Physics
At Lancaster Girls’ Grammar School, Physics is taught as a dynamic and intellectually rich subject that helps students make sense of the universe around them. From the forces that govern motion to the mysteries of quantum phenomena, our curriculum across Key Stage 3, 4 and 5 is designed to spark curiosity and build a deep understanding of the fundamental principles that underpin the physical world.
Students engage in a wide range of practical investigations, developing skills in observation, measurement, and data analysis. These hands-on experiences are complemented by a knowledge-rich curriculum that encourages analytical thinking and problem-solving. Physics lessons are led by subject specialists who bring abstract concepts to life and help students see the relevance of Physics in everyday life—from the national grid and renewable energy to space exploration and medical imaging.
Physics at LGGS opens doors to a wide variety of careers, including engineering, architecture, medicine, environmental science, and computing. It fosters resilience, creativity and logical reasoning—skills that are highly valued in many fields. Our students thrive in an environment that challenges them to ask big questions, explore innovative ideas, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the power and beauty of Physics.
Key Stage 3
Course Overview
At Key Stage 3 students are introduced to the fundamental concepts of Science, encompassing Chemistry, Biology, and Physics. Students are taught all three science subjects by one teacher, which allows them to see the links between each branch and develop a holistic understanding of science. The curriculum at KS3 aims to provide students with a robust foundation in scientific knowledge, skills, and vocabulary and to inspire a genuine interest in science. At LGGS, we encourage our students to foster curiosity and a love for learning, ensuring that they are equipped with the critical thinking skills necessary for future scientific endeavors. Through engaging and interactive lessons, students explore a variety of topics that help them understand the world around them and develop critical thinking skills.
What can I do to support my child?
In KS3 Science students are explicitly taught how to revise actively. Time is set aside after each cycle of topics to consolidate and allow students to practice their active revision skills. This builds good study habits and puts them in a strong position going forwards into KS4 and 5 studies.
We recommend the following strategies to help support your child in their Science studies:
· Encourage regular review of class notes and/or textbooks and revision guides.
· Encourage your child to attend the subject-specific drop in sessions at lunchtime if they have questions or are struggling
· Encourage them to sign up for our peer mentoring system (Science Aid)
Additionally, the following websites have excellent, free resources available to use:
Physics Simulator (good for visualizing phenomena such as electricity)
YouTube channels:
Free Science Lessons (Freesciencelessons - YouTube)
Miss Estruch (Miss Estruch - YouTube)
Malmsbury Science (Malmesbury Education - YouTube)
You will need to search for the topic you need – they are fairly comprehensive.
How will students be assessed?
Topics in KS3 are generally short, so students will be taught three short topics (one topic from each of Chemistry, Biology, and Physics) then sit a combined test on all three. These assessments will help track their understanding and progress in the subject without overloading students by testing too frequently.
Key Stage 4 (GCSE)
Exam Board and details
Exam Board: AQA GCSE Physics (8463)
Specification:
AQA | Physics | GCSE | GCSE Physics
Course Overview
The GCSE Physics course is an exciting journey through the fundamental principles that govern the universe. This course aims to challenge students and ignite their passion for Physics, preparing them for further studies and giving them the tools to understand the world we live in. Through hands-on experiments and engaging lessons, students will develop a deep understanding of the physical world, and the skills needed to think like a physicist. Topics covered in the specification include:
1. Energy
2. Electricity
3. Particle model of matter
4. Atomic structure
5. Forces
6. Waves
7. Magnetism and electromagnetism
8. Space physics
Students will also complete a wide range of practical activities, including a series of ‘required practicals’ throughout the programme of study which illustrate some of the key principles they will encounter. The required practicals are excellent preparation for understanding the scientific method and give students a solid foundation in experimental techniques and data analysis.
How will students be assessed?
Students will be assessed through two written exams at the end of the course:
· Paper 1: Covers topics 1-4 and is 1 hour 45 minutes long, worth 100 marks, and accounts for 50% of the GCSE.
· Paper 2: Covers topics 5-8 and is 1 hour 45 minutes long, worth 100 marks, and accounts for 50% of the GCSE.
Both papers include multiple-choice, structured, closed short answer, and open response questions. An understanding of the required practicals is required for both papers.
Additionally, there will be end-of-topic tests throughout the course to track students' progress and understanding.
Key Stage 5 (A Level)
Exam Board and details
Exam Board: AQA Physics (7408)
Specification:
AQA | Physics | A-Level | A-level Physics
Course Overview
‘Physics is the belief that a simple and consistent description of nature is possible.’ Niels Bohr
Welcome to the thrilling world of A Level Physics at LGGS! This course is designed to push the boundaries of your understanding and take you on a journey through the wonders of the physical universe. From the tiniest particles to the vastness of space, you'll delve into the core principles that explain how everything works.
Core Content:
1. Measurements and their errors: Master the art of precision and accuracy in scientific measurements.
2. Particles and radiation: Explore the fundamental particles that make up the universe and the forces that govern their interactions.
3. Waves: Understand the behaviour of waves and their applications in technology and nature.
4. Mechanics and materials: Dive into the principles of motion, forces, and the properties of materials.
5. Electricity: Uncover the secrets of electric circuits and the flow of electric charge.
6. Further mechanics and thermal physics: Delve deeper into the mechanics of motion and the principles of heat transfer.
7. Fields and their consequences: Explore gravitational, electric, and magnetic fields and their effects on matter.
8. Nuclear physics: Investigate the core of the atom and the processes that power the stars.
9. Astrophysics: understand the universe beyond our planet (this is an option, chosen by the school)
Practical Endorsement: Experiment design and interpretation is crucial in Physics, and the A Level Physics course places significant emphasis on developing strong practical skills. As part of their practical work, students will complete a series of required practical activities that will be assessed by their teachers. These practical skills are not directly assessed in the written exams but are essential for developing a deep understanding of the subject. The practical endorsement is reported separately on the A Level certificate and is based on direct observation of students' competency in a range of practical skills, including:
· Using appropriate apparatus to record measurements (mass, time, volume, temperature)
· Using a range of equipment and techniques to conduct experiments
· Analysing and interpreting data
· Evaluating methods and suggesting improvements
How will students be assessed?
Students will be assessed through three written exams at the end of the course:
· Paper 1: Covers sections 1-5 and 6.1 (Periodic motion). The exam is 2 hours long, worth 85 marks, and accounts for 34% of the A Level.
· Paper 2: Covers sections 6.2 (Thermal physics), 7, and 8. The exam is 2 hours long, worth 85 marks, and accounts for 34% of the A Level.
· Paper 3: Covers practical skills and data analysis (section A) and the astrophysics topic (section B). The exam is 2 hours long, worth 80 marks, and accounts for 32% of the A Level.
Both Papers 1 and 2 include short and long answer questions, while Paper 3 includes questions on practical techniques, data analysis, and the chosen option.