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Physics Units 1 & 2
Unit 1
This unit focuses on the study of physics as a human endeavour in which observations and ideas about the physical world are organised and explained. Students learn about the use of conceptual models to describe and explain observed physical phenomena. These models are developed within contexts that are familiar to students and relevant to their experiences. The use of simple mathematical modeling, including calculations, to organise data and make predictions is introduced. Computer and/or graphics calculator programs are employed to analyse data. Students are also given extensive and regular experimental work in the laboratory starting with simple observations and measurements. A quantitative investigation involving the collection and analysis of sufficient data points for at least one independent variable will be undertaken. The investigation should be at least partly student designed. As a guide, at least 10 hours of class time should be devoted to student practical work across the three areas of study. Unit 1 consists of two prescribed areas of study: Wave-like properties of light; Nuclear and radioactivity physics; and a third area of study to be chosen from one of three detailed studies: Astronomy, Medical physics, or Energy from the nucleus. In this unit, students make and test predictions, identify discrete and continuous variables, select relevant independent variables and recognise controlled variables. They apply a given method for a simple investigation to control variables and collect relevant data. Students record raw qualitative and quantitative data and present processed data, including correct use of units, appropriately. They use appropriate materials, apparatus and measurement procedures to ensure reliability in the data. They recognise sources of error and uncertainty. They use appropriate information sources to assess risk.
Area of Study 1
Wave-like properties of light
A wave model is applied to light phenomena. Light phenomena are examples of the interaction of the physical world with human biology. Students will use the wave-like properties of light in the contexts of seeing with the unaided eye, extending visual and communication capabilities, and special theatrical effects. They will use safe and responsible practices when completing experiments and/or investigations.
Outcome 1
On completion of this unit the student should be able to describe a wave model of energy transfer and apply it to light phenomena.
AREA OF STUDY 2
Nuclear and radioactivity physics
The particle model of matter and ideas about energy transfers and transformations are relevant to the study of nuclear and radioactivity physics. Students’ understanding of the particle model of matter, developed in earlier years, is extended to include subatomic particles. Ideas of energy transfer and transformations are applied to energy changes associated with nuclear phenomena and radioactivity and their applications.
Students develop an ability to contribute to informed debate on the use of nuclear and radioactive technological applications in society. Students will use the particle and energy changes models of nuclear and radioactivity physics in the contexts of environmental radiation and the production and use of radioisotopes in industry. They will access information related to the use of nuclear reactions and radioactivity.
Outcome 2
On completion of this unit the student should be able to describe the uses and effects of nuclear reactions and radioactivity in industry, the environment and the general community.
Detailed study 3.1: Astronomy
This detailed study enables students to understand the modern interpretation of the Universe as we see it. Humans have long constructed models of the solar system, and more recently the entire Universe. Students examine the ways in which our present model has developed from those of the early Greeks, through the Enlightenment to modern times. The development of modern telescopes, both optical and radio, has enabled astronomers to develop new insights and theories about the origins of the Universe, starting from the simple observations we can make from our own backyard at night, to the observations of astronomers using sophisticated modern instruments. The detailed study in Astronomy is an extension of the work in ‘Wave-like properties of light’. Students will use the observations of astronomy in the context of the historical development of our picture of the Universe and our place in it. They will use safe and responsible practices when completing experiments and/or investigations.
Outcome 3.1
On completion of this unit the student should be able to use observations to explain the motions of stars and planets, and describe models of planetary motion.
Assessment
- Assessment tasks for this unit are:
- Practical investigation (student designed or adapted) and a selection from the following:
- An annotated folio of practical activities;
- A data analysis;
- A multimedia or web page presentation;
- A response to a media article;
- A summary report of selected practical investigations including maintenance of a log book;
- A written report;
- A test (short answer and extended response).
Unit 2
The students’ understanding of physics is further developed through the application of models to more complex phenomena. Newtonian ideas of motion already studied as part of the general science curriculum are extended to a greater range of movements and more abstract ideas. The students’ understanding of electricity and electronics is broadened and deepened and the use of simple mathematical modeling, including calculations, to organise data and make predictions is further developed and applied to more extensive data. Computer and/or graphics calculator programs are used in the analysis of data. Students continue to undertake extensive and regular experimental work in the laboratory. They design and undertake more complex investigations involving at least one independent, continuous variable, and take increasing responsibility for the design of investigations. As a guide, at least 10 hours of class time should be devoted to student practical work across the three areas of study. Unit 2 consists of two prescribed areas of study: Movement; Electricity; and a third area of study to be chosen from one of three detailed studies: Astrophysics, Investigations: Aerospace, or Investigations: Alternative energy sources. In this unit, students identify a focused problem or research question and formulate a prediction or hypothesis, select at least one relevant independent continuous variable and recognise controlled variables. They adapt or extend given methods, or at least partly design their own methods, for the control of variables and the systematic collection of sufficient relevant data for simple investigations. Students record raw qualitative and quantitative data and present processed data, including correct use of units, appropriately. They select and use appropriate materials, apparatus and measurement procedures to ensure reliability in the data. They take into account sources of error and uncertainty and evaluate limitations of, and weaknesses and errors in, techniques and equipment. They use appropriate information sources to assess risk.
AREA OF STUDY 1
Movement
Students learn about the models used to explain movement from the early theories of Aristotle and the work of Galileo and Newton. These theories are developed through the examination of aspects of movement including transport, games and sport. All models are developed within contexts that are familiar and relevant to students. Ideas about energy transfers and transformations continue to be used. Mathematical models are critically applied during experimental investigation of examples of movement. Students will use the Newtonian model of movement in the contexts of the historical development of the physics of motion, transport, and games and sports. They will use safe and responsible practices when completing experiments and/or investigations.
Outcome 1
On completion of this unit the student should be able to describe and explain movement of particles and bodies in terms of Aristotelian, Galilean and Newtonian theories.
AREA OF STUDY 2
Electricity
Students develop circuit models to analyse electrical phenomena and undertake practical investigations of circuit components. Concepts of electrical safety are developed through the study of safety mechanisms and the effect of current and time on humans. Mathematical models are applied and critically assessed during experimental investigation of DC circuits. Students will use electrical circuits in the contexts of simple battery operated DC devices, household electricity, and car electrical systems. They will use safe and responsible practices when completing experiments and/or investigations.
Outcome 2
On completion of this unit the student should be able to apply a basic DC circuit model to simple battery operated devices, car and household (AC) electrical systems; and describe the safe and effective use of electricity by individuals and the community.
AREA OF STUDY 3
Detailed study
Three detailed studies are available in Unit 2. One detailed study is to be selected from:
- Astrophysics;
- Investigations: Aerospace;
- Investigations: Alternative energy sources.
Detailed study 3.1: Astrophysics
This detailed study focuses on the development of cosmology over time, but with a particular emphasis on the twentieth century. In particular, the study looks at the nature of stars, galaxies and their evolution, as well as evidence about the steady state and ‘Big Bang’ models of the Universe. The detailed study in Astrophysics is an extension of work done in Units 1 and 2. Light is the basic tool of astrophysicists and it is assumed that the nature of the nuclear atom is the same throughout the Universe. While Einstein’s relativity is needed for the details, the Newtonian understanding of motion is sufficient to establish the basic ideas. Students will use astrophysics in the contexts of astronomy, and the ‘Big Bang’.
Outcome 3.1
On completion of this unit the student should be able to describe and explain methods used to gather information about stars and other astronomical objects and relate this information to models of the nature and origin of the Universe.
Assessment
Assessment tasks for this unit are: A practical investigation (student designed, adapted or extended) and a selection from the following:
- An annotated folio of practical activities;
- A data analysis;
- A multimedia or web page presentation;
- A response to a media article;
- A summary report of selected practical investigations including maintenance of a log book;
- A written report;
- A test (short answer and extended response).
Web links
- http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au
Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority
Further information, complete study design, examination advice, past camination papers and examiners reports, etc - http://www.vicphysics.org/index.html
Vic Physics, the Victorian branch of the Australian Institute of Physics, includes events and resources for students