Content
The physics syllabus aims to give students both an understanding of the fundamental principles of physics and their application to everyday life. It offers a general education in physics for all students, enabling them to develop an understanding of the scientific method and their ability to observe, to think logically, and to communicate effectively. Science, technology and society (STS) is an integral part of the syllabus so that students can be aware of the principles of the applications of physics in the everyday world. The physics studied is broken into 4 over-riding topics all of which will be linked to three key themes (technology, health and sustainability);
These topics will cover areas including
- Optics / Waves: the study of light and sound and real life applications of the theory
- Mechanics: time, space, distance, speed and acceleration
- Heat: changes of state, energy conversions and mathematical problems
- Electricity & Applications: develops on from simple circuits to more detailed concepts
- Electricity and Magnetism: gravity, relationship between electricity and magnetism, study of how a motor works, ac. and dc. circuits and phenomena with real world applications
- Atomic & Particle Physics: cathode rays, x-rays, radioactive decay, fission and fusion, nuclear reactors and real world applications, delving into the new discoveries leading to a better understanding of the formation of the universe and where we came from.
At Higher level, there is a deeper, more quantitative treatment of physics.
The course also consists of a practical element complimenting each section in an aim to develop students’ technical skills and enhance understanding and reinforce key concepts.
Exam Structure
Sample papers are due out to schools in April of 2025. There will be a major project for 40% and an exam which will be 60% of the overall grade.
Comment
While there is an element of Maths in the physics course, Honours Maths is not a requirement to do Honours Physics. Students should not avoid Physics on the basis of not having Honours Maths. It is entirely possible to get on well in Honours Physics without Honours Maths. Pupils should become able to draw and read graphs and be competent in using a calculator throughout the course.
Pupils who will gain the most from studying Physics are those who have an interest in science at Junior Cert level and those who enjoy learning about how things work. The technology, health and sustainability elements will allow students the chance to see where the physics they are learning applies as in TVs, car motors and electricity in the home and also, to see some of the industrial applications of certain topics. These additional assessment components are worth 40% and will allow students an opportunity to do their own research, design an experiment, carry it out and critically analyse the data. It allows students the scope to bring broader and more modern aspects of physics into the course.