Physics – the study of energy, force, and how matter moves through space and time – sounds complicated, I know.
We’re now around that time of year when physics students have finally started the journey into the depths of senior science, and they are anxious about what trying content is to come. Either way, if you have questions about the assessment types in QCE Physics, the content you will be taught, or what types of study methods should you put into practice, you’ve come to the right place.
Unit 1 Physics
The Grade 11 physics curriculum is separated into 2 Units over your first three terms. Unit 1 QCE Physics is about Thermal, Nuclear, and Electrical Physics; students will explore pivotal energy transfers and transformations in modern industries, understand the roles of heating processes and nuclear reactions in global energy, and solve complex problems involving moving electrical charge.
The first topic of heating processes focuses on the kinetic particle model and specific heat capacity, moving into the conservation of energy, and how all of these principles in heat and energy transfer are applied to practical situations and technological advancements. Topic 2 will then move into ionising radiation and nuclear reactions, focusing on different types of decay, the nuclear model, and the balancing of nuclear equations. The final stretch of Topic 3 explored electrical circuits, specifically conservation of charge, potential difference and resistance, and solving problems with moving charges.
Unit 2 Physics
The next unit is Linear Motion and Waves. Students develop an understanding of motion waves that are used to describe and explain a wide range of phenomena.
Linear motion consists of students describing terms such as displacement, velocity, acceleration, and time, and using these terms consistently throughout the rest of their curriculum to interpret questions. Students learn fundamental maths topics such as vector equations, SUVAT and interpreting gradients. Students then move into topic 2, where they learn about different classifications of waves such as longitudinal and transverse. Wavelength, frequency and period are other aspects of wave behaviour that students explore, and utilise for the entire course.
Unit 3 Physics
CONGRATS! You have officially made it to your first ATAR tested term of QCE Physics. With IA1 up so soon it’s really important that you pay close attention to this term. Unit 3 of physics looks at Gravity and Electromagnetism. A huge theme of this Unit is Newton’s Laws of Motion, specifically on inclined planes, and the implications they have on physics in general.
The first topic of gravity and motion follows the analysis of vectors into different perpendicular components, considering angles of elevation and friction. Students then move into centripetal motion, and uniform circular motion, before starting the Law of Universal Gravitation and the laws of planetary motion. The next topic students learn is electromagnetism – infamously long and tedious. From electrostatics to magnetic fields, and then the interaction of magnetic and electrical fields in electromagnetic induction, this unit will test your ability possibly more so than any most other topics you will learn.
Unit 4 Physics
You’re finally in the home stretch – Unit 4: Revolutions in Modern Physics. In this unit, students focus primarily on theory work, namely special relativity, quantum theory, and the standard model. Unlike other areas of QCE Physics, unit 4 is very reliant on your memory and understanding of complex theories rather than your ability to rearrange equations. The most important thing to remember is to practice recalling content repeatedly, and ensure that you don’t get complacent with revision just because it isn’t maths heavy!
Grade 12 QCE Physics Assessment Breakdown
IA1 – Data Test – 10%
- Drawing conclusions from provided data sets
- Using information provided
- Less recalling of theoretical knowledge
- Extracting evidence and applying understanding
IA2 – Student Experiment – 20%
- 2000 words or less
- Design and execute an experiment to answer a research question
- Modifying/extending a pre-existing experiment
- Analysing data and drawing conclusions based off of findings
- Heavy on ‘The Scientific Method’
IA3 – Research Investigation – 20%
- 2000 words or less
- Researching, analysing, and interpreting secondary evidence
- Credible sources are key!!!
- Form justified conclusions through reputable scientific research
EA – External Assessment – 50%
- 2 separate papers, usually one AM and one PM
- The same paper is given to all schools
- Assesses your knowledge of the subject matter throughout the entire Unit 3 and Unit 4 syllabus
- Consists of a combination of short response, long response, multiple choice, and data test style questions
Manoj Arachige
How to Prepare for Assessments
Exams are pretty simple to study for – you study the questions they’re going to ask. For a data test, you want to make sure you’re doing questions with data sets and provided evidence, so you train your ability to draw conclusions and interpret information, rather than recall content.
For assignments, it’s about staying ahead; make sure that you don’t leave the bulk of work for the last minute, and check and edit as you go. Additionally, it’s important to take advantage of every opportunity you’re given, whether that be assignment exemplars, research question hints, or feedback from your teachers.
Manoj Arachige
Should I Do QCAA Physics?
Make no mistake, QCE Physics isn’t easy. There are times when the content load is trying, or the equations seem too big to rearrange – but those aren’t reasons you should avoid the subject. If you have an interest in movement and energy, the invisible forces that keep our earth turning, or are obsessed with the fundamental constituents of the universe, physics is perfect for you. Yes, it's hard work, but between the feeling of blitzing through equations and the fulfilment of nailing down complex theories, it’s a fantastic option. If you ever do find yourself needing that bit of extra help, feel free to reach out to our amazing community of tutors at KIS Academics.
Want personalised study guidance to help drastically improve your marks? A private tutor can make the biggest difference!
Written by KIS Academic Tutor for QCE Chemistry, Physics, Biology and English/Literature tutor – Muhammad Akbar. Muhammad is currently studying a Bachelor of Medical Science at Central Queensland University, with guaranteed provisional entry into the University of Queensland’s Doctor of Medicine degree. He is an experienced tutor and balances his pursuit of excellence with dedication to his students. You can view Muhammad’s profile here and request him as a tutor.
