St John’s College (Hillcrest) St John’s College (Hillcrest)

Level 2 Physics

12PHY
Course Description

Teacher in Charge: Mr S. Tsai.

Recommended Prior Learning

14 credits in Level 1 Science and Mathematics including one Merit from either Physics 1.3 (electricity)  or Science 1.1 (mechanics) and a Merit in 1.2 Algebra (91027) or HOF approval.


Physics is the study of the physical world around us, including motion of objects, forces, gravity and electromagnetism. Knowledge of Physics is a requirement for entry to university courses in Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Structural, Civil and Electrical), Architectural Design and Surveying. 

Course Description:

  • Experimental Methods: Measurement and analysis of physical systems.
  • Mechanics: A look at how and why objects move in different situations. 
  • Electricity and Electromagnetism: Electrical circuit behaviour. Electric and magnetic fields and the links between them.
  • Waves: The properties and behaviour of different types of waves including light and sound. 

Course Overview

Term 1
Mechanics in the context of Motion, Force, Momentum and Energy.
Physics Investigation in the context of non-linear relationship.

Term 2
Electricity in the context of Static Electricity, DC Electricity and Electromagnetism.
Wave in the context of Light: Reflection, Refraction (including Total Internal Reflection) and Optical Instruments.

Term 3
Waves in the context of Reflection and Refraction, Superposition, and Double-Slits Diffraction.
Atomic and Nuclear Physics in the context of Nuclear Fission and Fusion Reactions.

Term 4
Revision for NCEA exams

Pathway

Level 3 Physics

Career Pathways

Medical Physicist, Geophysicist, Mining Engineer, Aeronautical Engineer, Air Force Aviator, Air Force Officer, Mechanical Engineering Technician, Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, Army Officer, Army Soldier, Insurance Loss Adjuster, Sound Technician, Electronics Engineer, Automotive Electrician, Chemical Engineer, Biomedical Engineer, Biomedical Technician, Biotechnologist, Metal Worker, Fabrication Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Building and Construction Manager, Surveyor, Science Technician, Civil Engineer, Civil Engineering Technician/Draughtsperson, Miner/Quarry Worker, Telecommunications Engineer, Telecommunications Technician, Information Technology Helpdesk/Support Technician, Technical Writer, Driller, Geologist, Electrician, Electrical Engineering Technician, Lift Technician, Energy and Chemical Plant Operator, Engineering Machinist, Environmental Engineer, Welder, Marine Engineer, Food Technologist, Locksmith, Train Driver, Refrigeration/Air-conditioning Technician, Navy Sailor, Navy Officer, Plastics Technician, Scaffolder, Test Analyst, Data Analyst, Software Developer, Architect, Architectural Technician, Boat Builder, Naval Architect, Urban/Regional Planner, Interior Designer, Systems Administrator, Information Technology Architect, Landscape Architect, Project Manager, Network Administrator, Geospatial Specialist, Security Analyst, Penetration Tester, Security Consultant


Contributions and Equipment/Stationery