Year 13 physics

The study of Physics spans the limits of our universe - from the subatomic to the size of galaxies and develops skills and knowledge that are important in today's technological world. Physics, the most fundamental of the sciences, offers potential careers in, among others:

•  Industrial, mechanical and electrical engineering

•  Radiography

•  Seismology

•  Medicine

•  Aviation

•  Sports Science

NZ Scholarship

This is based on the same programme as level 3. The students will enter all level 3 standards as well as Scholarship Physics. Students will be selected for a single Scholarship class at the discretion of the HOD Physics.

Learning Physics involves students investigating physical phenomena and developing concepts, principles and models in explaining those phenomena. As students develop scientific knowledge and skills, they are given an opportunity to become aware of their own intellectual and vocational potential and to develop further the essential skills, such as problem solving, numeracy, and communication

Increasingly, our lives have become dependent on science and technology. A knowledge of physical processes and their applications allows students to make their own well‑reasoned decisions on issues related to science, technology and society.

Students should develop an understanding of the physical environment with an appreciation of the unfinished nature of physics and an awareness that the methods of the study, whilst powerful, do have limitations.

“Physics is seen by many as the ultimate scientific challenge”. Why, What and How???

This course further develops the foundations of classical and modern Physics.  It is appropriate if you who have an interest in the physical sciences or if you propose to enter a vocation related to the physical sciences. The study of Physics spans the limits of our universe – from the subatomic to galaxies.

It is presented in a manner that will stimulate greater interest in physics, by appealing to its applications, technological developments and interactions with the lives of people. The emphasis is on a descriptive rather than a mathematical approach.

The course is made up of 2 Internal and 3 External NCEA assessments. The internal assessments will be assessed during the year and the externals will be assessed in an examination in November.

To gain entry to this course, students require at least 14 credits in NCEA Level 2 Physics. An achieved grade or preferably higher is needed in all of the following NCEA Level 2 Physics standards – 91170 (2.3), 91171 (2.4), 91172 (2.5) and 91173 (2.6). Other students may gain entry at the discretion of the HOD – consultation is required.

NZQA Physics Subject Resources

• http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/qualifications-standards/qualifications/ncea/subjects/physics/levels/

• http://www.nobraintoosmall.co.nz/html/senior_physics/NCEA3_physics.html

School Policy for NCEA Assessment

You should be aware of the school procedures for NCEA assessment.  They can be found on the school website at this link. There you will find answers to frequently asked questions about how NCEA works as well as guidance about how to apply for extensions, reconsiderations or the process for withdrawing from a standard.