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Unit 3: Practical Skills in Physics I

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  1. 3.3 - Planning

    1. Identify the apparatus required.

    2. Select the range and resolution of measuring instruments, including Vernier calipers with 0.1 mm resolution and a micrometer screw gauge with 0.01 mm resolution.

    3. Discuss calibration of instruments, including whether an instrument reads zero before measurements are made.

    4. Describe how to measure relevant variables using the most appropriate instrument and correct measuring techniques.

    5. Identify and state how to control all other relevant variables to make an experiment a fair test.

    6. Discuss whether repeat readings are appropriate.

    7. Identify health and safety issues and explain how they may be managed.

    8. Explain how the collected data will be used.

    9. Identify possible sources of uncertainty or systematic error and explain how they may be reduced or eliminated.

    10. Evaluate the implications of physics, including benefits and risks, and its social, environmental or historical context.

  2. 3.4 - Implementation and measurements

    1. 3.4.1Number of readings

      Evaluate the number of readings taken.

    2. 3.4.2Range of measurements

      Evaluate the range of measurements taken.

    3. 3.4.3Significant figures

      Evaluate the significant figures used.

    4. 3.4.4Inconsistent readings

      Check a reading inconsistent with other readings and record instrument readings using the correct number of significant figures.

    5. 3.4.5Improving experimental method

      Explain how an experimental method may be improved, including using additional apparatus to reduce errors.

  3. 3.5 - Processing Results

    1. Perform calculations using the correct number of significant figures.

    2. Plot results on a graph using an appropriate scale.

    3. Use correct units throughout data processing.

    4. Interpret the relationship obtained from a graph.

    5. Determine a relationship between two variables or a constant from a graph, including finding a gradient with a large triangle.

    6. Suggest realistic modifications to reduce errors.

    7. Suggest realistic modifications to improve an experiment.

    8. Evaluate uncertainties qualitatively and quantitatively.

    9. Determine percentage uncertainty for a single reading using half the instrument resolution and for repeated readings using half the range; compounding percentage uncertainties is not required in Unit 3.