Physics

Why study Physics?

Physics in at the heart of everything and is a highly rewarding discipline to study at school, university and beyond.  Physics explores questions such as how did the universe begin?  How will it end?  What is a black hole?  Is time travel possible?

If you have an enquiring mind, always asking why things happen, then Physics will help you find the answer.  It forms the basis of most modern technologies and holds the future to global well being.

At Bradford Girls' Grammar School Physics is taught by three specialist teachers in three well-equipped laboratories with a connecting preparation room and office.  The department also has the excellent support of a designated technician.  We work hard to promote Physics as a relevant course with a strong practical element.   The department aims to:

  • interest pupils in science and encourage enjoyable learning experiences;
  • foster the development of scientific literacy needed for everyday life;
  • stimulate curiosity and a spirit of enquiry;
  • develop the skills and abilities appropriate to the study and practice of the subject and as a foundation for more advanced study;
  • deliver the statutory content of the courses as laid down by the National Curriculum Science orders and the examination board syllabuses.

Which specification is followed?

In Upper 3 and Lower 4 each of the forms has a one hour lesson a week rising to one and a half in Upper 4.  In Lower 5 and Upper 5 (years 10 and 11), the majority of pupils study Physics GCSE for two hours per week, while one small set follows Core and Additional Science (Edexcel IGCSE).

Sixth Form (Years 12 and 13) follow the AQA specification (A) for 4.5 hours per week at AS then 5 hours at A2.  There is a strong tradition of high academic achievement at A level with several girls going on to study Physics or Engineering at university each year.   At the end of the courses, pupils will be expected to show an understanding of:

  • scientific facts, laws, concepts and theories;
  • scientific vocabulary and conventions;
  • quantities and their units;
  • safety procedures in the laboratory; in school and at home.

Pupils will be expected to show their ability to:

  • communicate observations;
  • select and use appropriate mathematical equations;
  • process data obtained from experiments, analyse it and obtain relevant conclusions;
  • carry out experiments following instructions correctly and showing a correct and safe use of scientific apparatus;
  • use scientific knowledge to make predictions, select and use apparatus, make observations and evaluate their results.

Workshops, conferences and visits

Encouraging a positive atmosphere of co-operation is vital in maintaining the good relations that we enjoy with pupils.  To this aim, a Physics workshop is run at lunchtimes and teachers work individually with pupils as necessary.

Degree and career choices

Physics opens doors to a wide variety of careers.  Career opportunities available are as vast as the subject itself.  This is due, in part, to the transferable skills gained whilst studying Physics.  It is these transferable skills that make the difference between an employee who is merely satisfactory and one who will significantly improve the performance of the organisation.  Employers see a Physics qualification as an indication of someone who will immediately be an asset to the organisation for the following reasons:

  • Physics requires a logical and numerate mind.
  • The ability to solve problems, gained through studying Physics is of paramount importance to the future of technology.
  • Communication skills are developed through report-writing and presentations.
  • Computing and practical skills are second nature to those trained in Physics.
  • Teamwork and flexibility are essential in lab work and projects.