OCR GCSE Physics A (Gateway) specification (J249)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your OCR GCSE Physics A (Gateway) 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 OCR GCSE Physics A (Gateway) 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 OCR GCSE Physics A (Gateway) (J249) 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 OCR specification PDF.
Specification overview
The OCR GCSE in Physics A (Gateway) provides a concept-led, practical and accessible curriculum designed to explore fundamental physical principles and their application in real-world and global contexts. It aims to encourage learners to:
• develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding of physics • understand the nature, processes and methods of science through diverse scientific enquiries • apply observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and problem-solving skills in varied settings • critically evaluate scientific claims through analysis of methodology, evidence and conclusions
Physics is presented as the study of field, force, radiation, and particle structures unified in models of material behaviour. It covers key concepts such as cause-effect, interactions at a distance, modelling, mathematical formulation, and proportionality. These are embedded across the specification and reinforced through integrated practical work:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
Subject content breakdown
P1: Matter
- Particle model, atomic structure, changes of state, pressure in gases and liquids
P2: Forces
- Motion, Newton’s laws, forces in action including stretching, pressure, moments
P3: Electricity
- Static electricity, circuits, current, potential difference, resistance, power and energy transfer
P4: Magnetism and magnetic fields
- Permanent and induced magnets, magnetic fields, electromagnetism, motors, generators, transformers
P5: Waves in matter
- Wave properties, electromagnetic spectrum, wave behaviour and interactions, lens effects, hearing and ultrasound
P6: Radioactivity
- Atomic nuclei, types of radiation, half-life, nuclear equations, fission and fusion
P7: Energy
- Energy transfers, conservation, efficiency, power, domestic appliances, reducing energy loss
P8: Global challenges
- Forces in transport, national grid, electricity generation, mains safety, astrophysics and the expanding universe
P9: Practical skills
- Practical Activity Groups (PAGs) embedded throughout the specification to develop and assess experimental competency:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Assessment structure
Foundation Tier
- Paper 1 (J249/01): Topics P1–P4 and P9
- 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks, 50% of GCSE
- Paper 2 (J249/02): Topics P5–P8, assumes P1–P4 and P9
- 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks, 50% of GCSE
Higher Tier
- Paper 3 (J249/03): Topics P1–P4 and P9
- 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks, 50% of GCSE
- Paper 4 (J249/04): Topics P5–P8, assumes P1–P4 and P9
- 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks, 50% of GCSE
• All papers are written exams • Papers 2 and 4 include synoptic assessment • Each includes structured and unstructured questions assessing knowledge, application, and practical understanding:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your OCR GCSE Physics A (Gateway) 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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