Outline

Overview

Physics is the study of matter and energy and how they interact. It underpins all other sciences, and is the foundation of all engineering and technology. This unit of study forms part of a broad overview of the major topics of physics, which provides the necessary background knowledge and practice of scientific skills for students who wish to enrol in intermediate units of study in physics. You will cover the topics of electromagnetism, fluids, and quantum physics. You will develop experimental skills, and through enquiry, observation and measurement you will learn how to apply your physical understanding to real-world problems. This unit of study is intended for students who have a strong background in Physics and an interest in studying more advanced topics, with more rigorous proofs. Students who have completed PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 at Distinction level may enrol.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Physics Academic Operations
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	PHYS1003 or PHYS1004 or PHYS1904
Assumed knowledge ?	(85 or above in HSC Physics or equivalent) or (75 or above in one of PHYS1001 or PHYS1002) or (PHYS1901 or PHYS1903). Students are also encouraged to take MATH1X62 or MATH1972
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Helen Johnston, h.johnston@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Helen Johnston, h.johnston@sydney.edu.au
	Tim Bedding, tim.bedding@sydney.edu.au
	Celine Boehm, celine.boehm@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam ?	Final Exam Short answer questions	40%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Tutorial discussion Discussion with tutor to demonstrate ability to solve tutorial problems	0%	Multiple weeks	~5 min, twice per semester	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Mastering Physics assignments Online assignment	5%	Multiple weeks	Six assignments of 6 questions each.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	Laboratory work Laboratory work	0%	Multiple weeks	3 h/week	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Week 3 quiz #EarlyFeedbackTask	0%	Week 03 Due date: 22 Aug 2025 at 23:59	6 questions	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Lab test Practical and written test of lab skills	20%	Week 07	80 min	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Written test ?	Mid-semester test Pen and paper test of lecture material	20%	Week 08	1 hour	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Research analysis	Lab report Written report on group project	10%	Week 12 Due date: 31 Oct 2025 at 23:59 Closing date: 10 Nov 2025	~5 pages	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Contribution	Workshop tutorials Group work problem solving	5%	Weekly	1 hour	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ? = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Mastering Physics: Mastering Physics assignments are online tasks, due every two weeks. These are done using the MasteringPhysics system, accessed via Canvas. Each assignment consists of 6 questions, each worth 5 marks even though some are a little longer than others. They are a mix of tutorial-style questions teaching you concepts and problem-solving techniques, and end-of-chapter problems from the textbook. You can come back to the assignment as often as you like until the due date. MasteringPhysics marks the assignments automatically and you immediately know your result. The best 5 marks count towards your grade.
Laboratory work: Your laboratory work consists of circuits experiments, followed by a group project, which is the basis for your lab report. Assessment in the lab is based on completing competency checks. In order to pass the lab, you must achieve all listed competencies – see Canvas for details.
Workshop tutorials: Contributing to Workshop Tutorials is an important part of success in this Unit of Study. Your mark is based on the number of tutorials attended. You can count attendance at some "Physics Connect" sessions towards your tutorial attendance.
Tutorial discussion: Twice per semester you will demonstrate your ability to solve a tutorial problem to a tutor. Failure to complete two discussions will result in an AF grade.
Mid-semester test: The mid-semester test will cover material from the first lecture module (Electricity and Magnetism). The test is made up of short-answer questions. It will be held during your scheduled lab session.
Final examination: The final exam is on material not tested in the mid-semester test. No laboratory work is examinable. The final exam is a compulsory assessment task. Failure to sit the final exam will result in an AF grade.
Lab test: This is a practical and written test on circuits and the skills learned in the pre-work material.
Lab report: At the end of semester you will submit a lab report based on the group research project.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Final exam: If a second replacement exam is required, this exam may be delivered via an alternative assessment method, such as a viva voce (oral exam). The alternative assessment will meet the same learning outcomes as the original exam. The format of the alternative assessment will be determined by the unit coordinator.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	At HD level, a student demonstrates a flair for the subject and comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the unit material. A ‘High Distinction’ reflects exceptional achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates the ability to apply subject knowledge to novel situations.
Distinction	75 - 84	At DI level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a solid knowledge and understanding of the unit material. A ‘Distinction’ reflects excellent achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates an ability to apply the key ideas of the subject.
Credit	65 - 74	At CR level, a student demonstrates a good command and knowledge of the unit material. A ‘Credit’ reflects solid achievement and is awarded to a student who has a broad understanding of the unit material but has not fully developed the ability to apply the key ideas of the subject.
Pass	50 - 64	At PS level, a student demonstrates proficiency in the unit material. A ‘Pass’ reflects satisfactory achievement and is awarded to a student who has threshold knowledge of the subject.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

MasteringPhysics will not accept late assignments.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Electricity and magnetism	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 01	Introduction	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 02	Electricity and magnetism	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 02	Circuits	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 03	Electricity and magnetism	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 03	Circuits	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 04	Electricity and magnetism	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 04	Circuits	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 05	Electricity and magnetism	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 05	Circuits	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 06	Electricity and magnetism	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 07	Electricity and magnetism	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 08	Fluids	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 09	Fluids	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 09	Projects	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 10	Quantum physics	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 10	Projects	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 11	Quantum physics	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 11	Projects	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 12	Quantum physics	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 12	Project presentations	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 13	Quantum physics	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

You must pass the laboratory programme in order to pass the course, plus you must successfully complete two tutorial discussions with a tutor. In order to pass the laboratory component, you must achieve all listed lab competencies.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

All readings for this unit can be accessed on the Library eReserve link available on Canvas.

Textbook: University Physics with Modern Physics: Fifteenth Edition in SI Units, by Young and Freedman (Y&F). Published by Pearson.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. demonstrate an understanding of the key concepts of the behaviour of fluids, the interaction between electricity, magnetism and matter, and the fundamental concepts of quantum physics and its application to modern technology
LO2. apply these concepts to develop models, and to solve qualitative and quantitative problems in scientific and engineering contexts with articular reference to applications in modern technology
LO3. demonstrate basic experimental skills in the use of electrical measuring instruments and the ability to devise and carry out a scientific investigation that includes measuring physical quantities, analysis and interpretation of results
LO4. find and analyse information and judge its reliability and significance
LO5. communicate scientific information appropriately, both orally and through written work
LO6. engage in team and group work for scientific investigations and for the process of learning
LO7. demonstrate a sense of responsibility, ethical behaviour and independence as a learner and as a scientist.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Lab assessment has been changed; students have to demonstrate competency in specific lab skills.

Additional information

EQUITY, ACCESS AND DIVERSITY STATEMENT

The School of Physics recognises that biases, bullying and discrimination, including but not limited to those based on gender, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion and age, continue to impact parts of our community disproportionately. Consequently, the School is strongly committed to taking effective steps to make our environment supportive and inclusive and one that provides equity of access and opportunity for everyone.

The School has three Equity Officers as a point of contact for students who may have a query or concern about any issues relating to equity, access and diversity. If you feel you have been treated unfairly, discriminated against, bullied or disadvantaged in any way, you are encouraged to talk to one of the Equity Officers or any member of the Physics staff.

More information can be found at https://sydney.edu.au/science/schools/school-of-physics/equity-access-diversity.html

Any student who feels they may need a special accommodation based on the impact of a disability should contact Disability
Services: https://sydney.edu.au/study/academic-support/disability-support.html who can help arrange support.

Work, health and safety

We are governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and Codes of Practice. Penalties for non-compliance have increased. Everyone has a responsibility for health and safety at work. The University’s Work Health and Safety policy explains the responsibilities and expectations of workers and others, and the procedures for managing WHS risks associated with University activities.

General Laboratory Safety Rules

No eating or drinking is allowed in any laboratory under any circumstances
Closed-toe shoes are mandatory
Follow safety instructions in your manual and posted in laboratories, and from staff.
In case of fire, follow instructions posted outside the laboratory door
First aid kits, eye wash and fire extinguishers are located in or immediately outside each laboratory
As a precautionary measure, it is recommended that you have a current tetanus immunisation. This can be obtained from University Health Service: unihealth.usyd.edu.au/

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

PHYS1902: Physics 1B (Advanced)

Semester 2, 2025 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links