L2 Physics

NCEA Level 2 Physics (2PHY)

Mechanics is the fundamental concept underpinning all physics understanding.  Physics seeks to understand nature at its most fundamental level. Physicists – and students studying physics – attempt to discover and apply the general laws that govern force and motion, matter and energy, and space and time. Mechanics is fundamental to a range of professional and exciting careers including engineering, astrophysics and geophysics. Physics students should develop sufficient scientific awareness and skills to be able to engage with these areas and nurture further interest in them.

"I enjoyed knowing that there is only one answer and that it never changes, along with that the laws of physics are constant." - Year 12 Physics Student 

"I like the problem solving aspect of physics where I get to use my brain to navigate complicated questions that have many layers. I also find that I can use some of the knowledge I have found and identify it in everyday life to understand why things act the way they do." - Year 12 Physics Student 

"I enjoy the problem solving side of it mainly in mechanics, I like being able to use a bit of common sense rather than very complicated thinking." - Year 12 Physics Student 

"I enjoyed being able to relate what we learnt to things that happen in our lives daily." - Year 12 Physics Student 

"I enjoyed the math and history aspects. I would only request more terminology and definitions." - Year 12 Physics Student

Skills taught:

• Research skills - Finding and evaluating information and apply physics concepts to a real-world example
• Communication skills using language, symbols and text - Write comprehensive statements that demonstrate understanding of connections between mechanical physics concepts
• Managing self - Safely plan and carry out practical investigations to demonstrate physical phenomena
• Participating and contributing - Carry out practical activities in groups
• Relating to others - apply physics concepts to a real-world example
• Mathematical skills -  Complete 2+ - step mathematical calculations

Key Competencies

Thinking: Students develop critical thinking by analysing experimental results for accuracy, evaluating evidence, and identifying patterns in data. They are encouraged to question assumptions, consider alternative explanations, and make predictions based on scientific reasoning. Creative thinking is fostered through designing and adapting experiments, modelling real-world situations, and applying physical principles to unfamiliar contexts such as sustainability challenges or emerging technologies. Metacognitive skills are built as students reflect on their problem-solving strategies, monitor their progress, and make adjustments to improve outcomes.

Using Language, Symbols, and Texts: Students learn to interpret a variety of scientific representations, including graphs, equations, diagrams, and technical reports. They develop the ability to translate between everyday language, symbolic notation, and visual forms, ensuring clarity and precision in communication. This includes writing formal lab reports, explaining concepts verbally to peers, and using the correct physics vocabulary, units, and conventions. The course also strengthens data literacy by teaching students to extract meaning from numerical and graphical information and to present findings in a logical, well-structured way.

Managing Self: Students manage themselves by planning and conducting independent and group investigations, meeting deadlines for practical and written assessments, and maintaining consistent engagement with learning tasks. They are encouraged to develop resilience by persisting with complex, multi-step problems and learning from mistakes. Time management is reinforced through long-term projects that require students to set goals, monitor their progress, and adapt their work plan as needed. These habits of self-discipline, perseverance, and responsibility are directly transferable to future academic, vocational, and personal contexts.

Relating to Others: Aligned with the NZC Key Competency of Relating to Others, Level 2 Physics requires students to work effectively in groups during both practical and theoretical tasks. In investigations, students negotiate roles, share ideas, and collaborate to design and carry out experiments. They practise active listening, value diverse perspectives, and provide constructive feedback to peers. These skills connect directly to the Level 7 Physics achievement objectives, which include working with others to design investigations, interpret evidence, and develop explanations.

Participating and Contributing: This course also fosters the Key Competency of Participating and Contributing by linking physics learning to local and global contexts. Students investigate real-world applications such as renewable energy, sustainable transport, and medical technologies, considering their societal and environmental impacts. Opportunities to connect with local industries, science outreach activities, or community initiatives encourage students to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom. These experiences align with the Level 7 Physics objectives of applying physics ideas in familiar and unfamiliar situations, while also building students’ awareness of science as a tool for responsible, informed participation in society.

By integrating these competencies into the teaching and learning programme, the course prepares students not only for success in Level 2 Physics but also for active, informed participation in a range of real-world settings.

Careers and Pathways

• University Entrance Literacy: Completing Level 2 Physics supports NCEA UE Literacy requirements by developing academic reading, writing, and interpretation skills through lab reports, scientific explanations, and analysis of data. It provides a strong foundation for Level 3 Physics and related university subjects such as Engineering, Science, Environmental Studies, or Health Sciences.
• Trades or Apprenticeships: The problem-solving, measurement, and analytical skills gained in Physics are directly applicable to trades and apprenticeships, including electrical, mechanical, automotive, and construction pathways. Students can link practical investigations at Kaipara College to hands-on workshop or work experience opportunities.
• Tertiary Study: Level 2 Physics prepares students for polytechnic and university-level study in Science, Engineering, Technology, and related STEM fields by building understanding of fundamental principles, scientific methods, and independent learning habits.
• Polytechnic Diplomas: Students considering diplomas in engineering, electronics, applied science, or renewable energy fields gain relevant knowledge and numeracy skills through NCEA Level 2 Physics internal and external assessments.
• Real-World Applications: Physics encourages understanding of real-world contexts, including renewable energy systems, transportation, medical technologies, and electronics, helping students make connections between theoretical concepts and practical problem-solving.
• Kaipara College Pathways: Students can integrate Physics learning with other subjects such as Mathematics, Digital Technologies, and Technology courses to build interdisciplinary skills. Participation in science clubs, competitions, and local industry projects provides hands-on experience and career exploration.