Tackling A-Level Physics
Understanding the A-Level Physics Course
To properly understand A-Level physics curriculum, it is essential that students are clear as to their specific exam board. Depending on the exam board, certain coursework, topics of study, and, more broadly, educational outcomes will be different. Without a clear understanding of the individual course expectations, it can be difficult for A-Level physics students to reach their academic goals.
A-Level physics students may be sitting one of three distinct exam boards. These are Cambridge (commonly referred to as CIE), Pearson Edexcel, and OxfordAQA. For each of these exam boards, candidates can refer to the distinct subject guide—CIE, Edexcel, and OxfordAQA. By doing so, an understanding can be gained as to exactly what A-Level physics students can be expected to cover in the two-year period of their studies, as well as how each exam board approaches its exams.
The A-Level Physics Exam
As already mentioned, each A-Level physics exam board approaches the subject somewhat differently. This is also expressed in terms of exam papers. For example, the CIE A-Level physics exam consists of a total of 5 distinct papers, while both the Edexcel and OxfordAQA boards require A-Level physics students to complete only 3 papers. Once more, then, it is necessary that A-Level physics students carefully study their relevant subject guides to guarantee that they understand just how they will be assessed. Otherwise, difficulties may occur down that line that add undue stress to students already trying to cope with significant workloads.
How to Revise for A-Level Physics
To successfully revise for A-Level physics, candidates must first formulate a study plan. The key to a successful revision study plan is that it must be realistic. It is not recommended that students, for example, block out countless hours to focus on one subject, or even one particular topic. Variation is key, so A-Level physics candidates should develop a revision schedule that allows them to switch between topics as a bulwark against boredom and a general loss of focus. Moreover, it is not enough to simply read the textbook. A-Level physics learners should engage with past papers as a means to understand both the format of their eventual examination, but also the types of questions asked and how they are asked. Doing so will build confidence and a level of certainty in one’s abilities that would be impossible to achieve should past exam papers be sidelined or ignored altogether.
Consolidating Foundational Knowledge
A-Level physics, regardless of the exam board, is a challenging subject. Even for the most academically-inclined of A-Level students, the physics curriculum can pose considerable obstacles. Thus, it is common for learners to focus their energies on areas of the A-Level physics course that are considered to be more troublesome. While this is completely understandable, it is important that, when revising, attention is also paid to consolidating foundational knowledge.
It is all too easy to take more ‘basic’ aspects of the A-Level physics curriculum for granted. Equally so, it is all too easy, in a moment of panic during an exam, to forget the more foundational concepts. Consequently, thorough revision should not only target areas of the course recognised as more challenging, but also the fundamental aspects of the A-Level physics curriculum. In doing so, candidates can, come exam time, feel fully prepared and confident in their abilities.
The Importance of Note-taking
Note-taking is of paramount importance for A-Level physics students, whether they be studying the CIE, Edexcel, or OxfordAQA courses. Unfortunately, notes are often dashed off in a flurry when prompted by a teacher, or, in some cases, ignored altogether. Making regular study notes is necessary because it allows learners to engage with the material more personally. Rather than relying on handouts from teachers, note taking allows for students to organise subject-based knowledge in such a way that speaks to their learning style. Moreover, by establishing good note-taking practice during A-Levels, students are developing skills that will be of great benefit when they enter university. With regard to A-Level physics, quality notation is an absolute necessity as, during examinations, candidates will be expected to draw clear and well-labelled diagrams. If this has not been practised and refined over time, marks may be lost needlessly.
Making Use of Past Papers
While memorising formulas comprises a necessary part of A-Level physics revision, it is not as simple as it might seem. Those sitting the A-Level physics exam, either as CIE, Edexcel, or OxfordAQA candidates, will often spend time making flashcards or using other mnemonic tools to assist in the recollection of necessary formulas, and all of this is well and good. However, it is equally important that those studying A-Level physics spend time practicing how to implement these formulas in an exam-style context. To do so, learners should engage with A-Level physics past papers.
A-Level physics past papers are a vital tool for all A-Level physics candidates. Familiarity with these papers allows students to understand how the exam is structured and the types of questions that are asked. Moreover, past papers make learners aware of the unique requirements of A-Level physics questions. Serious A-Level physics revision cannot be completed with the use of past papers. Similarly, mark schemes are crucial in offering those studying A-Level physics insight into just how papers are graded and how marks are won and lost.
BartyED and A-Level Physics Support
Ultimately, regardless of the exam board, A-Level physics is an academically taxing curriculum. Coupled with the intense pressure students are saddled with, be it from their family, friends, the school community, or themselves, many gifted learners feel the strain of A-Level physics. Asking for help, therefore, is the single best piece of advice that can be given and, at BartyED, we are here to help.
Our experienced A-Level physics tutors have guided scores of young learners through the A-Level examinations in physics, as well as biology and chemistry. Our student-centred approach allows the individual to receive the best possible support for their learning style. If you or your child could benefit from bespoke A-Level physics lessons delivered by expert tutors, then reach out to us today by phone (+852 2882 1017) or email (enquiries@bartyed.com).
Frequently Asked Questions
-
A-Level physics students should develop a realistic and thorough revision timetable, as well as make effective use of past papers in their study.
-
Yes, there are three: Cambridge (CIE), Pearson Edexcel, and OxfordAQA.
-
This depends on the type of exam board a student is taking. For example, there are 5 CIE A-Level physics that are between 1 hour and 15 minutes to 2 hours in length, while the Edexcel exam is only 3 papers and lasts between 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours and a half.
-
Yes, using past papers is an essential component of successful A-Level physics revision.