You are here: Subjects > Science > Physics > Higher
Why study Physics?
This course is designed to increase your knowledge and understanding of the concepts of Physics and its many applications in modern society. It provides the opportunity to develop skills necessary to find solutions to scientific problems, such as experimenting, investigating and analysing, and gives a deeper insight into the structure of the subject. The course makes a valuable contribution to your general education and provides a sound basis for further study.
The skills you learn on this course are valuable for careers in medicine, energy, industry, material development, the environment and sustainability.
What do I need to get in?
Entry is at the discretion of the school or college, but you would normally be expected to have achieved:
What will I study?
This course aims to develop your curiosity, interest and enthusiasm for physics in a range of contexts. The skills of scientific inquiry and investigation are developed throughout the course. You will study the relevance of physics through the applications of physics in everyday contexts.
The course consists of four compulsory units and the course assessment unit.
Physics: Our Dynamic Universe (6 SCQF credit points)
In this unit you will:
- develop skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding of our dynamic universe
- apply these skills when considering the applications of our dynamic universe on our lives, as well as the implications on society/the environment
- achieve the above using a variety of approaches, including investigation and problem solving
- cover the key areas of kinematics, dynamics and space-time
- research issues, apply scientific skills and communicate information related to your findings, which will develop skills of scientific literacy.
Physics: Particles and Waves (6 SCQF credit points)
In this unit you will:
- develop skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding of particles and waves
- apply these skills when considering the applications of particles and waves on our lives, as well as the implications on society/the environment
- achieve the above by using a variety of approaches, including investigation and problem solving
- cover the key areas of particles and waves
- research issues, apply scientific skills and communicate information related to your findings, which will develop skills of scientific literacy.
Physics: Electricity (3 SCQF credit points)
In this unit you will:
- develop skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding of electricity
- apply these skills when considering the applications of electricity on our lives, as well as the implications on society/the environment
- achieve the above by using a variety of approaches, including investigation and problem solving
- cover the key areas of electricity, and electrical storage and transfer
- research issues, apply scientific skills and communicate information related to your findings, which will develop skills of scientific literacy.
Researching Physics (3 SCQF credit points)
In this unit you will:
- develop skills relevant to undertaking research in Physics
- collect and synthesize information from different sources
- plan and undertake a practical investigation, analyse results and communicate information related to your findings
- consider any applications of the physics involved and implications for society/ the environment
- develop knowledge and skills associated with standard laboratory apparatus and in the recording and processing of results.
How will I be assessed?
Course Assessment (6 SCQF credit points)
The course assessment has two components:
- a question paper (100 marks)
- an assignment (20 marks).
The question paper will assess scientific inquiry skills, analytical thinking skills and the impact of applications on society and the environment. The question paper will be set and marked by SQA.
The assignment will assess the application of skills of scientific inquiry and related physics knowledge and understanding. You will be asked to investigate a relevant topic in physics, communicate your findings and draw valid conclusions.
Your work will be assessed by your teacher on an ongoing basis throughout the course. You must pass all four units and the course assessment to gain the course qualification.
The course assessment is graded A-D. Your grade will depend on the total mark for all the units in your course.
What can I go on to next?
If you complete the course successfully, it may lead to:
Further study, training or employment in:
Which jobs are related to this subject?
Where can my parents find out more?
Your school will give your parents an Options or Choices information booklet, which has detailed information on the curriculum and the individual subjects or courses you can study. It will also invite them along to a Parents’ Information Evening.
They can also read the information leaflet(s):
Highers in a Nutshell - Physics (CfE Higher)