A Level Physics ISA

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Basically with the ISA's there is always a set exam style. 
Each one is pretty much exactly the same. Just remember the last one, and it will be in exactly the same format. There is a plausible hypothesis that identifies the independent and the dependent variable. 

A/S

Make sure you know how to calculate the %uncertainty, difference and error, and also what to do if you are multiplying values with errors (Add the two errors!)

y=mx+c and if you are less confident with maths revise how to rearrange a lot.

A2 level

revise logs and exponentionals!

Simple harmonic motion, damping, kinetic/ potential energy, Young's Modulus...

There may be a question about how you would improve the practical, ie. what could have caused error and thus how you would solve it. 

WARNING some exam boards state that error in timing (ie reaction time) is not a valid answer.

Go for :

• paralax error 
• not considering weight of sellotape etc...

That should be all. 

HOW DOES THE EXAMINER GIVE THE MARKS

• There is an explanation that is sufficiently clear to be awarded 3 marks. 

• The candidate has clearly identified two relevant sources and has commented on the usefulness of both. There is an implied comparison.

• Most of the necessary equipment is listed, and there are no major omissions. 

• The method is unclear in places, and it is doubtful if another person would be able to follow this method and obtain valid results. For example, there is no reference to what the data logger will actually be recording; there is no reference to the position of the ball before it is dropped; there is no reference to the function of the measuring cylinder. However, the use of a labelled diagram helps to some extent. With regard to control variables, the candidate has stated that the two balls will weigh the same, and has stated that each ball will be dropped from the same height. 

• The risk assessment contains an identification of the hazards (the danger of the equipment falling over, and of electrical shocks), and the associated control measures, but little in the way of assessing the risks associated with these hazards. 

• The account is well structured by the use of headings, and there are some appropriate technical terms used in the correct way. 

• The spelling, punctuation and grammar are good, with no spelling mistakes. . 

• On a ‘best fit’ basis, this answer fits into the middle range and can be awarded 6 marks. 

• The candidate has briefly described an alternative method, and has stated a reason for not using it. This answer is just worthy of 2 marks.

• The table is appropriate, and has the correct headings and units.

VIDEOS AND EXEMPLAR ANSWERS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lFEdPllR5Q

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ln1xQLlukyw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1dTn2pt5PuA

http://www.animatedscience.co.uk/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/What-Students-get-Wrong-in-an-ISA.pdf

http://store.aqa.org.uk/qual/pdf/AQA-PHA3B3X-W-WRE-JUN10.PDF

http://store.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/pdf/AQA-2450-W-TRB-ISASASMS.PDF