Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students will be familiar with the language, methods and major ideas of physics. They will develop the ability to understand physics concepts qualitatively and quantitatively. They will acquire practical skills necessary to investigate physical phenomena both inside and outside the laboratory. They will develop the capacity and confidence to communicate their physics knowledge and understanding effectively.
Synopsis This subject is designed for those who have not taken VCE Physics. For these students it is a prerequisite for both PHS1810 (Physics I) and PHS1820 (Physics II). Classes are limited to tutorial-sized groups to encourage and enable active student participation in the learning process. The subject encompasses a variety of conceptual areas of physics including classical mechanics, electricity, magnetism, electromagnetic phenomena, light, wave-particle duality and the photoelectric effect. Students undertake practical physics investigations concurrently with their theory sessions and are also required to design their own practical research investigation. Students' understanding of their physics will be assessed by class contribution, written reports, topic tests, a practical test and a final examination.
Assessment Practical work: 15% + Student-designed investigation: 10% + Class contributions: 5% + Topic tests: 20% + Examination: 50%