Year 12 Physics
(Unit 3 & 4)

COURSE OUTLINE

Unit 3 - How do Fields Explain Motion and Electricity?

In this unit students use Newton’s laws to investigate motion in one and two dimensions. They explore the concept of the field as a model to explain observations of motion of objects not in apparent contact. Students compare three fundamental fields – gravitational, magnetic and electric. They consider the importance of the field to the motion of particles within the field. Students examine the production of electricity and its delivery to homes. They explore fields in relation to the transmission of electricity over large distances and in the operation of particle accelerators.

Outcome 1

On completion of this unit the student should be able to investigate motion and related energy transformations experimentally and analyse motion using Newton’s laws of motion in one and two dimensions.

Outcome 2

On completion of this unit the student should be able to analyse gravitational, electric and magnetic fields, and apply these to explain the operation of motors and particle accelerators, and the orbits of satellites.

Outcome 3

On completion of this unit the student should be able to analyse and evaluate an electricity generation and distribution system.

Unit 4: How have creative ideas and investigation revolutionised thinking in physics?

In this unit, students explore some monumental changes in thinking in Physics that have changed the course of how physicists understand and investigate the Universe. They examine the limitations of the wave model in describing light behaviour and use a particle model to better explain some observations of light. Matter, that was once explained using a particle model, is re-imagined using a wave model. Students are challenged to imagine the relativistic world of length contraction and time dilation when motion approaches the speed of light.

Students design a practical investigation involving the generation of primary data related to fields, motion or light.

Outcome 1

On completion of this unit the student should be able to analyse and apply models that explain the nature of light and matter and use special relativity to explain observations made when objects are moving at speeds approaching the speed of light.

Outcome 2

On completion of this unit the student should be able to design and conduct a scientific investigation related to fields, motion or light, and present an aim, methodology and method, results, discussion and a conclusion in a scientific poster.

ASSESSMENT TASKS 

Unit 3 & 4

School based assessment tasks may include, but not limited to:

• Application of physics concepts to explain a model, theory, device, design or innovation    

• Analysis and evaluation of primary and/or secondary data, including data plotting, identified assumptions or data limitations, and conclusions

• Problem-solving, applying physics concepts and skills to real-world contexts

• Comparison and evaluation of two solutions to a problem, two explanations of a physics phenomenon or concept, or two methods and/or findings from practical activities.

• Communication of the design, analysis and findings of a student-designed and student-conducted scientific investigation through a structured scientific poster and logbook entries.

As well as the End of Year Examination.