How am I Assessed in the AQA GCSE Physics Exam?

The AQA GCSE Physics course explores the laws and principles that govern the physical world, from the smallest atoms to the largest galaxies. It develops an understanding of energy, forces, waves, electricity, magnetism, and the universe, as well as how physics applies to modern technology and everyday life.

Students learn to analyse data, solve quantitative problems, and apply scientific models to explain real-world phenomena. Practical investigations are an important part of the course, helping students develop skills in planning, measuring, and evaluating experiments.

Assessment is through two written exam papers, each testing knowledge, application, and practical understanding of physics concepts. Both papers contribute equally to the final GCSE grade.

Paper 1: Energy, Electricity, and Particles

Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Marks: 100 marks
Weighting: 50% of GCSE

Topics Covered:

1. Energy
• Energy stores and transfers
• Conservation of energy
• Efficiency and energy resources
• Work done and power
2. Electricity
• Current, potential difference, and resistance
• Series and parallel circuits
• Domestic uses and safety
• Energy transfer and power in electrical appliances
3. Particle Model of Matter
• Density, states of matter, and changes of state
• Internal energy and specific heat capacity
• Latent heat, gas pressure, and temperature
4. Atomic Structure
• The structure of the atom and isotopes
• Models of the atom (historical development)
• Radioactivity: alpha, beta, gamma radiation
• Half-life, nuclear equations, and radiation in medicine

Question Types:

• Multiple-choice and short-answer questions
• Structured questions on calculations and graphs
• Extended responses explaining scientific processes
• Practical-based questions from required practicals

Paper 2: Forces, Waves, and Space

Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Marks: 100 marks
Weighting: 50% of GCSE

Topics Covered:

5. Forces
• Scalar and vector quantities
• Contact and non-contact forces
• Hooke’s law, work done, and springs
• Distance-time and velocity-time graphs
• Newton’s laws of motion and momentum
6. Waves
• Properties of waves and wave calculations
• Reflection, refraction, and diffraction
• Sound and ultrasound
• The electromagnetic spectrum and uses of EM waves
7. Magnetism and Electromagnetism
• Magnetic fields and field lines
• The motor effect and magnetic force on a conductor
• Electromagnets and their applications
• Induced potential, generators, and transformers
8. Space Physics (Separate Physics only — not in Combined Science)
• The Solar System, life cycle of stars
• Red shift and the expanding universe
• Evidence for the Big Bang theory

Question Types:

• Multiple-choice and calculation-based questions
• Structured questions using data or diagrams
• Extended response questions requiring analysis and evaluation
• Questions linked to required practicals

Required Practicals (Across Both Papers)

Students must understand the methods, analysis, and evaluation for these 10 required practicals, including:

• Specific heat capacity
• Resistance and circuits
• I-V characteristics
• Density of solids and liquids
• Forces and extension of springs
• Acceleration and motion
• Waves on a string or in a ripple tank
• Radiation and half-life investigation
• Light and refraction
• Thermal insulation

(Combined Science students complete fewer practicals — typically 6 in Physics.)

Exam Skills Assessed