The Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Physics (4PH1) is a comprehensive course designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of physics through a structured and engaging curriculum. Aimed at students aged 14 to 16, this qualification provides a solid foundation in the key concepts and principles of physics, preparing learners for further study at A-level or equivalent, as well as equipping them with essential scientific knowledge for everyday life.
The 4PH1 syllabus covers a broad range of topics essential to understanding the physical world, including mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves, energy resources and energy transfer, solids, liquids and gases, thermal physics, and nuclear physics. The course not only emphasizes theoretical understanding but also encourages practical experimentation and investigation, enabling students to develop their scientific inquiry skills and critical thinking abilities.
Assessment for the Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Physics (4PH1) consists of two written examinations, each lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes. These exams assess students’ knowledge, understanding, and application of physics concepts, as well as their ability to analyze and evaluate scientific information.
Throughout the course, students are encouraged to engage actively with the subject matter, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and practical experiments. This approach not only enhances their understanding of physics but also fosters a curiosity-driven approach to learning, preparing them to tackle challenges in the rapidly evolving fields of science and technology.
Overall, the Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Physics (4PH1) provides a rigorous yet accessible pathway for students to develop a solid grounding in physics, empowering them with essential skills and knowledge that are valuable both academically and in future career pursuits.
Curriculum
- 8 Sections
- 63 Lessons
- 10 Weeks
- 1 - Forces and motionIn this section we will cover (a) Units (b) Movement and position (c) Forces, movement, shape and momentum17
- 1.1Quantities and their units used in forces and motion
- 1.2Distance, displacement, speed, velocity and acceleration (basic terms of motion)
- 1.3Graphical representation of motion
- 1.4Relationship between final speed, initial speed, acceleration and distance moved
- 1.5Effects and types of forces
- 1.6Mathematical interpretation of Newton’s second law ( F = m a )
- 1.7Resultant force of forces
- 1.8Terminal velocity
- 1.9Hook’s law
- 1.10Factors affecting vehicle stopping distance
- 1.11Momentum and its formula
- 1.12Newton’s second law of motion in terms of momentum
- 1.13Law of conservation of momentum
- 1.14Moment and principle of moment
- 1.15Conditions of equilibrium
- 1.16Newton’s third law of motion
- 1.17Scalars and vectors
- 2 - ElectricityIn this section we will cover (a) Units (b) Mains electricity (c) Energy and voltage in circuits (d) Electric charge13
- 2.1Hazards and dangers of electricity
- 2.2Fuses and circuit breakers
- 2.3Relationship between electric current, voltage, energy, time and power
- 2.4Difference between alternating current and direct current
- 2.5Circuit diagram – Circuit components and their functions
- 2.6Effective or equivalent resistance in series and parallel circuits
- 2.7Function of LDR (Light dependent resistor) and thermistor
- 2.8Basic concept of electric current
- 2.9Ohm’s law
- 2.10Difference between emf and potential difference
- 2.11Uses and dangers of electrostatic charges
- 2.12Electrostatic charges
- 2.13Quantities and their units used in electricity
- 3 - WavesIn this section we will cover (a) Units (b) Properties of waves (c) The electromagnetic spectrum (d) Light and sound16
- 3.1Quantities and their units used in waves
- 3.2Basic properties and common features of waves
- 3.3Transverse and longitudinal waves
- 3.4Recall and use the equations v = f × λ and f = 1 / T
- 3.5Doppler effect
- 3.6Reflection of waves
- 3.7Refraction of waves
- 3.8Characteristics of electromagnetic spectrum
- 3.9Advantages and disadvantages of electromagnetic radiations
- 3.10Reflection of light
- 3.11Nature of light and its basic features
- 3.12Refraction of light
- 3.13Basic characteristics of sound waves
- 3.14Practical: Investigate the speed of sound in air
- 3.15Displaying and determining frequency of sound waves using oscilloscope
- 3.16Relation between pitch, frequency, loudness and amplitude of the vibrations
- 4 - Energy resources and energy transfersIn this section we will cover (a) Units (b) Energy transfers (c) Work and power (d) Energy resources and electricity generation6
- 5 - Solids, liquids and gasesIn this section we will cover (a) Units (b) Density and pressure (c) Change of state (d) Ideal gas molecules10
- 5.1Quantities and their units used in solids, liquids and gases
- 5.2Calculating and measuring the densities of different objects, (effects of density)
- 5.3Pressure and its measurement
- 5.4Thermal capacity
- 5.5Arrangement of atoms/molecules in solids, liquids and gases
- 5.6Heating the materials
- 5.7Molecular model
- 5.8Measurement of temperature
- 5.9Pressure law
- 5.10Boyle’s law
- 6 - Magnetism and electromagnetismIn this section we will cover (a) Units (b) Magnetism (c) Electromagnetism (d) Electromagnetic induction1
- 7 - Radioactivity and particles0
- 8 - Astrophysics0
