Practical requirements
Prepare for the G3 Science Physics practical test through reliable measurement, fair comparisons, clear data analysis and the 11 named investigation groups.
Learning goals
- Measurements of length, mass, temperature, time interval, volume of liquids/solids and force (e.g. weight) using appropriate instruments
- Determination of the density of a liquid, or of a regularly or irregularly shaped solid that sinks in water
- Determination of the value of the acceleration of free fall
- Investigation of the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces
- The principle of moments
- Determination of the position of the centre of gravity of a plane lamina
- Investigation of the factors affecting transfer of energy by thermal processes
- The law of reflection
- Determination of the position and characteristics of an optical image formed by a plane mirror or a thin converging lens
- The refraction of light through glass blocks
- Determination of the resistance of a circuit component
G3 Science Physics · Practical skills
Start with the practical-skills lesson. Build the measurement and data-handling habits first, then work through the mechanics, thermal, light and electrical investigations. Finish with the two course checks, and use real apparatus safely whenever possible.
Before you begin
Lessons
G3 Science practical skills and investigations
Prepare for the G3 Science Physics practical test through reliable measurement, fair comparisons, clear data analysis and the 11 named investigation groups.
Check your understanding
Check practical reasoning
Check planning, measurement, data handling and evaluation across all 11 practical groups.
What to remember
- Choose apparatus with a suitable range and resolution, check zero and read scales from the correct position.
- Change one independent variable, measure the dependent variable and keep relevant control variables constant.
- Record quantity/unit headings, repeat readings and investigate anomalies using evidence.
- Use a suitable graph, a large gradient triangle and a conclusion supported by the data.
- For light work, draw normals accurately and measure every angle from the normal.
- Link each limitation to its effect before proposing a specific improvement.
Topic and syllabus information
Paper 5 is a 1 h 30 min practical test worth 30 marks and 15% of the K326/K327 qualification.
The lesson covers the 11 Physics practical groups named for K326/K327. Online questions support preparation, but practical skill is shown through safe hands-on work and recorded evidence.
Reviewed 9 Aug 2026
Course and syllabus information
- Course
- SEC G3 Combined Science Physics component
- Edition
- SEC G3 Combined Science Physics component 2027