Physics

Semester 1:

• Linear motion and forces: displacement, velocity, acceleration, analysing graphs of motion and Newton’s Laws
• Heat: how thermal energy is transferred, stored, and measured in different materials, including concepts like temperature, specific heat capacity, and energy conservation during heating and cooling processes
• Energy and momentum: motion, work and energy transformations in collisions and explosions (vehicles and sports)

Semester 2:

• Waves: energy transfer through mechanical and electromagnetic waves (sound, light, communication)
• Nuclear models and radioactivity: radioactive decay, half-life, and the penetration abilities of different types of radiation (alpha, beta, and gamma). Aspects of radiation safety are also covered.
• Electric circuits: charge, current, potential difference, resistance, power and efficiency, applying understanding to real-world contexts

• Assessment Type 1: Investigations Folio
• Assessment Type 2: Skills and Applications Tasks
• Assessment Type 3: Examination

To be successful in Stage 2 Physics, students are recommended to have achieved:

• A minimum of a B- grade overall, and
• At least a C grade in the examination

in one or more semesters of Stage 1 Physics or Chemistry.