AS/A Level GCE (for first teaching in 2008) Physics A - H158 H558

Notice

Update to specification

The specification for this qualification has been updated. Vertical black lines indicate a change to the previous printed version. Changes can be found on pages 46.

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Specification (updated February 2008)

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Notice to centres - Revised versions of the specification

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Guide to what has changed

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Specimen assessment materials - All units (updated 11 December 2008)

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Overview

A Level Physics A has been developed for students who wish to continue with a study of Physics after GCSE. Some students may wish to follow a Physics course for only one year as an AS GCE, in order to broaden their curriculum. Others will continue their course for a further year extending their course to Advance GCE. Such a course will prepare students to progress into further education, to follow courses in Physics, Engineering, one of the other sciences or related subjects, or to enter employment where a knowledge of physics would be useful.

For assessment purposes, knowledge and understanding of key concepts are treated separately at AS; important links between different areas of physics are largely assessed synoptically at A2. While the teaching of practical skills may be integrated with the theoretical topics, they are assessed separately. This allows skills to be developed in a way suited to an individual centre.

Benefits to you and your learners of teaching this qualification

  • This redeveloped specification is based on consultation with QCA, senior OCR Physics examiners and a number of existing OCR customers.
  • The first unit at AS has been designed so that candidates can sit the exam for the first time in January of year 12. Similarly the first A2 unit has been designed so that candidates can sit the exam for the first time in January of year 13.
  • This specification has less emphasis on recall and more on understanding and application.
  • There are no longer optional units within this specification but we have carefully chosen the best features and integrated them within the new units.
  • Assessment outcomes are clear.
  • Throughout the specification suitable practical work is suggested and the aspects of How Science Works covered are signposted.

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