Mr R K Wooldridge

In year 12 Electronics is taught to AS level, following the OCR specification 3826. No prior knowledge of electronics is required. Pupils who have previously studied GCSE Technology soon encounter new material. Although there is some overlap, the AS electronics course is both broader and deeper than the electronics content of the A level technology course. The two approaches are complementary and some students usefully study both.

Each student is issued with two textbooks:

• Electronics Explained by Brimicombe (Nelson)
• Electronics by Adams & Hutchinson (Nelson; University of Bath)

A number of useful reference books are located in the resources room; in addition P3, the electronics teaching room, contains manufacturers’ data books, technical literature, catalogues and an archive of electronics magazines.

Theory is taught in the Autumn Term, well supported by a collection of OHP slides. There are frequent short practicals. A worksheet containing questions from textbooks and past-papers plus directed reading is set each week, with a subsequent test.

In the interests of safety, students do not work with mains voltage, using instead low voltage supplies which in many cases are an integral part of a logic trainer or protoboard.

In the Spring Term pupils design and construct a project, which is appropriate to their interests and ability. They are encouraged to construct and test a stage at a time and to identify faults systematically. Recent topics include: audio circuits, spectrum analyser, digital dice, security alarm, car tachometer, fencing reaction timer, intercom, stage lighting control system, electronic stethoscope, metronome, combination lock, electronic noticeboard, remote control and an electronic game.

During the first half of the Summer Term, past paper questions, grouped into common themes, are used as a vehicle for revision. Extra lunchtime sessions are organised when required.

Recently, two very able boys continued towards A2 level in their own time with assistance from the teacher; both achieved strong A grades.

Many members of the stage technical crew (lighting and sound) are recruited from this set.