Physics

Physics is one of the most fascinating subjects that anyone can study. It involves discovering the whys and the wherefores of how everything around us has come into being, how things work, and can explain many of the natural phenomena that we observe in everyday life. Physics also encourages pupils to develop problem solving skills and attention to detail, both in a practical situation and in the manner in which experimental results are reported.

What we study in Physics
S1 pupils learn about electricity and heat through experiments and in S2, light and sound and then forces are investigated. Again, we place emphasis on practical work for the girls.

S3 and S4 at present follow the Standard Grade course but this will change next session and S3 will study for the new Scottish qualifications, National 4 and 5. Last year, S4 pupils performed very well at Credit level, attaining a 95% pass rate.

In S5 and S6, Higher Physics is a popular choice with the girls. Our results are of a high standard, and last session’s Higher class achieved an exceptional 100% pass rate with 50% gaining an A pass.

Advanced Higher Physics is excellent preparation for studying any science-related course at university. It offers a rigorous training in both scientific method and theory. Many of our former Advanced Higher pupils have gone on to study Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or Architecture.

Beyond the classroom
The Physics Department encourages pupils at all stages to avail themselves of every opportunity to participate in extra-curricular activities related to Physics or Engineering. This is a small sample of what we do:

♦ Annual Institute of Physics Lecture
♦ Westpoint Bridge-building Contest
♦ Scottish Space School
♦ Nuffield Bursary Scheme
 
What our pupils say about Physics
"I have thoroughly enjoyed studying Physics for a number of years now and I feel it has complemented my other subjects well, especially Maths and Chemistry. Physics definitely teaches you how to use your brain in an analytical and logical way! Although Physics is a demanding course (it really keeps you on your toes!) I would recommend taking on the challenge as you pick up skills that will be helpful in areas of other subjects and in day to day life." Emma (S6)

"In Physics, I like learning about how the world around me works, and the confidence that it gives me in manipulating equations. It encourages me to use problem-solving skills, which are transferable across my other areas of study. I often find I am learning something interesting that makes me say, "Wow!" and because of this, I am hoping to study either Physics or Mechanical Engineering next year." Rebecca (S6)

Meet the staff
Mrs Speirits is Head of Physics. Before a career break to bring up her family, she was Principal Teacher of Physics in a very large school in Glasgow. Mrs Speirits joined Craigholme 11 years ago and has been involved in many extra-curricular activities over that period of time, inlcuding hockey, operating the sound and lighting for school shows and singing in the Chamber Choir.

Useful links
Scholar 
BBC Bitesize (Higher) 
BBC Bitesize (Standard Grade)