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Physics

Dr P Smith (Head of Team)psmith@conyers.org.ukMr S Maddensmadden@conyers.org.uk
Mr R Brownrbrown@conyers.org.ukMrs R Hillrhill@conyers.org.uk

Key Stage 5 Curriculum Map

Curriculum Intent

Enthuse and engage each and every student with science and the scientific world.
Students appreciate how the theories and concepts they are studying relate to their everyday life and how science enriches wider society
To equip and develop, within students, a wide variety of transferable skills that meet their whole-life learning needs.

Key Knowledge and Skills

Key knowledge areas in which all pupils are expected to have developed an appreciation are:


measurement and their errors; particles and radiation; waves; mechanics and materials, electricity, thermal physics, further mechanics, fields, nuclear physics, astrophysics.
Students should, within the context of these areas, be able to:
Use conceptual models and theories to make sense of the observed natural phenomena, giving comprehensive explanations of said phenomena using a wide range of appropriate scientific ideas, language, mathematical skills, knowledge and understanding.
Plan, carry out, draw conclusions and evaluate the validity of practical laboratory work;
Use appropriate mathematics to support problem solving, analysis and the drawing of robust conclusions.
Evaluate the impact on the environment, and society, of physics.

Sequence Discussion

‘Measurements and their errors’ is covered first to ensure students are equipped with the fundamental mathematical and practical skills required to successfully complete the course. The course then covers topics 2-5 (identical to the AS qualification) with remaining topics being taught following the Y12 end of year assessment and into Y13. The order of the topics allows for Y12 knowledge to be revisited as it is built upon in Y13 topics, affording students the opportunity to retrieve key information from earlier in the course. Practical Skills are developed throughout the course with scaffolding gradually being removed to promote independence.

Year 12

Half Term 1

Measurements and their errors
Particles
Waves

Half Term 2

Particles
Waves

Half Term 3

Electricity
Mechanics

Half Term 4

Electricity
Mechanics

Half Term 5

Thermal & Gasses
F. Mechanics

Half Term 6

Thermal & Gasses
F. Mechanics

Year 13

Half Term 1

SHM
Gravitational fields

Half Term 2

Capacitors
Nuclear

Half Term 3

Magnetic Fields
Astrophysics

Half Term 4

Astrophysics
(review)