LEVEL: Stage 1
SACE Credits: 10 per Semester
LENGTH: One Semester for each unit. Students wishing to do Physics B must successfully complete Physics A.
Recommended background:
Successful completion of Year 10 Science and Year 10 Mathematics and the recommendation of their Year 10 Science teacher to enrol in Stage 1 Physics.
Content:
In Stage 1 students learn to interpret physical phenomena through a study of motion in two dimensions, electricity and magnetism, heat, energy, waves, and nuclear models. They apply their knowledge to solve problems, and develop investigation skills through practical and other learning activities.
As they explore the interaction between science and society, students recognise that the knowledge and understanding of physics is constantly changing and increasing through the application of new ideas and technologies.
The topics for Stage 1 Physics are:
- Linear Motion and Forces
- Electric Circuits
- Heat
- Energy and Momentum
- Waves
- Nuclear Models and Radioactivity.
Assessment:
Students’ performance will be determined according to the subject’s Performance Standards, as outlined by the SACE Board. Grades A to E will be used for reporting purposes.
For a 10-credit subject, students undertake four assessment tasks including:
- At least one practical investigation (i.e. experiment and report)
- One investigation with a focus on science as a human endeavour, and
- At least one skills and applications task (i.e. test or similar assessment item).