PHYSICS

ATAR COURSE

Year 11 syllabus
2013/30224v4
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
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Content
Rationale................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Aims.......................................................................................................................................................................... 2
Organisation.............................................................................................................................................................. 3
Structure of the syllabus.................................................................................................................................................3
Organisation of content..................................................................................................................................................3
Progression from the Year 7–10 curriculum....................................................................................................................6
Representation of the general capabilities......................................................................................................................6
Representation of the cross-curriculum priorities...........................................................................................................8

Unit 1 – Thermal, nuclear and electrical physics.......................................................................................................... 9

Unit description...............................................................................................................................................................9
Learning outcomes..........................................................................................................................................................9
Unit content..................................................................................................................................................................10

Unit 2 – Linear motion and waves............................................................................................................................. 15

Unit description.............................................................................................................................................................15
Learning outcomes........................................................................................................................................................15
Unit content..................................................................................................................................................................16

School-based assessment......................................................................................................................................... 19
Grading..........................................................................................................................................................................20

Appendix 1 – Grade descriptions Year 11.................................................................................................................. 21

Appendix 2 – Glossary.............................................................................................................................................. 23
 1

Rationale
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.
The Physics ATAR course uses qualitative and quantitative models and theories based on physical laws to
visualise, explain and predict physical phenomena. Models, laws and theories are developed from, and their
predictions are tested by, making observations and quantitative measurements. In this course, students
gather, analyse and interpret primary and secondary data to investigate a range of phenomena and
technologies using some of the most important models, laws and theories of physics, including the kinetic
particle model, the atomic model, electromagnetic theory, and the laws of classical mechanics.
Students investigate how the unifying concept of energy explains diverse phenomena and provides a
powerful tool for analysing how systems interact throughout the universe on multiple scales. Students learn
how more sophisticated theories, including quantum theory, the theory of relativity and the Standard
Model, are needed to explain more complex phenomena, and how new observations can lead to models and
theories being refined and developed.
Students learn how an understanding of physics is central to the identification of, and solutions to, some of
the key issues facing an increasingly globalised society. They consider how physics contributes to diverse
areas in contemporary life, such as engineering, renewable energy generation, communication,
development of new materials, transport and vehicle safety, medical science, an understanding of climate
change, and the exploration of the universe.
Studying senior secondary science provides students with a suite of skills and understandings that are
valuable to a wide range of further study pathways and careers. Studying physics will enable students to
become citizens who are better informed about the world around them and who have the critical skills to
evaluate and make evidence-based decisions about current scientific issues. The Physics ATAR course will
also provide a foundation in physics knowledge, understanding and skills for those students who wish to
pursue tertiary study in science, engineering, medicine and technology.

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Aims
The Physics ATAR course aims to develop students’:
 appreciation of the wonder of physics and the significant contribution physics has made to
contemporary society
 understanding that diverse natural phenomena may be explained, analysed and predicted using
concepts, models and theories that provide a reliable basis for action
 understanding of the ways in which matter and energy interact in physical systems across a range of
scales
 understanding of the ways in which models and theories are refined and new models and theories are
developed in physics; and how physics knowledge is used in a wide range of contexts and informs
personal, local and global issues
 investigative skills, including the design and conduct of investigations to explore phenomena and solve
problems, the collection and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data, and the interpretation of
evidence
 ability to use accurate and precise measurement, valid and reliable evidence, and scepticism and
intellectual rigour to evaluate claims
 ability to communicate physics understanding, findings, arguments and conclusions using appropriate
representations, modes and genres.

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Organisation
This course is organised into a Year 11 syllabus and a Year 12 syllabus. The cognitive complexity of the
syllabus content increases from Year 11 to Year 12.

Structure of the syllabus

The Year 11 syllabus is divided into two units, each of one semester duration, which are typically delivered as
a pair. The notional time for each unit is 55 class contact hours.

Unit 1 – Thermal, nuclear and electrical physics

Students investigate energy production by considering heating processes, radioactivity and nuclear
reactions, and investigate energy transfer and transformation in electrical circuits.

Unit 2 – Linear motion and waves

Students describe, explain and predict linear motion, and investigate the application of wave models to
sound phenomena.
Each unit includes:
 a unit description – a short description of the focus of the unit
 learning outcomes – a set of statements describing the learning expected as a result of studying the unit
 unit content – the content to be taught and learned.

Organisation of content
Science strand descriptions
The Physics ATAR course has three interrelated strands: Science Inquiry Skills, Science as a Human
Endeavour and Science Understanding, which build on students’ learning in the Year 7–10 Science
curriculum. The three strands of the Physics ATAR course should be taught in an integrated way. The content
descriptions for Science Inquiry Skills, Science as a Human Endeavour and Science Understanding have been
written so that this integration is possible in each unit.
Science Inquiry Skills
Science inquiry involves identifying and posing questions; planning, conducting and reflecting on
investigations; processing, analysing and interpreting data; and communicating findings. This strand is
concerned with evaluating claims, investigating ideas, solving problems, reasoning, drawing valid
conclusions, and developing evidence-based arguments.
Science investigations are activities in which ideas, predictions or hypotheses are tested and conclusions are
drawn in response to a question or problem. Investigations can involve a range of activities, including
experimental testing, field work, locating and using information sources, conducting surveys, and using
modelling and simulations.

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In science investigations, the collection and analysis of data to provide evidence plays a major role. This can
involve collecting or extracting information and reorganising data in the form of tables, graphs, flow charts,
diagrams, text, keys, spreadsheets and databases. The analysis of data to identify and select evidence, and
the communication of findings, involve the selection, construction and use of specific representations,
including mathematical relationships, symbols and diagrams.
Science as a Human Endeavour
Through science, we seek to improve our understanding and explanations of the natural world. The Science
as a Human Endeavour strand highlights the development of science as a unique way of knowing and doing,
and explores the use and influence of science in society.
As science involves the construction of explanations based on evidence, the development of science
concepts, models and theories is dynamic and involves critique and uncertainty. Science concepts, models
and theories are reviewed as their predictions and explanations are continually re-assessed through new
evidence, often through the application of new technologies. This review process involves a diverse range of
scientists working within an increasingly global community of practice and can involve the use of
international conventions and activities such as peer review.
The use and influence of science are shaped by interactions between science and a wide range of social,
economic, ethical and cultural factors. The application of science may provide great benefits to individuals,
the community and the environment, but may also pose risks and have unintended consequences. As a
result, decision making about socio-scientific issues often involves consideration of multiple lines of evidence
and a range of stakeholder needs and values. As an ever-evolving body of knowledge, science frequently
informs public debate, but is not always able to provide definitive answers.
Science Understanding
Science understanding is evident when a person selects and integrates appropriate science concepts, models
and theories to explain and predict phenomena, and applies those concepts, models and theories to new
situations. Models in science can include diagrams, physical replicas, mathematical representations,
word-based analogies (including laws and principles) and computer simulations. Development of models
involves selection of the aspects of the system(s) to be included in the model, and thus models have
inherent approximations, assumptions and limitations.
The Science Understanding content in each unit develops students’ understanding of the key concepts,
models and theories that underpin the course, and of the strengths and limitations of different models and
theories for explaining and predicting complex phenomena.

Safety
Science learning experiences may involve the use of potentially hazardous substances and/or hazardous
equipment. It is the responsibility of the school to ensure that duty of care is exercised in relation to the
health and safety of all students and that school practices meet the requirements of the Work Health and
Safety Act 2011, in addition to relevant State health and safety guidelines.

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Animal ethics
Through a consideration of research ethics as part of Science Inquiry Skills, students will examine their own
ethical position, draw on ethical perspectives when designing investigation methods, and ensure that any
activities that impact on living organisms comply with the Australian code of practice for the care and use of
animals for scientific purposes 8th edition 2013 (www.nhmrc.gov.au/guidelines/publications/ea28).
Any teaching activities that involve the care and use of, or interaction with, animals must comply with the
Australian code of practice for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes 8th edition 2013, in addition
to relevant State guidelines.

Mathematical skills expected of students studying the Physics ATAR course

This course requires students to use the mathematical skills they have developed through the Year 7–10
Mathematics curriculum, in addition to the numeracy skills they have developed through the Science Inquiry
Skills strand of the Science curriculum.
Within the Science Inquiry Skills strand, students are required to gather, represent and analyse numerical
data to identify the evidence that forms the basis of their scientific arguments, claims or conclusions. In
gathering and recording numerical data, students are required to make measurements with an appropriate
degree of accuracy and to represent measurements using appropriate units.
Students may need to be taught inverse and inverse square relationships as they are important in physics,
but are not part of the Year 10 Mathematics curriculum.
Students may need to be taught to recognise when it is appropriate to join points on a graph and when it is
appropriate to use a line of best fit. They may need to be taught how to construct a straight line that will
serve as the line of best fit for a set of data presented graphically.
It is assumed that students will be able to:
 perform calculations involving addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of quantities
 perform approximate evaluations of numerical expressions
 express fractions as percentages, and percentages as fractions
 calculate percentages
 recognise and use ratios
 transform decimal notation to power of ten notation
 change the subject of a simple equation
 substitute physical quantities into an equation using consistent units so as to calculate one quantity and
check the dimensional consistency of such calculations
 solve simple algebraic equations
 comprehend and use the symbols/notations <, >, ∆, ≈, √, ≤, ≥, ∑
 translate information between graphical, numerical and algebraic forms
 distinguish between discrete and continuous data and then select appropriate forms, variables and
scales for constructing graphs

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 interpret frequency tables and diagrams, pie charts and histograms

 describe and compare data sets using range, mean and median
 interpret the slope of a linear graph
 use Pythagoras’ theorem, similarity of triangles and the angle sum of a triangle
 solve simple sine, cosine and tangent relationships in a right angle triangle
 recognise the graphical representation of a sine curve.

Progression from the Year 7–10 curriculum

This syllabus continues to develop student understanding and skills from across the three strands of the
Year 7–10 Science curriculum. In the Science Understanding strand, the course may draw on knowledge and
understanding from across the four sub-strands of Biological, Physical, Chemical and Earth and Space
Sciences.
In particular, the course continues to develop the key concepts introduced in the Physical Sciences
sub-strand, that is, that forces affect the behaviour of objects, and that energy can be transferred and
transformed from one form to another.

Representation of the general capabilities

The general capabilities encompass the knowledge, skills, behaviours and dispositions that will assist
students to live and work successfully in the twenty-first century. Teachers may find opportunities to
incorporate the capabilities into the teaching and learning program for Physics. The general capabilities are
not assessed unless they are identified within the specified unit content.

Literacy
Literacy is important in students’ development of Science Inquiry Skills and their understanding of content
presented through the Science Understanding and Science as a Human Endeavour strands. Students gather,
interpret, synthesise and critically analyse information presented in a wide range of genres, modes and
representations (including text, flow diagrams, symbols, graphs and tables). They evaluate information
sources and compare and contrast ideas, information and opinions presented within and between texts.
They communicate processes and ideas logically and fluently and structure evidence-based arguments,
selecting genres and employing appropriate structures and features to communicate for specific purposes
and audiences.

Numeracy
Numeracy is key to students’ ability to apply a wide range of Science Inquiry Skills, including making and
recording observations; ordering, representing and analysing data; and interpreting trends and relationships.
They employ numeracy skills to interpret complex spatial and graphic representations, and to appreciate the
ways in which physical systems are structured, interact and change across spatial scales. They engage in
analysis of data, including issues relating to reliability and probability, and they interpret and manipulate
mathematical relationships to calculate and predict values.

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Information and communication technology capability

Information and communication technology (ICT) capability is a key part of Science Inquiry Skills. Students
use a range of strategies to locate, access and evaluate information from multiple digital sources; to collect,
analyse and represent data; to model and interpret concepts and relationships; and to communicate and
share science ideas, processes and information. Through exploration of Science as a Human Endeavour
concepts, students assess the impact of ICT on the development of science and the application of science in
society, particularly with regard to collating, storing, managing and analysing large data sets.

Critical and creative thinking

Critical and creative thinking is particularly important in the science inquiry process. Science inquiry requires
the ability to construct, review and revise questions and hypotheses about increasingly complex and abstract
scenarios and to design related investigation methods. Students interpret and evaluate data; interrogate,
select and cross-reference evidence; and analyse processes, interpretations, conclusions and claims for
validity and reliability, including reflecting on their own processes and conclusions. Science is a creative
endeavour and students devise innovative solutions to problems, predict possibilities, envisage
consequences and speculate on possible outcomes as they develop Science Understanding and Science
Inquiry Skills. They also appreciate the role of critical and creative individuals and the central importance of
critique and review in the development and innovative application of science.

Personal and social capability

Personal and social capability is integral to a wide range of activities in the Physics ATAR course, as students
develop and practise skills of communication, teamwork, decision-making, initiative-taking and self-discipline
with increasing confidence and sophistication. In particular, students develop skills in both independent and
collaborative investigation; they employ self-management skills to plan effectively, follow procedures
efficiently and work safely; and they use collaboration skills to conduct investigations, share research and
discuss ideas. In considering aspects of Science as a Human Endeavour, students also recognise the role of
their own beliefs and attitudes in their response to science issues and applications, consider the perspectives
of others, and gauge how science can affect people’s lives.

Ethical understanding
Ethical understanding is a vital part of science inquiry. Students evaluate the ethics of experimental science,
codes of practice, and the use of scientific information and science applications. They explore what integrity
means in science, and they understand, critically analyse and apply ethical guidelines in their investigations.
They consider the implications of their investigations on others, the environment and living organisms. They
use scientific information to evaluate the claims and actions of others and to inform ethical decisions about a
range of social, environmental and personal issues and applications of science.

Intercultural understanding
Intercultural understanding is fundamental to understanding aspects of Science as a Human Endeavour, as
students appreciate the contributions of diverse cultures to developing science understanding and the
challenges of working in culturally diverse collaborations. They develop awareness that raising some debates
within culturally diverse groups requires cultural sensitivity, and they demonstrate open-mindedness to the

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positions of others. Students also develop an understanding that cultural factors affect the ways in which
science influences and is influenced by society.

Representation of the cross-curriculum priorities

The cross-curriculum priorities address contemporary issues which students face in a globalised world.
Teachers may find opportunities to incorporate the priorities into the teaching and learning program for the
Physics ATAR course. The cross-curriculum priorities are not assessed unless they are identified within the
specified unit content.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures

Contexts that draw on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures provide an opportunity for
students to appreciate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ understanding of physical phenomena,
including the motion of objects, and astronomical phenomena, including Aboriginal constellations, their
meanings and relationship with Creation/Dreaming stories.

Asia and Australia's engagement with Asia

Contexts that draw on Asian scientific research and development and collaborative endeavours in the Asia
Pacific region provide an opportunity for students to investigate Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia.
Students could examine the important role played by people of the Asia region in such areas as medicine,
communication technologies, transportation, sports science and energy security. They could consider
collaborative projects between Australian and Asian scientists and the contribution these make to scientific
knowledge.

Sustainability
The cross-curriculum priority of Sustainability provides authentic contexts for exploring, investigating and
understanding the function and interactions of physical systems. The Physics ATAR course explores a wide
range of physical systems that operate at different temporal and spatial scales. By investigating the
relationships between systems and system components and how systems respond to change, students
develop an appreciation for the ways in which matter and energy interactions shape the Earth system. In
exploring applications of physics knowledge, students appreciate that science provides the basis for decision
making in many areas of society and that these decisions can impact on the Earth system. They understand
the importance of using physical science knowledge to predict possible effects of human and other activity,
and to develop management plans or alternative technologies that minimise these effects and provide for a
more sustainable future.

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Unit 1 – Thermal, nuclear and electrical physics

Unit description
An understanding of heating processes, nuclear reactions and electricity is essential to appreciate how global
energy needs are met. 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. Students investigate
heating processes, apply the nuclear model of the atom to investigate radioactivity, and learn how nuclear
reactions convert mass into energy. They examine the movement of electrical charge in circuits and use this
to analyse, explain and predict electrical phenomena.
Contexts that can be investigated in this unit include technologies related to nuclear, thermal, or geothermal
energy, the greenhouse effect, electrical energy production, large-scale power systems,
radiopharmaceuticals, and electricity in the home; and related areas of science, such as nuclear fusion in
stars and the Big Bang theory.
Through the investigation of appropriate contexts, students understand how applying scientific knowledge
to the challenge of meeting world energy needs requires the international cooperation of multidisciplinary
teams and relies on advances in ICT and other technologies. They explore how science knowledge is used to
offer valid explanations and reliable predictions, and the ways in which it interacts with social, economic,
cultural and ethical factors.
Students develop skills in interpreting, constructing and using a range of mathematical and symbolic
representations to describe, explain and predict energy transfers and transformations in heating processes,
nuclear reactions and electrical circuits. They develop their inquiry skills through primary and secondary
investigations, including analysing heat transfer, heat capacity, radioactive decay and a range of simple
electrical circuits.

Learning outcomes
By the end of this unit, students:
 understand how the kinetic particle model and thermodynamics concepts describe and explain heating
processes
 understand how the nuclear model of the atom explains radioactivity, fission, fusion and the properties
of radioactive nuclides
 understand how charge is involved in the transfer and transformation of energy in electrical circuits
 understand how scientific models and theories have developed and are applied to improve existing, and
develop new, technologies
 use science inquiry skills to design, conduct and analyse safe and effective investigations into heating
processes, nuclear physics and electrical circuits, and to communicate methods and findings
 use algebraic and graphical representations to calculate, analyse and predict measurable quantities
associated with heating processes, nuclear reactions and electrical circuits

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 evaluate, with reference to empirical evidence, claims about heating processes, nuclear reactions and
electrical technologies
 communicate physics understanding using qualitative and quantitative representations in appropriate
modes and genres.

Unit content
This unit includes the knowledge, understandings and skills described below.

Science Inquiry Skills

 identify, research, construct and refine questions for investigation; propose hypotheses; and predict
possible outcomes
 design investigations, including the procedure(s) to be followed, the materials required, and the type
and amount of primary and/or secondary data to be collected; conduct risk assessments; and consider
research ethics
 conduct investigations, including using temperature, current and potential difference measuring devices,
safely, competently and methodically for the collection of valid and reliable data
 represent data in meaningful and useful ways, including using appropriate Système Internationale (SI)
units and symbols, and significant figures; organise and analyse data to identify trends, patterns and
relationships; identify sources of random and systematic error and estimate their effect on
measurement results; identify anomalous data and calculate the measurement discrepancy between
experimental results and a currently accepted value, expressed as a percentage; and select, synthesise
and use evidence to make and justify conclusions
 interpret a range of scientific and media texts, and evaluate processes, claims and conclusions by
considering the quality of available evidence; and use reasoning to construct scientific arguments
 select, construct and use appropriate representations, including text and graphic representations of
empirical and theoretical relationships, flow diagrams, nuclear equations and circuit diagrams, to
communicate conceptual understanding, solve problems and make predictions
 select, use and interpret appropriate mathematical representations, including linear and non-linear
graphs and algebraic relationships representing physical systems, to solve problems and make
predictions
 communicate to specific audiences and for specific purposes using appropriate language, nomenclature,
genres and modes, including scientific reports

Science as a Human Endeavour

Heating processes
The development of heating technologies that use conduction, convection, radiation and latent heat have
had, and continue to have, significant social, economic and environmental impacts. These technologies
include:
 passive solar design for heating and cooling of buildings
 the development of the refrigerator over time

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 the use of the sun for heating water

 engine cooling systems in cars.

Science Understanding
Heating processes
 the kinetic particle model describes matter as consisting of particles in constant motion, except at
absolute zero
 all substances have internal energy due to the motion and separation of their particles
 temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of particles in a system
 provided a substance does not change state, its temperature change is proportional to the amount of
energy added to or removed from the substance; the constant of proportionality describes the heat
capacity of the substance
This includes applying the relationship

 change of state involves separating particles which exert attractive forces on each other; latent heat is
the energy required to be added to or removed from a system to change the state of the system
This includes applying the relationship

 two systems in contact transfer energy between particles so that eventually the systems reach the same
temperature; that is, they are in thermal equilibrium. This may involve changes of state as well as
changes in temperature
 a system with thermal energy has the capacity to do mechanical work [to apply a force over a distance];
when work is done, the internal energy of the system changes
 because energy is conserved, the change in internal energy of a system is equal to the energy added by
heating, or removed by cooling, plus the work done on or by the system
 heat transfer occurs between and within systems by conduction, convection and/or radiation
 energy transfers and transformations in mechanical systems always result in some heat loss to the
environment, so that the usable energy is reduced and the system cannot be 100 percent efficient
This includes applying the relationship

Science as a Human Endeavour

Ionising radiation and nuclear reactions
Qualitative and quantitative analyses of relative risk (including half-life, absorbed dose, dose equivalence)
are used to inform community debates about the use of radioactive materials and nuclear reactions for a
range of applications and purposes, including:

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 radioisotopes are used as diagnostic tools and for tumour treatment in medicine
 nuclear power stations employ a variety of safety mechanisms to prevent nuclear accidents, including
shielding, moderators, cooling systems and radiation monitors
 the management of nuclear waste is based on the knowledge of the behaviour of radiation.

Science Understanding
Ionising radiation and nuclear reactions
 the nuclear model of the atom describes the atom as consisting of an extremely small nucleus which
contains most of the atom’s mass, and is made up of positively charged protons and uncharged neutrons
surrounded by negatively charged electrons
 nuclear stability is the result of the strong nuclear force which operates between nucleons over a very
short distance and opposes the electrostatic repulsion between protons in the nucleus
 some nuclides are unstable and spontaneously decay, emitting alpha, beta (+/-) and/or gamma radiation
over time until they become stable nuclides
 each species of radionuclide has a half-life which indicates the rate of decay
This includes applying the relationship

 alpha, beta and gamma radiation have different natures, properties and effects
 the measurement of absorbed dose and dose equivalence enables the analysis of health and
environmental risks
This includes applying the relationships

 Einstein’s mass/energy relationship relates the binding energy of a nucleus to its mass defect
This includes applying the relationship

 Einstein’s mass/energy relationship also applies to all energy changes and enables the energy released in
nuclear reactions to be determined from the mass change in the reaction
This includes applying the relationship

 alpha and beta decay are examples of spontaneous transmutation reactions, while artificial
transmutation is a managed process that changes one nuclide into another
 neutron-induced nuclear fission is a reaction in which a heavy nuclide captures a neutron and then splits
into smaller radioactive nuclides with the release of energy

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 a fission chain reaction is a self-sustaining process that may be controlled to produce thermal energy, or
uncontrolled to release energy explosively if its critical mass is exceeded
 nuclear fusion is a reaction in which light nuclides combine to form a heavier nuclide, with the release of
energy
 more energy is released per nucleon in nuclear fusion than in nuclear fission because a greater
percentage of the mass is transformed into energy

Science as a Human Endeavour

Electrical circuits
The supply of electricity to homes has had an enormous impact on society and the environment. An
understanding of electrical circuits informs the design of effective safety devices for the safe operation of:
 lighting
 power points
 stoves
 other household electrical devices.

Science Understanding
Electrical circuits
 there are two types of charge that exert forces on each other
 electric current is carried by discrete charge carriers; charge is conserved at all points in an electrical
circuit
This includes applying the relationship

 energy is conserved in the energy transfers and transformations that occur in an electrical circuit
 the energy available to charges moving in an electrical circuit is measured using electric potential
difference, which is defined as the change in potential energy per unit charge between two defined
points in the circuit
This includes applying the relationship

 energy is required to separate positive and negative charge carriers; charge separation produces an
electrical potential difference that drives current in circuits
 power is the rate at which energy is transformed by a circuit component; power enables quantitative
analysis of energy transformations in the circuit

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This includes applying the relationship

 resistance depends upon the nature and dimensions of a conductor

 resistance for ohmic and non-ohmic components is defined as the ratio of potential difference across the
component to the current in the component
This includes applying the relationship

 circuit analysis and design involve calculation of the potential difference across the current in, and the
power supplied to, components in series, parallel, and series/parallel circuits
This includes applying the relationships

 there is an inherent danger involved with the use of electricity that can be reduced by using various
safety devices, including fuses, residual current devices (RCD), circuit breakers, earth wires and double
insulation
 electrical circuits enable electrical energy to be transferred and transformed into a range of other useful
forms of energy, including thermal and kinetic energy, and light

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Unit 2 – Linear motion and waves

Unit description
Students develop an understanding of motion and waves which can be used to describe, explain and predict
a wide range of phenomena. Students describe linear motion in terms of position and time data, and
examine the relationships between force, momentum and energy for interactions in one dimension.
Students investigate common wave phenomena, including waves on springs, and water, sound and
earthquake waves.
Contexts that can be investigated in this unit include technologies such as accelerometers, motion detectors,
global positioning systems (GPS), energy conversion buoys, music, hearing aids, echo locators, and related
areas of science and engineering, such as sports science, car and road safety, acoustic design, noise
pollution, seismology, bridge and building design.
Through the investigation of appropriate contexts, students explore how international collaboration,
evidence from a range of disciplines and many individuals, and the development of ICT and other
technologies have contributed to developing understanding of motion and waves and associated
technologies. They investigate how scientific knowledge is used to offer valid explanations and reliable
predictions, and the ways in which it interacts with social, economic, cultural and ethical factors.
Students develop their understanding of motion and wave phenomena through laboratory investigations.
They develop skills in relating graphical representations of data to quantitative relationships between
variables, and they continue to develop skills in planning, conducting and interpreting the results of primary
and secondary investigations.

Learning outcomes
By the end of this unit, students:
 understand that Newton’s Laws of Motion describe the relationship between the forces acting on an
object and its motion
 understand that waves transfer energy and that a wave model can be used to explain the behaviour of
sound
 understand how scientific models and theories have developed and are applied to improve existing, and
develop new, technologies
 use science inquiry skills to design, conduct and analyse safe and effective investigations into linear
motion and wave phenomena, and to communicate methods and findings
 use algebraic and graphical representations to calculate, analyse and predict measurable quantities
associated with linear and wave motion
 evaluate, with reference to evidence, claims about motion and sound related phenomena and
associated technologies
 communicate physics understanding using qualitative and quantitative representations in appropriate
modes and genres.

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Unit content
This unit includes the knowledge, understandings and skills described below.

Science Inquiry Skills

 identify, research and construct questions for investigation; propose hypotheses; and predict possible
outcomes
 design investigations, including the procedure to be followed, the materials required, and the type and
amount of primary and/or secondary data to be collected; conduct risk assessments; and consider
research ethics
 conduct investigations, including the manipulation of devices to measure motion and sound safely,
competently and methodically for the collection of valid and reliable data
 represent data in meaningful and useful ways, including using appropriate Système Internationale (SI)
units and symbols, and significant figures; organise and analyse data to identify trends, patterns and
relationships; identify sources of random and systematic error and estimate their effect on
measurement results; identify anomalous data and calculate the measurement discrepancy between the
experimental results and a currently accepted value, expressed as a percentage; and select, synthesise
and use evidence to make and justify conclusions
 interpret a range of scientific and media texts, and evaluate processes, claims and conclusions by
considering the quality of available evidence; and use reasoning to construct scientific arguments
 select, construct and use appropriate representations, including text and graphic representations of
empirical and theoretical relationships, vector diagrams, free body/force diagrams, wave diagrams and
ray diagrams, to communicate conceptual understanding, solve problems and make predictions
 select, use and interpret appropriate mathematical representations, including linear and non-linear
graphs and algebraic relationships representing physical systems, to solve problems and make
predictions
 communicate to specific audiences and for specific purposes using appropriate language, nomenclature,
genres and modes, including scientific reports

Science as a Human Endeavour

Linear motion and force
Safety for motorists and other road users has been substantially increased through application of Newton’s
laws and conservation of momentum by the development and use of devices, including:
 helmets
 seatbelts
 crumple zones
 airbags
 safety barriers.

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Science Understanding
Linear motion and force
 distinguish between vector and scalar quantities, and add and subtract vectors in two dimensions
 uniformly accelerated motion is described in terms of relationships between measurable scalar and
vector quantities, including displacement, speed, velocity and acceleration
This includes applying the relationships

 representations, including graphs, vectors, and equations of motion, can be used qualitatively and
quantitatively to describe and predict linear motion
 vertical motion is analysed by assuming the acceleration due to gravity is constant near Earth’s surface
 Newton’s three Laws of Motion describe the relationship between the force or forces acting on an
object, modelled as a point mass, and the motion of the object due to the application of the force or
forces
 free body diagrams show the forces and net force acting on objects, from descriptions of real-life
situations involving forces acting in one or two dimensions
This includes applying the relationships

 momentum is a property of moving objects; it is conserved in a closed system and may be transferred
from one object to another when a force acts over a time interval
This includes applying the relationships

 energy is conserved in isolated systems and is transferred from one object to another when a force is
applied over a distance; this causes work to be done and changes the kinetic ( Ek) and/or potential (Ep)
energy of objects
This includes applying the relationships

 collisions may be elastic and inelastic; kinetic energy is conserved in elastic collisions
This includes applying the relationship

 power is the rate of doing work or transferring energy

This includes applying the relationship

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Science as a Human Endeavour

Waves
Application of the wave model has enabled the visualisation of imaging techniques. These can include:
 medical applications, such as ultrasound
 geophysical exploration, such as seismology.
Noise pollution comes from a variety of sources and is often amplified by walls, buildings and other built
structures. Acoustic engineering, based on an understanding of the behaviour of sound waves, is used to
reduce noise pollution. It focuses on absorbing sound waves or planning structures so that reflection and
amplification do not occur.

Science Understanding
Waves
 waves are periodic oscillations that transfer energy from one point to another
 mechanical waves transfer energy through a medium; longitudinal and transverse waves are
distinguished by the relationship between the directions of oscillation of particles relative to the
direction of the wave velocity
 waves may be represented by displacement/time and displacement/distance wave diagrams and
described in terms of relationships between measurable quantities, including period, amplitude,
wavelength, frequency and velocity
This includes applying the relationships

 the mechanical wave model can be used to explain phenomena related to reflection and refraction,
including echoes and seismic phenomena
 the superposition of waves in a medium may lead to the formation of standing waves and interference
phenomena, including standing waves in pipes and on stretched strings
This includes applying the relationships for

 a mechanical system resonates when it is driven at one of its natural frequencies of oscillation; energy is
transferred efficiently into systems under these conditions
 the intensity of a wave decreases in an inverse square relationship with distance from a point source
This includes applying the relationship

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School-based assessment
The Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) Manual contains essential information on principles,
policies and procedures for school-based assessment that needs to be read in conjunction with this syllabus.
Teachers design school-based assessment tasks to meet the needs of students. The table below provides
details of the assessment types for the Physics ATAR Year 11 syllabus and the weighting for each assessment
type.

Assessment table – Year 11

Type of assessment Weighting

Science Inquiry 30%

There must be at least one experiment, one investigation and one evaluation and analysis completed for
each unit.
Appropriate strategies should be used to authenticate student achievement on an out-of-class assessment
task.
Experiment
Practical tasks designed to develop or assess a range of laboratory related skills and conceptual
understanding of physics principles, and skills associated with representing data; organising and analysing
data to identify trends and relationships; recognising error, uncertainty and limitations in data; and selecting,
synthesising and using evidence to construct and justify conclusions.
Tasks can take the form of practical skills tasks, laboratory reports and short in-class tests to validate the
knowledge gained.
Investigation
Activities in which ideas, predictions or hypotheses are tested and conclusions are drawn in response to a
question or problem. Investigations can involve experimental testing, field work, locating and using
information sources, conducting surveys, and using modelling and simulations.
Assessment tasks can take the form of an experimental design brief, a formal investigation report requiring
qualitative and/or quantitative analysis of the data and evaluation of physical information, or exercises
requiring qualitative and/or quantitative analysis of second-hand data.
Evaluation and analysis
Involves interpreting a range of scientific and media texts; evaluating processes, claims and conclusions by
considering the accuracy and precision of available evidence; and using reasoning to construct scientific
arguments.
Assessment tasks can take the form of answers to specific questions based on individual research; exercises
requiring analysis; and interpretation and evaluation of physics information in scientific and media texts.
Test 30%
Tests typically consist of questions requiring short answers, extended answers and problem solving.
This assessment type is conducted in supervised classroom settings.
Examination 40%
Examinations require students to demonstrate use of terminology, understanding and application of
concepts and knowledge of factual information. It is expected that questions would allow students to
respond at their highest level of understanding.
Typically conducted at the end of each semester and/or unit. In preparation for Unit 3 and Unit 4, the
examination should reflect the examination design brief included in the ATAR Year 12 syllabus for this
course. This assessment type is conducted in supervised classroom settings.

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Teachers are required to use the assessment table to develop an assessment outline for the pair of units
(or for a single unit where only one is being studied).
The assessment outline must:
 include a set of assessment tasks
 include a general description of each task
 indicate the unit content to be assessed
 indicate a weighting for each task and each assessment type
 include the approximate timing of each task (for example, the week the task is conducted, or the issue
and submission dates for an extended task).
In the assessment outline for the pair of units, each assessment type must be included at least twice. In the
assessment outline where a single unit is being studied, each assessment type must be included at least
once.
The set of assessment tasks must provide a representative sampling of the content for Unit 1 and Unit 2.
Assessment tasks not administered under test/controlled conditions require appropriate
validation/authentication processes.

Grading
Schools report student achievement in terms of the following grades:

Grade Interpretation
A Excellent achievement
B High achievement
C Satisfactory achievement
D Limited achievement
E Very low achievement

The teacher prepares a ranked list and assigns the student a grade for the pair of units (or for a unit where
only one unit is being studied). The grade is based on the student’s overall performance as judged by
reference to a set of pre-determined standards. These standards are defined by grade descriptions and
annotated work samples. The grade descriptions for the Physics ATAR Year 11 syllabus are provided in
Appendix 1. They can also be accessed, together with annotated work samples, through the Guide to Grades
link on the course page of the Authority website at www.scsa.wa.edu.au.
To be assigned a grade, a student must have had the opportunity to complete the education program,
including the assessment program (unless the school accepts that there are exceptional and justifiable
circumstances).
Refer to the WACE Manual for further information about the use of a ranked list in the process of assigning
grades.

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Appendix 1 – Grade descriptions Year 11

Understanding and applying concepts
Applies models and principles to explain systems and processes in detail, illustrating responses with
diagrams where appropriate.
Clearly links multiple concepts to accurately explain complex phenomena and relationships in detail.
Accurately applies scientific understanding to explain unfamiliar contexts or examples.
Interprets and evaluates scientific information from a variety of sources to solve problems or to support
an argument.
Consistently selects and manipulates equations to solve complex problems.
Performs multiple-step calculations accurately using correct units and significant figures.
Science inquiry skills
Formulates a testable hypothesis that states the relationship between dependent and independent
A variables.
Plans investigations to identify and control appropriate variables, describes the experimental method in
detail and accurately collects data.
Processes data accurately and presents it logically in a range of forms, including graphs and tables to
identify patterns and relationships.
Comprehensively explains trends using numerical data and uses evidence to draw conclusions that relate
to the hypothesis.
Evaluates experimental method and provides specific relevant suggestions to improve validity and
reliability.
Communicates detailed information and concepts logically and coherently, using appropriate
terminology and conventions.

Understanding and applying concepts

Applies models and principles to accurately explain simple, and some complex, systems and processes,
illustrating with diagrams where appropriate.
Provides logical explanations of phenomena, with some provision of supporting examples.
Applies scientific knowledge to explain unfamiliar contexts or examples, sometimes lacking detail.
Selects and evaluates scientific information to solve problems or to support a point of view.
Selects and manipulates equations to solve multiple-step calculations.
Provides working which is clear and uses correct units and significant figures.
Science inquiry skills
B Formulates a testable hypothesis that states the relationship between dependent and independent
variables.
Plans investigations to identify and control appropriate variables, clearly describes the experimental
method and accurately collects data.
Processes data correctly and presents data in a range of forms, including graphs, tables and diagrams to
identify patterns and relationships.
Evaluates experimental method and provides general suggestions to improve validity and reliability of
data.
Explains trends and uses evidence to draw conclusions that relate to the hypothesis.
Communicates information and concepts logically, using appropriate terminology and conventions.

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Understanding and applying concepts

Applies models and principles to explain simple systems and some processes, illustrating with simple
diagrams which lack detail.
Describes relationships but does not relate to a specific context.
Applies scientific knowledge to explain familiar contexts or examples.
Develops responses which lack detail and sometimes include irrelevant information.
Selects and manipulates equations and data to solve simple problems. Provides working which is limited
or unclear with some errors in units and significant figures.

C Science inquiry skills

Formulates a testable hypothesis that links dependent and independent variables.
Plans investigations to identify and control some variables.
Briefly outlines the experimental method and collects data.
Processes and presents data using basic tables and graphs.
Makes general suggestions for improving the experimental method used.
Describes trends in data and draws simple conclusions that may not be linked back to the hypothesis.
Communicates information and concepts, without detail, using some correct terminology and
appropriate conventions.

Understanding and applying concepts

Incorrectly applies physics principles and models to explain simple systems and processes.
Presents diagrams which are incomplete or incorrect.
Presents statements of ideas with limited development of an argument and little use of evidence.
Inconsistently recalls facts and includes some irrelevant or confused information.
Inconsistently applies principles to familiar contexts.
Performs simple calculations with errors and omissions.
Provides working out which is confused and lacks the use of appropriate units and significant figures.
Science inquiry skills
D Identifies one or more relevant variables without making links between them.
Plans investigations which identify a limited number of controlled variables. Does not distinguish
between the dependent, independent and controlled variables.
Presents a plan of experimental method which lacks detail.
Presents data that is unclear, insufficient and lacks appropriate processing.
Provides trivial or irrelevant suggestions for improving the validity and reliability of data.
Identifies trends in data incorrectly or overlooks trends.
Offers simple conclusions that are not supported by data or are not related to the hypothesis.
Communicates information with frequent errors using everyday language and lacking appropriate
conventions.

Does not meet the requirements of a D grade and/or has completed insufficient assessment tasks to be
E assigned a higher grade.

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Appendix 2 – Glossary
This glossary is provided to enable a common understanding of the key terms in this syllabus.

Absolute uncertainty Estimate of the dispersion of the measurement result; the range of values
around the measurement result that is most likely to include the true value.
Accuracy The extent to which a measurement result represents the quantity it purports to
measure; an accurate measurement result includes an estimate of the true value
and an estimate of the uncertainty.
Algebraic representation A set of symbols linked by mathematical operations; the set of symbols
summarise relationships between variables.
Amplitude The displacement of a point on an oscillating object from the centre of
oscillation.
Analyse Consider in detail for the purpose of finding meaning or relationships, and
identifying patterns, similarities and differences.
Animal ethics Animal ethics involves consideration of respectful, fair and just treatment of
animals. The use of animals in science involves consideration of replacement
(substitution of insentient materials for conscious living animals), reduction
(using only the minimum number of animals to satisfy research statistical
requirements) and refinement (decrease in the incidence or severity of
‘inhumane’ procedures applied to those animals that still have to be used).
Anomalous data Data that does not fit a pattern; outlier.
Characteristic Distinguishing aspect (including features and behaviours) of an object, material,
living thing, or event.
Classify Arrange into named categories in order to sort, group or identify.
Collaborate Work with others to perform a specific task.
Conclusion A judgement based on evidence.
Contemporary science New and emerging science research and issues of current relevance and
interest.
Cultural relativism The practice of describing the beliefs, customs and practices of another culture
from a neutral point of view, rather than from the perspective of the observing
individual’s own culture.
Data The plural of datum; the measurement of an attribute, for example, the volume
of gas or the type of rubber. This does not necessarily mean a single
measurement: it may be the result of averaging several repeated
measurements. Data may be quantitative or qualitative and be from primary or
secondary sources.
Design Plan and evaluate the construction of a product or process, including an
investigation.
Discrete data Quantitative data consisting of a number of separate values where intermediate
values are not permissible.
Energy The potential to move or bring about changes; the higher the energy content the
greater the impact when it is transformed or transferred.
Environment All the surroundings, both living and non-living.
Ethnocentrism The practice of describing the beliefs, customs and practices of another culture
from the perspective of the observing individual’s own culture.
Evaluate Examine and judge the merit or significance of something, including processes,
events, descriptions, relationships or data.
Evidence In science, evidence is data that is considered reliable and valid and which can

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be used to support a particular idea, conclusion or decision. Evidence gives

weight or value to data by considering its credibility, acceptance, bias, status,
appropriateness and reasonableness.
Experimental (investigation) An investigation that involves carrying out a practical activity.

Field A position in space where susceptible objects experience ( are affected by) a
force or acquire potential energy as they are “worked” into that position;
gravitational fields affect the mass of an object; electric fields affect charged
objects; magnetic fields affect ferromagnetic objects; electromagnetic fields
affect charge carriers in matter.
Field work Observational research undertaken in the normal environment of the subject of
the study.
Force A push or pull between objects which may cause one or both objects to change
speed and/or the direction of their motion (i.e. accelerate) or change their
shape. Scientists identify four fundamental forces: the gravitational, the
electromagnetic (involving both electrostatic and magnetic forces), the weak
nuclear forces and the strong nuclear forces. All interactions between matter
can be explained as the action of one, or a combination, of the four fundamental
forces.
Fundamental forces Four fundamental forces have been identified that interact with all matter in the
universe. They are, in order from strongest to weakest, the strong nuclear, the
electromagnetic, the weak nuclear and the gravitational.
Genre The categories into which texts are grouped; genre distinguishes texts on the
basis of their subject matter, form and structure (for example, scientific reports,
field guides, explanations, procedures, biographies, media articles, persuasive
texts, narratives).
Hypothesis A scientific statement based on the available information that can be tested by
experimentation. When appropriate, the statement expresses an expected
relationship between the independent and dependent variables for observed
phenomena.
Investigation A scientific process of answering a question, exploring an idea or solving a
problem that requires activities such as planning a course of action, collecting
data, interpreting data, reaching a conclusion and communicating these
activities. Investigations can include observation, research, field work, laboratory
experimentation and manipulation of simulations.
Intensity The average rate of flow of energy per unit area.
Law A statement describing invariable relationships between phenomena in specified
conditions, frequently expressed mathematically.
Linear motion Straight line motion or an idealisation of approximately straight line motion
when an object moves from one place to another.
Longitudinal As in longitudinal waves, where the direction of oscillation of particles is parallel
to the direction of energy transfer.
Material A substance with particular qualities or that is used for specific purposes.
Matter A physical substance; anything that has mass and occupies space.
Measurement discrepancy The difference between the measurement result and a currently accepted or
standard value of a quantity.
Media texts Spoken, print, graphic or electronic communications with a public audience.
Media texts can be found in newspapers, magazines and on television, film,
radio, computer software and the internet.
Mode The various processes of communication – listening, speaking, reading/viewing
and writing/creating.
Model A representation that describes, simplifies, clarifies or provides an explanation of

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the workings, structure or relationships within an object, system or idea.

Newtonian determinism The philosophical consequence of Newton’s Laws of Motion, viz., that it is
possible in principle to deduce all consequences of interactions between
objects; sometimes referred to as the ‘clockwork Universe’.
Nuclide The range of atomic nuclei associated with a particular atom which is defined by
its atomic number and the various isotopes of that atom as identified by the
mass number.
Oscillate To and fro motion about an equilibrium position; characterised by the period of
its motion or velocity and acceleration at different positions as it moves.
Primary data Data collected directly by a person or group.
Primary source Information created by the person or persons directly involved in a study,
investigation or experiment or observing an event.
Property Attribute of an object or material, normally used to describe attributes common
to a group.
Qualitative data Information that is not numerical in nature.
Quantitative data Numerical information.
Random error Uncontrollable effects of the measurement equipment, procedure and
environment on a measurement result; the magnitude of random error for a
measurement result can be estimated by finding the spread of values around the
average of independent, repeated measurements of the quantity.
Reductionism A philosophical approach that starts by removing all objects from a system, then
returning them one-by-one and noting the relationships between them; a
process of defining basic concepts and relationships from simplest to more
complex.
Reliability The degree to which an assessment instrument or protocol consistently and
repeatedly measures an attribute, achieving similar results for the same
population.
Reliable data Data that has been judged to have a high level of reliability; reliability is the
degree to which an assessment instrument or protocol consistently and
repeatedly measures an attribute, achieving similar results for the same
population.
Report A written account of an investigation.
Representation A verbal, visual, physical or mathematical demonstration of understanding of a
science concept or concepts. A concept can be represented in a range of ways
and using multiple modes.
Resonance The effect achieved when one system with a natural predisposition to accept
energy impacting it and is characterised by a particular frequency or frequencies.
Research To locate, gather, record, attribute and analyse information in order to develop
understanding.
Research ethics Norms of conduct that determine ethical research behaviour; research ethics are
governed by principles such as honesty, objectivity, integrity, openness and
respect for intellectual property and include consideration of animal ethics.
Risk assessment Evaluations performed to identify, assess and control hazards in a systematic
way that is consistent, relevant and applicable to all school activities.
Requirements for risk assessments related to particular activities will be
determined by jurisdictions, schools or teachers as appropriate.
Scientific language Terminology that has specific meaning in a scientific context.
Secondary data Data collected by a person or group other than the person or group using the
data.
Secondary source Information that has been compiled from records of primary sources by a person
or persons not directly involved in the primary event.

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Significant figures The use of place value to represent a measurement result accurately and
precisely.
Simulation A representation of a process, event or system which imitates a real or idealised
situation.

Sustainable Supports the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to support their needs.
System A group of interacting objects, materials or processes that form an integrated
whole. Systems can be open or closed.
Systematic error The contribution to the uncertainty in a measurement result that is identifiable
and quantifiable, for example, imperfect calibration of measurement
instruments.
Technology The development of products, services, systems and environments, using
various types of knowledge, to meet human needs and wants.
Theory A set of concepts, claims and/or laws that can be used to explain and predict a
wide range of related observed or observable phenomena. Theories are typically
founded on clearly identified assumptions, are testable, produce reproducible
results and have explanatory power.
Thermodynamics The study of heating processes and their relationships with various forms of
energy and work; is concerned with characteristics of energy such as
temperature, entropy and pressure and their inter-relationships.
Thought experiments A process whereby the consequences of a principle, postulate or theory are
examined without necessarily undertaking the experiment.
Transverse As in transverse waves, where the direction of oscillation of particles is
perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer.
Trend General direction in which something is changing.
Uncertainty Range of values for a measurement result, taking account of the likely values
that could be attributed to the measurement result, given the measurement
equipment, procedure and environment.
Universal law The applicability of the relationships expressed in the law extends from Earth to
the known universe.
Validity The extent to which tests measure what was intended; the extent to which data,
inferences and actions produced from tests and other processes are accurate.
Work A concept that relates force to energy; defined as the product of a force and the
displacement of an object on which it acts.

Physics | ATAR | Year 11 syllabus