Course Outline
Session 1: Matter, motion, forces and energy
Starting with course basics which will include the three phases of matter, we will look at density, internal energy of substances, temperature including absolute zero, kinetic theory, specific latent heat and specific heat capacity looking carefully at graphs and calculations. We will then move on swiftly to velocity, displacement and time graphs and calculations, the session will include Newton’s laws and momentum. This then leads on to energy stores and transfers, work done, power, resultant forces, moments, leavers and gears. We will look at questions that require practical knowledge and go over past paper questions.
Session 2: Waves and the electromagnetic spectrum
Starting with the basic of waves, we will advance to look at wave behaviour at boundaries, refraction and reflection, sound, ultrasound, light, lenses, the electromagnetic spectrum, emission and absorption and temperature. We will look at questions that require practical knowledge and go over past questions.
Session 3: Radioactivity
Starting by understanding how the model of the atom was developed, we will look at energy levels in atoms and spectra, nuclear structure and isotopes and radiation. We will construct nuclear equations helping understand nuclear decay and half life, look at the uses and danger of radiation, for example in PET scans and radio therapy. Using this knowledge we will look at nuclear fission in power plants and fusion in the sun. As always, we will look at where practical knowledge is needed in written questions and at some past papers.
Session 4: Electricity and magnetism
Starting with basic circuits, we will unpack what is meant by current, charge and potential difference. With this knowledge we will move onto resistance, looking how to investigate the properties of circuit components. We will look at the differences between series and parallel circuits and calculate resistance, energy and power. With this knowledge, we will look at electric and magnetic fields, magnets, electromagnetic induction, motor effect and generators and transformers ensuing practical knowledge is cemented and answering past questions.
Rik
Rik is an Oxford science graduate turned full time tutor. A tutor for over 20 years Rik has helped scores of students pass their GCSEs and A-levels in maths and all three sciences. Rik works one-to-one with students as well as in small classes typically helping students improve by two grades. He will explain the material and offer challenge to students so that they will have to think for themselves, explaining the concepts and answering the practice questions.
