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Cambridge AS and A Level Physics Syllabus 2025, Key Changes, Assessment Overview

The Cambridge AS and A Level Physics Syllabus has been discussed here. It covers important topics like mechanics, thermodynamics, waves, and electricity, along with practical assessments to prepare students for higher studies in science and engineering.
authorImageSwati Shakya18 Dec, 2024
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Cambridge AS and A Level Physics Syllabus

Cambridge AS and A Level Physics Syllabus 2025 provides a detailed roadmap for students aiming to excel in their physics exams. It covers essential topics like mechanics, waves, thermodynamics, and quantum physics, along with practical skills required for experimental work. With exams currently running, it is crucial for students to stay focused and organized in their preparation.

Referring to the Cambridge IGCSE Timetable 2025 can help students plan their studies efficiently and manage their time effectively. This syllabus not only builds a strong foundation in theoretical concepts but also enhances problem-solving and analytical skills. By understanding the syllabus and preparing strategically, students can confidently approach the exams and achieve excellent results.

Cambridge AS and A Level Physics Syllabus 2025 Overview

This section gives a clear breakdown of the syllabus, including key topics, practical requirements, and exam structure. Full details are provided below for better understanding.
Cambridge International AS and A Level Physics Syllabus Overview
AS Level Topics A Level Topics
1. Physical quantities and units 12. Motion in a circle
2. Kinematics 13. Gravitational fields
3. Dynamics 14. Temperature
4. Forces, density, and pressure 15. Ideal gases
5. Work, energy, and power 16. Thermodynamics
6. Deformation of solids 17. Oscillations
7. Waves 18. Electric fields
8. Superposition 19. Capacitance
9. Electricity 20. Magnetic fields
10. D.C. circuits 21. Alternating currents
11. Particle physics 22. Quantum physics
23. Nuclear physics
24. Medical physics
25. Astronomy and cosmology
Important Note :
  • AS Level candidates also study practical skills.
  • A Level candidates study both AS and A Level practical skills.

Key Changes in OLD and NEW Cambridge AS and A Level Physics syllabus

Explore the major updates between the old and new syllabus, including changes in learning outcomes, assessment focus, and content coverage. Detailed comparisons are outlined below.
Key Changes in OLD and NEW Cambridge AS and A Level Physics Syllabus
Learning Outcome Old Syllabus New Syllabus Key Changes
3.3.3 Recall that, for a perfectly elastic collision , the relative speed of approach is equal to the relative speed of separation. Recall that, for an elastic collision , total kinetic energy is conserved and the relative speed of approach is equal to the relative speed of separation. Added emphasis on total kinetic energy conservation in elastic collisions.
7.5.2 Recall and use Malus’s law ( I = I₀ cos²θ ) to calculate the intensity of a plane-polarised electromagnetic wave after transmission through a polarising filter or a series of polarising filters. Recall and use Malus’s law ( I = I₀ cos²θ ) to calculate the intensity of a plane-polarised wave after transmission through filters ( effect on unpolarised waves not required ). Clarified that calculations for unpolarised waves are not required .
15.3.4 Compare pV = ⅓Nm⟨c²⟩ with pV = NkT to deduce that the average translational kinetic energy of a molecule is 3/2 kT . Compare pV = ⅓Nm⟨c²⟩ with pV = NkT to deduce that the average translational kinetic energy of a molecule is 3/2 kT , and recall and use this expression . Added requirement to recall and use the expression for kinetic energy.
25.3.1 Understand that the lines in the emission spectra from distant objects show an increase in wavelength from their known values. Understand that the lines in the emission and absorption spectra from distant objects show an increase in wavelength from their known values. Included absorption spectra alongside emission spectra.

Cambridge AS and A Level Syllabus - Detailed

Cambridge AS and A Level Physics Syllabus 2025 - Assessment Overview

Understand the assessment structure, including paper-wise breakdown, marks distribution, and practical skills evaluation. A detailed overview is provided below to help you prepare effectively.
Cambridge AS and A Level Physics Syllabus - Assessment Overview
Paper Title Duration Marks Description Weightage
Paper 1 Multiple Choice 1 hour 15 minutes 40 40 multiple-choice questions based on the AS Level syllabus content. Externally assessed. 31% of AS Level 15.5% of A Level
Paper 2 AS Level Structured Questions 1 hour 15 minutes 60 Structured questions based on the AS Level syllabus content. Externally assessed. 46% of AS Level 23% of A Level
Paper 3 Advanced Practical Skills 2 hours 40 Practical work and structured questions testing experimental skills. Questions may go beyond the syllabus. 23% of AS Level 11.5% of A Level
Paper 4 A Level Structured Questions 2 hours 100 Structured questions based on A Level syllabus content (includes AS Level knowledge). Externally assessed. 38.5% of A Level
Paper 5 Planning, Analysis, and Evaluation 1 hour 15 minutes 30 Two compulsory questions focusing on planning, analysis, and evaluation of experimental skills. 11.5% of A Level

Cambridge AS and A Level Physics Syllabus Official PDF

The Cambridge AS and A Level Physics Syllabus is an essential guide for students and teachers, providing complete details about the course structure, assessments, and practical requirements. It helps students understand what to study and how to prepare effectively for their exams. Teachers can use it to plan lessons and ensure every key area is covered. To stay organized and focused during your preparation, download the official PDF from the link provided below and get started today.

Preparation Tips for Cambridge AS and A Level Physics Syllabus 2025

Paper 1: Multiple Choice (AS Level)

Focus on Core Theory : Cover all AS topics thoroughly, like kinematics, forces, energy, waves, and circuits. Questions test basic understanding and application of concepts. Master Formula Application : Know when to use key formulas like v=u+atv = u + atv=u+at, F=ma, and equations for electricity and waves . Practice quick substitutions and calculations. Eliminate Wrong Answers : For tricky questions, use elimination. Cross out options that don’t make sense logically or dimensionally. Work on Speed : Aim for under 1.5 minutes per question . Practice under time constraints to improve decision-making. Spot Common Traps : Pay attention to units (e.g., converting cm to m), powers of 10, and vector directions in motion or forces.

Paper 2: AS Level Structured Questions

Show Complete Working : Marks are awarded for steps. Clearly write formulas, substitutions, and answers, ensuring correct units.
  • Target Key Topics : Practice structured questions on:
  • Kinematics : Velocity-time graphs, SUVAT equations.
  • Forces and Dynamics : Free-body diagrams, Newton's laws.
  • Electricity : Circuit problems, Ohm’s law, resistors in series/parallel.
  • Waves : Superposition, interference, and wave calculations.
Diagrams and Sketches : Practice drawing accurate graphs (e.g., motion graphs) and diagrams like circuit or ray diagrams. Be Accurate with Definitions : Learn exact definitions for terms like velocity, acceleration, and power. Partial or incorrect explanations lose marks. Interpret Questions Carefully : Look for phrases like “explain,” “show,” or “calculate” to ensure you provide what’s being asked.

Paper 3: Advanced Practical Skills (AS Level)

Familiarize Yourself with Equipment : Practice experiments like:
  • Determining resistances using circuits.
  • Investigating oscillations using springs or pendulums.
  • Measuring forces, lengths, and uncertainties.
Improve Graph Skills :
  • Plot points accurately with correct scales.
  • Calculate gradients and intercepts, clearly showing your work.
  • Add error bars and explain their significance when needed.
Record Observations Precisely : Ensure measurements are recorded with appropriate decimal places and units. Understand Error Analysis : Practice calculating percentage error, uncertainty , and comparing experimental results to theoretical values. Be Time-Efficient : Simulate exam conditions to complete measurements, calculations, and evaluations in the given time.

Paper 4: A Level Structured Questions

Focus on Advanced Topics : Prioritize in-depth understanding of topics like:
  • Gravitational Fields : Force, potential, and energy calculations.
  • Electric and Magnetic Fields : Field strength, capacitance, and flux problems.
  • Thermodynamics : Ideal gas laws, kinetic theory, and energy transfer.
  • Quantum Physics : Photoelectric effect, energy levels, and wave-particle duality.
Practice Multi-Step Problems : A Level questions often require solving in parts. Break complex problems into smaller, manageable steps. Link AS and A Level Knowledge : Questions might require concepts from both levels. For example, dynamics (AS) combined with circular motion (A Level). Use Past Papers Effectively : Practice structured questions to identify recurring patterns, and compare your answers with mark schemes. Learn to Communicate Explanations : Be clear and concise when explaining physics principles or deriving equations.

Paper 5: Planning, Analysis, and Evaluation

Master Experimental Design : Practice planning experiments, including:
  • Identifying independent, dependent, and control variables.
  • Choosing appropriate apparatus and justifying why it’s suitable.
  • Outlining step-by-step procedures for investigations.
Analyze Data Effectively :
  • Practice processing raw data into graphs or tables.
  • Learn to spot trends, gradients, and relationships from data sets.
Focus on Error Analysis : Understand how to calculate uncertainties , percentage errors, and the significance of anomalies. Practice explaining how to reduce experimental errors. Evaluation Skills : Be confident in suggesting improvements to experiments and explaining their practical benefits. Practice Structured Questions : Solve past papers to get familiar with the layout, types of planning tasks, and data analysis questions.
International Boards Other Related Topics
IGCSE Chemistry Syllabus IGCSE Biology Syllabus
How to Choose the Cambridge IGCSE Subjects Difference Between IGCSE VS ICSE
Cambridge Grade Thresholds Cambridge IGCSE Exams with A* Grade

Cambridge AS and A Level Physics Syllabus FAQs

What topics are included in the Cambridge AS and A Level Physics syllabus?

The syllabus covers key areas such as mechanics, waves, electricity, thermodynamics, quantum physics, and practical skills. A Level topics build on AS Level content, introducing more advanced concepts.

How can I prepare effectively for the Physics exams?

Start with a clear study plan, focus on understanding core concepts, practice past papers regularly, and strengthen experimental skills. Use the Cambridge IGCSE Timetable 2025 to manage your study time efficiently.

What are the practical requirements for the Physics syllabus?

Students are assessed on their ability to plan experiments, record measurements, analyze data, and evaluate results. Practical skills are tested in Papers 3 and 5.

Are past papers useful for preparing for the exam?

Yes, solving past papers helps you understand the exam format, improve problem-solving speed, and identify key areas where you need improvement. Always review marking schemes for better clarity.
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