Physics (Y12)
Subject Description
Teacher in Charge: David Anastasi.
Students will learn about the physical universe and the laws that govern it. Students will investigate the different types of motion motion and the factors that affect them. Students will connect electrical circuits and investigate the relationships between electrical current, voltage, resistance and power. They will study how charge relates to voltage as well as how electricity and magnetism are intrinsically linked. Students will look at the evolution of atomic and nuclear theory, particularly, the atomic model, and radioactivity. Practical skills are developed in an investigation of the relationship between two variables.
Subject Overview
Term 1
Mechanics. This covers motion, including graphs of motion and the kinematic equations, forces, momentum and energy. Projectile and circular motion.
Springs and equilibrium
Term 2
Internally assessed units are covered; the practical investigation looks at measurement and accuracy, using data to find the non-linear relationship between two variables. The atomic and nuclear physics standard covers the development of the atomic theory up to Rutherford, radioactivity , half-life and mass-energy equivalence.
Term 3
Electromagnetism; static electricity and electric fields, circuits and electromagnetic effects.
Term 4
Revision
Recommended Prior Learning
Students are assumed to have done Year 11 Science. Coverage of the Year 11 Mechanics standard is an advantage.
The course involves mathematical calculations. Proficiency with algebra and trigonometry are recommended.
Contributions and Equipment/Stationery
The Year 12 Physics SciPAD is used. Students will require a graph notebook (eg 1J5), and a scientific calculator.
Pathway
Medicine (in all its forms), Engineering (in all its forms), Architecture, Computer and Information Science, Forensics, Radiography, Meteorology, Energy, Elecricity, Geology, Electronics etc etc
Credit Information
You will be assessed in this course through all or a selection of the standards listed below.
This course is eligible for subject endorsement.
External
NZQA Info
Physics 2.1 - Carry out a practical physics investigation that leads to a non-linear mathematical relationship
NZQA Info
Physics 2.4 - Demonstrate understanding of mechanics
NZQA Info
Physics 2.5 - Demonstrate understanding of atomic and nuclear physics
NZQA Info
Physics 2.6 - Demonstrate understanding of electricity and electromagnetism