Students are expected to attend all timetabled classes.
Background study and basic definitions
Particles I: The structure and properties of atoms
Particles II: The sub-atomic regime
Introduction to quantum phenomena e.g. the photo-electric effect
Radioactivity
Nuclear processes
Electricity and electric circuits
Electric fields and forces
Magnetic fields and forces
Waves I: Mathematical descriptions
Waves II: Electromagnetic waves
Waves III: Properties of optics including reflection, refraction and diffraction
Introduction to thermodynamics
The laws of gases
1. To provide the students with the knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of particle physics, electricity, magnetism, waves, thermodynamics, and gravitation in preparation for undergraduate study.
2. To develop students’ awareness of the applications of physics in real situations.
3. To develop modelling and problem solving skills as well as communicate effectively using scientific concepts and language.
Lectures accompanied by workshops, group work, in-class tests and problem-solving scenarios. Practical demonstrations with student contributions will also be included in classroom activities. Formative assessment will be ongoing and will comprise activities that enable a student to appraise their own learning and guide them towards the development of self-study.
LO1 Describe physical phenomena in terms of geometrical, pictorial, and mathematical models.
LO2 Perform calculations to describe and make predictions about physical systems.
LO3 Record data and perform data analysis in order to investigate selected theoretical concepts studied in the module.
LO4 Select and apply suitable methods and techniques to solve problems.
Component
Weighting %
Learning outcome(s) assessed
Assessment category
1
Coursework 1200 words
50%
3 and 4
Coursework
2
Online Exam 1 hour
50%
1 and 2
Online MCQ
Reassessment will use the same mode of assessment.
Breithaupt, J. (2015). AQA Physics: A Student's Book. (2nd ed.). Nelson Thornes
Dole, P.R. and Fardo, S.W. (2008). Electricity and Electronic Fundamentals. (2nd ed.). The Fairmont Press
Frankel, T. (2012). The Geometry of Physics: An Introduction. (3rd ed.). Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press
Lowe, T.L. and Rounce, J.F. (2002). Calculations for A Level Physics. (4th ed.). Nelson Thornes