Introduction to HSC Physics
HSC Physics delves into the laws, theories, models and forces that govern the universe. In this subject, you’ll study the different principles of physics and learn to apply them to real-world scenarios. You’ll develop a strong conceptual understanding of concepts such as energy, force and electricity and the ability to solve challenging problems by applying what you’ve learnt. Alongside this, you will also learn to work scientifically through scientific investigations.
What does year 11 HSC Physics entail?
Module 1 - Kinematics
“The study of kinematics involves describing, measuring and analysing motion without considering the forces and masses involved in that motion.” - NESA
Kinematics introduces the basics of analysing and describing motion in physics. You’ll learn about the equations of motion, which describe the relationships between speed, velocity, time, acceleration and displacement. You’ll also learn how to visually represent motion through graphs and vectors.
Subtopics:
- Motion in a straight line
- Motion on a plane
Module 2 - Dynamics
Building on kinematics, this module incorporates forces and explores how they affect motion. You’ll cover Newton’s laws, acceleration, energy, work and momentum in both single objects and systems. Vector analysis and equations are essential to this module.
Subtopics:
- Forces
- Force, Acceleration and Energy
- Momentum, Energy and Simple Systems
Module 3 - Waves and Thermodynamics
“Wave motion involves the transfer of energy without the transfer of matter” - NESA
This module explores the classification and properties of waves as well as their behaviour and interactions. You’ll also study thermodynamics, which includes energy transfer, heat and particle motion.
Subtopics:
- Wave properties
- Wave behaviour
- Sound waves
- Ray model of light
- Thermodynamics
Module 4 - Electricity and magnetism
Electromagnetism is a fundamental force in the universe. This module covers electric and magnetic fields, electrostatics, circuits, and real-world applications
Subtopics:
- Electrostatics
- Electric circuits
- Magnetism
What does year 12 HSC Physics entail?
Module 5 - Advanced Mechanics
Expanding on kinematics and dynamics, this module introduces two-dimensional motion. You’ll analyse projectile, circular and orbital motion, learning to break down complex motion into the basic forces involved.
Subtopics:
- Projectile motion
- Circular motion
- Motion in a gravitational field
Module 6 - Electromagnetism
This module dives deeper into electric and magnetic fields, focusing on charged particles, conductors, motors, transformers, and generators.
Subtopics:
- Charged Particles, Conductors and Electric and Magnetic Fields
- The Motor Effect
- Electromagnetic Induction
- Applications of the Motor Effect
Module 7 - The Nature of Light
Here you’ll explore how light behaves and is modeled in physics. You’ll study wave-particle duality, quantum theory and special relativity
Subtopics:
- Electromagnetic Spectrum
- Light: Wave Model
- Light: Quantum Model
- Light and Special Relativity
Manoj Arachige
Module 8 - From the Atom to the Universe
This module covers the origin of the universe, atomic structure and modern physics theories that have reshaped our understanding of matter.
Subtopics:
- Origins of the Elements
- Structure of the Atom
- Quantum Mechanical Nature of the Atom
- Properties of the Nucleus
- Deep inside the Atom
Assessments structure and Final exams
Year 11
Your school-based assessments will follow NESA’s mandatory weightings:
Schools determine the number, type and weighting of tasks, but
NESA recommends:
- 3 assessments, including
- A formal written examination
- A depth study (or an aspect of a depth study)
- Weighting per task: 20% to 40%
Year 12
The structure is similar to year 11 but includes 4 assessments:
- Minimum weighting for a task of 10%
- Maximum weighting for a task of 40%
- Formal written exam: Max 30%
- Depth study: 20-40%.
Check out NESA’s assessment and reporting guidelines for a more detailed break down.
HSC Final Exam (100 marks, 3 hours + 5 min reading time)
- Section I (20 marks) - 20 multiple-choice questions
- Section II (80 marks) - Short-answer & extended-response questions
- At least two items will be worth 7 to 9 marks
Should You Pick HSC Physics?
You’ll enjoy Physics if you:
- Love problem-solving and applying concepts to real-world problems
- Are comfortable with maths (trigonometry and algebra are applied frequently)
- Are curious about how the world works
- You want a high-scaling subject (Physics scales second highest among sciences, after Chemistry)
Tips and tricks for Excelling in HSC Physics?
- Have a genuine passion and interest in Physics - "A man with passion will outwork a man with talent, every time."
- Avoid silly mistakes - Read carefully, check rounding, and use the correct units
- Show all your working - Many marks are given for simply the method and not just the final answer
- Practise past papers - The more questions you solve, the more you’ll start to understand the common patterns in questions
- Teach concepts to others - This reinforces your understanding and helps others learn as well.
- Memorise the formulas, definitions and theories - Although you’ll be provided with a formula sheet, memorising these can save you a lot of time and allow you to focus on the problem solving aspect.
- Break down the mark allocations in questions - This will help you structure your response and maximise your marks.
Manoj Arachige
Additional KIS articles on study and exam preparation:
- What to do on exam day to get the best result you can!
- Exam Preparation Module
- Study tips, tricks and hacks
- The Ultimate 99+ ATAR 30-day Study Guide
FAQs
How well does HSC Physics scale?
Physics is the second-best scaling science subject behind chemistry
How much maths do I need for HSC Physics?
Maths advanced (or higher) is sufficient for HSC Physics. The focus is more on how you apply mathematical concepts, not complex calculations.
How do I improve my problem-solving skills for HSC Physics?
Practise past HSC and trial questions and develop a structured approach to answer those difficult problems
Do I need to memorise formulae for HSC Physics?
No, a formula sheet will be provided in the HSC exam, however, you must understand when and how to apply them.
Want personalised study guidance to help drastically improve your marks? A private tutor can make the biggest difference!
Written by KIS Academics Tutor for HSC Physics, Erik Ao. Erik is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Clinical Science (Medicine)/Doctor of Medicine at WSU. You can view Erik’s profile here and request him as a tutor.
