How to score FULL marks for QCE/QCAA Physics?

Whether you’re still deciding what subjects to choose for your senior studies, or are already in your final year, this post should give you the best insight on what you can expect from QCE Physics and how to ace it.

Should you study Physics?

At its core, Physics is the study of matter and energy. This may take the form of mechanics (the study of motion), electromagnetism (the study of electrical and magnetic systems), or even the standard model (the fundamental structure of our universe).

Here are things you should consider when deciding if you want to choose Physics:

• Are you interested in exploring the deep secrets of the universe? If you are, this subject will pique your curiosity
• Do you want to apply your skills to the realm of engineering? If you intend to pursue engineering in the future, Physics will provide a good foundation
• If you are good at math, you are likely to do well in Physics.

KIS Academics has broken down the QCAA Physics in further detail here:

How is Physics Assessed?

In physics, as with the other sciences, there are four pieces of assessment each year:

• the data test (10%)
• the student experiment (20%)
• the research investigation (20%)
• the final exam (50%)

Source: QCAA

1. Data Test

The data test comes first and makes up 10% of your grade. It presents a great opportunity to lock in some early marks and show off your analytical skills without having to understand a lot of content.

2. Student Experiment

Up next is the student experiment, accounting for 20% of your grade. This task gives you the chance to modify an experiment that you’ve conducted in class to explore what you’ve already learnt in new ways, deepening your understanding.

If you need some tips on how to structure your experiment, KIS Academics has got your back here:

3. Research Investigation

The last of the internal assessment is the research investigation, making up a further 20% of the grade. This task gives you the opportunity to explore a topic of your choice in vast detail, related to what you’ve already learned.

4. External Exam

The final assessment that you’ll undertake is the external examination, which accounts for 50% of your grade. With its hefty weighting this is the task that (understandably) causes the most stress for the average student. It works to engage all the knowledge that you’ve accumulated over the past year and apply it to solve problems.

If you're looking for additional support to boost your grades, a tutor will do wonders. KIS Academics has many QCE Physics tutors available to help you achieve your academic goals.

So, how can you ace QCE Physics?

Now that you understand exactly what it is that you’ll be working towards, I’ll finally get to what I’m sure it is that got you here in the first place – how to succeed!

1. Mindset is Magic

It’s all about mindset. What do I mean by that? Basically, your subjects are only as bad as you let yourself think they are. You chose your subjects for a reason, so engage those passions of yours when doing the work and recognise that so much of what you cover is truly fascinating. When you approach what you study through this lens, it is easier to appreciate and focus on what you’re learning.

2. Bank those Marks

As you move through the year, the assessments are worth more. However, that does not mean that you should neglect the data test. Sure, it’s only a couple percent, but this adds up. Your ATAR depends on how your mark compares to everyone else, so make the most of these early marks, they will give you the edge when it comes to your external exam performance.

If you find that you do need additional support early on in the year, do not be afraid to get a tutor:

3. Keep that Knowledge Updated

Instead of cramming your revisions right before the external assessment, you should spend time throughout the year to consolidate your knowledge and make sure that everything you’ve covered so far is up to date.

4. Early bird gets the Worm

This goes hand in hand with the previous point, but get started as early as you can. When an assignment comes out, don’t leave it for a week before you get started. If you get a start within a day of receiving the task, you will have so much more motivation to keep going. After all, a body in motion stays in motion 😉

Conclusion

These are the tips I’d give to you to enhance your studies, inspired by my own senior experience. I hope this article has given you some insight as to what to expect and how to set yourself up for success for QCE Physics.

If you’d like to engage with tutoring after reading, you can view our tutors here. If you're still hesitant about what exactly the ATAR is, check out this comprehensive article where KIS Academics dives deep into the intricacies of the ATAR score.

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Written by Quinn Horton. Quinn pursued a Bachelor (Honours) and Master of Engineering [Mechatronics] at the University of Queensland.

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