Everything You Need To Know To Ace WACE Physics General

The Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE)  Physics General exam is a crucial milestone in your academic journey. It not only tests your knowledge of fundamental physics concepts but also challenges your problem-solving skills and ability to apply scientific principles to real-world scenarios.

In this blog post, we'll cover everything from the syllabus structure to exam preparation techniques, common pitfalls to avoid, and last-minute tips to boost your performance. Whether you're aiming for that coveted A grade or looking to improve your current standing, this guide is tailored to help Western Australian students make the most of their WACE Physics preparation.

So, grab your calculator and lab coat as we dive into the world of WACE Physics General. By the end of this article, you'll have a clear road map to success and the confidence to tackle even the most challenging questions on exam day. Let's get started on your journey to acing WACE Physics General!

Summary of Units

Unit 3 – Moving

This unit centres on the behaviour of moving bodies, examining how forces generate movement and transfer energy. Students apply physics concepts to understand movement in sports, amusement parks, and vehicle safety.

Through science inquiry skills, they collect and analyse data, drawing evidence-based conclusions and relating principles to real-world situations. Practical activities provide opportunities for investigation planning, careful observation, safe equipment operation, and collaboration with peers.

Science Inquiry Skills

• identify, research, construct and refine questions for investigation; propose hypotheses; and predict possible outcomes
• plan, select and use appropriate investigation methods, including preliminary trials, laboratory experimentation and controlling variables to collect reliable data
• assess risk and address ethical issues associated with these methods
• work collaboratively and individually to conduct investigations using appropriate measuring devices, safely, competently and methodically for the collection of valid and reliable data
• organise and clearly represent data in tables and appropriate graphs to identify trends, patterns and relationships• describe sources of experimental error
• use appropriate SI units and symbols• use evidence to make and justify conclusions
• evaluate conclusions by considering the quality of available evidence and make recommendations for improving experimental method• communicate scientific ideas and information using appropriate scientific language, conventions and representations

‍

Science as a Human Endeavour

• data used to describe motion can be collected using a range of technologies
• principles of physics can be applied to understand movement in sport
• traffic accidents can be investigated to determine how road and weather conditions, driver reaction times and speed affect the severity of vehicle collisions
• the principles behind safety measures, such as crash barriers, seat belts, crumple zones
• the effects of friction in everyday life

Science Understanding

• displacement, velocity, speed , distance, momentum
• acceleration is the rate of change of velocity
• solve simple problems using the equations
• uniform motion in one dimension can be represented graphically
• forces and their effects, including pushes and pulls
• contact forces, including friction; and non-contact forces, including gravity
• forces have magnitude and direction• free body diagrams show the forces acting on objects in one or two dimensions
• Newton’s First Law (also called the law of inertia)
• Newton’s Second Law explains the relationship between force and rate of change in momentum according to the equation.
• Newton’s Second Law also relates force and acceleration according to the equation F = ma
• the relationships above can be used to explain behaviour of objects in practical situations
• Newton’s Third Law of motion
• the force of gravity causes objects close to the Earth to accelerate at the same rate
• distinguish between mass and weight.
• objects in free fall due to gravity experience apparent weightlessness
• work done is equal to energy transferred.
• kinetic energy is the energy of motion
• gravitational potential energy is the energy of position
• conservation of energy

‍

Unit 4 – Electricity

This unit focuses on electricity as a form of energy and its behaviour in different materials. Students explore the principles of electricity and its essential role in modern society, emphasising safe and efficient management. They examine electricity applications across various contexts.

Practical activities allow students to make careful observations, operate equipment safely, and collaborate effectively. They construct simple electrical circuits and collect data using measuring devices, planning and conducting investigations to answer real-world questions and make evidence-based decisions.

Science Inquiry Skills

• identify, research, construct and refine questions for investigation; propose hypotheses; and predict possible outcomes
• plan, select and use appropriate investigation methods, including preliminary trials, laboratory experimentation and controlling variables to collect reliable data
• assess risk and address ethical issues associated with these methods
• work collaboratively and individually to conduct investigations using appropriate measuring devices, safely, competently and methodically for the collection of valid and reliable data
• organise and clearly represent data in tables and appropriate graphs to identify trends, patterns and relationships
• describe sources of experimental error
• use appropriate SI units and symbols• use evidence to make and justify conclusions
• evaluate conclusions by considering the quality of available evidence and make recommendations for improving experimental method• communicate scientific ideas and information using appropriate scientific language, conventions and representations

Science as a Human Endeavour

• production of electric power using coal, gas, oil, solar furnace, wind, nuclear, geothermal, tidal, photovoltaics; and advantages and disadvantages of these methods
• lightning as a natural example of charge build-up and discharge
• the protective role of earthing electrical circuits
• efficient use of household electricity
• origin of Earth’s magnetic field and its use for navigation

Science Understanding

• static electricity – atoms can gain or lose electrons, so gaining a net charge; and like charges repel and unlike charges attract
• electric current is the rate of flow of electric charge
• the direction of conventional current is that in which the flow of positive charge is considered to take place, while the electron flow is in the opposite direction
• electrical properties of conductors and insulators
• construct simple electrical circuits and measure current and potential difference at various points around the circuit using ammeters, voltmeters and multimeters
• draw and interpret simple circuit diagrams, including the standard symbols for resistor (fixed and variable), light globe, switch, ammeter, voltmeter, cell/battery, and power supply
• energy transformations, such as heating and lighting effects in electrical circuits
• current, voltage and resistance are related as shown in Ohm’s law: V = IR; as resistance increases, current decreases if voltage remains the same
• factors affecting resistance of a conductor – type of material, length, cross-sectional area
• high resistance conductors can be used to produce heat as in heating elements
• the concepts of electrical current, potential difference and resistance in series and parallel circuits
• the effects of having resistors connected in series
• the effects of having resistors connected in parallel
• power is related to voltage and current. This will include applying the relationship: P= VI
‍• the kilowatt hour is a unit of energy and is used to determine the cost of running electrical appliances
• magnetism and magnetic fields; like poles repel, unlike poles attract
• Earth’s magnetic field• use of compass to plot magnetic fields
• moving charges have magnetic fields
• a current carrying wire in a magnetic field has a force acting on it when it cuts flux lines. This is the principle behind the electric motor
• current is generated in a moving conductor when it cuts magnetic flux lines. This is the principle behind the generator
• the cause of short circuits and electric shock• identification of hazardous situations and the necessary safety precautions in everyday uses of electrical energy
• the principles behind the operation of various safety devices, such as fuses, RCDs, circuit breakers
‍

💡Study tip! Organise your notes by the headers and sub-headers in the syllabus. This ensures you cover everything that could be on the exam and keeps your notes super organised.

‍

‍

WACE Physics General Assessment Format

‍

Externally Set Task Details:

• Time: 50 minutes
• Format: Written
• Conduct: Under invigilated conditions
• Questions: Typically between two and six
• Content: Based on Unit 3 syllabus, announced by the Authority during Term 3 of the previous year

Grading System:

‍

Key Points:

• Each assessment type must be included at least once over the year.
• The set of assessment tasks must provide a representative sampling of Unit 3 and Unit 4 content.
• Non-test tasks require appropriate validation/authentication processes.
• The externally set task is compulsory for all students.
• Grades are assigned based on the student's overall performance judged against pre-determined standards.
• Grade descriptions and annotated work samples are available through the Guide to Grades link on the course page of the Authority website.
• To be assigned a grade, a student must have had the opportunity to complete the education program, including the assessment program (unless there are exceptional circumstances).

‍

💡Take notes efficiently and effectively using these tips!

‍

What Does an A Look Like?

Are you curious as to what it takes to get an A? In the syllabus, the Department of Education in Western Australia outlines exactly what is required for a student to get an A in Biology.

‍

How to Revise for WACE Physics General Exam

1. Master the Science Inquiry Skills (30% of assessment)
   • Practise designing experiments and investigations
   • Learn to formulate clear hypotheses
   • Improve your data presentation skills (tables, graphs, diagrams)
   • Practise analysing and explaining trends in data
   • Work on evaluating experimental methods and suggesting improvements
2. Prepare for Extended Response Questions (20% of assessment)
   • Practise writing structured essays on physics topics
   • Improve your skills in analysing scientific texts
   • Prepare some case studies related to Unit 3 and Unit 4 content
   • Practise presenting information in various formats (written, oral, multimedia)
3. Focus on Test Preparation (35% of assessment)
   • Regular revision of key concepts from Units 3 and 4
   • Practise problem-solving with a variety of question types
   • Work on applying physics principles to real-world situations
   • Improve your scientific reasoning and argumentation skills
4. Prepare for the Externally Set Task (15% of assessment)
   • Focus on Unit 3 content, as this is the basis for the task
   • Practice answering questions under timed conditions (50 minutes)
   • Prepare for a range of question types (typically 2-6 questions)
   • Review past externally set tasks if available
5. General Revision Tips
   • Create summary notes for each topic in Units 3 and 4
   • Use past papers and practice questions regularly
   • Form study groups to discuss concepts and practice explaining ideas
   • Regularly review and apply the physics formulas you've learned
   • Practice converting between different units of measurement
6. Exam Technique
   • Read questions carefully, identifying key physics terms
   • Show all your working in calculations
   • Use appropriate scientific language and conventions in your answers
   • Manage your time effectively, especially in the externally set task

‍

💡Check out these scientifically proven strategies to improve how you study!

‍

‍

Mistakes to Avoid

1. Science Inquiry Skills (30% of assessment)
   • Don't neglect practising experimental design. Many students focus solely on theory and neglect this crucial skill.
   • Avoid vague or untestable hypotheses. Always state the relationship between dependent and independent variables clearly.
   • Don't present data sloppily. Ensure all graphs, tables, and diagrams are clearly labeled and professionally presented.
   • Avoid superficial analysis of data. Always explain trends using relevant scientific concepts.
   • Don't forget to evaluate your experimental method and suggest improvements. This is often overlooked but is a key part of the inquiry process.
2. Extended Response (20% of assessment)
   • Don't write off-topic. Always ensure your response directly addresses the question asked.
   • Avoid using non-scientific language. Use appropriate physics terminology throughout your responses.
   • Don't neglect to support your arguments with evidence. Unsupported claims will not score high marks.
   • Avoid poor structure in your extended responses. Use clear paragraphs and a logical flow of ideas.
3. Tests (35% of assessment)
   • Don't rush through calculations. Show all your working out clearly to maximise partial credit opportunities.
   • Avoid using the wrong units. Always check that your final answer has the correct units.
   • Don't forget to apply concepts to real-world situations. The exam often tests your ability to link theory to practical applications.
   • Avoid leaving questions unanswered. Even if you're unsure, attempt every question.
4. Externally Set Task (15% of assessment)
   • Don't neglect Unit 3 content in your revision. This task is based solely on Unit 3.
   • Avoid poor time management. Practice completing tasks within the 50-minute time limit.
   • Don't panic if you see unfamiliar question formats. The task typically includes 2-6 questions of varying types.
5. General Exam Mistakes
   • Don't forget to read each question carefully. Misinterpreting the question is a common cause of lost marks.
   • Avoid using general knowledge instead of physics principles. Always base your answers on the physics you've learned.
   • Don't neglect to use diagrams where appropriate. Visual representations can often clarify your explanations.
   • Avoid inconsistent use of significant figures in calculations. Be aware of the level of precision required.
6. Preparation Mistakes
   • Don't cram at the last minute. Consistent study throughout the year is key for understanding physics concepts.
   • Avoid studying in isolation. Discussing concepts with peers can deepen your understanding and reveal gaps in your knowledge.
   • Don't neglect past papers and practice questions. These are crucial for familiarising yourself with the exam format and question styles.
   • Avoid focusing only on areas you're comfortable with. Identify and work on your weaknesses well before the exam.

Conclusion

Remember, the WACE Physics General exam is designed to test your understanding of physics concepts and your ability to apply them. Stay calm, trust in your preparation, and approach each question methodically.

If you need additional support, consider seeking a tutor experienced with the WACE Physics General curriculum.

Good luck!