Physics

Who should study Physics?

Do you enjoy science? Do you have an inquiring mind and want to know how things work? Are you interested in further studies in science or careers in engineering, medicine and technology?

If you have answered yes to any of these questions then Physics might be the right subject for you. Physics will help you develop a scientific mindset and the skills to investigate and understand how the universe works at a fundamental level.

Success in Senior Physics (Units 1-4) requires a love for science and sound mathematical skills, particularly in algebraic formula rearrangement and problem solving by calculation, using measured data and formulae. Students should be studying General Mathematics or higher as a co-requisite but students capable of studying Mathematical Methods tend to perform better in Physics.

A course of study in Physics can establish a basis for further education and employment in the fields of science, engineering, medicine and technology.

Since academic rigour increases in senior years of study, Physics should only be chosen by students achieving an A or B grade in Year 10 Science. Students must also be proficient with algebra to cope with the calculations and problem solving required in the subject and must be studying General Mathematics or higher (Methods is preferred). A student achieving a C grade in Year 10 Science may undertake the subject but will be strongly encouraged to devote significant effort towards improving academic performance and making use of additional supports such as lunchtime and after school tutoring in order to achieve success. Students who do not perform at a C level in Year 11 should not continue with Physics in Year 12. Science in Practice is a good option for students who struggle with the academic rigour of senior general science subjects.

What do students learn about in Physics?

Physics provides opportunities for students to engage with classical and modern understandings of the universe.

Students learn about the fundamental concepts of thermodynamics, electricity and nuclear processes; and about the concepts and theories that predict and describe the linear motion of objects. Further, they explore how scientists explain some phenomena using an understanding of waves. Students engage with the concept of gravitational and electromagnetic fields and the relevant forces associated with them. They study modern physics theories and models that, despite being counter-intuitive, are fundamental to our understanding of many common observable phenomena.