Oxford AQA International AS Physics specification (9631)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Oxford AQA International AS 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 Oxford AQA International AS 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 Oxford AQA International AS Physics (9631) 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 Oxford AQA specification PDF.
Specification overview
The Cambridge International AS Level in Physics provides learners with a sound understanding of physical principles, the ability to handle experimental techniques, and an appreciation of the scientific method. The course develops skills in logical reasoning, mathematical modelling, and the application of knowledge to novel situations. It introduces key topics in mechanics, electricity, waves and quantum physics, fostering both theoretical insight and practical competence to support further study in science and engineering.
Subject content breakdown
1. Physical quantities and units
- SI units and their definitions
- Scalars and vectors
- Prefixes and conversions
2. Measurement techniques
- Use of vernier callipers and micrometers
- Measuring time, mass, temperature and volume
- Uncertainties and error analysis
3. Kinematics
- Displacement, velocity, acceleration
- Equations of motion
- Graphical interpretation of motion
4. Dynamics
- Newton’s laws of motion
- Force, mass and acceleration
- Friction and resultant force
5. Forces, density and pressure
- Centre of gravity and moments
- Pressure in solids and liquids
- Archimedes’ principle and upthrust
6. Work, energy and power
- Kinetic and potential energy
- Conservation of energy
- Efficiency and power
7. Deformation of solids
- Stress, strain and Young modulus
- Hooke’s law and elastic limit
- Energy stored in stretched materials
8. Waves
- Transverse and longitudinal waves
- Wave speed, frequency and wavelength
- Superposition, interference and stationary waves
9. Superposition
- Conditions for interference
- Coherence and path difference
- Young’s double slit experiment
10. Electricity
- Current, voltage and resistance
- Ohm’s law and IV characteristics
- Series and parallel circuits
- Electrical power and energy
11. D.C. circuits
- Kirchhoff’s laws
- Internal resistance and emf
- Potential dividers
12. Particle and nuclear physics
- Atomic structure and isotopes
- Radioactive decay and half-life
- Nuclear equations and applications
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Multiple Choice
- Written exam: 1 hour 15 minutes
- 40 marks
- 40 multiple-choice questions covering AS content
- 31% of AS Level
Paper 2: AS Level Structured Questions
- Written exam: 1 hour 15 minutes
- 60 marks
- Structured and extended questions on theory and applications
- 46% of AS Level
Paper 3: Advanced Practical Skills
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 40 marks
- Two or three experimental investigations
- Focus on measurement, analysis and evaluation
23% of AS Level
- Candidates must take all three papers in the same exam series
- Exams available in June and November
- Grading: A–E
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Oxford AQA International AS 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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