New GCEs for 2008

GCE Physics B: Physics in Context (2455)

AQA-Marked Internal Assessment – Latest News: QCA has accredited AQA's amended specification incorporating the new alternative AQA-marked route for internal assessment. Updated printed colour copies of the specification will be sent to centres shortly. Register on Ask AQA for your personal copy and binder. Learn more about the changes in our free 'Preparing to Teach' support meetings.

AS and A Level

Introducing AQA's new AS and A level specification: Physics B: Physics in Context. The specification is a new venture for AQA and is designed to:

provide an opportunity to adopt a new applications and context based approach to teaching physics;
develop in-depth knowledge and understanding of the physics principles through the contexts that are used;
develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of How Science Works;
illustrate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy;
develop interest and enthusiasm for the subject, including further studies and careers;
provide alternative starting points for the AS course either developing familiar topics from GCSE or introducing new ideas in physics;
provide a seamless transition in the internal assessment of practical skills from GCSE to AS level and to A2.

The following information and specification outline will enable both practising Teachers and Subject Heads to be better informed and supported in the teaching of this subject, particularly if attending one of AQA's Teacher Support meetings.

Assessment Objectives

AO1 - recognise, recall and show understanding of scientific knowledge; select, organise and communicate relevant information in a variety of forms

AO2 - analyse and evaluate scientific knowledge and process; apply scientific knowledge and processes to unfamiliar situations including those related to issues; assess the validity, reliability and credibility of scientific information

AO3 - demonstrate and describe ethical, safe and skilful practical techniques and processes, selecting appropriate qualitative and quantitative methods; know how to make, record and communicate reliable and valid observations and measurements with appropriate precision and accuracy; analyse, interpret, explain and evaluate the methodology, results and impact of their own and others' experimental and investigative activities in a variety of ways