Edexcel GCSE in Physics – 2PH01
The GCSE Physics is particularly useful as it is a key requirement for many jobs. If you’re looking to get into college or university they’ll prove essential, and passes in English, Science (either Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Science) and Mathematics usually at Grade C are also required for an increasingly large number of jobs.
Through studying Physics you will learn that it is about thinking logically and being able to apply the principles you learn to everyday situations.
The Edexcel GCSE in Physics comprises four units:
- Unit C1
- Unit C2
- Unit C3
- Physics Controlled Assessment(CCA)
Each unit is 25% of total GCSE. Candidates can be entered for Foundation (Grades C – G) or higher (A* – C) tiers
Each of the units( P1, P2 and P3) are externally assessed through a one hour, 60 mark (25%), tiered written examination containing six questions. The examination will contain a mixture of question styles, including objective questions, short answer questions and extended writing questions. These papers will only be available in June.
Practical investigations in this unit
Within this unit, students will develop an understanding of the process of scientific investigations, including that investigations:
- use hypotheses which are tested
- require assessment and management of risks
- require the collection, presentation, analysis and interpretation of primary and secondary evidence including the use of appropriate technology
- should include a review of methodology to assess fitness for purpose
- should include a review of hypotheses in the light of outcomes.
The controlled assessment task (CAT) for the GCSE in Physics will be taken from a list supplied by Edexcel which will change every year.
Overview of Content
- Topic 1 Visible light and the Solar System
- Topic 2 The electromagnetic spectrum
- Topic 3 Waves and the Universe
- Topic 3 Waves and the Earth
- Topic 4 Generation and transmission of electricity
- Topic 5 Energy and the future
- Topic 1 Static and current electricity
- Topic 2 Controlling and using electric current
- Topic 3 Motion and forces
- Topic 4 Momentum, energy, work and power
- Topic 5 Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion
- Topic 6 Advantages and disadvantages of using radioactive materials
- Topic 1 Radiation in treatment and medicine
- Topic 2 X-rays and ECGs
- Topic 3 Production, uses and risks of ionising radiation from radioactive sources
- Topic 4 Motion of particles
- Topic 5 Kinetic theory and gases
Physics Controlled Assessment
The controlled assessment will be internally assessed under controlled conditions and the task changes every year. The total marks are 50 (25%). The task consists of three parts.
Part A is a planning activity
Part B is an observation, collecting primary and secondary evidence.
Part C consists of conclusions related to the primary and secondary evidence collected in Part B