The level 2 module PHY2026 Practical Physics II builds on the Stage 1 training. The experiments are more detailed, and sometimes more exotic than before and may involve more advanced techniques. They are open-ended and take three or more sessions for completion. Most complement material lectured during the second and subsequent years but some, for which the theory is not covered directly in lectures, are included with the aim of extending a student's overall view of physics.
The modules aim to develop a wide range of experimental skills, careful record keeping and the critical interpretation of data. During Term T2 students undertake an extended experiment which allows them to implement and demonstrate some of the skills they have acquired.
Proficiency in practical work is an important skill and students must attend laboratory classes regularly, completing sufficient experimental work to a satisfactory standard. Students are required to attend the number of sessions specified on the module description for PHY2026.
Laboratory work is continuously assessed. Students have to complete each experiment on time, write up the report and discuss the results with the demonstrator. A mark for each experiment is given to indicate general progress. These marks, suitably moderated, form part of the overall mark for practical work.
The experiments start with an initial discussion with a demonstrator about the physics involved, the aim of the experiment, and the experimental method. For this reason it is essential that students prepare for the experiment in advance. The student is not allowed to start the experiment until a satisfactory discussion has taken place.
After the experiment has been completed, the notebook with a diary and a formal report is handed in to the demonstrator and a time is arranged for the final discussion within the next two weeks. Students have to complete each experiment and hand in the report on time — late submission of the report will incur the standard penalties specified in the Physics Handbook. During the final discussion with the demonstrator a mark for the experiment is given.
The overall mark for the course is the sum of marks for the experiments done, which counts as 60% of the overall laboratory mark, and a mark for the extended experiment which is 40% of the total mark. The latter is subdivided in the proportions of 0.4 for general approach, experimental performance and diary, 0.4 for the formal report, and 0.2 for the oral presentation.
Students must satisfy the following minimum criteria:
Experiments have to be performed at a satisfactory level. A fail mark in the overall laboratory assessment will result in failure of the year (c.f. the Examination Conventions).
Students receive a mark out of 45 for each of their laboratory experiments. Two aspects of their work are assessed using the Marking Scheme for Normal Experiments: the conduct of the experiment and the analysis of the results.
The first aspect, Experiment, comprises 25 marks and assesses the quality of experimental performance as well as logical and structural presentation of data in the report. Students who might have problems with understanding new physical concepts will still have a fair chance of getting good marks under this heading for working diligently.
The second aspect, Analysis, comprises 20 marks and assesses the achieved depth of understanding of the physics relevant to the experiment. To get good marks in this section, an in-depth understanding of the aim and details of the experiment must be demonstrated, as well as evidence that the experiment has been performed thoughtfully and with initiative.
Four marks are awarded for specific stages of the experiment, and in the following order:
Note that the report gives contributes to both MARK II and MARK IV. Its structure, logic and amount of good quality data (not necessarily in perfect agreement with theory!) contribute to MARK II. How deeply these data are analysed, interpreted and understood is reflected by MARK IV.
All marks are awarded to, and discussed with, the student during the Final Discussion. This is when students answer questions arising from their reports. In the discussion students will show the knowledge and experience they have gained that was not apparent in the report because of its limited length. This discussion can significantly improve the impression made by the student's work and hence the total mark. It is also an efficient way for the students to get feedback from the demonstrator and to learn more physics.
Note: There is a special Marking Scheme for Extended Experiment.