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. Students learn and apply aspects of the
knowledge and skills of the discipline
(thinking, experimentation, problem-solving
and research skills), understand how it
works and how it may impact society.
Pathways
| Objectives
|
A course of study in Physics can establish a
basis for further education and employment
in the fields of science, engineering,
medicine and technology.
| By the conclusion of the course of study, students will:
- describe and explain scientific concepts,
theories, models and systems and their
limitations
- apply understanding of scientific
concepts, theories, models and systems
within their limitations
- analyse evidence
- interpret evidence
- investigate phenomena
- evaluate processes, claims and
conclusions
- communicate understandings, findings,
arguments and conclusions.
|
Structure
Unit 1
| Unit 2
| Unit 3
| Unit 4
|
Thermal, nuclear and
electrical physics
- Heating
processes
- Ionising radiation
and nuclear
reactions
- Electrical circuits
| Linear motion and
waves
- Linear motion and
force
- Waves
| Gravity and
electromagnetism
- Gravity and
motion
- Electromagnetism
| Revolutions in
modern physics - Special relativity
- Quantum theory
- The Standard
Model
|
Assessment
Schools devise assessments in Units 1 and 2 to suit their local context.
In Units 3 and 4 students complete four summative assessments. The results from each of the
assessments are added together to provide a subject score out of 100. Students will also receive
an overall subject result (A–E).
Summative assessments
Unit 3
| Unit 4
|
Summative internal assessment 1 (IA1): • Data test
| 10%
| Summative internal assessment 3 (IA3): • Research investigation
| 20%
|
Summative internal assessment 2 (IA2): • Student experiment
| 20%
| Summative external assessment (EA): • Examination
| 50%
|
Enrol