Physics

Introduction

Physics is the study of our world and the universe around us – it explores why and how things behave as they do. Understanding physics has led to many exciting advances in technology that have helped our society and the environment. What will physics help you achieve?

Staff

Mr. G. Ghatoray, Physics

Mr. J. Menzies, Physics (NQT)

Mr. A. Roberston, Physics (NQT)

Ms. F. Wilson, Physics

Curriculum

Broad General Education

 

In S1 and S2, you will study a combined science curriculum which allows pupils to develop their interest in and understanding of the living, material and physical world. This includes looking at Forces, Space, Electricity and Vibrations and Waves.

 

You will be given opportunities throughout the course to demonstrate your understanding in collaborative and investigative activities, and are assessed through a range of means. The course aims to help you develop key scientific literacy, numeracy and practical skills, enabling you to become a scientifically literate citizen with a lifelong interest in science.

 

In S3 you will have chosen to specialise in physics. You will continue to develop an understanding of key concepts in physics including Waves, Radiation and Electricity.

 

Senior Phase

 

In S4 you will study physics under different topics at National 4 or National 5 level:

  • Waves
  • Radiation
  • Electricity
  • Properties of Matter
  • Dynamics
  • Space

Pupils will also complete a practical assignment allowing them to demonstrate their research, practical and report writing skills within physics.

 

At Higher level, you will continue to develop your interest and understanding of physics and relevant skills under the following units:

  • Our Dynamic Universe
  • Particles and Waves
  • Electricity

Pupils will also complete a practical assignment allowing them to demonstrate their research, practical and report writing skills within physics.

 

 

Advanced Higher physics gives you the chance to develop a critical understanding of the role and applications of physics within science and the world of work through the following units:

  • Rotational Motion and Astrophysics
  • Quanta and Waves
  • Electromagnetism

Pupils will also complete an experimental project allowing them to demonstrate their research, practical and report writing skills within physics.

Learning Experiences

Pupils will take part in a variety of learning opportunities in the classroom including experimental work, classroom discussions, group tasks, problem sets, research tasks and scientific investigations.

Pupils will be supported and challenged by staff to maximise their potential within physics.

Life and Work

Physics will allow you to explore careers in:

  • Architecture
  • Communications
  • Computer Science
  • Electrician
  • Engineering
  • Finance
  • Medicine
  • Meteorology
  • Physics and Astrophysics

As well as careers directly using your physics knowledge, studying physics allows you to develop many transferable skills such as numeracy, communication and problem solving.

Resources

All classroom resources will be posted on relevant Google Classrooms, from S1 – S6.

SQA Physics – links to past papers, course specifications and understanding standards can be found here: https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/45729.html

BBC Bitesize – useful revision tool for exploring key concepts: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zxyb4wx
Scholar – online revision resources, available via GLOW https://scholar.hw.ac.uk/