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Frequently Asked Questions
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Questions to think about before taking a new course
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Will we need new teaching materials?
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To teach Advancing Physics, you will need Student's Books and the Teacher's CD-ROM for AS and A2. The CD-ROM provides you with an enormous and easily accessed stock of teaching materials, allowing for differentiation and with Key Skills opportunities flagged.
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More about AP resources
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What computers will we need?
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You will need a minimum of three PCs running Windows 95 or better, with both CD drive and access to the Internet: one for exclusive teacher use, one in the classroom (preferably also access to a computer suite from time to time), and one which students can use in their private study time. Though not essential, the student CD-ROM greatly expands the potential for independent learning.
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Will we need new apparatus?
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If you are adequately equipped to teach A level Physics, there is very little additional apparatus required. You will already have some sensors, an interface and datalogging software. A simple digital camera would be useful, but a £20 Webcam will suffice. Anything more is optional.
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What demands will it make on technicians?
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INSET is available for technicians, however there is no special apparatus to construct in either the AS or A2 year. Basic technician skills will be sufficient.
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What about consumables?
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The course is no more expensive to run than a standard physics course at this level. The instrumentation project is intended to consolidate basic ideas, and does not require expensive sensors. By choosing which class of solid materials to teach in detail, you can make use of what you already have in the prep room.
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Can I talk to someone teaching the course?
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Contact advancing.physics@iop.org with your school name and postcode for a list of local schools teaching Advancing Physics.
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What kind of support and INSET is available?
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AS and A2 INSET is provided each summer - see INSET for more details. Our email networks help teachers stay in touch and discuss ideas. We also print regular newsletters, and in addition there is a printed Course Guide and detailed Teacher's Guides on the CD-ROM for every chapter.
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Something to build on?
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Feedback from schools and colleges shows that we have succeeded in producing flexible teaching materials that develop the special interests of students and teachers. In the first year of teaching the course, plotting a simple route through the course may take highest priority. See the web-base for other school's routes through and chapter guides.
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In subsequent years, your route can be adapted so it best fits you and your students. You can annotate your CD-ROM as you go.
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