Physics
Physics is the fundamental science and can be seen all around us, as it deals with the laws of nature and how they impact on our daily lives.
It gives us an understanding of the everyday things which we take for granted. Science, Technology and Society (STS) is an integral part of the syllabus so that students can be aware of the principles of the applications of physics in the everyday world.
For any prospective student wishing to study Physics, it provides a solid foundation for those hoping to study University-Level courses, where the ability to think logically is required. Such courses include: Engineering, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary, Science, Meteorology, Sports Science, Electronics and Computing. However, an understanding of the logical and rational teachings of Physics is not consigned to these professions, and many other professions look favourably on individuals with experience in this area, including Finance and Advisory firms.
The Physics Department in Castleblayney College has a strong focus on helping our students grow and be inquisitive throughout their time here. We put particular emphasis on the practical elements of Physics, in both the Junior Certificate and Leaving Certificate cycles, as this can help each student engage and develop through active participation in the module.
Junior Cycle
Junior Certificate Physics is taught as part of the Junior Certificate Science Course.
Transition Year
Physics is taught as one half of the Phys/Chem module. By exposing the students to a broad range of Physics related topics, it is hoped that a genuine interest in the subject is developed.
This is achieved by:
- Reviewing basic Physics topics covered in Junior science, while introducing students to some of the Physics topics on the Leaving Certificate syllabus.
- Choosing current issues in the media and focusing on anything related to Physics.
- Providing resources and materials for practical work such as experiments and projects,
- Varying the mode of assessment from continuous assessment (projects/essays), to end of term exams as well as fun quizzes and experiment-based activities,
- Viewing relevant DVD’s, websites, You-Tube videos, etc., in an attempt to develop research skills.
Senior Cycle
The Leaving Certificate course covers the following topics:
- Optics
- Mechanics
- Heat
- Waves
- Light
- Sound
- Electricity
- Magnetism
- Electromagnetism
- Electron beams
- X-Rays
- Radioactivity
- Option: Modern Physics or Applied Electricity
The course includes twenty four mandatory experiments, which are covered in-depth throughout the two years at senior cycle (5th and 6th year). The Leaving Cert exam is 3 hours in duration, with plenty of choice on the paper.
Approximately 50% of the course is dependent upon learning – involving the mandatory experiments and the many definitions. The remaining 50% is down to your own logic and reasoning. It examines your comprehension of the course content and your ability to apply your knowledge and understanding to the problem at hand.
Useful Links
- www.education.ie - for the course syllabus
- www.skool.ie
- www.thephysicsteacher.ie Mr. Cunningham from King’s Hospital has created an outstanding website, bursting with resources for both leaving cert Physics
- www.cern.ch To learn about the Particle Accelerator
Links to “fun stuff”
- https://project-cernland.web.cern.ch/project-CERNland/ - Students’ section on CERN website
- www.crayonphysics.com A fun game which tests your knowledge of the laws of physics!
To find out more information about this subject please click on the following link which will bring you to the guidelines on this subject: