Overview

IGCSE Physics seeks to inform pupils about the universe, from the very small (atomic) to the very large (astronomical), taking in more familiar areas of investigation along the way such as how rockets work, insulators and conductors, how cameras use light waves and why magnets are used in motors.

Lessons are interactive and include investigation and plenty of experimentation. Pupils will use ICT not just for web-related research but also for experimentation with high-speed data-logging and analysis. The topics studied are Forces and Motion, Astronomy, Electricity, Waves, Energy, Solids Liquids and Gases, Magnetism and Atomic Physics.

Pupils on this course will gain skills in experimental methods, where they will be able to collect and appraise data and develop reasoned thinking and critical appraisal of scientific arguments. Some mathematical skill is required but the emphasis of the course is on Physics as an experimental science.

Assessment

The course is assessed through a final examination consisting of two papers. There is no coursework component to this course.

Future Pathways

Naturally, IGCSE Physics supports the study of A level Physics. It also builds very useful scientific skills for the other A Level science courses. Even for pupils who are not aiming at a science-related career, the IGCSE Physics course contains much of interest to the citizen-scientist and pupils will be well informed about the frontiers of current Physics research from this study.