Skip to course topics
    ← Physics

    WJEC A-Level Physics

    Explore your course, one topic at a time.

    Ofqual Regulated: 601/5848/7

    Official Regulatory Specification

    Regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) in England

    View on Ofqual Register (opens the official government register in a new tab)
    Qualification Number (QN)
    601/5848/7
    Awarding Organisation
    WJEC
    Regulatory Type
    GCE A Level
    National Level & Units
    A-Level • 5 units
    Sector Subject Area: Science
    This qualification is officially accredited under the national framework. Credits and certified outcomes are recognised by employers, further education colleges, and training providers throughout the UK.

    Explore your topics

    5 topics

    Course topics5 topics
    About this course

    About WJEC A-Level Physics

    The WJEC A-Level Physics course invites you to explore the fundamental principles that govern the universe, from the tiniest particles to the vastness of space. You will investigate motion, energy, and the behaviour of matter, then move into the realms of electricity, light, and wave phenomena. The course builds a deep understanding of classical physics while introducing modern concepts such as quantum physics and nuclear structure.

    Structured into six units, the specification balances theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical skills. The AS units lay a solid foundation, covering mechanics, materials, and basic circuit theory, while the A2 units extend into oscillations, gravitational and electromagnetic fields, and optional topics like medical physics or astrophysics. Throughout, you will develop mathematical fluency and an analytical approach to problem-solving.

    Practical work is at the heart of the course, with dedicated, externally assessed practical exams that challenge you to design experiments, analyse data, and evaluate methods. This ensures you not only learn physics theory but also how it is applied in real-world scientific investigation, preparing you for further study or careers in science, engineering, and technology.

    Assessment Structure

    The WJEC A-Level Physics qualification is assessed across six units, three for the AS and three for the A2, all typically taken at the end of a two-year linear course. Units 1 (Motion, Energy and Matter) and 2 (Electricity and Light) are 1.5-hour written papers each worth 20% of the A-level. Unit 3 is a practical examination contributing 10%. At A2, Units 4 (Oscillations and Fields) and 5 (Electromagnetism, Nuclei and Options) are 2-hour written papers each worth 20%, while Unit 6 is a further practical exam worth 10%. Total marks across all units amount to 400, with grades A*–E awarded based on overall performance.

    Why Choose WJEC?

    • WJEC stands out for its structured, transparent assessment style, with question papers written in clear, accessible language and a consistent format that helps you focus on showing your physics ability rather than deciphering the exam.
    • The inclusion of two separate, externally marked practical exams means your hands-on skills are properly recognised and rigorously tested, giving you a qualification that truly reflects your experimental competence — ideal for students aiming for lab-based university courses.
    • The option of studying astrophysics, medical physics, or engineering physics in Unit 5 allows you to tailor the course to your interests and career aspirations, keeping the content engaging and relevant.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How does WJEC A-Level Physics differ from other exam boards?
    WJEC A-Level Physics is distinctive primarily because of its externally assessed practical exams (Units 3 and 6), which are rare among other boards that now use a practical endorsement. This means your practical skills are graded and contribute directly to your final A-level grade, rather than being reported separately. Additionally, the specification offers clear, context-rich questions that often feel more applied and less abstract than some alternatives, and the option choices in Unit 5 allow for specialisation.
    How much practical work is there in WJEC A-Level Physics?
    Practical work accounts for 20% of your total A-level marks through two dedicated external practical exams: Unit 3 (AS level) and Unit 6 (A2 level). These exams assess your ability to plan experiments, manipulate apparatus, record and analyse data, and evaluate results. Throughout the course, you will also complete a wide range of core practical activities in class to build your skills, but only the exam performance counts towards your grade.
    Can I take the AS level separately before the full A-level?
    Yes, the WJEC AS Physics qualification is a standalone course that can be taken in one year and is assessed by Units 1, 2, and 3. If you decide to continue to the full A-level, your AS marks count towards the final grade (Units 1–3 make up 50% of the total A-level). However, many schools encourage entering the full linear A-level in one go to allow more teaching time and deeper understanding.
    What optional topics are available in WJEC A-Level Physics?
    In Unit 5, you will study one of three option topics: Medical Physics (covering imaging, radiotherapy, and diagnostics), Astrophysics (exploring stars, galaxies, and cosmology), or Engineering Physics (focused on rotational dynamics, thermodynamics, and materials). Your school or college will choose which option to offer, so it’s worth checking which one they teach if you have a strong preference.
    Is WJEC A-Level Physics accepted by all UK universities?
    Absolutely. WJEC A-Level Physics is fully regulated by Qualifications Wales and is recognised by all UK universities and employers on equal footing with qualifications from other exam boards such as AQA, OCR, or Edexcel. It carries the same UCAS tariff points and is widely respected for its rigorous assessment, including the practical examination component.
    Assessment and exam guidance

    What Gets Top Grades

    A*/Grade 9

    Knowledge & Understanding

    Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge

    • Uses correct subject-specific terminology
    • Shows detailed understanding of concepts
    • Makes accurate connections between topics
    • Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge

    Application

    Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts

    • Selects relevant knowledge for the question
    • Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
    • Uses examples appropriately
    • Shows awareness of context

    Analysis & Evaluation

    Develops sophisticated analytical arguments

    • Constructs logical chains of reasoning
    • Considers multiple perspectives
    • Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
    • Acknowledges limitations and nuances

    Key Command Words

    WJEC
    State
    1 mark

    Give a single fact or term

    Identify
    1 mark

    Name, select, or recognise

    Outline
    2 marks

    Set out main features briefly

    Describe
    2-4 marks

    Give an account of what something is like or what happens

    Explain
    3-6 marks

    Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains

    Compare
    2-4 marks

    State similarities AND differences (both required)

    Analyse
    6-9 marks

    Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains

    Evaluate
    6-12 marks

    Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion

    Assess
    6-12 marks

    Make judgments about importance with justification

    Calculate
    2-4 marks

    Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units

    Ready for a little practice?

    Create your account to start practising Physics.

    Start free

    7 days Premium · Then free forever · No card, no charge

    Start free

    Cookies on MasteryMind

    Essential cookies keep you signed in.

    Analytics and advertising cookies stay off unless you accept.

    Read our Privacy Policy.