Physics
Welcome to the Physics Department of Marr College.
Physics is a fascinating subject to learn - enabling students to engage in a wide variety of activities which provide challenge and develop problem-solving skills vital to modern society. The Physics staff members are experienced and are passionate about teaching a subject they have a deep interest in. We aim to provide students with a rich experience, continuing to develop and nurture their natural curiosity of the physical world by providing a curriculum that drives and motivates their learning in Physics. We work as a team and in partnership with students, colleagues, parents and external experts in order to support each and every individual student to maximise her or his potential and attain to the highest level possible. The Physics team currently comprises:
What the students say
|
X - Physics
X-Physics is our resources site, maintained by Mr. Strachan.
The site contains all of our materials - Summary Notes, Learning Intentions, Past Papers, Assignment Guides and useful revision quizzes and tips. Study Tips
|
What we do |
Course Calendar
Download our course calendar to keep up to date with topics and assessment dates
|
Learning and Teaching
The staff team have used the Third and Fourth Level Curriculum for Excellence Experiences and Outcomes and the support materials provided by SQA and Education Scotland for National Qualifications to develop courses designed to provide a wide range of learning activities that engage and challenge students, provide enjoyment and are relevant to their everyday experiences.
The Physics curriculum as a whole aims to develop key skills and attributes:
· The ability to apply knowledge and understanding of physics
· Working effectively both independently and as part of a group
· Collaborating with others within an assigned role
· Communicating effectively and learning from each other
· Develop an understanding of the role of physics in scientific issues and relevant applications of physics, including the impact these could make in society and the environment
· Scientific inquiry and investigative skills
· Scientific analytical thinking skills in a physics context
· Develop and apply numeracy skills to the highest possible level
· The use of technology, equipment and materials, safely, in practical scientific activities
· Planning skills
· Problem solving skills in a physics context
· Use and understand scientific literacy, in everyday contexts, to communicate ideas and issues and to make scientifically informed choices
· Develop the knowledge and skills for more advanced learning in physics
· Develop skills of independent working
The extent and depth to which these skills are developed depend on the level attained by the student: as stated above, the staff team strives to support each and every individual student to attain the highest level possible.
S1-S3 Broad General Education
All staff members are involved in teaching and developing courses within the S1/S2 Science Course and the S3 Physics Course using the Curriculum for Excellence Experiences and Outcomes as part of the students’ Broad General Education.
CfE Fourth Level (S3)
Students investigate the physics of electricity, electronics, magnetism, motion, forces and energy, waves and radiation at a depth roughly equivalent to National 4. When appropriate, staff challenge students to explore topics further at a depth roughly equivalent to National 5.
The staff team have used the Third and Fourth Level Curriculum for Excellence Experiences and Outcomes and the support materials provided by SQA and Education Scotland for National Qualifications to develop courses designed to provide a wide range of learning activities that engage and challenge students, provide enjoyment and are relevant to their everyday experiences.
The Physics curriculum as a whole aims to develop key skills and attributes:
· The ability to apply knowledge and understanding of physics
· Working effectively both independently and as part of a group
· Collaborating with others within an assigned role
· Communicating effectively and learning from each other
· Develop an understanding of the role of physics in scientific issues and relevant applications of physics, including the impact these could make in society and the environment
· Scientific inquiry and investigative skills
· Scientific analytical thinking skills in a physics context
· Develop and apply numeracy skills to the highest possible level
· The use of technology, equipment and materials, safely, in practical scientific activities
· Planning skills
· Problem solving skills in a physics context
· Use and understand scientific literacy, in everyday contexts, to communicate ideas and issues and to make scientifically informed choices
· Develop the knowledge and skills for more advanced learning in physics
· Develop skills of independent working
The extent and depth to which these skills are developed depend on the level attained by the student: as stated above, the staff team strives to support each and every individual student to attain the highest level possible.
S1-S3 Broad General Education
All staff members are involved in teaching and developing courses within the S1/S2 Science Course and the S3 Physics Course using the Curriculum for Excellence Experiences and Outcomes as part of the students’ Broad General Education.
CfE Fourth Level (S3)
Students investigate the physics of electricity, electronics, magnetism, motion, forces and energy, waves and radiation at a depth roughly equivalent to National 4. When appropriate, staff challenge students to explore topics further at a depth roughly equivalent to National 5.
S3 skills elective - Practical Electronics
This challenging, interesting and fun short course focuses on developing key skills by constructing electronic circuits. Using soldering irons, breadboards and semiconductor components you will undertake projects and build a variety of small electronic devices. Following the same process as electronic engineers, you will design and test these circuits using computer simulation and then construct the circuits on solderless prototype boards.
Finally you will solder the circuit onto veroboard to make a permanent and reliable device. Over the twenty weeks (40 hours) this will lead to a more complex project where you will design, test and build a set of sequenced flashing LED Christmas lights with the timing controlled by integrated logic circuits. Success in this course will enable you to achieve the prestigious British Science Association Crest Silver Award.
This challenging, interesting and fun short course focuses on developing key skills by constructing electronic circuits. Using soldering irons, breadboards and semiconductor components you will undertake projects and build a variety of small electronic devices. Following the same process as electronic engineers, you will design and test these circuits using computer simulation and then construct the circuits on solderless prototype boards.
Finally you will solder the circuit onto veroboard to make a permanent and reliable device. Over the twenty weeks (40 hours) this will lead to a more complex project where you will design, test and build a set of sequenced flashing LED Christmas lights with the timing controlled by integrated logic circuits. Success in this course will enable you to achieve the prestigious British Science Association Crest Silver Award.
S4-S6 Senior Phase
National Qualification Courses Offered
· National 3 Physics
· National 4 Physics
· National 5 Physics
· Higher Physics
· Advanced Higher Physics
· Advanced Higher Mathematics of Mechanics - Units
National 3 Physics
Students study three main units: Electricity & Energy, Dynamics & Space and Waves & Radiation. National 3 is an ideal course for students requiring more time in S4 to consolidate their learning and skills in more depth following the Broad General Education S1-S3. All assessment is internal and continuous throughout the session. The knowledge and skills gained provides a solid platform for progression to National 4 and beyond.
National 4 Physics
Students study three main units: Electricity & Energy, Dynamics & Space and Waves & Radiation. In addition, they conduct research into a specific topic in the Added Value Unit. All assessment is internal and continuous throughout the session. National 4 is an ideal course for students requiring more time in S4 to consolidate their learning and skills in more depth in an environment that removes the pressure brought about by external examination. National 4 builds a solid platform for progression to National 5 in S5 and Higher in S6 if desired.
National 5 Physics
Students study three main units: Electricity & Energy, Dynamics & Space and Waves & Radiation at a depth greater than National 4. In addition, they conduct research into a specific topic in the Assignment, which is externally assessed by SQA and contributes 20 % of the external grade. The course exam is externally assessed by SQA and contributes 80 % of the external grade. The grading is A-D. National 5 provides an excellent platform for progress to Higher.
Higher Physics
Students study three main units: Our Dynamic Universe, Particles & Waves and Electricity at a depth greater than National 5. In addition, they conduct research into a specific topic in the Assignment, which is externally assessed by SQA and contributes 20 % of the external grade. The course exam is externally assessed by SQA and contributes 80 % of the external grade. The grading is A-D. Higher is the “Gold Standard” and represents the level required for University.
Advanced Higher Physics
Students study three main units: Rotational Motion & Astrophysics, Quanta & Waves and Electromagnetism and at a depth greater than Higher and roughly equivalent to a typical 1st year University course in Physics. In addition, they conduct research into a specific topic in the Project, which is externally assessed by SQA and contributes 20 % of the external grade. Students have the option of conducting their research at university. The course exam is externally assessed by SQA and contributes 80 % of the external grade. The grading is A-D.
Advanced Higher Mathematics of Mechanics Units
The department offers a specialist course unique to Marr in South Ayrshire and in partnership with the Mathematics Department, led by subject specialist Mr Robertson. It is an excellent choice for candidates planning to study maths, engineering or physics at University. In combination with Advanced Higher Maths, a Course Award can be obtained via external examination.
Home Learning
Home learning is a vital component of a young person’s education. The main purpose of home learning in S3-S6 Physics is to consolidate and enhance knowledge and skills gained from class activities. The feedback that staff provide to students from their home learning is key to continued progression and improvement. It is vital that parents and staff support students to complete home learning to the best of their ability.
Students may also be given tasks that involve further research at home using the internet, books or newspapers, e.g. during the National 4 Added Value Unit and National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher Assignments.
Assessment
Students’ learning is assessed in a variety of methods. The attributes and skills that are assessed are categorised as:
· Ability to plan, conduct and report on practical investigations
· Presentation and communication skills
· Research skills
· Knowledge and Understanding
· Problem-solving
Assessment is used to measure progress, identify strengths and areas for development and plan next steps. Students are involved in the assessment process and staff discuss with students success criteria, i.e. what the students need to do/make/present/say/write to demonstrate understanding. We strive to make it a natural, integral component of quality learning and teaching that provides evidence of progress but importantly informs students how to improve. Assessment activities are continuous throughout the courses.
At National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher, it is also vital to provide students with assessment questions and experiences at the end of each Unit that illustrate the standard required to achieve as highly as possible in the exams in a similar experience and environment. The data obtained is vital for students, parents and staff to measure progress and plan for improvement. The prelim exam provides the same benefits with an experience very similar to the final exam.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
We also strive to provide opportunities for further learning outwith the classroom setting by encouraging participation in educational visits, events and competitions. Recent examples include:
· Careers event for young female physicists showcasing strong role-models (Ayr Academy)
· Lecture on waves by visiting professor from Strathclyde University
· Participation in the Scottish Space School
Career Progression
The skills that are developed in Physics are transferrable and highly sought-after by employers. The destinations of Physics graduates, among many others, include:
· Astronomy
· Computer games design
· Education
· Engineering
· ICT – networks and programming
· Finance
· Journalism and TV
· Medicine
· Meteorology and climate change
· Nanotechnology
· Oil and gas
· Physics and science research and development
· Renewable energy
· Space exploration industries
· Telecommunications
National Qualification Courses Offered
· National 3 Physics
· National 4 Physics
· National 5 Physics
· Higher Physics
· Advanced Higher Physics
· Advanced Higher Mathematics of Mechanics - Units
National 3 Physics
Students study three main units: Electricity & Energy, Dynamics & Space and Waves & Radiation. National 3 is an ideal course for students requiring more time in S4 to consolidate their learning and skills in more depth following the Broad General Education S1-S3. All assessment is internal and continuous throughout the session. The knowledge and skills gained provides a solid platform for progression to National 4 and beyond.
National 4 Physics
Students study three main units: Electricity & Energy, Dynamics & Space and Waves & Radiation. In addition, they conduct research into a specific topic in the Added Value Unit. All assessment is internal and continuous throughout the session. National 4 is an ideal course for students requiring more time in S4 to consolidate their learning and skills in more depth in an environment that removes the pressure brought about by external examination. National 4 builds a solid platform for progression to National 5 in S5 and Higher in S6 if desired.
National 5 Physics
Students study three main units: Electricity & Energy, Dynamics & Space and Waves & Radiation at a depth greater than National 4. In addition, they conduct research into a specific topic in the Assignment, which is externally assessed by SQA and contributes 20 % of the external grade. The course exam is externally assessed by SQA and contributes 80 % of the external grade. The grading is A-D. National 5 provides an excellent platform for progress to Higher.
Higher Physics
Students study three main units: Our Dynamic Universe, Particles & Waves and Electricity at a depth greater than National 5. In addition, they conduct research into a specific topic in the Assignment, which is externally assessed by SQA and contributes 20 % of the external grade. The course exam is externally assessed by SQA and contributes 80 % of the external grade. The grading is A-D. Higher is the “Gold Standard” and represents the level required for University.
Advanced Higher Physics
Students study three main units: Rotational Motion & Astrophysics, Quanta & Waves and Electromagnetism and at a depth greater than Higher and roughly equivalent to a typical 1st year University course in Physics. In addition, they conduct research into a specific topic in the Project, which is externally assessed by SQA and contributes 20 % of the external grade. Students have the option of conducting their research at university. The course exam is externally assessed by SQA and contributes 80 % of the external grade. The grading is A-D.
Advanced Higher Mathematics of Mechanics Units
The department offers a specialist course unique to Marr in South Ayrshire and in partnership with the Mathematics Department, led by subject specialist Mr Robertson. It is an excellent choice for candidates planning to study maths, engineering or physics at University. In combination with Advanced Higher Maths, a Course Award can be obtained via external examination.
Home Learning
Home learning is a vital component of a young person’s education. The main purpose of home learning in S3-S6 Physics is to consolidate and enhance knowledge and skills gained from class activities. The feedback that staff provide to students from their home learning is key to continued progression and improvement. It is vital that parents and staff support students to complete home learning to the best of their ability.
Students may also be given tasks that involve further research at home using the internet, books or newspapers, e.g. during the National 4 Added Value Unit and National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher Assignments.
Assessment
Students’ learning is assessed in a variety of methods. The attributes and skills that are assessed are categorised as:
· Ability to plan, conduct and report on practical investigations
· Presentation and communication skills
· Research skills
· Knowledge and Understanding
· Problem-solving
Assessment is used to measure progress, identify strengths and areas for development and plan next steps. Students are involved in the assessment process and staff discuss with students success criteria, i.e. what the students need to do/make/present/say/write to demonstrate understanding. We strive to make it a natural, integral component of quality learning and teaching that provides evidence of progress but importantly informs students how to improve. Assessment activities are continuous throughout the courses.
At National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher, it is also vital to provide students with assessment questions and experiences at the end of each Unit that illustrate the standard required to achieve as highly as possible in the exams in a similar experience and environment. The data obtained is vital for students, parents and staff to measure progress and plan for improvement. The prelim exam provides the same benefits with an experience very similar to the final exam.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
We also strive to provide opportunities for further learning outwith the classroom setting by encouraging participation in educational visits, events and competitions. Recent examples include:
· Careers event for young female physicists showcasing strong role-models (Ayr Academy)
· Lecture on waves by visiting professor from Strathclyde University
· Participation in the Scottish Space School
Career Progression
The skills that are developed in Physics are transferrable and highly sought-after by employers. The destinations of Physics graduates, among many others, include:
· Astronomy
· Computer games design
· Education
· Engineering
· ICT – networks and programming
· Finance
· Journalism and TV
· Medicine
· Meteorology and climate change
· Nanotechnology
· Oil and gas
· Physics and science research and development
· Renewable energy
· Space exploration industries
· Telecommunications