A Level choices - need help/advice!
Hi, I'm a Y11 student currently stressing out over my a-level choices, but i'm hoping that somebody can answer some questions for me!
I've already sent my application out to my desired sixth forms, wanting to study maths, further maths, physics and computer science, although now looking back on it, I'm starting to regret applying for physics. Fortunately, I'm able to reselect my course choices for my first priority sixth form so I have a second chance now. I'm 100% certain on studying maths, further maths and computer science a-level so it's just the 4th a level that I need to sort out.
I want to study computer science or maths at a really good university (hopefully oxbridge) and from my research it seemed that the majority of people who got in studied physics. While I got a grade 8 in my physics mock and am currently predicted a 9, it's my weakest science as I got both 9's in biology and chemistry, and I'm not that passionate about the physics content.
If I was to switch physics out for another a-level, I would currently go for economics or chemistry. Both of these subjects seem much more enjoyable to study at a-level than physics for me, and I feel that it would be easier to secure top grades in these. Since this is quite last minute, I didn't take the opportunity to look at every single a-level to see if it interlinked with my other subjects while also being interesting to study.
Therefore, from all of this, I have three questions:
1) How much of a disadvantage does it put me if I switch out physics, not doing do the 'golden' a-level combo (m, fm, phy, cs) to study computer science/maths at oxbridge or russel group unis? If it's helpful, my mathematical ability is very strong so maybe I won't need the extra solidification of physics?
2) If you're currently studying economics/chemistry a-level, how are you finding it? (especially for econ, my school didn't offer it for GCSE)
3) What a-levels combine the skills for maths and english literature together? I know this is a strange final question but this is what I ideally wanted to pick as my 4th a-level before applying for physics, as I still love to write essays and form my own opinions. I thought economics would suit this well, am I right or wrong?
I've already sent my application out to my desired sixth forms, wanting to study maths, further maths, physics and computer science, although now looking back on it, I'm starting to regret applying for physics. Fortunately, I'm able to reselect my course choices for my first priority sixth form so I have a second chance now. I'm 100% certain on studying maths, further maths and computer science a-level so it's just the 4th a level that I need to sort out.
I want to study computer science or maths at a really good university (hopefully oxbridge) and from my research it seemed that the majority of people who got in studied physics. While I got a grade 8 in my physics mock and am currently predicted a 9, it's my weakest science as I got both 9's in biology and chemistry, and I'm not that passionate about the physics content.
If I was to switch physics out for another a-level, I would currently go for economics or chemistry. Both of these subjects seem much more enjoyable to study at a-level than physics for me, and I feel that it would be easier to secure top grades in these. Since this is quite last minute, I didn't take the opportunity to look at every single a-level to see if it interlinked with my other subjects while also being interesting to study.
Therefore, from all of this, I have three questions:
1) How much of a disadvantage does it put me if I switch out physics, not doing do the 'golden' a-level combo (m, fm, phy, cs) to study computer science/maths at oxbridge or russel group unis? If it's helpful, my mathematical ability is very strong so maybe I won't need the extra solidification of physics?
2) If you're currently studying economics/chemistry a-level, how are you finding it? (especially for econ, my school didn't offer it for GCSE)
3) What a-levels combine the skills for maths and english literature together? I know this is a strange final question but this is what I ideally wanted to pick as my 4th a-level before applying for physics, as I still love to write essays and form my own opinions. I thought economics would suit this well, am I right or wrong?
(edited 1 month ago)
Reply 1
To answer question 2, chemistry A-level is extremely easy. You will find it very easy to get an A at minimum. All you have to do to guarantee this is regular revision and there is nothing extremely complicated in the subject. There are times when topics may take longer to understand but ultimately the content is straight forward, fun and generally nice to learn. It's very satisfying too once you learn everything and do past papers etc.
To get an A* you will need two things. 1) Understand every topic perfectly so you are able to apply the mechanisms/concepts to any question that comes up. 2) Not make stupid errors.
I know the second one sounds very obvious but with chemistry your greatest enemy will not be failing to understand the question (for majority of the questions). Frequently you will come across a question that you know how to answer, but make a random error (eg reading question wrong or rounding error). So the way to overcome this is simply to do every past paper and make a habit of checking and going through questions after completing a past paper.
The first one I mentioned may also seem extremely obvious. But the reason I stated it is to emphasise how application-heavy chemistry can be. The mechanism you will learn in lesson in a particular topic will seem rudimentary; but the exam board have a strong skill at curating questions that are hard to decipher. They will mask a question to look extremely difficult (eg give you a complex molecule you have never seen before or make the question long, perhaps even adding in irrelevant details to throw you off), but the skill here is to understand, "what topic(s) is this question wanting me to think about?". Once you can look at any question and immediately know what topic knowledge it is demanding, all that is left is to apply it. This will come easily if you extensively revise and strive to know each topic inside out, comprehensively.
I'd say it is a rewarding subject to do, very fun. Idk anything about econ icl
To get an A* you will need two things. 1) Understand every topic perfectly so you are able to apply the mechanisms/concepts to any question that comes up. 2) Not make stupid errors.
I know the second one sounds very obvious but with chemistry your greatest enemy will not be failing to understand the question (for majority of the questions). Frequently you will come across a question that you know how to answer, but make a random error (eg reading question wrong or rounding error). So the way to overcome this is simply to do every past paper and make a habit of checking and going through questions after completing a past paper.
The first one I mentioned may also seem extremely obvious. But the reason I stated it is to emphasise how application-heavy chemistry can be. The mechanism you will learn in lesson in a particular topic will seem rudimentary; but the exam board have a strong skill at curating questions that are hard to decipher. They will mask a question to look extremely difficult (eg give you a complex molecule you have never seen before or make the question long, perhaps even adding in irrelevant details to throw you off), but the skill here is to understand, "what topic(s) is this question wanting me to think about?". Once you can look at any question and immediately know what topic knowledge it is demanding, all that is left is to apply it. This will come easily if you extensively revise and strive to know each topic inside out, comprehensively.
I'd say it is a rewarding subject to do, very fun. Idk anything about econ icl
Reply 2
Original post
by nathan.exoticHi, I'm a Y11 student currently stressing out over my a-level choices, but i'm hoping that somebody can answer some questions for me!
I've already sent my application out to my desired sixth forms, wanting to study maths, further maths, physics and computer science, although now looking back on it, I'm starting to regret applying for physics. Fortunately, I'm able to reselect my course choices for my first priority sixth form so I have a second chance now. I'm 100% certain on studying maths, further maths and computer science a-level so it's just the 4th a level that I need to sort out.
I want to study computer science or maths at a really good university (hopefully oxbridge) and from my research it seemed that the majority of people who got in studied physics. While I got a grade 8 in my physics mock and am currently predicted a 9, it's my weakest science as I got both 9's in biology and chemistry, and I'm not that passionate about the physics content.
If I was to switch physics out for another a-level, I would currently go for economics or chemistry. Both of these subjects seem much more enjoyable to study at a-level than physics for me, and I feel that it would be easier to secure top grades in these. Since this is quite last minute, I didn't take the opportunity to look at every single a-level to see if it interlinked with my other subjects while also being interesting to study.
Therefore, from all of this, I have three questions:
1) How much of a disadvantage does it put me if I switch out physics, not doing do the 'golden' a-level combo (m, fm, phy, cs) to study computer science/maths at oxbridge or russel group unis? If it's helpful, my mathematical ability is very strong so maybe I won't need the extra solidification of physics?
2) If you're currently studying economics/chemistry a-level, how are you finding it? (especially for econ, my school didn't offer it for GCSE)
3) What a-levels combine the skills for maths and english literature together? I know this is a strange final question but this is what I ideally wanted to pick as my 4th a-level before applying for physics, as I still love to write essays and form my own opinions. I thought economics would suit this well, am I right or wrong?
I've already sent my application out to my desired sixth forms, wanting to study maths, further maths, physics and computer science, although now looking back on it, I'm starting to regret applying for physics. Fortunately, I'm able to reselect my course choices for my first priority sixth form so I have a second chance now. I'm 100% certain on studying maths, further maths and computer science a-level so it's just the 4th a level that I need to sort out.
I want to study computer science or maths at a really good university (hopefully oxbridge) and from my research it seemed that the majority of people who got in studied physics. While I got a grade 8 in my physics mock and am currently predicted a 9, it's my weakest science as I got both 9's in biology and chemistry, and I'm not that passionate about the physics content.
If I was to switch physics out for another a-level, I would currently go for economics or chemistry. Both of these subjects seem much more enjoyable to study at a-level than physics for me, and I feel that it would be easier to secure top grades in these. Since this is quite last minute, I didn't take the opportunity to look at every single a-level to see if it interlinked with my other subjects while also being interesting to study.
Therefore, from all of this, I have three questions:
1) How much of a disadvantage does it put me if I switch out physics, not doing do the 'golden' a-level combo (m, fm, phy, cs) to study computer science/maths at oxbridge or russel group unis? If it's helpful, my mathematical ability is very strong so maybe I won't need the extra solidification of physics?
2) If you're currently studying economics/chemistry a-level, how are you finding it? (especially for econ, my school didn't offer it for GCSE)
3) What a-levels combine the skills for maths and english literature together? I know this is a strange final question but this is what I ideally wanted to pick as my 4th a-level before applying for physics, as I still love to write essays and form my own opinions. I thought economics would suit this well, am I right or wrong?
You dont need physics a level to study maths or comp sci at uni in most cases, if any. Double maths is best for top unis and having comp sci will give you background knowledge in cs which would have some use for a comp sci degree. Physics can be helpful to take with double maths because theres cross-over between the mechanics modules in maths and the forces and motion stuff in physics so you can kinda revise them all at once but if you dont like physics then dont take it just for that slight reduction in work!
@Trickia @Jaa_ could you provide any help for question 2 on the OP or tag someone else to answer 🙂
Id think econ would be a good pick given your last point, from my basic knowledge of econ a level it would fit that description far more than chem would! Have you had a look at past papers for econ to see what kind of questions are asked?
Reply 3
14
Original post
by nathan.exoticHi, I'm a Y11 student currently stressing out over my a-level choices, but i'm hoping that somebody can answer some questions for me!
I've already sent my application out to my desired sixth forms, wanting to study maths, further maths, physics and computer science, although now looking back on it, I'm starting to regret applying for physics. Fortunately, I'm able to reselect my course choices for my first priority sixth form so I have a second chance now. I'm 100% certain on studying maths, further maths and computer science a-level so it's just the 4th a level that I need to sort out.
I want to study computer science or maths at a really good university (hopefully oxbridge) and from my research it seemed that the majority of people who got in studied physics. While I got a grade 8 in my physics mock and am currently predicted a 9, it's my weakest science as I got both 9's in biology and chemistry, and I'm not that passionate about the physics content.
If I was to switch physics out for another a-level, I would currently go for economics or chemistry. Both of these subjects seem much more enjoyable to study at a-level than physics for me, and I feel that it would be easier to secure top grades in these. Since this is quite last minute, I didn't take the opportunity to look at every single a-level to see if it interlinked with my other subjects while also being interesting to study.
Therefore, from all of this, I have three questions:
1) How much of a disadvantage does it put me if I switch out physics, not doing do the 'golden' a-level combo (m, fm, phy, cs) to study computer science/maths at oxbridge or russel group unis? If it's helpful, my mathematical ability is very strong so maybe I won't need the extra solidification of physics?
2) If you're currently studying economics/chemistry a-level, how are you finding it? (especially for econ, my school didn't offer it for GCSE)
3) What a-levels combine the skills for maths and english literature together? I know this is a strange final question but this is what I ideally wanted to pick as my 4th a-level before applying for physics, as I still love to write essays and form my own opinions. I thought economics would suit this well, am I right or wrong?
I've already sent my application out to my desired sixth forms, wanting to study maths, further maths, physics and computer science, although now looking back on it, I'm starting to regret applying for physics. Fortunately, I'm able to reselect my course choices for my first priority sixth form so I have a second chance now. I'm 100% certain on studying maths, further maths and computer science a-level so it's just the 4th a level that I need to sort out.
I want to study computer science or maths at a really good university (hopefully oxbridge) and from my research it seemed that the majority of people who got in studied physics. While I got a grade 8 in my physics mock and am currently predicted a 9, it's my weakest science as I got both 9's in biology and chemistry, and I'm not that passionate about the physics content.
If I was to switch physics out for another a-level, I would currently go for economics or chemistry. Both of these subjects seem much more enjoyable to study at a-level than physics for me, and I feel that it would be easier to secure top grades in these. Since this is quite last minute, I didn't take the opportunity to look at every single a-level to see if it interlinked with my other subjects while also being interesting to study.
Therefore, from all of this, I have three questions:
1) How much of a disadvantage does it put me if I switch out physics, not doing do the 'golden' a-level combo (m, fm, phy, cs) to study computer science/maths at oxbridge or russel group unis? If it's helpful, my mathematical ability is very strong so maybe I won't need the extra solidification of physics?
2) If you're currently studying economics/chemistry a-level, how are you finding it? (especially for econ, my school didn't offer it for GCSE)
3) What a-levels combine the skills for maths and english literature together? I know this is a strange final question but this is what I ideally wanted to pick as my 4th a-level before applying for physics, as I still love to write essays and form my own opinions. I thought economics would suit this well, am I right or wrong?
Hiya,
Thanks @DerDracologe for the ping!
Econ would definitely fit your joy for essay writing and forming opinions. But, there won't be much of a link to maths. There are questions where you'll be asked to interpret data and make calculations on data provided, but these won't ask anything beyond GCSE maths - think simple percentage calculations.
If you're looking for a subject that best combines maths and essay writing, you can't go far wrong with econ though. It's very analytical by nature, and you'll spend a lot of time comparing economic scenarios and how government's can act. The skill comes in the form of comparing arguments. Also, pretty much unique to econ is its high use of diagrams. The laws and rules you'll learn apply to diagrams, which can really complement an essay!
As DerDracologe recommended, it'd be a good idea to check out some past papers. It'd give you a feel for a subject not really exposed to GCSE students. I'll also note exam technique is kinda central to econ. If a student knows the content but can't grasp the exam technique, like me in year 12, it's easy to trip up. Hence, your joy for essay writing should come in really handy here!
I'll end by saying I personally love econ since It's so applicable to the world around you. I'm clearly biased but It's great.
Hope this helps!
Reply 4
Original post
by nathan.exoticHi, I'm a Y11 student currently stressing out over my a-level choices, but i'm hoping that somebody can answer some questions for me!
I've already sent my application out to my desired sixth forms, wanting to study maths, further maths, physics and computer science, although now looking back on it, I'm starting to regret applying for physics. Fortunately, I'm able to reselect my course choices for my first priority sixth form so I have a second chance now. I'm 100% certain on studying maths, further maths and computer science a-level so it's just the 4th a level that I need to sort out.
I want to study computer science or maths at a really good university (hopefully oxbridge) and from my research it seemed that the majority of people who got in studied physics. While I got a grade 8 in my physics mock and am currently predicted a 9, it's my weakest science as I got both 9's in biology and chemistry, and I'm not that passionate about the physics content.
If I was to switch physics out for another a-level, I would currently go for economics or chemistry. Both of these subjects seem much more enjoyable to study at a-level than physics for me, and I feel that it would be easier to secure top grades in these. Since this is quite last minute, I didn't take the opportunity to look at every single a-level to see if it interlinked with my other subjects while also being interesting to study.
Therefore, from all of this, I have three questions:
1) How much of a disadvantage does it put me if I switch out physics, not doing do the 'golden' a-level combo (m, fm, phy, cs) to study computer science/maths at oxbridge or russel group unis? If it's helpful, my mathematical ability is very strong so maybe I won't need the extra solidification of physics?
2) If you're currently studying economics/chemistry a-level, how are you finding it? (especially for econ, my school didn't offer it for GCSE)
3) What a-levels combine the skills for maths and english literature together? I know this is a strange final question but this is what I ideally wanted to pick as my 4th a-level before applying for physics, as I still love to write essays and form my own opinions. I thought economics would suit this well, am I right or wrong?
I've already sent my application out to my desired sixth forms, wanting to study maths, further maths, physics and computer science, although now looking back on it, I'm starting to regret applying for physics. Fortunately, I'm able to reselect my course choices for my first priority sixth form so I have a second chance now. I'm 100% certain on studying maths, further maths and computer science a-level so it's just the 4th a level that I need to sort out.
I want to study computer science or maths at a really good university (hopefully oxbridge) and from my research it seemed that the majority of people who got in studied physics. While I got a grade 8 in my physics mock and am currently predicted a 9, it's my weakest science as I got both 9's in biology and chemistry, and I'm not that passionate about the physics content.
If I was to switch physics out for another a-level, I would currently go for economics or chemistry. Both of these subjects seem much more enjoyable to study at a-level than physics for me, and I feel that it would be easier to secure top grades in these. Since this is quite last minute, I didn't take the opportunity to look at every single a-level to see if it interlinked with my other subjects while also being interesting to study.
Therefore, from all of this, I have three questions:
1) How much of a disadvantage does it put me if I switch out physics, not doing do the 'golden' a-level combo (m, fm, phy, cs) to study computer science/maths at oxbridge or russel group unis? If it's helpful, my mathematical ability is very strong so maybe I won't need the extra solidification of physics?
2) If you're currently studying economics/chemistry a-level, how are you finding it? (especially for econ, my school didn't offer it for GCSE)
3) What a-levels combine the skills for maths and english literature together? I know this is a strange final question but this is what I ideally wanted to pick as my 4th a-level before applying for physics, as I still love to write essays and form my own opinions. I thought economics would suit this well, am I right or wrong?
Adding on to what has already been mentioned,
1) Personally, I don't think this combo is as 'golden' as you may think. Sure, it's common and perhaps useful to have, but it's not really like BioChemMaths for medicine, where it gives you a significant advantage (if you get what I mean). In fact, only one person in my (albeit very small) CS class does Physics. It might be worth having a look at the websites of some unis you want to go to, and check out the modules. Most of them aren't especially physics-y I think.
2) Not too sure as I don't do either of them, but maybe you could attend those sessions on sixth form induction day?
3) I know you were looking for a subject with maths together, but have you considered doing EngLit? It's very much like GCSE approach-wise (but obviously with more AOs etc.), so you'll get to write essays and form opinions. I'm super biased, but it's such an interesting subject and a nice way to break up a day of CS theory- Similarly, if you're able to consider essay-based, thought-provoking subjects without maths (since you're essentially already doing two and a bit Maths subjects), options include: Philosophy, Religion, Politics, Criminology, Sociology, History, and the list goes on.
Just something to think about - of course, there's nothing wrong with choosing Economics if that's what you're looking for.
Also note that there's a period of time in Year 12 where you're able to switch subjects, so try not to be too worried about it
Reply 5
Original post
by nathan.exoticHi, I'm a Y11 student currently stressing out over my a-level choices, but i'm hoping that somebody can answer some questions for me!
I've already sent my application out to my desired sixth forms, wanting to study maths, further maths, physics and computer science, although now looking back on it, I'm starting to regret applying for physics. Fortunately, I'm able to reselect my course choices for my first priority sixth form so I have a second chance now. I'm 100% certain on studying maths, further maths and computer science a-level so it's just the 4th a level that I need to sort out.
I want to study computer science or maths at a really good university (hopefully oxbridge) and from my research it seemed that the majority of people who got in studied physics. While I got a grade 8 in my physics mock and am currently predicted a 9, it's my weakest science as I got both 9's in biology and chemistry, and I'm not that passionate about the physics content.
If I was to switch physics out for another a-level, I would currently go for economics or chemistry. Both of these subjects seem much more enjoyable to study at a-level than physics for me, and I feel that it would be easier to secure top grades in these. Since this is quite last minute, I didn't take the opportunity to look at every single a-level to see if it interlinked with my other subjects while also being interesting to study.
Therefore, from all of this, I have three questions:
1) How much of a disadvantage does it put me if I switch out physics, not doing do the 'golden' a-level combo (m, fm, phy, cs) to study computer science/maths at oxbridge or russel group unis? If it's helpful, my mathematical ability is very strong so maybe I won't need the extra solidification of physics?
2) If you're currently studying economics/chemistry a-level, how are you finding it? (especially for econ, my school didn't offer it for GCSE)
3) What a-levels combine the skills for maths and english literature together? I know this is a strange final question but this is what I ideally wanted to pick as my 4th a-level before applying for physics, as I still love to write essays and form my own opinions. I thought economics would suit this well, am I right or wrong?
I've already sent my application out to my desired sixth forms, wanting to study maths, further maths, physics and computer science, although now looking back on it, I'm starting to regret applying for physics. Fortunately, I'm able to reselect my course choices for my first priority sixth form so I have a second chance now. I'm 100% certain on studying maths, further maths and computer science a-level so it's just the 4th a level that I need to sort out.
I want to study computer science or maths at a really good university (hopefully oxbridge) and from my research it seemed that the majority of people who got in studied physics. While I got a grade 8 in my physics mock and am currently predicted a 9, it's my weakest science as I got both 9's in biology and chemistry, and I'm not that passionate about the physics content.
If I was to switch physics out for another a-level, I would currently go for economics or chemistry. Both of these subjects seem much more enjoyable to study at a-level than physics for me, and I feel that it would be easier to secure top grades in these. Since this is quite last minute, I didn't take the opportunity to look at every single a-level to see if it interlinked with my other subjects while also being interesting to study.
Therefore, from all of this, I have three questions:
1) How much of a disadvantage does it put me if I switch out physics, not doing do the 'golden' a-level combo (m, fm, phy, cs) to study computer science/maths at oxbridge or russel group unis? If it's helpful, my mathematical ability is very strong so maybe I won't need the extra solidification of physics?
2) If you're currently studying economics/chemistry a-level, how are you finding it? (especially for econ, my school didn't offer it for GCSE)
3) What a-levels combine the skills for maths and english literature together? I know this is a strange final question but this is what I ideally wanted to pick as my 4th a-level before applying for physics, as I still love to write essays and form my own opinions. I thought economics would suit this well, am I right or wrong?
Hi I do chemistry a level (year 13)
Being honest chemistry does have it is hard areas but I tend to find that fits for all subjects. I quite enjoy it especially the organic side and certain parts of physical chemistry etc! Unfortunately chemistry does have very high grade boundaries but that is simply because the questions are much easier in comparison so lots of work is needed to get the high grades for what you are currently aiming for - a bit like biology where the mark scheme is very important in how you obtain marks.
Original post
by nathan.exoticHi, I'm a Y11 student currently stressing out over my a-level choices, but i'm hoping that somebody can answer some questions for me!
I've already sent my application out to my desired sixth forms, wanting to study maths, further maths, physics and computer science, although now looking back on it, I'm starting to regret applying for physics. Fortunately, I'm able to reselect my course choices for my first priority sixth form so I have a second chance now. I'm 100% certain on studying maths, further maths and computer science a-level so it's just the 4th a level that I need to sort out.
I want to study computer science or maths at a really good university (hopefully oxbridge) and from my research it seemed that the majority of people who got in studied physics. While I got a grade 8 in my physics mock and am currently predicted a 9, it's my weakest science as I got both 9's in biology and chemistry, and I'm not that passionate about the physics content.
If I was to switch physics out for another a-level, I would currently go for economics or chemistry. Both of these subjects seem much more enjoyable to study at a-level than physics for me, and I feel that it would be easier to secure top grades in these. Since this is quite last minute, I didn't take the opportunity to look at every single a-level to see if it interlinked with my other subjects while also being interesting to study.
Therefore, from all of this, I have three questions:
1) How much of a disadvantage does it put me if I switch out physics, not doing do the 'golden' a-level combo (m, fm, phy, cs) to study computer science/maths at oxbridge or russel group unis? If it's helpful, my mathematical ability is very strong so maybe I won't need the extra solidification of physics?
2) If you're currently studying economics/chemistry a-level, how are you finding it? (especially for econ, my school didn't offer it for GCSE)
3) What a-levels combine the skills for maths and english literature together? I know this is a strange final question but this is what I ideally wanted to pick as my 4th a-level before applying for physics, as I still love to write essays and form my own opinions. I thought economics would suit this well, am I right or wrong?
I've already sent my application out to my desired sixth forms, wanting to study maths, further maths, physics and computer science, although now looking back on it, I'm starting to regret applying for physics. Fortunately, I'm able to reselect my course choices for my first priority sixth form so I have a second chance now. I'm 100% certain on studying maths, further maths and computer science a-level so it's just the 4th a level that I need to sort out.
I want to study computer science or maths at a really good university (hopefully oxbridge) and from my research it seemed that the majority of people who got in studied physics. While I got a grade 8 in my physics mock and am currently predicted a 9, it's my weakest science as I got both 9's in biology and chemistry, and I'm not that passionate about the physics content.
If I was to switch physics out for another a-level, I would currently go for economics or chemistry. Both of these subjects seem much more enjoyable to study at a-level than physics for me, and I feel that it would be easier to secure top grades in these. Since this is quite last minute, I didn't take the opportunity to look at every single a-level to see if it interlinked with my other subjects while also being interesting to study.
Therefore, from all of this, I have three questions:
1) How much of a disadvantage does it put me if I switch out physics, not doing do the 'golden' a-level combo (m, fm, phy, cs) to study computer science/maths at oxbridge or russel group unis? If it's helpful, my mathematical ability is very strong so maybe I won't need the extra solidification of physics?
2) If you're currently studying economics/chemistry a-level, how are you finding it? (especially for econ, my school didn't offer it for GCSE)
3) What a-levels combine the skills for maths and english literature together? I know this is a strange final question but this is what I ideally wanted to pick as my 4th a-level before applying for physics, as I still love to write essays and form my own opinions. I thought economics would suit this well, am I right or wrong?
If you want to do maths at uni then you already have the main 2 subjects you need- maths and further maths.
For your 3rd, pick whichever you will enjoy most and get the best grade in. If you arent 100% taken with physics, then swap it for one of your other choices.
Reply 7
Hi, I’m a Y12 studying chemistry and physics. To answer Q2, chemistry is extremely fun and is no doubt my favourite subject!! There are some topics that take a bit longer to understand but overall if you put in the work then you should be completely fine.
As for physics, I find that it’s actually much more enjoyable than at GCSE, because you get to learn the concepts in much more depth so it’s actually easier to understand. To be honest, I wasn’t that passionate about physics at gcse either I just chose it over biology, but then A level has made me like it more.
As for physics, I find that it’s actually much more enjoyable than at GCSE, because you get to learn the concepts in much more depth so it’s actually easier to understand. To be honest, I wasn’t that passionate about physics at gcse either I just chose it over biology, but then A level has made me like it more.
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