A Level Electronics
COURSE oVERVIEW
Electronics is the study of the design, construction and testing of electronic circuits. As a branch of Physics, electronics is a combination of theory and practical skills. You will use mathematical formulae to predict the behaviour of circuits and choose the values of components. You will also develop skills in using test equipment such as oscilloscopes, signal generators and multitesters. No prior knowledge apart from GCSE level electrical theory is assumed. You will be surprised how quickly you will be able to construct your own working electronic circuits and find out how satisfying and enjoyable the subject is. As one of the most important industries in the 21st Century, the demand for students with this knowledge is higher than ever. The course combines perfectly with Maths and Physics and also with Maths and Computing.
EXAMINATION BOARD: eduqas
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in GCSE Maths plus grades 6 and 5 from GCSE Combined Science (higher tier), or grade 6 in GCSE Physics. No prior electronics experience is required.
Why study A Level Electronics at Blackpool Sixth?
The UK has the 6th largest Electronics industry in the world. There is a shortage of specialists in this area. It is interesting and technically challenging and we are the only place to study A Level electronics in the area. The subject combines well with physics or computing and Maths. It is an ideal A Level if you are considering a career in any sector of engineering, computing or physics.
How will I be taught?
Mix of teacher-led and practical activities
Teacher expertise
Your teacher has 11 years of experience teaching A Level Electronics.
What skills will I develop?
- Practical circuit design
- Use of circuit simulation software
- Mathematical skills
- Use of test equipment
- Microcontroller programming
- Circuit analysis
How will I be assessed?
80
%- 80% Exam-based
20
%- 20% Coursework
What will you study and other information about A-Level Electronics
- First Year
- Semiconductor components
- Logic systems
- Operational amplifiers
- Signal conversion
- AC circuits and passive filters
- Communications systems
- Wireless transmission
- Instrumentation systems
- Second Year
- Timing circuits
- Sequential logic systems
- Microcontrollers
- Digital communications
- Optical communication
- Mains power supply systems
- High power switching systems
- Audio systems
Coursework
- Task 1 (20 marks) – involves the development of a microcontroller system programed through assembler language.
- Task 2 (50 marks) – is a substantial system development including analogue and digital sub-systems in an integrated design.
- Equipment and Financial contributions
The science department runs several trips and educational visits throughout the year to enhance the experience of studying science. There may be other non-essential educational visits that students can access during the two-year course, such as visits to zoos and museums.
Students must have a scientific calculator, we strongly recommend the Casio fx-83GTX – costs approximately £15 – £20, (if studying maths or further maths, the upgraded calculator you buy for these courses will be suitable). Students also need a 30cm clear ruler.
Software for Circuit Wizard is available from the college and is best used on a windows based laptop; alternatives are possible if you do not have a PC machine.
- Field trips, projects and employability opportunities
Large upper sixth practical project and visits to the industry; ideal for entry into apprenticeships.
Where does it lead?
Recent students have progressed to university to study electronic engineering and related courses. Others have been successful in securing apprenticeships, including with BAE Systems. Others have combined with physics, maths and computing to access a wide range of exciting careers.
