Physics Y9 at WGHS

( Physics GCSE - Specifications under review)

Aims

This year students will begin the study of Module 1 of the Physics GCSE. They will complete the study of Module 1 in Y10 and will sit the examination for Module 1 in the Summer of year 10. They will be introduced to more specialised scientific terms and units and will learn how to measure precisely, use laboratory equipment with confidence, manipulate equations to calculate values, interpret simple graphs and draw scientific diagrams.

They will have an opportunity to display data in tables, draw bar charts, pie charts and graphs and look for patterns and trends in data. They will be expected to use the correct scientific vocabulary to describe their findings.

Assessment

At the end of each topic there is a test to make sure that the work has been understood and to show the type of questions on each topic they are likely to be asked in the summer examination. Students are given plenty of notice of the test date and homework time to revise for the test and the teacher advises how best to set about learning the work. At the end of the year they will undertake a 45 minute examination paper composed of GCSE standard questions. They will also be tested on their graph plotting skills and ability to interpret data.

Content

Autumn term

• Module 1: Conservation of energy and energy forms and types. Power.
• Module 1: Energy sources and the commercial production of electrical energy

Spring term

• Module 1: Thermal energy transfer – conduction, convection and radiation. Insulation methods.
• Module 1: Practice ISA investigation

Summer Term

• Module 1: Thermal energy transfer continued
• Module 1: Properties of waves and the electromagnetic spectrum.

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