HSC | Physics
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Course Description
The Physics Stage 6 Syllabus involves the study of matter and its motion through space and time, along with related concepts that include energy and force. Physics deals with the study of phenomena on scales of space and time – from nuclear particles and their interactions up to the size and age of the Universe.
This allows students to better understand the physical world and how it works, appreciate the uniqueness of the Universe, and participate in navigating and influencing the future. The problem-solving nature of physics further develops students’ Working Scientifically skills by focusing on the exploration of models and the analysis of theories and laws, which promotes an understanding of the connectedness of seemingly dissimilar phenomena.
NOTE: Students wishing to study multiple Science subjects in Stage 6 may choose up to 6 units in the Preliminary course, and 7 units in the HSC Course. We offer Science Extension (1 unit) in Year 12 for those students continuing with at least one HSC Science subject and wish to pursue the additional unit. Students can also switch from any Science to another at the end of the Preliminary course e.g. Switch from 11 Physics into 12 Investigating Science. You might like to consider the long-term options when choosing a Science subject for Year 11.
Topics studied in Year 11
- Kinematics
- Dynamics
- Waves and Thermodynamics
- Electricity and Magnetism
Topics studied in Year 12
- Advanced mechanics
- Electromagnetism
- The nature of light
- From the universe to the atom
What do you do in this course?
Students will complete 120 indicative hours over 4 modules during the Preliminary and HSC courses with no less than 30 indicative hours of practical experiences in each course and 15 hours of a depth study is to be undertaken each year from within the 4 modules.
How can this course help you in the future?
The study of physics provides the foundation knowledge and skills required to support participation in a range of careers. It is a discipline that utilises innovative and creative thinking to address new challenges, such as sustainability, energy efficiency and the creation of new materials.
The course is designed for students who have attained a high level of achievement in Science and wish to pursue further study in STEM at a tertiary level.