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Physics

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What’s it all about?

A Level Physics gives you the opportunity to explore the phenomena of the universe and to look at theories that explain what is observed. This subject combines practical skills with theoretical ideas to develop descriptions of the physical universe. You will learn about everything from kinematics to cosmology and many recent developments in fascinating topics, such as particle physics. If you are interested in the limits of space, the beginning of time and everything in between this is the subject for you.

Physics is more than a subject – it trains your brain to think beyond boundaries.

A physics experiment offered by the Physics department at Rookwood Private School.

What skills will I need to be successful?

A Level Physics is a mixture of highly conceptual thinking and very practical applications. You need to be able to think about abstract ideas such as fields, but be able to apply those ideas to how, for instance, electric motors work. Getting accurate results from experiments requires practice and competence in the use of lab equipment. Calculations are an important part of A Level Physics so you need to be confident with your maths skills. At the same time descriptive work requires you to communicate clearly on paper requiring a strong level of literacy skills so you are able to write good English that is scientifically accurate. A general interest in science would be helpful. Much of what you learn in Physics will complement A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics.

Where can it take me in the future?

Physics is a highly respected A Level. A good grade in A Level Physics demonstrates to an employer that you have analytical and mathematical skills that you can apply to real life situations. There are many possible career paths that it will create for you, for example: Engineering, Medicine, Forensic Science, Astronomy, Cosmology, Electronics, Power generation, Finance and many more.