Physics

Science

VCE

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The study of VCE Physics involves investigating, understanding and explaining the behaviour of physical phenomena in the Universe. Models, including mathematical models, are used to explore, simplify and predict how physical systems behave at varying scales from the very small (quantum and particle physics) through to the very large (astronomy and cosmology). Beginning with classical ideas and considering their limitations, and then being introduced to more modern explanations of the world, provides a novel lens through which students experience the world around them, drawing on their natural curiosity and wonder.

Conceptual understanding is developed as students study topics including light, atomic physics, radiation, thermal physics, electricity, fields, mechanics, quantum physics and the nature of energy and matter. Students are given agency through a choice of options and in designing and undertaking their own investigations.

This study enables students to:

  • apply physics models, theories and concepts to describe, explain, analyse and make predictions about diverse physical phenomena
  • understand and use the language and methodologies of physics to solve qualitative and quantitative problems in familiar and unfamiliar contexts

Assessment activities

  • reports of laboratory or fieldwork activities
  • reflective annotations related to practical activities from a logbook
  • analyses and evaluations data
  • critiques of experimental designs, processes or apparatus
  • modelling or simulation activities
  • reports of the design, building, testing and evaluation of a devices
  • explanation of physics innovations
  • media analyses/responses
  • infographics
  • problem-solving involving physics concepts and/or skills
  • comparison and evaluation of solutions, explanations and methods and/or findings from practical activities
  • scientific posters
  • exams.

Practical work is a central component of learning and assessment and may include activities such as laboratory experiments, fieldwork, simulations, modelling and other direct experiences.

Selection advice

VCE Physics enables students to use observations, experiments, measurements and mathematical analysis to develop qualitative and quantitative explanations for phenomena occurring from the subatomic scale to macroscopic scales. They explore the big ideas that changed the course of thinking in physics such as relativity and quantum physics. The satisfactory completion of Units 1 and 2 Physics are prerequisites for Units 3 and 4.

Links to further pathways

VCE Physics provides for continuing study pathways within the discipline and can lead to a range of careers. Physicists may undertake research and development in specialist areas including acoustics, astrophysics and cosmology, atmospheric physics, computational physics, communications, education, engineering, geophysics, instrumentation, lasers and photonics, medical diagnosis and treatment, nuclear science, optics, pyrotechnics and radiography. Physicists also work in cross-disciplinary areas such as bushfire research, climate science, forensic science, materials science, neuroscience, remote sensing, renewable energy generation, sports science and transport and vehicle safety.