FAQ - A2 Challenge
Entry requirements
Do students need to enter the A2 Challenge (previously Paper 1) to enter the BPhO paper (previously Paper 2)?
No, there are no entry requirements for the BPhO paper. Students are not required to take the A2 Challenge to enter The British Physics Olympiad. The papers are different in style.
Preparation
How can my students prepare for the A2 Challenge?
If students wish to prepare for the paper they can attempt the past papers on the website. However students are not expected to prepare in advance for the paper.
Setting the papers in your school
Do the students need to take the A2 Challenge at any given time or date?
No, there is no set time or date to take the paper. It may also be used as a teaching resource rather than an exam sat in one sitting
Do the students need to take the BPhO paper on the Fri 11th November 2011?
No, it is fine to take the test a few days either side of the test date. However the BPhO paper’s solutions need to be back with us for marking by Fri 18th November 2011.
Can students use a formula sheet when they take the A2 Challenge?
Yes, students are permitted to use a formula sheet. Please provide a standard formula sheet.
Is there a syllabus for the A2 Challenge?
There is no syllabus because we set the papers for students sitting different examination boards, who have different syllabi, and we do not know how much of their syllabus has been covered. The paper should test students’ problem solving abilities and the work they covered at GCSE or equivalent.
Should I include students’ rough paper and workings out when I submit the BPhO paper for marking?
Yes, please submit all workings out as students can gain additional marks for their workings out even if the answer they submit is not correct. Marks are carried forward.
Are students with special needs allowed additional time to take the BPhO paper?
Yes, students with special needs are allowed additional time to complete papers. This should be in line with the allocated by exam boards.
Ordering papers
If you have an enquiry about ordering papers or certificates please click here.
If you question did not appear in this section please visit the other FAQ sections or email us at BPhO@physics.ox.ac.uk and we will be happy to help.
