A-level education plays an important role in Singapore to prepare students for higher education and even future careers. It is recognised as one of the most well-structured and thorough pre-university programmes in the world.
In Singapore, the A-level programme is not the same as the one in the UK but it is tailored to meet local educational needs. It is managed by the Ministry of Education (MOE) in collaboration with the Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board (SEAB).
For students who are interested in gaining an understanding of the physical world and are outstanding in science subjects, pursuing A-level physics is an excellent idea.
From classical mechanics to quantum theory, choosing A-level physics will give you a detailed understanding of fundamental principles that govern the natural world. It is examined at Higher 1 (H1), Higher 2 (H2) and Higher 3 (H3) levels.
Getting to Know A-level Physics H1 Syllabus
H1 Physics gives a solid overview of the basics, like mechanics, electricity, and nuclear physics. It's a good fit for students who want a general understanding of physics but aren’t planning to dive into a career that needs in-depth physics expertise.
There are ten topics divided into four sections for the H1 syllabus:
Section 1: Measurement
- Topic 1 Measurement
Section 2: Newtonian Mechanics
- Topic 2 Kinematics
- Topic 3 Dynamics
- Topic 4 Forces
- Topic 5 Work, Energy, Power
- Topic 6 Motion in a Circle and Orbits
Section 3: Electricity and Magnetism
- Topic 7 Current of Electricity
- Topic 8 D.C. Circuits
- Topic 9 Electromagnetism
Section 4: Nuclear Physics
- Topic 10 Nuclear Physics
Getting to Know A-level Physics H2 Syllabus
H2 Physics explores everything in H1 Physics and goes deeper. It adds more advanced topics like thermal physics and oscillations and waves. It’s recommended for students planning to study fields like engineering, physics, or astronomy since it builds a solid foundation in the complex concepts needed for these areas.
There are 20 topics divided into six sections for the H2 syllabus:
Section 1: Measurement
- Topic 1 Measurement
Section 2: Newtonian Mechanics
- Topic 2 Kinematics
- Topic 3 Dynamics
- Topic 4 Forces
- Topic 5 Work, Energy, Power
- Topic 6 Motion in a Circle
- Topic 7 Gravitational Field
Section 3: Thermal Physics
- Topic 8 Temperature and Ideal Gases
- Topic 9 First Law of Thermodynamics
Section 4: Oscillations and Waves
- Topic 10 Oscillations
- Topic 11 Wave Motion
- Topic 12 Superposition
Section 5: Electricity and Magnetism
- Topic 13 Electric Fields
- Topic 14 Current of Electricity
- Topic 15 D.C. Circuits
- Topic 16 Electromagnetism
- Topic 17 Electromagnetic Induction
- Topic 18 Alternating Current
Section 6: Modern Physics
- Topic 19 Quantum Physics
- Topic 20 Nuclear Physics
Getting to Know A-level Physics H3 Syllabus
The H3 Physics curriculum builds on H2 Physics, covering everything in the H2 syllabus while adding extra content in specific areas. If you're taking H3 Physics, it’s assumed you already have a strong grasp of H2 Physics, especially in key areas like models and representations, systems and interactions, and conservation laws.
As mentioned above, the H2 syllabus is divided into six main sections, and H3 Physics introduces more advanced topics in two of these areas: Newtonian Mechanics and Electricity and Magnetism. This additional content provides a focus on core principles and real-world applications.
Students get the opportunity to deal with more challenging problems and gain a deeper appreciation of physics. In H3, students are expected to handle tougher problems than those in H2 alone, especially with the broader scope. There’s also a higher level of math involved in H3 Physics, including calculus.
How to Tackle A-level Physics?
As a student who is contemplating what subjects to pursue in A-levels, you might wonder why you should choose physics. The are many good reasons to pursue this subject. A-level physics enhances job prospects and degree options in fields like engineering, astrophysics, architecture, medicine, and finance, thanks to the valuable analytical and technical skills gained.
Furthermore, you will build problem-solving skills and have a chance to study such an interesting subject. Physics is a fascinating subject as the classes combine experiments and hands-on activities, showing how theories apply to real life.
If you want to do well in physics, it's best to prepare your own notes. Study and understand the concepts and theories and make notes based on your understanding. This will help you retain what you have studied fresh in your mind.
In order to remember the many equations and formulas, using flashcards is useful. You can write the formula or concept on one side and explain it on the other. This can help you revise easily.
Getting guidance from a private tutor is one of the best ways to learn physics. A private tutor can focus on areas that you don’t understand. They will design the lessons to accommodate your comfort and preference unlike in college where the lecturer has too many students to give you personal attention. Check out Superprof to find the best private tutors for physics!
Brief Overview of A-level Physics Grading Scheme
Choosing to study physics at the H1, H2, or H3 level is an exciting academic step that shapes your education and career options. Physics, though challenging, is a respected and fascinating subject. Be ready to tackle complex equations and a wide-ranging syllabus.
The H1 exam has two papers. Paper 1 is a multiple-choice examination lasting one hour and has 30 questions, which collectively carry a weightage of 33% of the total assessment. Paper 2 on the other hand, has structured questions, with a total duration of 2 hours and a maximum score of 80 marks, reflecting a weightage of 67%. It is divided into two sections.
The H2 exam has four papers. The format of paper 1 is similar to the H1 exam which has 30 multiple-choice questions that must be completed in one hour. Paper 2 consists of structured questions with a duration of 2 hours. With a total of 80 marks, this paper carries a weightage of 30%. In addition to the comprehensive set of structured questions, it includes one or two data-based questions. Paper 3 with longer structured questions is designed to last for 2 hours, carrying a total of 80 marks and accounting for 35% of the overall weightage. It comprises two sections. Finally, paper 4 which is the practical paper has a duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes and is worth 55 marks, contributing 20% to the overall assessment.
The H3 exam consists of just one paper, split into two sections, and you’ll have three hours to finish it. If you would like to know more about the A-level physics marking scheme, click here.
Tools to Study A-level Physics
Everyone knows that physics is a challenging subject. While reading textbooks and practising past-year papers are great, using other resources like watching physics videos on YouTube or apps to help you memorise formulas are innovative ways to learn. There are many resources to help you revise A-level physics such as the holy grail website which has various exam papers with answers and even notes.
If you would like to learn more about what resources are available, check out Unlocking the Top Resources for A-Level Physics Revision!
Methods to Score in A-level Physics
In order to score in A-level physics, it is essential to understand the topics. Memorising will not work for this subject. Make an effort to learn the concepts and relate the formula and calculation. If you find yourself struggling with a particular concept or theory, find extra materials to read or find relevant videos to help you gain a better understanding.
Once you have mastered the topics and memorised the formulas, it is time to apply what you have learned. This is where practice comes in. It is vital to attempt as many practice questions as possible to familiarise yourself with the exam format. It will also help you identify which area needs improvement.
There are many ways to study and retain what you have studied. You can use mind maps, mnemonics or even quick bullet points. Explore different techniques and find out what works for you.
Finally, please remember, no matter how hard you have studied and worked for your exam, it won’t matter if you can’t stay calm and collected. This is especially true for H2 paper 4 which involves students carrying out experiments. It is normal to be nervous, take a deep breath and calm yourself down. It is important to keep cool, follow the instructions given, carry out the experiment and submit neat and tidy work.
Are you in search of private A-level physics lessons? We're here to assist you! Superprof offers a wide selection of private tutors specialising in this area. Our instructors possess deep knowledge and extensive teaching experience in A-level physics. We’re dedicated to guiding you from foundational concepts to advanced topics. Superprof’s educators excel at adapting their teaching methods to suit each student’s unique learning style and preferences.
Additionally, Superprof stands out by allowing students to choose their preferred tutor. We aim to ensure you feel at ease with your instructor, enabling you to fully concentrate on mastering this challenging subject. Do you prefer to learn online or face-to-face? Communicate your preference to our tutors and discuss a schedule that works for you. All our tutors are verified, so rest assured that you are in good hands.
Enjoyed this article? Leave a rating!
Loading...