Physics Unit 2: How does Physics help us understand the World?

Prerequisites

Students are advised to complete Physics Unit 1 before undertaking Physics Unit 2.
Mathematical Methods is strongly recommended.

Course Description

In this unit students explore the power of experiments in developing models and theories. They investigate a variety of phenomena by making their own observations and generating questions, which in turn lead to experiments.

Areas of Study

How is Motion Understood?

In this area of study, students describe and analyse graphically, numerically and algebraically the energy and motion of an object, using specific physics terminology and conventions. They consider the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on motion and investigate the translational and rotational forces on static structures. Students apply mathematical models during experimental investigations of motion, and apply their understanding of motion and force through a case study.

Options: How does Physics Inform Contemporary Issues and Applications in Society?

In this area of study, students develop a deeper understanding of an area of interest within diverse areas of physics. They select from eighteen options, explore the related physics and use this physics to form a stance, opinion or solution to a contemporary societal issue or application. In their explorations, a range of investigation methodologies may be used by students. The options include:

How does physics explain climate change?
How do fusion and fission compare as viable nuclear energy power sources?
How do heavy things fly?
How do forces act on structures and materials?
How do forces act on the human body?
How is radiation used to maintain human health?
How does the human body use electricity?
How can human vision be enhanced?
How is physics used in photography?
How do instruments make music?
How can performance in ball sports be improved?
How can AC electricity charge a DC device?
How do astrophysicists investigate stars and black holes?
How can we detect possible life beyond Earth’s Solar System?
How can physics explain traditional artefacts, knowledge and techniques?
How do particle accelerators work?
How does physics explain the origins of matter?
How is contemporary physics research being conducted in our region?

How do Physicists Investigate Questions?

In this area of study, students adapt or design and then conduct a scientific investigation to generate appropriate primary qualitative and/or quantitative data, organise and interpret the data, and reach and evaluate a conclusion in response to the research question.

Assessment

Outcomes

Assessment Tasks

(school-assessed coursework)

Investigate, analyse, mathematically model and apply force, energy and motion.

Tasks are selected by the teacher from the following:

a report of a laboratory or fieldwork activity including the generation of primary data
reflective annotations related to one or more practical activities from a logbook
an analysis and evaluation of generated primary and/or collated secondary data
a critique of an experimental design, process or apparatus
a modelling or simulation activity
a report of the design, building, testing and evaluation of a device
an explanation of a selected physics device, design or innovation
a physics-referenced response to an issue or innovation
a report of a selected physics phenomenon
a media analysis/response
an infographic
problem-solving involving physics concepts and/or skills
a report of an application of physics concepts to a real-world context
an analysis, including calculations, of physics concepts applied 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
a scientific poster.

Investigate and apply physics knowledge to develop and communicate an informed response to a contemporary societal issue or application related to a selected option.

Draw an evidence-based conclusion from primary data generated from a student-adapted or student-designed scientific investigation related to a selected physics question.

A report of a practical investigation (student-designed or adapted) using an appropriate format, for example a scientific poster, practical report, oral communication or digital presentation.

Overall Final Assessment

End of Semester Examination – 1.5 hours.