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The subject area of Physics is ever-changing, making it an interesting and thrilling field of work to enter into. The work done in this field creates exciting opportunities to discover more about the world around us.
Undertaking study in Physics will enable you to have a deeper understanding of its components, concepts, and principles, alongside a focus on the topic of experimentation and an explanation of practical elements that learners can tackle. You will learn how to apply scientific reasoning to a range of situations and advance your own knowledge of different scientific and technological processes, giving a deeper grasp of varying concepts and principles that are prevalent in the world of Physics.
Additional studies in Physics could lead to working in partnership with a range of the world’s most talented and gifted minds. It could lead to a range of exciting future opportunities, whatever your mind can envision. Be it an Astronomer, researching and analysing data relating to the vast universe around us, or working in Nanotechnology, focusing on the infinitely small details of the world, creating and making remarkable discoveries in any field you choose. It all begins with GCSE Physics…
What you’ll learn
The science of physics delves deeply into the world of physical matter, motion, energy, and laws that control our universe. Physics can be applied to all things, from the tiniest of atoms, to the constantly developing knowledge of our surrounding universe. You will develop a knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles of Physics and be able to expand on the solid foundation gained through this qualification in your future.
The topics you will cover in this course include:
Forces and motion
A force is any interaction that, when unchallenged, will change the motion of an object.
Throughout this unit, you will learn about a range of different forces and how these can impact the shape, movement, and position of objects.
Electricity
Electricity is the presence or flow of charged particles.
Throughout this unit, you will learn about electricity and how energy travels with the use of electricity, before moving on to discover what different units are used when measuring energy passed in an electrical circuit.
Waves
Waves are vibrations that can transfer energy and information through a medium, from one source to another, without transporting matter.
Throughout this unit, you will learn about light and sound waves, how these can be reflected and refracted at different angles, alongside how to calculate the speed of waves, their frequency, and wavelength.
Energy resources and transfer
There are a range of energy resources available, e.g. fossil fuels, biofuel, wind, and these can be transferred from one energy store to another.
Throughout this unit, you will learn about a range of energy resources and investigate the positives and negatives of various power sources.
Solids, liquids, and gases
Most substances are able to exist in three different states: Solids, Liquids, and Gases. The arrangement and movement of the particles in each of these substances change; however, the particles in each remain the same.
Throughout this unit, you will learn about the properties of each of these, as well as their relationships with density and pressure.
Magnetism
Magnetism is the force exerted by magnets when they attract or repel each other. It is caused by the motion of electric charges.
Throughout this unit, you will learn about how magnetism occurs and how it links to electrical charge.
Radioactivity and particles
Radioactivity is the transformation of an unstable nucleus into a more stable one, by releasing radiation spontaneously.
Throughout this unit, you will learn more about the nature and behaviour of radioactive particles and how their activity changes over time. You will also look at the effects it has on other substances and the uses of radioactivity in the industry.
Astronomy
Astronomy is the study of the universe around us and is concerned with the study of the non-earthly bodies and phenomena.
Throughout this unit, you will learn about astrophysics and the universe, looking at the meaning of relevant key terms and the effects of gravitational forces on moons, planets, satellites, and comets. You will look at the ways in which the universe leads us to questions about the beginning of time and what the future of the universe holds.
Why study GCSE Physics?
GCSE Physics on its own will not lead you to qualify as a Physicist, however, you will have the solid foundations and knowledge of the core principles to support future study. You will have developed important skills, such as problem solving, that can be applied to a range of professions.
If you decide that you wish to pursue a career in Physics and continue to study this subject, you could choose from a range of interesting and invigorating career paths, such as:
- Academic researcher
- Acoustic consultant
- Astronomer
- Clinical scientist, medical physics
- Geophysicist
- Higher education lecturer
- Metallurgist
- Meteorologist
- Nanotechnologist
- Radiation protection practitioner
- Research scientist (physical sciences)
- Secondary school teacher
- Sound engineer
- Technical author
If you are interested in a career in teaching others about Physics and are inspired to impart your knowledge of the topic, then this may be an extremely rewarding career path to choose.
To become a secondary school Physics teacher, you will need to complete an undergraduate degree in Physics in university and then go on to complete a PGCE course to become fully qualified.
The initial step of studying GCSE Physics is a brilliant beginning to a fulfilling learning experience in this field of study.
Taking a GCSE at home
Being an adult learner, you will most likely have a busy life, wherein you may feel it difficult to fit in studying alongside other aspects of day-to-day life that are already challenging.
Being a part of distance education, gives you the opportunity to get back into education, without having much of an impact on your current everyday routine. This means you will not have to make any sacrifices and can fit your studying in between other day-to-day tasks.
Distance learning can provide you with the option to work around your own life and work in your own time frame. You are in full control of your own study and can decide how long and how often you study for. Doing this and tailoring the learning to your own individual needs, can lead to a more enjoyable learning experience for you.
GCSEs are regulated by Ofqual, which are a non-ministerial government agency. They ensure that all our GCSE courses meet the specific requirements, meaning that the qualifications that we offer are the same as what are offered in physical colleges.
The learning materials will be available to you on enrolment, which enables you to begin your learning right away, at your own pace.
You will have one year from time of enrolment to complete the course; however, you can choose to do this quicker if you wish to, or you can utilise the entire year, it is entirely your choice!
Distance learning is a more independent style of learning; however, we have expert tutors available to give you the support and guidance you need throughout. They are available to answer any questions and give feedback on your work to help you to improve in the future, so you will not be left entirely to your own devices.
Completing your GCSE in Physics will be an important first step towards an exciting learning experience and a rewarding future career. The best thing about it, is that you can gain this qualification all from the luxury of your own home.
So why hesitate? Contact our Course Advisors to enrol on the course and get your future started today!
