrated within the course.
S3
S3 is the final year of the Broad General Education during which pupils continue to develop their practical skills and improve their knowledge of the basic principles of physics. The course contributes to pupils’ general education by drawing their attention to applications of physics in everyday life.
S4
In S4 pupils will build on what they have learned in S3, leading to presentation for National 3, 4 or 5 Qualifications at the end of S4. Further information about the National Qualifications in Physics can be found by using this link: Nationals in a Nutshell
S5/6
Higher Physics
The course consists of three full units, which are internally assessed. Practical skills are assessed internally. Students are also required to sit an end of course external exam.
Advanced Higher
The course consists of two full units and one half unit which are internally assessed. A further half unit is made up of a practical project which is externally assessed. Further practical skills are assessed internally. Students are also required to sit an end of course external exam.