PHY2A

NCEA L2 Physics - Mātai Ahupūngao A

Course Description

The study of nature and the properties of matter and energy, level 2 Physics explores the theories and principles involved in the physical world, in all its glory. We try to understand how the universe behaves so we can make predictions about our world.  

Topics you will learn about include:

The forces involved in the physical world. such as gravity and tension. Projectile motion involved in everything from the movement of rockets to rugby balls. Linear motion of vehicles and objects moving in a straight line, like you running towards your physics lesson. Momentum and its applications like collisions and explosions. Conservation of energy between the two major forms of energy, stored energy and the energy of movement and torque or balancing forces on a beam or on bridges.

All students experience using experimental data to explore and analyze the relationship between physical properties in the universe. Like the conservation of momentum like the skateboarder below.

By the end of the course, you will know about the principles of

Using equations to calculate how fast you are are going, how far your are travelling and how your speed is changing. Energy conservation between different forms of energy like electricity and sound. Momentum conservation when objects collide or explode. Vectors calculations used for sailing or rocketry. Projectile motion to predict how rockets move or objects fall and balancing forces like weight and tension on a bridge with torque and equilibrium.

Projectile Motion Simulation

If you are interested in trying to understand the physical world through experiment then this is your subject.

Important links

No Brain Too Small

Level 2 Mechanics

Course Overview

Semester A
Revision of Mathematics
Mechanics
Motion including Kinematic Equations
Vectors
Forces
Newtons Laws
Centripetal Acceleration
Equilibrium
Hooke's Law
Torques
Energy and Momentum
Practical Investigation into a non-linear relationship

Recommended Prior Learning

To study physics you need a good understanding of mechanics, electricity and mathematics. It , in particular algebra. It would be a good idea to have achieved 14 credits in science, although if you are willing to work hard and study you may still be able to join the course.

If you have any questions, Dr. Harvey is the point of contact.

Pathway

Career Pathways

Assessment Information

Nuclear 3 Credits Internal
Practical Investigation 4 Credits Internal
Mechanics 6 Credits External
Electricity 6 Credits External

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.

Total Credits Available: 10 credits.
Externally Assessed Credits: 6 credits.
Internally Assessed Credits: 4 credits.

Assessment
Description
Level
Internal or
External
Credits
L1 Literacy Credits
UE Literacy Credits
Numeracy Credits
A.S. 91168 v2
NZQA Info
Physics 2.1 - Carry out a practical physics investigation that leads to a non-linear mathematical relationship
4
4
4
Level: 2
Internal or External: Internal
Credits: 4
Level 1 Literacy Credits: 0
University Entrance Literacy Credits: 0
Numeracy Credits: 0
A.S. 91171 v2
NZQA Info
Physics 2.4 - Demonstrate understanding of mechanics
6
6
6
6
Level: 2
Internal or External: External
Credits: 6
Level 1 Literacy Credits: 0
University Entrance Literacy Credits: 0
Numeracy Credits: 0
Credit Summary
Total Credits: 10
Total Level 1 Literacy Credits: 0
Total University Entrance Literacy Credits: 0
Total Numeracy Credits: 0