Physics in Science provides students with a contemporary and coherent understanding of energy, matter, and their interrelationships. It focuses on investigating natural phenomena and then applying patterns, models (including mathematical ones), principles, theories and laws to explain the physical behaviour of the universe. It uses an understanding of simple systems (single particles and pairs of particles) to make predictions about a range of objects from sub-atomic particles to the entire universe and aims to reveal the simplicity underlying complexity.
Physics aims to provide learning experiences through which students will:
- acquire knowledge and understanding about fundamental concepts related to natural phenomena and their causes, the historical development of these concepts and their application to personal, social, economic, technological and environmental situations
- progress from the consideration of specific data and knowledge to the understanding of models and concepts and the explanation of generalised physics terms; from the collection and organisation of information to problem-solving; and from the use of simple communication skills to those that are more sophisticated
- develop positive attitudes towards the study of natural phenomena and their causes and opinions held by others, recognising the importance of evidence and the use of critical evaluation of differing scientific opinions related to various aspects of physics.
Students will develop knowledge and understanding of:
- the history of physics
- the nature and practice of physics
- applications and uses of physics
- the implications of physics for society and the environment
- current issues, research and developments in physics
- kinematics and dynamics
- energy
- waves
- fields
- matter.
Students will develop further skills in:
- planning investigations
- conducting investigations
- communicating information and understanding
- developing scientific thinking and problem-solving techniques
- working individually and in teams.
Students will develop positive values about and attitudes towards:
- themselves, others, learning as a lifelong process, physics and the environment.
A syllabus is a document that gives teachers an outline of what students are to be taught in a specific learning area.
The syllabus and other supporting material for Physics 11-12 are available from the Board of Studies
