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.

National 4

National 5

Higher

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.