Science plays a major role in the evolution of knowledge.  It empowers us to use creative and independent approaches to problem solving.  It arouses our natural curiosity and enable us to meet diverse, and ever expanding, challenges.  It enhances our ability to inquire, seek answers, research and interpret data.  These skills lead to the construction of theories and laws that help us to explain natural phenomena and exercise control over our environment.  Science is, thus, an integral component of a balanced education.

The most important natural resource in the Caribbean is its people.  If the Caribbean is to play an important role in the new global village and survive economically, a sustained development of the scientific and technological resources of its people is essential.

Physics is generally regarded as the most fundamental scientific discipline.  The study of Physics is necessary to explain our physical environment.  In fact, this is the role of the laws and theories of Physics that influence every aspect of our physical existence.  In particular, whatever conveniences and luxuries we enjoy as citizens of Caribbean nations can either directly or indirectly be traced to these fundamental physical laws and theories.

This CAPE syllabus in Physics is, therefore, designed to provide a coherent course of study which addresses, in addition to a specific knowledge base, the development of related skills and attitudes.  The syllabus takes into account the requirements for tertiary education at regional and international institutions.  The syllabus is structured in such a way as to ensure that students become aware of their more, social and ethical responsibilities, as well as, the benefits intrinsic to the practical application of scientific knowledge to careers in the scientific field.

The syllabus aims to:

• Acquire understanding and knowledge of technological and scientific applications of Physics, especially in the Caribbean context;
• Demonstrate an awareness and understanding of natural phenomena which affect this region and their sensitivity to concerns about the preservation of our environment;
• Develop an understanding of the scientific process and their recognition of its usefulness and its limitations;
• Encourage the development of rational and ethical attitudes and behaviours in the application of Physics;
• Develop critical thinking, analytical and inquiry skills;
• Provide appropriate scientific training for the purposes of employment, further studies and personal enhancement;
• Stimulate an interest in and love for the study of Physics.

The syllabus is arranged into two Units.  Each Unit consists of three Modules, each Module requiring 50 contact hours.

Unit 1: Mechanics, Waves, Properties of Matter

• Module 1: Mechanics
• Module 2: Oscillations and Waves
• Module 3: Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Matter

Unit 2: Electromagnetism, Electronics, Atomic and Nuclear Physics

• Module 1: Electromagnetism
• Module 2: Electronics
• Module 3: Atomic and Nuclear Physics