Wirral Grammar School

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Cross Lane, Bebington,
Wirral. CH63 3AQ
Tel: 0151 6440908

Curriculum Areas

Our curriculum provides for our pupils in terms of both their abilities and interests. We do not leap onto "trends" in terms of subject choices, but provide a curriculum that evolves in line with experience and a sensitive knowledge of the needs of the pupils.

In years 7 to 9 the National Curriculum is followed. Our timetable currently comprises 50 lessons taught over a two week cycle (A & B). Each lesson is 60 minutes long.

In KS4 (years 10&11) boys are able to choose certain subjects, and are guided through the process in year 9 when parents are invited to attend an Options Information Evening.

Subjects

Physics

Welcome to the Physics Department Physics is a key part of science and technology which deals with how and why things behave as they do. It is concerned with things which vary in size from electrons and quarks to galaxies. A knowledge of physics is necessary, for example, to help solve crimes, cure cancer, construct a space station, to build quiet, efficient and safe vehicles etc. it also gives answers to such questions as; Which are the best designs for sports equipment? How does cling film cling? How does a hologram work? and many more! Physics is a compulsory part of the curriculum from years 7-11, it then becomes an option at AS & A2 level.

KS3

Physics is taught throughout years 7, 8 & 9. The themes/topics follow the QCA national guidelines.

Year 7: - Energy Resources
- Electrical Circuits
- Forces and their Effects
- The Solar System and Beyond

Year 8: - Heating and Cooling
- Magnets and Electromagnets
- Light
- Sound and Hearing

Year 9: - Energy and Electricity
- Speeding up
- Pressure and Movements
- Gravity and Space

KS4

AQA "Physics" Specification A

The final assessment is divided into:
- Written paper (50%)
- Module test (30%)
- Coursework (20%)

The 3 module topics undertaken in year 10 are:
- Electricity (November)
- Energy (March)
- Physics in Action (June)

The 3 module topics undertaken in year 11 are:
- Waves and Radiation
- Forces
- Forces and Motion

These modules and some aspects of year 10 work are assessed in the terminal examination.

KS5

Why study Physics in the sixth form? If a student is entering any Scientific, Engineering or Mathematical course, he may well find that A Level Physics is a suggested requirement of entry. Employers also rate Physics qualifications highly, so by studying Physics you will open the doors to a surprising variety of careers.

Year 1 (AS):
- Module 1: Physics in Action
- Module 2: Understanding Processes
- Module 3: Coursework (Instrumentation, Materials & Data Analysis)

Year 2 (A2):
- Module 4: Rise and fall of the Clockwork Universe
- Module 5: Field and Particle Pictures
- Module 6: Advances in Physics

Physics requires the knowledge and understanding of many facts and principles, armed with this, pupils will have the opportunity to enter careers involving any scientific, technological, engineering or medical discipline.