Outline

Overview

The unit is intended for high achieving students who have a strong background in Physics and an interest in studying more advanced topics. It shares lecture and tutorial classes with PHYS1901, with modules on the topics of mechanics, thermal physics oscillations and wave and chaos. However, it features a laboratory component that is very different, with project-based exercises and a more open-ended research format than other lab classes.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Physics Academic Operations
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	PHYS1001 or PHYS1002 or EDUH1017 or PHYS1901
Assumed knowledge ?	[92 or above in HSC Physics (or equivalent)] or [80 or above in one of PHYS1904 or PHYS1902]. Students are also encouraged to take MATH1X61 or MATH1971
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Helen Johnston, h.johnston@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Shelley Wickham, shelley.wickham@sydney.edu.au
	Anita Hafner, anita.hafner@sydney.edu.au
	Wave Ngampruetikorn, vudtiwat.ngampruetikorn@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length
Supervised exam ?	Final exam Pen and paper exam	40%	Formal exam period	2 hours
Outcomes assessed:
Small continuous assessment	Laboratory work Completion of lab experiments	0%	Multiple weeks	3h/week
Outcomes assessed:
Online task	Mastering Physics assignments Online assignment	5%	Multiple weeks	6 questions
Outcomes assessed:
Online task	Pre-work quizzes Online Canvas quizzes	3%	Ongoing	See Canvas
Outcomes assessed:
Online task	Week 3 quiz Online Canvas quiz #earlyfeedbacktask	0%	Week 03	See Canvas
Outcomes assessed:
Small test	Mid-semester test Pen and paper test of lecture material	20%	Week 08	1h
Outcomes assessed:
Skills-based evaluation	Lab test Practical and written test of lab skills	20%	Week 09	130 min
Outcomes assessed:
Assignment	Laboratory report Written report of SSP project	10%	Week 13 Due date: 30 May 2025 at 23:59	See Canvas
Outcomes assessed:
Participation	Tutorials Participation in tutorials	2%	Weekly	1h/week
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ? = AI allowed ? = 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 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

Lab test: The lab test consists of short questions about experimental skills, plus a practical experimental task where you demonstrate your ability to design and perform a simple experiment. The test will be held during your scheduled lab session.
Lab report: This is a written report on the data from your SSP project, where you demonstrate your ability to write scientifically.
Mid-semester test: The mid-semester test will cover material from the first lecture module (Mechanics). The test will be held during your scheduled lab session. More details will be provided in class.
Final exam: The exam will cover material from the last two modules (Thermal physics, and Oscillations and Waves). Must be attempted & must meet hurdle mark threshold; otherwise = AF grade
Assignments: These are online assignments (access via the link to Pearson Access on Canvas), which test your understanding of the lecture material. The best 5 of the 6 assignments will count towards your grade.
Tutorials: In tutorials you solve physics problems based on the week's lecture material, working in small groups. Marks are awarded for participation.
Laboratory work: To pass the unit, you must successfully complete all five labs in weeks 3–7.��Must be attempted & must meet hurdle mark threshold otherwise = AF grade

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 (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.

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.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automated writing tools

Except for supervised exams or in-semester tests, you may use generative AI and automated writing tools in assessments unless expressly prohibited by your unit coordinator.��

For exams and in-semester tests, the use of AI and automated writing tools is not allowed unless expressly permitted in the assessment instructions.��

The icons in the assessment table above indicate whether AI is allowed – whether full AI, or only some AI (the latter is referred to as “AI restricted”). If no icon is shown, AI use is not permitted at all for the task. Refer to Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks for this unit.��

Your final submission must be your own, original work. You must acknowledge any use of automated writing tools or generative AI, and any material generated that you include in your final submission must be properly referenced. You may be required to submit generative AI inputs and outputs that you used during your assessment process, or drafts of your original work. Inappropriate use of generative AI is considered a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy and penalties may apply.��

The Current Students website provides information on artificial intelligence in assessments. For help on how to correctly acknowledge the use of AI, please refer to the  .��

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 Current Student website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. The University expects students and staff to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

We use similarity detection software to detect potential instances of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breach. If such matches indicate evidence of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breaches, your teacher is required to report your work for further investigation.

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, 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 2023 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 2023. 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	Mechanics	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 01	Introduction	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 02	Mechanics	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 02	Uncertainties	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 03	Mechanics	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 03	Lab 1	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 04	Mechanics	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 04	Lab 2	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 05	Mechanics	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 05	Lab 3	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 06	Thermal physics	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 06	Lab 4	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 07	Thermal physics	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 07	Lab 5	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 08	Thermal physics	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 09	Thermal physics, and Oscillations, waves and chaos	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 10	Oscillations, waves and chaos	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 10	SSP project lab 1	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 11	Oscillations, waves and chaos	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 11	SSP project lab 2	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 12	Oscillations, waves and chaos	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 12	SSP project lab 3	Science laboratory (3 hr)
Week 13	Oscillations, waves and chaos	Lecture and tutorial (4 hr)
Week 13	SSP project presentation	Science laboratory (3 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

You must pass the laboratory programme in order to pass the course. In order to pass the laboratory component, you must successfully complete the five labs in weeks 3-7 (The Labs in week 1 and 2 are meant to get you up to speed and are not a part of this assessment). Make-up lab sessions are available for students with special consideration.

�㽶ֱ�� 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.

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. understand the key concepts in three foundation areas of physics - mechanics, thermal physics and wave motion
LO2. apply these concepts to develop models, and to solve qualitative and quantitative problems in scientific and engineering contexts, using appropriate mathematical and computing techniques as necessary
LO3. understand the nature of scientific measurement and demonstrate skills in the measurement of physical quantities and the handling of data
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.

No major changes since last iteration.

Additional information

Equity Access and Diversity Statement

The School of Physics recognises that biases 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 and staff who may have a query or concern about any issues relating to equity, access and diversity.�� If you feel you have been treated unfairly, bullied, discriminated against 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

Any student who feels they may need a special accommodation based on the impact of a disability should contact Disability Services: 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 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, 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:

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 .

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Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automated writing tools

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

�㽶ֱ�� commitment

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

Media

Student links

About us

Connect

�㽶ֱ��

PHYS1903: Physics 1A (Special Studies Program)

Semester 1, 2025 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automated writing tools

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

�㽶ֱ�� commitment

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

Media

Student links

About us

Connect