Rosmini College
NCEA Level 2 Physics
Course Description
Teacher in Charge: Mr J. Smith.
This course builds upon Physics studied in Level 1 Science or Level 1 Physics.
It extends the fundamental knowledge further, looking at two-dimensional applications, modern physics (non-newtonian), and waves.
It's an exciting course as the students start to realise the knowledge and skills gained have direct applications to their current lives and gain an insight as to the possibilities available worldwide based upon this foundation course.
The course is essential for a variety of vocational pathways, especially for those seeking to continue with a variety of courses at University or entering the more technical trades.
Why study Physics?
Physics lies at the heart of the natural sciences
Almost any scientific problem can be approached using the ideas and methods of physics.
Physics explains how the world works
Physics helps us understand why things in the natural world happen the way they do. It enables us to explain, for example, how buildings move in an earthquake, why a car takes as long as it does to come to a stop when the brakes are applied, why the sky is blue and grass green, and why the supports of a bridge have to be of certain dimensions.
Physicists – and students studying physics – can use their understanding to predict how an object will behave under particular conditions, improve the functioning of everyday objects, and envisage new developments.
Physics is useful and exciting
The knowledge and processes used by physics have produced new and exciting technologies that are in everyday use. Almost any example of modern technology has its origins in mechanics, optics, electronics, thermodynamics, nuclear physics, or some other branch of physics. Physicists are challenged to discover how nature works; along the way, they get to know the excitement of explaining, seeing, or doing something that no one has understood or done before.
Learning in physics opens up career opportunities
Learning in physics will come in useful no matter what you go on to do. Employers value the kinds of skills that studying physics develops: the ability to grasp things quickly, focused solution finding, problem-solving, analytical, mathematical, and IT skills.
People with a background in physics are found in all these areas and more: telecommunications, space, medicine, finance, law, music, television, environment, architecture, civil engineering, sports, gaming, energy, and education.
Course Overview
Term 1
Mechanics - this builds on L1 Mechanics and introduces the study of motion in two directions and circular motion. Assessed by an external examination.
Electromagnetism - this builds on L1 Electromagnetism using more complex circuits and theory, electromagnetic fields and motors. Assessed be external examination.
Term 2
Electromagnetism - continued.
Modern Physics - Quantum mechanics and nuclear physics. Assessed by an internal examination.
Term 3
Waves - this builds on L1 waves and bridges to the introduction of L3 material in the form of standing waves.
Practical Investigation - developing non-linear mathematical relationships using practical investigation. Assessed by an investigation and report.
Term 4
Preparation for external examinations.
Recommended Prior Learning
14 Level 1 credits in Physics or Science.
All Science courses can be accessed with the HOD Science permission, which will be subject to prior academic performance.
Pathway
Learning in physics opens up career opportunities
Learning in physics will come in useful no matter what you go on to do. Employers value the kinds of skills that studying physics develops: the ability to grasp things quickly, focused solution finding, problem-solving, analytical, mathematical, and IT skills.
People with a background in physics are found in all these areas and more: telecommunications, space, medicine, finance, law, music, television, environment, architecture, civil engineering, sports, gaming, energy, and education.
Credit Information
You will be assessed in this course through all or a selection of the standards listed below.
This course is eligible for subject endorsement.
External
NZQA Info
Physics 2.1 - Carry out a practical physics investigation that leads to a non-linear mathematical relationship
NZQA Info
Physics 2.4 - Demonstrate understanding of mechanics
NZQA Info
Physics 2.5 - Demonstrate understanding of atomic and nuclear physics
NZQA Info
Physics 2.6 - Demonstrate understanding of electricity and electromagnetism
Disclaimer
Rosmini College's timetable is student-driven and a new timetable is generated each year based on student subject selection. Unfortunately, while we do our best to avoid them, timetabling clashes may still occur and a few students may be required to choose an alternative subject option.
The 2025 timetable, including the number of classes in each subject and staffing allocations, is created based on student selections made in 2024. Because of this, changing subjects at the beginning of 2025 may not be possible. Please, make your subject choices carefully.
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