Physics is a fundamental science that endeavours to explain all the natural phenomena that occur in the universe. Its power lies in the use of a comparatively small number of assumptions, models, laws and theories to explain a wide range of phenomena, from the incredibly small to the incredibly large. Physics has helped to unlock the mysteries of the universe and provides the foundation of understanding upon which modern technologies and all other sciences are based.

View Syllabus on School Curriculum and Standards Authority Website

Year 11

Unit 1 – Thermal, nuclear and electrical physics

In this unit, students explore the ways physics is used to describe, explain and predict the energy transfers and transformations that are pivotal to modern industrial societies.

Unit 2 – Linear motion and waves

In this unit, students develop an understanding of motion and waves which can be used to describe, explain and predict a wide range of phenomena.

Year 12

Unit 3 – Gravity and electromagnetism

In this unit, students investigate models of motion in gravitational, electric and magnetic fields to explain how forces act at a distance.

Unit 4 – Revolutions in modern physics

In this unit, students use the theory of electromagnetism to explain the production and propagation of electromagnetic waves and investigate how shortcomings in existing theories led to the development of the quantum theory of light and matter, the Special Theory of Relativity, and the Standard Model of particle physics.

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