Level 2 Physics
L2PHY Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Miss J. Abernethy, Mr P. Daines.
Recommended Prior LearningLevel 1 Science
Physics tries to explain how nature behaves. It aims to ask every question that can be asked about how absolutely everything works, and then search for the answer to these questions. It looks at the unimaginably big universe and the tiniest particles in an atom. This is what makes Physics so exciting.
This course forms the foundation for any future study in Physics. It relates aspects of Motion, Electricity, Magnetism and Atomic Physics to everyday experiences both inside and outside the classroom. Studying Physics in real life situations is the focus of this course and we will discuss many different ideas, big and small, such as:
What are the principles behind airbags and crumple zones in cars, and how do they help to protect the passengers in the event of a crash?
Why did the astronauts of Apollo 15 take a hammer and a feather with them to the moon?
In what ways are Einstein’s theories from a hundred years ago used in modern nuclear power plant design?
How can magnets be used to make electric motors and electric generators?
Course Overview
Term 1
NCEA Assessment Title: “Carry out a practical physics investigation that leads to a non-linear mathematical relationship” (AS91168)
Credits: Four (Internally assessed)
Key ideas: Experimental methods, graphing data, finding relationships, and writing conclusions
NCEA Assessment Title: “Demonstrate understanding of mechanics” (AS91171)
Credits: Six (Externally assessed)
Key ideas: Kinematics, projectile motion, forces, circular motion, energy, and momentum
Learning will continue into Term 2
Term 2
NCEA Assessment Title: “Demonstrate understanding of physics relevant to a selected context” (AS91168)
Credits: Three (Internally assessed)
Key ideas: Research links between physics concepts and a given real-life context
Term 3
NCEA Assessment Title: “Demonstrate understanding of electricity and electromagnetism” (AS91173)
Credits: Six (Externally assessed)
Key ideas: Electrostatics, DC Electricity, and Electromagnetism
NCEA Assessment Title: “Demonstrate understanding of atomic and nuclear physics” (AS91172)
Credits: Three (Internally assessed)
Key ideas: Atomic structure, radiation, and nuclear reactions
Learning will continue into Term 4
Term 4
Revision for external exams (91171 and 91173)
Assessment Policy & Procedures