Level 2 Physics
Course Description
Teacher in Charge: Ms R. Li.
Level 2 Physics
Do rockets, projectiles, or collisions interest you? What about directing electron beams, tinkering with circuits and looking at the effects of magnetic fields? Or maybe you want to find out why some places in the auditorium are quieter than others during assembly, or why some beaches produce better surf breaks than others. Physics helps us to explain many phenomena that we experience every day.
The Level 2 Physics course covers principles of mechanics (movement), electricity, electromagnetism and wave behaviour, while integrating both practical and research skills in these topics. The course leads directly into the University Approved Physics course at Level 3 .
It is important to note that achievement in Physics relies on strong mathematical skills, particularly in algebra and trigonometry.
FAQs:
Do I need to have chosen Science in Year 11 to enter Level 2 Physics?
No, but your overall Year 11 grade and the strength of your Mathematics in Year 11 will be used to determine your eligibility.
Can I do Level 2 Physics if I am doing 12 MATH?
Students in the past have struggled with the level of the algebra and trigonometry required if they have selected 12MATH. Entry into the Level 2 Physics course in this case would be at the discretion of the Head of Science after discussion with the Head of Mathematics.
If I take Level 2 Physics, which maths subject should I be choosing: Year 12 Calculus or Year 12 Statistics?
Either of these Maths options is fine, however a background in Calculus is more beneficial if you intend to take Physics further to Year 13 or at tertiary level.
Can I do more than two Science subjects?
You may study up to three of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Earth and Space Science, as long as you have proven high marks in Year 11. Select your two most important subjects as option choices and request the third subject.
Can I do three Science subjects and two Maths subjects?
No.
Entry Criteria
Entry into Level 2 Physics requires either:
- successful completion of a Year 11 course in Science Core (11SCI/11SCIE/11SCIW)
OR
- an overall GPA for Year 11 of 3.5 or higher, if Science was not selected.
It is strongly recommended that students wishing to study Physics at Level 2 and higher have a good grasp of Algebra and Trigonometry. Students passing Maths in Year 11 at Merit level (or higher) are more likely to succeed with the demands of this course.
Pathway
Credit Information
You will be assessed in this course through all or a selection of the standards listed below.
This course is eligible for NCEA Course Endorsement.
External
NZQA Info
Physics 2.1 - Carry out a practical physics investigation that leads to a non-linear mathematical relationship
NZQA Info
Physics 2.2 - Demonstrate understanding of physics relevant to a selected context
NZQA Info
Physics 2.4 - Demonstrate understanding of mechanics
NZQA Info
Physics 2.6 - Demonstrate understanding of electricity and electromagnetism
Disclaimer
Course selection does not guarantee a course will be available or that you have approval to take a course. Final course confirmation is in January and depends on your final results and in rare cases, staff availability.