Physics 2 unit

Year 11 (Preliminary) Course [Board Developed] 2 units
Year 12 (HSC) Course [Board Developed] 2 units

The new Physics syllabus has been developed using the established NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) syllabus development process. The syllabus includes Australian curriculum content and reflects the new directions of the Stronger HSC Standards reforms. 

(Students in ESL English may struggle with the literacy and language requirements of the Physics course.) 

Physics can be studied ON ITS OWN or alongside ONE or TWO other Science courses. 

The nature of physics is to show how seemingly disparate, complex observations are governed by the same underlying scientific laws and principles. This unification process involves application of mathematical models to reveal the simplicity that underlies the complexity that we observe. This unification process has indeed been successful when you can print a simple yet powerful equation on a t-shirt or coffee mug! 

Physics looks at the behaviour of matter, waves and fields by studying the energy changes and the forces that govern their interactions. This is true on all physical scales; from the quantum world inside an atom to the vastness of the Universe. It is the most fundamental of all the sciences.  

A study of physics will include exploration of such diverse areas as satellites, nuclear power stations, the life cycle of stars, musical instruments, electric motors, the electrical power grid, relativity theory and the manipulation of light waves through communication technologies such as optical fibres. This is largely done through experimentation and application of mathematical formulae to analyse graphs and solve problems. There is also a strong emphasis on the historical development of theories and laws. 

Related careers areas include: 

• Engineering and design 
• astronomy / meteorology 
• nuclear medicine 
• research and development: particle physics 
• resource management 
• electrical power production 
• mining / petroleum industries 
• semi-conduction / magnetic and electronics industries 
• systems engineers and technicians 
• aeronautical / photonics research and product development 

The Physics course builds on particular understandings, skills and attitudes that students have acquired during their K-10 Science course. 

Students from 10A1 and 10A2 as well as high performing students from other classes can be considered. 

Students should be competent mathematicians who enjoy solving complex mathematical problems. 

Modules Covered

Internal assessment for both Preliminary and HSC courses is measured against the following criteria: 

• Skills in working scientifically 60%
• Knowledge and understanding of course content 40%