NCEA L2 Physics - Mātai Ahupūngao B
Course Description
Physics is a fascinating subject because of its history, the beauty of its logic and its multitude of applications.
Physics is the study of the physical world through experiment. We do experiments to describe the physical world and make predictions about how the physical world behaves.
This course is for students who wish to develop their thinking skills, their ability to engage in logical argument, experimental technique, and their understanding of the physical world in particular, electricity and the atom.
Topics you will learn about include:
Static electricity which is when electric charge does not move. The principles of DC electricity which is the electricity we use in simple circuits with batteries. Electric fields which the electric force charged particles experience and move in. Using electrical components to build circuits like electric motors and generators. Electromagnetism where electricity creates magnetic force and also the other way round. What makes up the atom and how that relates to nuclear radiation.
By the end of the course, you will know about the principles of
Building simple circuits where electrons are used to different tasks. Electric charge of particles and how they form. Creating electricity with magnets and magnetic forces with electricity. What voltage, current and resistance means when discussing electrical circuits.
You will also develop and understanding of how atoms break up to create radiation and what is inside an atom.
So if you are interesting about the physical world and how theories can be applied in real life, then physics is the course for you!
Important Links
Course Overview
Semester B
Electricity
Static Electricity
Charge and Field Lines
Circuits, Series and Parallel. Voltage, current and power
Electromagnetism
Magnetic Effects, force on current carrying conductor
Induced voltage. Simple generator
Nuclear Physics
Radiation
Atomic Models
Nuclear Transformations
Recommended Prior Learning
We recommend that you have achieved 14 credits in Science at Level 1, or higher. As well as Level 1 credits in mathematics, especially algebra. However, if you are really keen and are willing to work hard, we will consider you. Studying Physics Semester A would be a good idea, although it is not essential.
If you want advice on whether Physics is for you, see Dr. Harvey
Pathway
Assessment Information
Nuclear 3 Credits InternalPractical 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: 9 credits.
Externally Assessed Credits: 6 credits.
Internally Assessed Credits: 3 credits.
External
NZQA Info
NZQA Info