Advanced Higher Physics

Why Physics?

This course is designed to provide you with a deeper understanding of the nature of Physics and its applications. It builds on the skills, attitudes and abilities that you have developed at Higher level and provides a challenging experience for those who wish to study the subject in greater depth. The study of Advanced Higher Physics encourages an interest in current developments and applications of physics.

Entry to the course

This is at the discretion of the school but you would normally be expected to have achieved one of the following

·         Higher Physics at Grade B or above.

and

·         Higher Mathematics at Grade B or above.

Course Outline

The course is made up of four compulsory units – two 40 hour units and two 20 hour units.

Mechanics (40 hours)

Topics studied in this unit include

·         kinematic relationships and relatavistic motion

·         angular motion

·         rotational dynamics

·         gravitation

·         simple harmonic motion

·         wave-particle duality.

Electrical Phenomena (40 hours)

Topics studied in this unit include

·         electric fields

·         electromagnetism

·         motion in an magnetic field

·         self inductance

·         forces of nature.

Wave Phenomena (20 hours)

Topics studied in this unit include

·         waves

·         interference – division of amplitude

·         interference – division of wave front

·         polarisation.

Physics Investigation (20 hours)

In this unit you are required to carry out an investigation and produce a report of your findings. This involves planning, organisation, designing experiments, collection and analysis of information.

Core Skills

·         H Problem Solving (Critical Thinking*, Planning and Organising*, Reviewing and Evaluating*)

·         H Numeracy (Using Graphical Information, Using Numbers)

*To be confirmed

Assessment

Units are assessed internally by your teacher/lecturer in accordance with SQA guidelines.

The course is assessed by

·         a written examination, set and marked by the SQA

·         external assessment of the Investigation Report by the SQA.

Progression

Successful completion of this course may lead to:

A Scottish Group Award at Higher in

·         Science

·         Technology

Education (HNC/HND/Degree); Employment in

·         Animals, Land & Environment

·         Armed Services

·         Construction

·         Engineering

·         Health & Medicine

·         Libraries, Museums & Archaeology

·         Manufacturing Industries

·         Performing Arts

·         Science & Mathematics

Further advice and information on these options is available from your subject teacher, guidance teacher/adviser and careers adviser.