2.2 Options: How does physics inform contemporary issues and applications in society?
In this area of study, students develop a deeper understanding of an area of interest within diverse areas of physics. They select from eighteen options, explore the related physics and use this physics to form a stance, opinion or solution to a contemporary societal issue or application. In their explorations, a range of investigation methodologies may be used by students.
Outcome 2
On completion of this unit the student should be able to investigate and apply physics knowledge to develop and communicate an informed response to a contemporary societal issue or application related to a selected option.
Task
Your task in this area of study is to investigate an option of your choice by using the Study Design to develop research questions and using secondary sources (and/or primary investigation) to address those questions.
When researching your option, each dot point from the Study Design generally begins with a command term like ‘describe’ or ‘explain’.
It is important to understand what each term means as this indicates the depth of knowledge and understanding required.
Download a copy of VCAA’s explanations of the command terms here.
Communicating Physics
Each option also includes Key Knowledge of ‘Communicating Physics’
- evaluate validity of sources of information
- apply physics concepts specific to the investigation: definition of key terms; and use of appropriate scientific terminology, conventions and representations
- apply the use of data representations, models and theories in organising and explaining observed phenomena and physics concepts, and discuss the limitations of the explanations
- discuss the influence of sociocultural, economic, legal and political factors relevant to the selected issue or application
- apply physics understanding to justify a stance, opinion or solution to the selected issue or application.
Options
Option 2.1: How does physics explain climate change?
Option 2.2: How do fission and fusion compare as viable nuclear energy power sources?
Option 2.3: How do heavy things fly?
Option 2.4: How do forces act on structures and materials?
Option 2.5: How do forces act on the human body?
Option 2.6: How is radiation used to maintain human health?
Option 2.7: How does the human body use electricity?
Option 2.8: How can human vision be enhanced?
Option 2.9: How is physics used in photography?
Option 2.10: How do instruments make music?
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