Ultimately, everyone lives in the real world and should have some understanding of how it operates. This is especially true in the country of the Industrial Revolution – Physics has been at the heart of modern society, and indeed embodies the essence of what it even means to be ‘modern’.
250 years ago, very little of the world was understood. Basic theories of gravitation existed, but the lack of understanding on small scales prevented the widespread use of machinery that within a few generations would come to transform the world. People only had a basic understanding of the world around them, based almost exclusively on their own experiences. Some of these theories were not far off the mark, but others were certainly completely wrong.
Even in very recent times, theories like quantum mechanics underlie all computers and 19th century theories of electromagnetism still describe the methods used to generate the vast majority of our electrical power.
With such a hugely important subject, it is easy to see why it should be taught to all students to some age. However, my opinion is that very little can be taught by the age of 11. While many students will opt out of being a part of such an exciting story, I also do not believe that such a hugely important decision can effectively be made at such a young age.
As well as understanding something about how the world works at its most fundamental level and its huge cultural significance to the UK, Physics also teaches students to think in a very careful manner. Although logical arguments lie at the heart of all subjects, these are often clearer in Physics and Maths. Ability to think logically and clearly is one of the most important skills students could develop.
This is especially important in a world facing severe challenges. One of the most pressing in the long term will be that of climate change. To have at least a basic understanding of how it works, it is almost certainly necessary to teach Physics far beyond the age of 11. Deciding and voting on whether certain schemes can reduce the problem will not be possible in a sensible manner without understanding the physical mechanism behind e.g. a particular method of power generation. Even for this reason alone, Physics should remain compulsory well beyond the age of 11.
