Studying Physics gives learners an insight into the underlying nature of our world and its place in the universe. From the sources of the energy we use, to the exploration of space, Physics covers a range of applications of the relationships that have been discovered through experiment and calculation.
National 4/5
The National 4 & 5 Physics courses enable learners to develop a deeper understanding of physics concepts and the ability to describe and interpret physical phenomena using mathematical skills.
In S4, pupils will be working towards gaining a qualification in the Senior Phase. National 4 & 5 courses have three units that pupils must pass to gain an overall award:
* Dynamics & Space * Electricity & Energy * Waves & Radiation
Higher Physics
Entry Requirements
The Higher Physics Course develops learners’ curiosity, interest and enthusiasm for physics in a range of contexts. The skills of scientific inquiry and investigation are developed throughout the Course, and the relevance of physics is highlighted by the study of the applications of physics in everyday contexts. Pupils will build upon their work at National 5 by studying many topics in more details including dynamics, kinematic, space time, the application of particles and waves, electricity and electrical storage and transfer.
Higher Physics consists of 2 full units and 2 half units that pupils must pass to gain an overall award:
* Our Dynamic Universe (full unit) * Particles & Waves (full unit)
* Electricity (half unit) * Researching Physics (half unit)
Assessment
At National 4 pupils will have to pass each individual unit and complete an Added Value Unit which will be graded as a pass or fail. This will involve the pupils having to research a key area of the course and present their findings in a report, poster or presentation.
At National 5 the Course assessment will consist of two components: a question paper (135 marks) and an assignment (20 marks). The overall grade will be calculated by weighting the exam (80%) and the assignment (20%) together.
At Higher the Course assessment will consist of two components: a question paper (155 marks) and an assignment (20 marks). The overall grade will be calculated by weighting the exam (80%) and the assignment (20%) together.
Progression
Successful completion of the Higher course could lead to studying Advanced Higher Physics.
Successful completion of the Physics courses can lead on to further study and/or employment in a huge range of areas. Examples of these include radiography, physiotherapy, civil aviation, medicine, computing, astronomy, construction, audiology, astrophysics, finance, ophthalmics, architecture, surveying, dentistry, and electronics, engineering and sound technology.
