Physics

Description

Physics aims to look at how the world around us works and how we can use that information to predict how things will behave.

Unit Topics

Unit 1 – What ideas explain the physical world?

Unit 2 – What do experiments reveal about the physical world?

Unit 3 – How do fields explain motion and electricity?

Unit 4 – How have creative ideas and investigation revolutionised thinking

Skill Development

Students will be developing skills that will allow them to plan, safely undertake and report on scientific investigations. They will also develop the ability to see how the topics covered relate to the world around us.

Possible Assessment Tasks

There are 5 SAC’s throughout the year that have been mandated by VCAA, and will consist of the following (not necessarily in order):

• application of physics concepts to explain a model, theory, device, design or innovation
• analysis and evaluation of primary and/or secondary data, including data plotting, identified assumptions or data limitations, and conclusions
• problem-solving, applying physics concepts and skills to real-world contexts
• comparison and evaluation of two solutions to a problem, two explanations of a physics phenomenon or concept, or two methods and/or findings from practical activities.
• Communication of the design, analysis and findings of a student-designed and student conducted scientific investigation through a structured scientific poster and logbook entries.
• There will also be a 2.5 hour external exam at the end of the year.

Activities/Camps/Excursions

A variety of classroom theory and practical activities, including an extended investigation. Excursions likely to include Luna Park Physics Day and University based workshops.

Career Options

Physics leads to a wide range of careers, including (but not limited to) acoustics, astrophysics and cosmology, atmospheric physics, bushfire research, climate science, computational physics and games development, education, electrical and electronics, energy research, engineering, forensic science, geology, instrumentation, lasers and photonics, materials science, medical physics, neuroscience, nuclear science, optics, pyrotechnics, radiography, robotics and sports science.