AQA GCSE Physics specification (8463)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your AQA GCSE Physics exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official AQA GCSE Physics specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official AQA GCSE Physics (8463) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official AQA specification PDF.
Specification overview
The AQA GCSE in Physics is designed to offer a coherent and engaging study of physical concepts that apply both to everyday phenomena and wider technological and scientific contexts. It promotes the development of scientific literacy by integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Students are encouraged to explore the universe through a lens of energy, forces, atomic structure, electromagnetism, waves and the cosmos. The course nurtures curiosity about the natural world and develops analytical and evaluative skills critical for further study and informed citizenship in an increasingly scientific and technological society.
It supports progression by ensuring that knowledge builds incrementally, is well-sequenced, and is complemented by mathematical and practical skills. The subject is enriched by opportunities to develop scientific models, evaluate the impact of science, and understand its historical development:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
Subject content breakdown
4.1 Energy
- Energy stores and systems; changes in energy; power and efficiency; national and global energy resources.
4.2 Electricity
- Current, potential difference and resistance; series and parallel circuits; mains electricity and safety; energy transfers; National Grid; static electricity.
4.3 Particle model of matter
- Density; changes of state; internal energy; specific heat capacity and latent heat; gas pressure and motion.
4.4 Atomic structure
- Atomic models and isotopes; radioactivity; nuclear equations; half-life; contamination; uses and risks; nuclear fission and fusion.
4.5 Forces
- Types of forces; work and energy transfer; elasticity; moments, levers and gears; pressure in fluids and atmospheric pressure; motion and Newton’s Laws; stopping distances and momentum.
4.6 Waves
- Wave properties; reflection and refraction; sound and seismic waves; electromagnetic spectrum; lens behaviour; black body radiation.
4.7 Magnetism and electromagnetism
- Magnetic fields and forces; electromagnets; the motor and generator effect; transformers and the National Grid.
4.8 Space physics (Physics only)
- The Solar System and lifecycle of stars; orbital motion; red-shift and evidence for the expanding universe.
4.9 Key ideas
- Cross-topic concepts: modelling, proportionality, field theory, cause-effect, conservation, and mathematical formulation of laws:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Assessment structure
Paper 1
- Topics 1–4: Energy; Electricity; Particle model of matter; Atomic structure
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Foundation and Higher Tier
- 100 marks
- 50% of GCSE
- Question types: multiple choice, structured, short answer, open response
Paper 2
- Topics 5–8: Forces; Waves; Magnetism and electromagnetism; Space physics
- Draws on understanding from Paper 1 (e.g. energy transfers)
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Foundation and Higher Tier
- 100 marks
- 50% of GCSE
- Question types: multiple choice, structured, short answer, open response:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your AQA GCSE Physics isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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