specification overview
Edexcel International GCSE Physics (4PH1) is a single-tier linear qualification with two written papers. Both papers assess all 8 topics: Paper 1 (2h, 110 marks) is worth 61.1% and covers the core (non-bold) content; Paper 2 (1h 15m, 70 marks) is worth 38.9% and adds the bold and 'P' extension content on top of the core.
subject content
1. Forces and motion
Both papers- Motion (speed, velocity, acceleration)
- Newton's laws, momentum
- Work, energy, power, gravitational field strength
2. Electricity
Both papers- Static electricity, current, potential difference
- Series and parallel circuits, resistance
- Electrical safety, mains electricity
3. Waves
Both papers- Wave properties, transverse and longitudinal waves
- Light (reflection, refraction, lenses)
- Sound, electromagnetic spectrum
4. Energy resources and energy transfers
Both papers- Energy stores and transfers, efficiency
- Renewable and non-renewable energy resources
- Global energy usage
5. Solids, liquids and gases
Both papers- Density, pressure
- Kinetic theory, changes of state
- Gas laws (pressure, volume, temperature relationships)
6. Magnetism and electromagnetism
Both papers- Magnetic fields, electromagnets
- Motor effect, force on a wire
- Electromagnetic induction, transformers
7. Radioactivity and particles
Both papers- Atomic structure, isotopes
- Radioactive decay (alpha, beta, gamma), half-life
- Nuclear fission and fusion
8. Astrophysics
Both papers- Solar system, gravitational forces
- Life cycle of stars, red-shift
- Expanding universe, Big Bang theory
assessment structure
| Paper | What's assessed | Length | Marks | Weight | Question types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | All 8 topics (core, non-bold, no 'P' content) | 2h | 110 | 61.1% | Multiple-choice, short-answer, calculations, extended-response |
| Paper 2 | All 8 topics (extension: bold and 'P' content on top of the core) | 1h 15m | 70 | 38.9% | Multiple-choice, short-answer, calculations, extended-response |
International Edexcel Physics is untiered (grades 9-1). No compulsory practical exam, practical skills are tested through written questions on methods, results and evaluations. No equation sheet is provided in the exam - the relationships listed in Appendix 7 of the specification must be recalled.
assessment objectives
| AO | What it means | Overall |
|---|---|---|
| AO1 | Knowledge and understanding of physics | 38-42% |
| AO2 | Application of knowledge and understanding, analysis and evaluation of physics | 38-42% |
| AO3 | Experimental skills, analysis and evaluation of data and methods in physics | 19-21% |
key tips for success
Master gas laws thoroughly
International Edexcel tests gas laws (Boyle's, Charles', Pressure-Temperature) explicitly. Learn each with worked calculations.
Learn Physics equations
No equation sheet is provided. Appendix 7 of the specification lists the relationships you must recall and be able to rearrange from memory, so drill them until automatic.
Practise extended-writing
Extended-response questions reward: intro, 3 developed points with examples, evaluation. Practise the structure.
Learn unit conversions
Physics needs unit conversion fluency: J to kJ, m to km, ms to s, MHz to Hz. Drill until automatic.
Master calculations with rearrangement
Many questions require equation rearrangement before substitution. Practise rearranging under time pressure.
Practise past papers under time
International Edexcel past papers are widely available. Do timed practice under Paper 1 (2h) and Paper 2 (1h 15m) conditions, stamina matters for Paper 1.
Where to next
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