Physics
Physics is the study of matter, energy and the interaction between them.This entails asking fundamental questions and trying to answer them by observing and experimenting. The answers to such questions can lead to advances in our understanding of the world around us and often result in technological improvements which enhance the lives of all. The study of physics is of benefit, not only to those intending to pursue a career in science, but also to those intending to work in areas such as the health, energy, leisure and computing industries.
Physics Curriculum
National 4
Physics: Electricity and Energy
In this Unit,learners develop skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding of electricity and energy. Learners will apply these skills when considering the applications of electricity and energy on our lives, as well as the implications on society/the environment. This can be done by using a variety of approaches, including investigation and problem solving.The Unit covers the key areas of generation of electricity, electrical power, electromagnetism, practical electrical and electronic circuits, gas laws and the kinetic model. Learners will research issues, apply scientific skills and communicate information related to their findings, which will develop skills of scientific literacy.
Physics: Waves and Radiation
In this Unit,learners develop skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding of waves and radiation.Learners will apply these skills when considering the applications of waves and radiation on our lives, as well as the implications on society/the environment. This can be done by using a variety of approaches, including investigation and problem solving.The Unit covers the key areas wave characteristics, sound, electromagnetic spectrum and nuclear radiation.Learners will research issues, apply scientific skills and communicate information related to their findings, which will develop skills of scientific literacy.
Physics: Dynamics and Space
In this Unit,learners develop skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding of dynamics and space.Learners will apply these skills when considering the applications of dynamics and space on our lives, as well as the implications on society/the environment. This can be done by using a variety of approaches, including investigation and problem solving.The Unit covers the key areas of speed and acceleration, relationships between forces, motion and energy, satellites and cosmology. Learners will research issues, apply scientific skills and communicate information related to their findings, which will develop skills of scientific literacy.
National 4 Physics - BBC Bitesize
National 4 Physics learning resources for adults, children, parents and teachers organised by topic.
For more course information see the SQA course specification
https://www.sqa.org.uk/files/nq/CfE_CourseSpec_N4_Sciences_Physics.pdf
National 5
The course content includes the following areas of physics:
Dynamics - In this area, the topics covered are: vectors and scalars;velocity–time graphs;acceleration;Newton’s laws;energy;projectile motion.
Space - In this area, the topics covered are: space exploration;cosmology.
Electricity - In this area, the topics covered are: electrical charge carriers;potential difference (voltage);Ohm’s law;practical electrical and electronic circuits;electrical power.
Properties of matter - In this area, the topics covered are: specific heat capacity;specific latent heat;gas laws and the kinetic model.
Waves - In this area, the topics covered are: wave parameters and behaviours; electromagnetic spectrum;refraction of light.
Radiation - In this area, the topic covered is nuclear radiation.
More information on the course content can be found here:
https://www.sqa.org.uk/files_ccc/N5CourseSpecPhysics.pdf
National 5 Physics - BBC Bitesize
National 5 Physics learning resources for adults, children, parents and teachers organised by topic.
Higher
The Higher Physics course allows candidates to understand and investigate the world in an engaging and enjoyable way.
The course content includes the following areas of physics:
Our dynamic Universe
The topics covered are:
motion—equations and graphs
forces,energy and power
collisions, explosions,and impulse
gravitation
special relativity
the expanding Universe
Particles and waves
The topics covered are:
forces on charged particles
the Standard Model
nuclear reactions
inverse square law
wave-particle duality
interference
spectra
refraction of light
Electricity
The topics covered are:
monitoring and measuring AC
current,potential difference, power,and resistance
electrical sources and internal resistance
capacitors
semiconductors and p-n junctions
Higher Physics learning resources for adults, children, parents and teachers organised by topic.
For more information about the SQA course specification:
https://www.sqa.org.uk/files_ccc/HigherCourseSpecPhysics.pdf