Specification at a glance

Assessment overview

Content is in six modules:

• Module 1: Development of practical skills in physics
• Module 2: Fundamental data analysis
• Module 3: Physics in action
• Module 4: Understanding processes
• Module 5: Rise and fall of the clockwork universe
• Module 6: Field and particle

All components include synoptic assessment.

Students must complete all components (01, 02, 03, and 04) to be awarded the OCR A Level in Physics B (Advancing Physics).

Content overview

The six modules are each divided into key topics:

Module 1: Development of practical skills in physics

• Practical skills assessed in a written examination
• Practical skills assessed in the practical endorsement

Module 2: Fundamental data analysis

Module 3: Physics in action

• Imaging and signalling
• Sensing
• Mechanical properties of materials

Module 4: Understanding processes

• Waves and quantum behaviour
• Space, time and motion

Module 5: Rise and fall of the clockwork universe

• Creating models
• Out into space
• Our place in the universe
• Matter: very simple
• Matter: hot and cold

Module 6: Field and particle

• Electromagnetism
• Charge and field
• Probing deep into matter
• Ionising radiation and risk

Students gain practical skills throughout the course. These are assessed in the written examinations and in the practical endorsement (component 04). Activities that could count towards the practical endorsement are indicated in the specification.

Assessment overview

Content is in four modules:

• Module 1: Development of practical skills in physics
• Module 2: Fundamental data analysis
• Module 3: Physics in action
• Module 4: Understanding processes

Both components include synoptic assessment.

Students must complete both components (01 and 02) to be awarded the OCR AS Level in Physics B (Advancing Physics).

Content overview

The four modules are each divided into key topics:

Module 1: Development of practical skills in physics

• Practical skills assessed in a written examination

Module 2: Fundamental data analysis

Module 3: Physics in action

• Imaging and signalling
• Sensing
• Mechanical properties of materials

Module 4: Understanding processes

• Waves and quantum behaviour
• Space, time and motion

Practical skills are embedded throughout all content to enhance students’ theoretical understanding and practical skills.