Physics
INFORMATION ABOUT THE COURSE
Physics allows us to understand why things happen and allow us to make useful predictions using our understanding. It is a way of investigating and understanding the world around us. We have found the experience that our girls bring into the classroom from music, sport and robotics enables them to extend their understanding of how physics is applied in the real world.
YEAR 11 MODULES
Kinematics Dynamics
How do we describe and measure motion mathematically, visually and graphically?
Why might we want to?
What is a force and what types of forces are there?
What happens when a force acts?
Why do things react as they do to forces?
What is energy and what can it do?
How can momentum be use to predict the outcome of collisions?
How is energy transferred using waves and heat?
Why does light and sound behave like it does?
How can we use or manipulate the behaviour of light, heat and sound?
HSC MODULES
Advanced Mechanics Electromagnetism
How can we use our understanding and knowledge of forces and motion to predict the motion of objects on Earth and explain motion in the Solar System and beyond?
What happens when electricity and magnets interact?
How can we use this interaction to develop new technologies?
What is electricity?
How can we use and control electricity?
What is magnetism and where does it come from?
Nature of Light From Universe to the Atom
What is the true nature of light? A particle or a wave?
How can we use our understanding of light to better understand matter and the Universe?
What happens when light doesn’t do what you expect?
How can we use our understanding of Physics to explain the Universe?
How can we look inside an atom?
How is it possible to get energy out of the nucleus?
What happens when particles behave like waves?
What is the fundamental makeup of matter?
Waves and Thermodynamics
Electricity and Magnetism
Physics
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need to be good at maths to do Physics?
Maths is just tool we use in Physics and we use it every day. If you are confident rearranging formulae, using Pythagoras and Year 9 trigonometry (sin, cos, tan) that will suffice. Typically, we find Pymble girls are more than capable at the maths required for Physics. Some of the maths you study in Year 11 and 12 Maths courses will help your application of maths in Physics, but it is not essential.
Is Physics hard?
Like all subjects it depends on your strengths and how interested you are in the subject matter. There are a lot of skills involved in studying physics, for instance, you will need to carry out experimental investigations, interpret data, visualise models and interpret diagrams, solve problems by apply mathematical relationships and apply your understanding of theories to new situations. Some of these may be harder for you than others but learning and practicing them is effective and overcoming the challenges is rewarding.
Can girls do well in Physics?
Yes. Women are very successful in this science and in NSW girls have performed to a similar level to boys.
Physics
Selecting Physics as a subject for study in the HSC offers students a multitude of benefits, providing them with a deep understanding of models that describe the natural world. Physics is a discipline that explores the mysteries of the universe, ranging from the behaviour of subatomic particles to the vastness of space. By studying Physics, students develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities and a solid foundation in scientific principles that can be applied to various academic and professional pursuits.
TRANSFERABLE SKILLS
Physics equips students with a range of transferable skills that extend beyond the subject itself.
Critical Thinking: Physics develops critical thinking skills by challenging students to analyse complex phenomena, solve intricate problems, and make logical connections between concepts. These skills are valuable in a wide range of fields, from engineering and medicine to finance and research.
Problem Solving: Physics equips students with problem-solving skills that transcend the subject itself. Students learn to apply mathematical concepts, experimentation and logical reasoning to tackle realworld problems, fostering creative and analytical thinking abilities.
Quantitative and Mathematical Skills: Physics involves quantitative analysis, mathematical modelling, and data interpretation. Students develop strong mathematical skills which are highly transferable and sought after in many scientific and technical disciplines.
Experimental Design and Data Analysis: Physics emphasises experimental design, data collection and analysis. Students learn to plan and conduct experiments, record accurate measurements and analyse data using appropriate scientific methods. These skills are essential in scientific research and laboratory-based professions.
Communication and Presentation Skills: Physics requires students to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts through written reports, presentations, and discussions. Students develop the ability to convey ideas clearly, using appropriate scientific terminology, graphs and visual aids, which are valuable in academic and professional settings.
Physics
FURTHER STUDY
Choosing Physics in the HSC opens up various pathways for further study at the university level. If a student does not have the Chemistry or Physics needed for a course they can complete a Bridging Course before commencing their degree. Some relevant courses and examples of universities offering them include:
• Bachelor of Science (Physics) at the University of Sydney: This program provides a comprehensive study of Physics, covering topics such as classical mechanics, quantum physics, and astrophysics. Students can specialise in areas such as condensed matter physics, particle physics, or theoretical physics.
• Bachelor of Aviation University of New South Wales
• Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) at the University of New South Wales: Physics serves as a strong foundation for engineering disciplines. Students gain a thorough understanding of the physical principles that underpin mechanical systems and develop skills to design and analyse various mechanical structures and processes.
• Bachelor of Medical Science at the University of Melbourne: Physics plays a significant role in medical imaging, radiation therapy, and biomedical research. Students can pursue medical physics specialisations, applying physics principles to healthcare technology and treatment modalities.
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