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A-Level Physics (9702) | Exam Structure

A-Level Physics (9702) | Exam

Structure

Candidates may complete the A-Level Physics (9702) course in 2 ways:

1. Enter for the AS-Level Physics (taking Papers 1, 2 and 3 in a single examination session an
AS-Level certification is received), then continue for a full A-Level qualification (taking Papers
4 and 5 in another session). The AS-Level marks will be carried forward. Each of these is usually
completed in a year (total = 2 years).
2. Enter for the full A-Level Physics (taking all papers) in a single session. This is usually
completed in 2 years.
Candidates have the choice to not continue for the full A-Level Physics if they chose the first
option.
Some details on each paper is given below.

Paper 1 (Multiple Choice) Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes. Marks: 40. Content: 40 multiplechoice questions based on the AS syllabus. % of AS examination: 31%. % of A-Level
examination: 15%

Paper 2 (AS Structured Questions) Duration: 1 hour 15

minutes. Marks: 60. Content:Variable number of structured questions of variable value. % of
AS examination: 46%. % of A-Level examination: 23%

Paper 3 (Advance Practical Skills) Duration: 2 hours. Marks: 40. Content: 2 experiments
(1 hour each) drawn from different area of physics. % of AS examination: 23%. % of A-Level
examination: 12%

Paper 4 (A Level Structured Questions) Duration: 2 hours. Marks: 100. Content: Variable
number of structured questions of variable value based on the A Level syllabus (materials
encountered in the AS Level syllabus may be included). % of A-Level examination: 38%

Paper 5 (Planning, Analysis and Evaluation) Duration: 1 hour 15

minutes. Marks: 30.Content: 2 questions of equal mark value based on the practical skills of
planning, analysis and evaluation. % of A-Level examination: 12%
Now for each paper there are different variants, depending on the countries, Any one
candidate will need to sit for only one of these variants.

A-Level Physics (9702) | Exam Tips

A-Level Physics (9702) | Exam Tips

Here are some advice highlighting some common mistakes made by learners. They are collected
under various subheadings to help you when you revise a particular topic.
General advice

Dont give up. Even if the answer to the first part of a question is incorrect you can still
score marks for your follow-on answers in the remaining parts of the question provided that
your follow-on calculations are correct.
Always show your working when answering a question. This will allow you to score
marks for your method, even if you make a mistake with the final answer.
Is the calculated answer sensible and realistic? If it isnt, go back and check your
working.
Ensure that you are fully aware of what data and formulae are given at the front of the
question paper. Learn those formulae that are not given.
During the examination you should monitor your rate of progression through the paper
and adjust your rate of working accordingly. This will ensure that towards the end of the
examination you will have sufficient time to complete the paper. Completing past papers under
timed conditions will allow you to develop an appropriate speed of working.
Be careful with powers of 10, especially when keying these into your calculator; make
sure that you do not neglect the minus sign of any negative powers and check that your final
answer is reasonable.
All answers should have their correct unit. Pay particular attention to questions that ask
you to give the units of your answer and any that do not give a unit in the answer space.

Advice for the theory papers

Paper 1 Multiple Choice

Attempt all questions a mark is not deducted for a wrong answer.

Use the space on the examination paper to write down clear working for each question. If
you try to do too much working solely on your calculator or in your head, you will make
mistakes many of the wrong answers to a question can be reached by manipulating the data
in a plausible, but incorrect, way.
Carefully consider every one of the four possible answers before making your final
decision as to which one is correct although you may initially think that the first or second
option is the right answer you will need to look at all four before the correct answer becomes
clear.
Paper 2 and Paper 4 Structured Questions

If you are asked to sketch a diagram, this implies that a simple, freehand drawing is
acceptable. However, care should be taken over proportions and you should clearly show and
label any important details.
If you are asked to sketch a graph, you should give as much information on your sketch
as possible. Label each axis with the appropriate quantity and unit. Then draw on the shape of
the graph, ensuring that it is correctly positioned relative to the axes and that the different parts
of the graph line are in proportion to each other. Dont forget to put on your sketch graph the
value of any applicable intercept, asymptote, discontinuity or end point (if these are known).
Memorise all definitions you will need to be as precise as possible when quoting them
in the examination. Quantities are defined in terms of quantities. Units are defined in terms of
units. Remember to use per if a ratio is essential to the definition; for example, pressure
should be defined as force per unit area (not force on unit area).
A non-numerical answer can sometimes be made clearer by adding a sketch, but
remember to ensure that it is clearly labelled and shows all the relevant information.
Always give your answer to an appropriate number of significant figures. This can be
judged from the number of significant figures of the data given in the question.
Occasionally a question will tell you the number of significant figures that are to be used
in your answer and in this case your answer must have exactly the number of significant
figures specified.
Do not prematurely round up figures at an intermediate stage during a calculation wait
until the answer is reached and only then express it to an appropriate number of significant
figures.
When doing algebra ensure that the terms on either side of an = sign do in fact equal
each other. It is bad practice to write down a string of terms all on the same line and all
connected by an = sign as any error can result in the first element being of an entirely
different nature and/or order to the last. This often leads to errors when calculating the total
resistance of a number of resistors connected in parallel.
Any explanations that you give should be as clear and precise as possible. For example,
saying A increases as B increases would be insufficient if what is meant is A is proportional
to B.
When substituting in the value of g use 9.81 m s2 (not 10 m s2).

Advice for the practical papers

Paper 3 Practical skills

Do not panic if the context of the practical experiment appears unfamiliar. Where
appropriate the question paper will tell you exactly what to do and how to do it.
If you find yourself in real difficulty setting up your practical equipment you may ask
your supervisor for help. You will only lose one or two marks for this.
There are a number of things that you can do to save time: Draw a single table for your
results in advance of taking any readings and enter your readings in the table as you take them
(so that you do not waste time having to copy them up later). This is also important because
you must record all your raw readings before you calculate and record any average readings. If
the number of readings that you need to take is indicated in the question paper, do not waste
time by exceeding this number. Repeat your readings, but remember that it is only necessary to
repeat them once (so that you have two sets of values) do not waste time repeating them
more than once.
All the raw readings of a particular quantity should be recorded to the same number of
decimal places which should in turn be consistent with the precision of the measuring
instrument.
The uncertainty in a measurement can sometimes be larger than the smallest interval that
can be measured by the measuring equipment. For example, a stopwatch can measure time to a
hundredth of a second, but human reaction times will mean that the uncertainty in the reading
given by a stopwatch is (typically) 0.1 s to 0.4 s.
Each column heading in your table must contain both a quantity and its unit. For instance
if you have measured time t in seconds, your column heading would be written as t/s (t in
s or t(s) would also be acceptable). The quantity or unit or both may also be written in
words rather than symbols.
The number of significant figures used in a derived quantity that you calculate from your
raw readings should be equal in number to (or possibly one more than) the number of
significant figures in the raw readings. For example, if you measure potential difference and
current to 2 and 3 significant figures respectively, then the corresponding value of resistance
calculated from them should be given to 2 or 3 significant figures, but not 1 or 4. If both were
measured to 3 significant figures, then the resistance could be given to 3 (or 4) significant
figures.
When drawing your graph, do not forget to label each axis with the appropriate quantity
and unit, using the same format for expressing column headings in a table. Choose a scale such
that the plotted points occupy at least half the graph grid in both the x and y directions. The xaxis scale should increase positively to the right and the y-axis scale should increase positively
upwards. Use a convenient scale such as 1, 2 or 5 units to a 2 cm square as you will then be
less likely to make a mistake with the position of your plotted points and it will be easier for
you to read off points from your graph if you are calculating the gradient or finding an
intercept. Similarly, it is good practice to mark values on at least every other 2 cm square.
All your plotted points should be on the grid; points in the white margin area will be
ignored. Plot all your observations and ensure that they are accurate to half a small square. A

fine cross (or an encircled dot) drawn with a sharp pencil is acceptable, but be careful not to
obscure the position of your points by your line of best fit or other working.
When drawing your line of best fit, ensure you have an even balance of points about the
line along its whole length. If it is a straight line, use a clear plastic ruler so that you can see
points on both sides of the line as it is being drawn.
Show all your working when calculating a gradient. It is helpful to draw the triangle used
to calculate the gradient on the graph and to clearly label the coordinates of the vertices
(accurate to half a small square). These values can then be used in the gradient calculation. The
length of the hypotenuse of the triangle should be greater than half the length of the graph line.
If you are required to give a value for the y-intercept, it may be possible to directly read it
off from your graph from an axis where x=0. If this is not possible you can instead calculate
the y-intercept by using the equation of a straight line. In this case you should substitute into
this equation a pair of x and y values from your line of best fit along with your calculated
value of gradient.

Paper 5 Planning, Analysis and Evaluation

Planning question

Do not panic if the context of the question appears unfamiliar to you. During your A
Level studies you will have used or learnt about suitable apparatus for completing the task. If
you are asked to use any unfamiliar apparatus the question will supply you with all the
details that you need to know about.

Read the question very carefully it may give you guidance on those aspects of your plan
to which you need to pay particular attention. It will also help you to identify the independent
and the dependent variables.

When writing your answer you will need to consider some or all of the following:
what apparatus you will use
what experimental arrangement will be used
what procedure will be followed
the independent and dependent variables
the means of keeping other variables constant use the word constant when identifying these
variables, saying you will control them is insufficient
how the raw data readings will be processed to give the desired result, e.g. what derived
quantities you might calculate or what graph you might plot
what relevant safety precautions should be in place

The relationship to be tested, given to you in the introduction to the task, will suggest the
type of graph to be expected. You will need to describe it as precisely as possible. For
example, is it linear, does it pass through the origin? If you choose a logarithmic graph, you
will be expected to predict its slope from the given expression.

When writing your answer you must write down all the information clearly and explicitly
the examiner cannot give you marks for things that are vaguely implied.

Many of the marks can often be scored by having a good working diagram (even if the
accompanying explanation is weak) and so you should spend time making sure that your

diagram shows all the relevant details and is fully labelled. For example, make clear the exact
points between which measurements, such as distance, are to be made.
The equipment and procedures that you describe in your answer should be realistic and
workable.
One mark is available for describing safe working. This must relate specifically to the
apparatus being used. It is not sufficient to write, for example, keep all bags and coats out of
the way.
Additional marks are available for detailed descriptions of apparatus/techniques. There
are always more possible answers than marks available, so if you write your plan carefully,
then some these marks should be gained as you go along. It is not expected that you write a
separate section solely for the detail marks.
As part of your preparation for this question you should plan some of your own
experiments, but this should be done under the close supervision of your teacher. Also practise
answering past papers.
A sketch graph is not necessary, but if drawn it should be consistent with your description
of the graph.

Analysis and Evaluation question

See advice for Paper 3: the comments regarding significant figures, plotting graphs and
calculating gradients and intercepts apply equally for this paper.

It is particularly important that the rules previously given for significant figures are
followed.

You will be expected to use the uncertainty given in the raw data to find the uncertainty
in calculated data. The latter will often involve a function such as a logarithm. This requires
plenty of practice, if you are to be able do it with confidence in the examination.

You will need to be able to translate the calculated uncertainties into error bars on your
graph and then to draw the worst acceptable line. Again, this requires plenty of practice.

Once the graph has been drawn, you will be expected to find uncertainties in both the
gradient and the intercept using your line of best fit and your worst acceptable line. A lot of
marks depend on your being able to calculate the uncertainties in the calculated data.

Every candidate is provided with the same data and so the final values calculated should
be very similar.

A-Level Physics (9702) | Skills to be tested?

A-Level Physics (9702) | Skills to be

tested?

The Cambridge examinations for A-Level Physics (9702) would require of the candidates a
proper level in different skills. This post provides some details about these skills.
The areas of knowledge and skills are called assessment objectives.

The theory papers (paper 1, 2 and 4) test mainly AO1 (Knowledge with
understanding)and AO2 (Handling, applying and evaluating information).
The practical papers (paper 3 and 5) are used to test you on the AO3 (Experimental skills
and investigations).

Let us now look further into each of these skills.

AO1 (Knowledge with understanding)
Questions testing these objectives will often begin questions with one of the following
words:Define, State, Describe, Explain
You should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

Scientific phenomena
Facts
Laws
Definitions
Concepts
Theories

Scientific vocabulary
Terminology
Conventions (including symbols, quantities and units)
Scientific instruments and apparatus, including techniques of operation and aspects of
safety
Scientific quantities and their determination

Scientific and technological applications with their social, economic and environmental
implications

AO2 (Handling, applying and evaluating information)

Questions testing these objectives will often begin questions with one of the following
words:Predict, Suggest, Deduce, Calculate, Determine
You should be able, in words or by using written, symbolic, graphical and numerical forms of
presentation, to:

Locate information from a variety of sources

Select information from a variety of sources

Organise information from a variety of sources

Present information from a variety of sources

Translate information from one form to another

Manipulate numerical and other data

Use information to identify

patterns
report trends
draw inferences
report conclusions

Present reasoned explanations for

phenomena
patterns
relationships

Make predictions and put forward hypotheses

Apply knowledge, including principles, to new situations

Evaluate information and hypotheses

Demonstrate an awareness of the limitations of physical theories and models

AO3 (Experimental skills and investigations)

Experimental skills are tested in Paper 3 and Paper 5.
You should be able to:

plan experiments and investigations

collect, record and present observations, measurements and estimates
analyse and interpret data to reach conclusions
evaluate methods and quality of data, and suggest improvements

The table below gives a general idea of the allocation of marks to the assessment objectives
across the whole assessment, though the balance on each paper may vary slightly.
Assessment objective
AO1 (Papers 1, 2 and 4)
AO2 (Papers 1, 2 and 4)
AO3 (Papers 3 and 5)

Marks allocated
37%
40%
23%

Physics Reference
YOUR PARTICIPATION FOR THE GROWTH OF PHYSICS REFERENCE BLOG
Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Physics 9702 Syllabus 2016 Changes

Physics 9702 Syllabus 2016 Changes

Compared to the previous years, there have been some major changes to the Physics 9702
syllabus for examination in 2016, both in the examination structure and in the syllabus content.
The syllabus has been reviewed and reorganised. The key changes are outlined below.

Changes to the exam papers (assessment)

Paper 1 (Multiple Choice): Time allowed = 1 hour and 15 minutes (previously: 1 hour). All
other aspects of this paper has remained the same.
Paper 2 (AS Level Structured Questions): Time allowed = 1 hour and 15 minutes (previously:
1 hour). All other aspects of this paper has remained the same.

Paper 3 (Advanced Practical Skills): The generic mark scheme has been adjusted.

Paper 4 (A Level Structured Questions): There is no longer be a section A and section B. The
question paper has been changed so that the assessment of core and applications will be
integrated.
These applications (topics 28 to 30 previously) are mostly still in the syllabus, but the chapters
are now more closely related to the appropriate area of physics. e.g instead of being in a separate
section called Remote sensing (as it was previously), nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
is now part of the section on magnetic fields.

Paper 5 (Planning, analysis and evaluation): The generic mark scheme has been adjusted.

Changes to syllabus content

Changes to the wording of learning outcomes for clarification (+ some minor additions).
sources of energy loss in a transformer
effect of internal resistance of a source of e.m.f. on the terminal p.d.
capacitance applied to both isolated conductors and parallel plate capacitors
charge on a sphere and mass of a sphere to be taken at its centre
thermistor thermometers rather than resistance thermometers
definition of the radian
introduction of the Boltzmann constant into the kinetic theory of gases.

New learning outcomes have been added to the syllabus content (some new material, with the
introduction of extra topics).
Doppler shift for a moving source of waves
basic ideas about fundamental particles such as quarks and neutrinos
band theory of energy levels in solids
derivation of the Hall voltage
derivation and use of the equation I = nAvq for current-carrying conductors
conservation of momentum applied to problems in two dimensions.

Some learning outcomes have been removed from the syllabus content.
structure of crystalline and non-crystalline solids
distinguishing between the processes of melting, boiling and evaporation
forceextension graphs for typical ductile, brittle and polymeric materials, including an
understanding of ultimate tensile stress
polarisation as a phenomenon associated with transverse waves
Millikans experiment and evidence for quantisation of charge
need for remote sensing in medicine
mobile-phone system, public switched telephone network and mobile phone handset.

Some learning outcomes have been moved from AS Level to A Level.

concept of internal energy and simple kinetic model for solids, liquids and gases
difference in structure and density related to the spacing, ordering and motion of molecules
Brownian motion
temperature characteristic of a thermistor
thermistors and light-dependent resistors in potential dividers providing a p.d. dependent on
temperature and illumination
simple nuclear reactions and nuclear equations
spontaneous and random nature of nuclear decay.

I hope this post can help both teachers and students who are dealing with the physics 9702
course to transition to the new syllabus and plan their work accordingly.
Posted by Admin at 11:07 AM
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Labels: A-Level

10 comments:
1.
AnonDecember 8, 2015 at 3:27 PM
The search feature seems broken. It doesn't show the results
Reply
Replies

1.
AdminDecember 8, 2015 at 5:49 PM
Try

it

again

later,

maybe

it's

just

temporary.

Let me know if it's still not working then.

2.
AnonDecember 8, 2015 at 5:52 PM
I've been trying it for a couple of days. It's the same :/
3.
AdminDecember 8, 2015 at 9:38 PM
Sorry, but it seems to be a problem with the service provider itself.
Let me know what you were searching, I'll try to help if possible.
Reply
2.

Mr Ali lecturer (Dammam)December 14, 2015 at 1:34 PM

The search feature seems broken. It doesn't show the results
Reply
Replies

1.
AdminDecember 14, 2015 at 10:02 PM
Yeah,

it's

been

some

time

now.

But this is a problem with the service provider, I can't really do much about it.
Sorry.
Reply
3.
asaakiMarch 11, 2016 at 1:06 AM
Are
these
changes
for
all
students
taking
A2
exams?
For example, what if a student took the AS level exams (Papers 1,2 and 3) in 2015. Will they
also face these changes in Papers 4 and 5 in 2016?
Reply
Replies

1.
AdminMarch 12, 2016 at 9:21 PM
Yes, they will need to learn for the new syllabus
Reply
4.
AnonymousMay 16, 2016 at 12:42 AM
Is ultrasound still in syllabus
Reply
Replies

1.
AdminMay 16, 2016 at 5:00 PM
I believe it's still there since it is not in the list above.

Physics Reference
YOUR PARTICIPATION FOR THE GROWTH OF PHYSICS REFERENCE BLOG
Friday, January 23, 2015

A-Level Physics (9702) | Recommended Books

A-Level Physics (9702) |

Recommended Books

In this post, Ill list some of the recommended books, with some details, that are useful for both
students and teachers doing the Cambridge A-Level Physics (9702) syllabus. Note that these are
the books recommended by Cambridge for its syllabus. Other people may recommend other
books.
So, until the A-Level Physics (9702) Notes are provided on the blog, I would recommend you
use one of these books.

1. Cambridge International AS and A Level Physics Coursebook with CDROM, Second Edition

Authors: Sang, D., Jones, G., Woodside, R. and Chadha, G.

ISBN: 9781107697690
Published in 2014.

Edition: 2
Published by Cambridge University Press, UK
GET Cambridge International AS and A Level Physics Coursebook with CD-ROM,
Second Edition HERE
Fully revised and updated content matching the Cambridge International Examinations
9702 syllabus for first examination in 2016
Endorsed by Cambridge International Examinations, Cambridge International AS and A Level
Physics Coursebook (second edition), comprehensively covers all the knowledge and skills
students need for AS/A Level Physics 9702 (first examination 2016).
Features:

Fully tailored to the new AS and A Level syllabus for first teaching 2014 and first
examination in 2016 including the new Key Concepts material (essential ideas, theories,
principles and mental tools to help learners develop deep understanding of the subject and
make links between topics).
Consistent use of thorough Worked Examples to help learners to tackle complex
content in a step by step way.
Clearly colour-coded sections throughout differentiate between AS and A Level content,
making navigation through the text simple and intuitive.
Formative assessment in the form of self assessment questions throughout each
chapter allow learners to track their progress through the course.
Exam-style questions at the end of every chapter allow students to prepare thoroughly
for their examinations.
Accompanying student CD-ROM containing detailed answers to all questions in the
book, advice on revision and approaching examinations and recommendations of additional
resources to supplement learning.
Reference to contemporary contexts and applications throughout to increase the
relevance of the content to learners.
Use of accessible language written with international learners in mind.
New digital versions of the textbooks are coming in 2015 and will offer an enriched
learning experience through material such as animation, video and audio content, and/or selfmarking quiz, assessment questions and personalisation of table of contents.

2. Cambridge International AS and A Level Physics Second Edition (with

CD)
Author: Crundell, M, Goodwin, G and Mee, C
ISBN: 9781471809217
Published in 2014.
Edition: 2
Extent: 416 pages
Published by Hodder Education
This new edition follows the syllabus exactly and is written in two parts, reflecting the AS and A
Level section division of the syllabus.
- Improves exam performance with annotated sample exam answers at three levels
- Offers additional support on a Student's CD-ROM, included with every book
- Provides opportunities for self assesment with worked examples and consolidation questions

3. Cambridge International AS and A Level Physics Teacher's Resource CDROM Second Edition
This new edition of the Teacher's Resource matches the requirements of the revised AS and A
Level Physics 9702 syllabus, for first examination from 2016 and is endorsed by Cambridge
Internaitonal Examinations.
CD-ROM ISBN: 9781107663008
Author: Sang, D, Jones, G, Chadha, G, Miller, J, Stark, W and Woodside, R
Published in 2014.
Edition: 2
Published by Cambridge University Press, UK
Posted by Admin at 2:57 PM
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Labels: A-Level

8 comments:
1.
Wajd TohmeAugust 11, 2015 at 12:35 PM
i'm doing the physics as and a levels in november 2015. what were the physics books endorsed
by cambridge before the revised 2016 syllabus? please someone reply asap, as i need to order
books soon and begin studying.
Reply
Replies

1.
AdminAugust 11, 2015 at 1:50 PM
You

can

try

the

first

edition

of

these

books.

There is no major changes in the Nov 2015 syllabus. Be sure to check the
worked
solutions
of
past
papers
at
http://physics-ref.blogspot.com/2014/05/physics-9702-notes-worked-solutionsfor.html

2.
Wajd TohmeAugust 11, 2015 at 1:59 PM
i already did, couldn't find any, its as if they were completely wiped out.
side note: i've already checked out and studied most of the content on your blog,
its amazing, thanks for your hard work.
3.
AdminAugust 11, 2015 at 2:45 PM
Don't know. Have you tried to contact physics students that are older than you,
maybe
you
could
buy
the
book
from
them.
Anyway, what I wanted to say is that if you work all the past exam questions, you
will
definitely
have
covered
the
syllabus.
Try to search for the Cambridge syllabus itself and see if you understand all the
required points.
Reply

2.
Wajd TohmeAugust 11, 2015 at 3:42 PM
i do understand them, but i still want to study more and from the book itself as well especially the
practical part to get the best possible grade i can get. you said there is no major change from the
november 2015 syllabus to the 2016 syllabus. if so, what are the parts that did change? since
the syllabus wasn't all that clear on the changes that occurred. also, i found this book, is it
intended for use with the 2015 november session? http://www.amazon.co.uk/International-LevelPhysics-Brian-Arnold/dp/0340945648/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8
Reply
Replies

1.
AdminAugust 11, 2015 at 8:47 PM
I

meant

no

major

changes

in

the

2014

2015

Yes, this book is the 1st edition of the second book i listed above.
Reply

3.

syllabus.

Wajd TohmeAugust 11, 2015 at 9:11 PM

So this book would cover the 2015 syllabus?
Reply
Replies

1.
AdminAugust 11, 2015 at 9:53 PM
Yeah.

Physics Reference
YOUR PARTICIPATION FOR THE GROWTH OF PHYSICS REFERENCE BLOG
Sunday, November 29, 2015

A-Levels to MCAT - Introduction

A-Levels to MCAT - Introduction

This self-study guide is for those who will be attempting the MCAT (Medical College Admission
Test) exams after their A-levels.
It is important to note that the topics are not exactly the same as in A-levels. More details are
now required.
First, be sure to have your MCAT syllabus with you we will be considering the 2015 syllabus
in this guide (in terms of page number), but it should be basically the same for other years.
The weightage of each subject is different, depending on the length of each syllabus.
As you can see, Physics (44 questions), Chemistry (58 questions), English (30 questions) and
Biology (88 questions).
Total = 220 questions in the MCAT (to be solved in 2 hours & 30 minutes)
For details on the subjects, follow the links below:
Physics Guide: part 1 | part 2
Chemistry Guide: part 1 | part 2
Biology Guide: part 1 | part 2
English Guide: complete

Note that these information have been taken, with permission, from the original author, to whom
the credits go. Links to the original posts are available below.

http://www.subtlygold.blogspot.com/2015/05/mcat-guide-for-alevel-students-part-i.html
http://www.subtlygold.blogspot.com/2015/06/mcat-guide-for-alevel-students-part-ii.html

I hope the guides were helpful. As you can see, it is NOT hard or impossible. Just needs a little
focus and time. So give it your all for 3 months and hopefully Insha Allah, make a bright medical
career ahead of you.
Posted by Admin at 10:54 AM

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Labels: A-Level, MCAT

Physics Reference
YOUR PARTICIPATION FOR THE GROWTH OF PHYSICS REFERENCE BLOG
Sunday, November 8, 2015

A-Levels to MCAT - Physics Guide (part 1)

A-Levels to MCAT - Physics Guide

(part 1)

The Physics guide will be divided into 2 parts. This is the first part.
Expected duration: 7 days
Page 6 (Table of Specification)
The number of questions each topic will have is given. Every question counts.
Back to page 2 (start of the learning outcomes)
Read youre A-level notes on the particular chapter first, then move to your FSC books.

1. PHYSICAL QUANTITIES & MEASUREMENTS

Chapter # 1
Questions asked: 02
The entire chapter is included except the subtopic of errors and uncertainties. The 'Tidbits' and
'Do You Know's and 'For your Information's etc on the sides of the pages are VERY
IMPORTANT IN EVERY CHAPTER.

Now it is very unlikely that they will ask you about all of the 'Areas of Physics' as mentioned on
page 2. But they can very well ask you the diameter of a nucleus as given on page 3. Cram the
figures and values. You don't really have a choice in it. And if it's getting too hard to memorize,
then cram the ones you think are important. What seems to be important are:
'For you information' on page 3
Table 1.1 & 1.2 on page 4
Table 1.4 on page 6 (Very important!!)
'For your Information' on page 14
But if you can; try and memorize all of the values given in the text and tables.
Practice the example questions along the way because they might ask you exactly them.
Now as for the learning outcomes mentioned...
Point (a) is covered on pages 1 - 3
Point (b) is covered on pages 3 -5
Point (c) is covered on pages 16 - 17
Pages 6 - 15 aren't included so you don't need to waste your time on them. If you still don't feel
satisfied with leaving so many pages you can always just read them but you really won't be asked
anything out of the syllabus.
2. FORCES
Chapter # 2 & # 5
Questions: 02
Forces is a very small and easy chapter in the MCAT syllabus contrary to the A'levels one. A lot
of topics are skipped in the syllabus. And many chapters are excluded as well so you don't need
to do the entire book. Chapter 3, 4 and most of 2 and 5 aren't included. If you're giving the NUST
test, then the whole book will be included but not for MCAT since the main focus is on Biology
and not Physics.
Okay, so:
Point (a) is covered on pages 116 - 118
Point (b) isn't really in the book. You should just know what the centre of gravity is which you
have already studied a billion times before. Nothing more is required.
Point (c) is covered on pages 36 - 39

3. FLUID DYNAMICS
Chapter # 6
Questions: 03

This is an entirely different and new chapter that you have never before. You might take some
time learning and understanding it but once you do, it is a pretty easy and straightforward
chapter. Again, you need to learn the tidbits on the sides of the pages as with every chapter. I can
not stress this enough.
This chapter has a few confusing formulae but you'll get the hang of them eventually. Understand
how they are derived. Read every line carefully. Now even though some topics like 'Torricelli's
Theorem' aren't mentioned in the syllabus, I still did the whole chapter to stay on the side and
you should too.
Small pieces of information such as '1 torr = 133.3Nm-2' as given on page 137 are the examiner's
pet questions. The UHS examiners pick out the smallest of figures and information and make an
MCQ out of it so keep your eyes peeled and watch out for every word. Try not to overlook
anything.
Point (a) is covered on page 128
Point (b) is covered on page 130
Point (c) is covered on page 131
Point (d) is covered on page 132 - 134
Point (e) is covered on page 135, 137 - 138.
4. LIGHT
Chapter # 9 & # 10
Questions: 04
This chapter is more or less the same as the one we studied in AS Level. It does have a few more
details that are new to you as well as a few more formulae. Note that the variables used in the
FSC books aren't always the same as those in A'level books. For example, one of the formulas
we have studied for 'fringe distance' in A'levels was 'x = D / a'
But in FSC, it is 'y = L / d'. You have to learn and adapt to the FSC formulae now. Because the
MCAT is purely FSC.
Point (a) is covered on pages 195 - 202 (Definition of interference is on page no. 178. Details is
Michelson's inferometer are not required. Just learn the basics!)
Point (b) is covered on on page 203 - 206
Point (c) is covered in pages 206 - 207
Point (d) is covered on pages 209 - 220
Point (e) is not in the FSC book. If you have the KIPS KETs book, cover it from there. If you
don't, Google it or consult another book. Basically all you should know us what happens in both
long & short sightedness and how they are corrected.
Point (f) is covered on pages 214 - 216
Point (g) is covered on pages 217 - 219
Point (h) is covered on pages 226 - 232.
The Telescope and Spectrometer are NOT included. For this chapter, I would recommend

revising the O'LEVEL chapter of 'Light', and the method of calculating focal length etc.
Questions from this topic are not so straight forward so get your concepts strong.
5. WAVES
Chapter # 7 & # 8
Questions: 04
A LOT has been excluded from this chapter in the MCAT syllabus. Doppler effect is a relatively
new concept as is the speed of Sound. Both these topics are VERY important.
Point (a) is covered on pages 142 - 151. You don't need to study the graphs or go into too much
details. Just learn the basics and definitions and the formulae.
Point (b) is covered on pages 152 - 153. Personally, I never had a good concept of this
particular subtopic. So if you're confused too then ask a Physics teacher.
Point (c) is covered on pages 154 - 155
Point (d) is covered on the pages 155 - 157
Point (e) is covered on pages 184 - 188
Point (f) isn't exactly in the book so refer to the KIPS book.
Point (f) is on pages 167 - 171. This is VERY important subtopic. Make sure you have a solid
grip on it. Do not forget to cram the values and figures.
Point (h) is covered on page 169 (under the box 'for your information')
6. DEFORMATION
(This chapter will be dealt with in part 2.)
7. IDEAL GAS
Chapter # 11
Questions: 02
This topic and the next, 'Heat and Thermodynamics' are basically both inter-related and in
chapter no.11. But I'll deal with both of them separately.
Point (a), (b), (c) & (d) are all from pages 237 - 243. The formulae are very important and the
relation of one variable to another. For example in the formula 'P = 2/3 N/V < mv2>', you
should know that 'P' is directly proportional to 2N and inversely to 3V. Manipulating these
formulas and understanding one quantity's relation to another is very important, so your maths
should be strong.
8. HEAT & THERMODYNAMICS
Chapter # 11
Questions: 03
When you first read this chapter, your expressions will be... what ever. That's because a lot of the
concepts that you have learned in your A-2 chapter of Thermodynamics suddenly get messed up

and confusing. So I'll warn you beforehand how this chapter is different from the one we studied
back in A'levels. In A'levels, we clearly studied that 'Work done by the gas on a system is taken
as negative, whereas work done on the gas by the system is taken as positive." However in FSC,
on page number 245, it's written the exact opposite.
Since the concept has been totally reversed, the formulas for the law of thermodynamics are also
reversed. I think you'll get to know what I mean when you study the chapter yourself. This
chapter will confuse you at first but do it over and over and you will get the hang of it. Cram the
values, tidbits and For Your Inforrmation-s. Can't repeat that enough.
Point (a) is not clearly mentioned in the book, so refer to the KIPS books. It's not very
important though.
Point (b) & (c) are again not in the book. Refer to the KIPS book or read it from your O'levels
chapter of 'Temperature'
Point (d) is covered on page 245 - 248, 252, 254. Heat Engine, Molar Specific Heat are NOT
required. But the Thermodynamics scale on page no. 256 is important.
Point (e) is covered on pages 244 - 245. The graph (figure 11.2) is important too.

The syllabus for Physics part 1 ends here. You should view the part 2 next.
.

Physics Reference
YOUR PARTICIPATION FOR THE GROWTH OF PHYSICS REFERENCE BLOG
Tuesday, November 10, 2015

A-Levels to MCAT - Physics Guide (part 2)

A-Levels to MCAT - Physics Guide

(part 2)

This is the second part of the Physics guide for transition from A-level to MCAT.
The Part 2 syllabus carries more weightage so it should be of your prime focus.
Expected duration: 7 days

6. DEFORMATION OF SOLIDS

Chapter # 17
Questions: 02
One of the easiest chapters in Physics in Part II. It will hardly take you 20 minutes ti learn. The
questions they ask about this chapter might not be so straightforward though. In fact the
questions will probably be conceptual and A-level style. So polish up your past knowledge
before moving on to FSC.
Point (a) to (c) are covered in only 3 pages that are from 138 - 140.
Point (d) is covered on page 142.

9. ELECTRONICS
Chapter # 18 & #14
Questions: 02
Again, a very small chapter but don't be deceived by its length. The text is simple but you need
to have the functions of gates on your tips to solve the MCQs. They will most probably give you
a diagram with several gates attached and ask you for the final output. If you have the KIPS past
papers or books, you'll know what I mean.
Point (a) is covered on pages 167 - 169. (XOR and XNOR are not included)
Point (b) is covered on pages 68 - 70

10. CURRENT ELECTRICITY

Chapter # 12 & # 13
Questions: 03
This chapter is the easiest in the whole of the MCAT syllabus. It has only basic concepts. No
details whatsoever. The questions are simple too.
Point (a) and (b) are covered on pages 36-37
Point (c) and (d) are covered on pages 22 - 26. The details of capacitor isn't written in the
syllabus but I did it anyway.

11. MAGNETISM & ELECTROMAGNETISM

Chapter # 14
Questions: 03
Another easy chapter with only basics.
Point (a) (i) is covered on pages 57 - 58. The magnetic field formula is not written in the FSC
book. So recall the A-levels one i.e. B = I/2r

 Point (a) (ii) is not in the book. The formula is written in the syllabus and all you have to do is
apply it. (B = nI)
Point (b) is not in the book either. You will have to study it from the KIPS book or youre Alevels books.

12. MODERN PHYSICS

Chapter # 20
Questions: 07
Seven questions! Not that's a lot, right? So you can expect this chapter to be long. It isn't hard,
don't worry. Mostly it's just learning the text and values.
Point (a) is covered on pages 208 - 210. You should remember the wavelength and frequency of
X-rays very well.
Point (b) is not in the book. Refer to the KIPS book
Point (c) is covered on pages 210 - 211
Point (d) and (e) is on page 211. CT scanning/ CAT is the same thing. All that is required is the
small paragraph on page 211.
Point (f) is new concept. It is covered on pages 213 - 215
Point (g) is covered on pages 215 - 216. It is VERY important.

13. NUCLEAR PHYSICS

Chapter # 21
Questions: 07
Another long chapter as you can judge by the number of questions it will have. This chapter is a
lot more detailed than the one we did in our A-levels and it has A LOT of learning.
Point (a) is covered on pages 226 - 227, 232 - 234. The table on page 234 is extremely
important.
Point (b) is covered on pages 227 - 228. Now even though the syllabus does not specifically
mention half lives, you still have to know the basic formulas and the values of certain isotopes
half lives on page 231, second paragraph. The graph and other details aren't required.
Point (c) is not in the book. You can find it in the KETS book.
Point (d) is covered on pages 234 - 237. Solid state detector is not included so don't waste your
time on it.
Point (e) is very important and is covered on pages 249 - 254. Make sure to learn and cram all
the values and figures. Even the smallest, most insignificant ones.

This ends the guide for the Physics part of the MCAT syllabus.