Does this subject contribute to an ATAR? Yes (General subject)
How many credits does this subject contribute towards QCE? 4
What is Physics?
Physics provides opportunities for students to engage with classical and modern understandings of the universe.
Students learn about the fundamental concepts of thermodynamics, electricity and nuclear processes; and about the concepts and theories that predict and describe the linear motion of objects. Further, they explore how scientists explain some phenomena using an understanding of waves. They engage with the concept of gravitational and electromagnetic fields, and the relevant forces associated with them. They study modern physics theories and models that, despite being counterintuitive, are fundamental to our understanding of many common observable phenomena.
Students develop appreciation of the contribution physics makes to society: understanding that diverse natural phenomena may be explained, analysed and predicted using concepts, models and theories that provide a reliable basis for action; and that natter and energy interact in physical systems across a range of scales.
They understand how models and theories are refined, and new ones developed in physics; investigate phenomena and solve problems; collect and analyse data; and interpret evidence.
Students use accurate and precise measurement, valid and reliable evidence, and scepticism and intellectual rigour to evaluate claims; and communicate physics understanding, findings, arguments and conclusions using appropriate representations, modes and genres.
What makes a student suited to Physics?
Students who achieve success in Physics are those who:
- Aim to gain the satisfaction of a deeper understanding of our world
- Aspire to science-related tertiary courses, especially in science, engineering and the health sciences
- Have shown an aptitude for both science and mathematics in the Junior school
- Show initiative, are self-motivated and communicate effectively.
What prerequisites must students meet in order to take this subject?Year 9 - Minimum B standard core Math and Minimum C standard for Core English and Science
Year 10 - Minimum B standard core Math and Minimum C standard for Core English and Science
What is the cost of this subject?
Nil
What materials or equipment do I need for this subject?
- 2 x A4 Exercise books (minimum 96 page)
- Scientific calculator
- BYOD laptop
What do students study in this subject and how are they assessed?
| | | Unit Overviews | Assessment |
| Year 10 | Semester 1 | Introduction to Physics
Motion
| Data test (14%)
Research investigation (18%)
Unseen examination (25%) |
| | Semester 2 | Energy and work
Heat
| Student experiment (18%) Unseen examination (25%)
|
| Year 11 | Unit 1 | Thermal, nuclear and electrical physics
• Heating processes
• Ionising radiation and nuclear reactions
• Electrical circuits | Formative internal assessment 1: 25%
• Data test
Formative internal assessment 2: 25%
• Student experiment |
| | Unit 2 | Linear motion and waves
• Linear motion and force
• Waves
| Formative internal assessment 3: 25%
• Research investigation
Formative internal assessment 4: 25%
• Examination |
| Year 12 | Unit 3 | Gravity and electromagnetism
• Gravity and motion
• Electromagnetism | Summative internal assessment 1 (IA1): 10%
• Data test
Summative internal assessment 2 (IA2): 20%
• Student experiment |
| | Unit 4 | Revolutions in modern physics
• Special relativity
• Quantum theory
• The Standard Model | Summative internal assessment 3 (IA3): 20%
• Research investigation
Summative external assessment (EA): 50%
• Examination
|