The physics content of KS3 Science. Energy and energy transfer. Motion and forces. Waves and sound. Electricity and magnetism. The particle model (shared with chemistry). Space physics — Earth, Sun, Moon, the Solar System.

NC outcomes (paraphrased)

Pupils should be taught to:

  • Energy — energy stores and transfers; conservation of energy; energy resources; efficiency
  • Motion and forces — speed, distance, time; forces and their effects; balanced and unbalanced forces; gravity; pressure (in fluids and solids)
  • Waves — properties of waves; sound; light; reflection and refraction
  • Electricity and electromagnetism — current, voltage, resistance; series and parallel circuits; magnets and electromagnetism
  • Matter (particle model) — see also Matter and chemistry strand; pressure, density, kinetic theory
  • Space physics — the Solar System; Earth, Sun, Moon; seasons; gravity in the Universe

Forward to KS4

Precursor for the physics strands of KS4 Science (Combined Science route only):