12 Physics

SACE Stage 2:  20 Credits / 2 Semesters / Sciences

SACE Website:  https://www.sace.sa.edu.au/web/physics/stage-2

Pre-Requisite:    An achievement level of ‘B’ or better in Stage 1 Physics.

An achievement level of ‘C’ or better in Stage 1 Mathematics 1, 2, 3 and/or 4.

SUBJECT OVERVIEW

By studying physics, students understand how new evidence can lead to the refinement of existing models and theories and to the development of different, more complex ideas, technologies, and innovations.

By exploring science as a human endeavour, students develop and apply their understanding of the complex ways in which science interacts with society, and investigate the dynamic nature of physics.  They explore how physicists develop new understanding and insights, and produce innovative solutions to everyday and complex problems and challenges in local, national, and global contexts.

In Physics, students integrate and apply a range of understanding, inquiry, and scientific thinking skills that encourage and inspire them to contribute their own solutions to current and future problems and challenges.  Students also pursue scientific pathways, for example, in engineering, renewable energy generation, communications, materials innovation, transport and vehicle safety, medical science, scientific research, and the exploration of the universe.

The topics for Stage 2 Physics are:

  • motion and relativity
  • electricity and magnetism
  • light and atoms
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ASSESSMENT

In 2023 there is multiple options for assessment, as Physics or Scientific studies.  Scientific studies students will complete the same learning tasks but will have a different set of assessment tasks, the most significant difference being a collaborative inquiry instead of an exam.  This choice does not have to be made as part of the subject selection process.

The following assessment types enable students to demonstrate their learning in Stage 2 Physics:

School assessment

  • assessment type 1: investigations folio (30%)
  • assessment type 2: skills and applications tasks (40%)

External assessment

  • assessment type 3: examination (30%)

Students provide evidence of their learning through eight assessments, including the external assessment component.

Students complete:

  • at least two practical investigations
  • one investigation with a focus on science as a human endeavour
  • at least three skills and applications tasks
  • one examination (external)

The following assessment types enable students to demonstrate their learning in Stage 2 Scientific Studies:

School assessment

  • assessment type 1: inquiry folio (50%)
  • assessment type 2: collaborative inquiry (20%)

External assessment

  • assessment type 3: individual inquiry (30%)

Students provide evidence of their learning through seven assessments, including the external assessment.

Students complete:

one inquiry folio, comprising:

  • three tasks with a focus on science inquiry skills
  • one investigation with a focus on science as a human endeavour
  • one individual inquiry design proposal

One collaborative inquiry

one individual inquiry.

Additional Information

Costs:
Essentials Physics Workbook $60 (optional but recommended)


Physics is a mathematical subject; competence in the rearrangement of formulas and the use of scientific notation is expected.

A significant amount of study outside the classroom is required to be successful in this subject

A scientific calculator is essential.

Last updated: June 2023

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