NCEA L1 Physics & ESS study plan

Define and apply the core mechanics quantities (distance, displacement, speed, velocity, acceleration) using correct SI units and significant figures.

Interpret and sketch distance-time and velocity-time graphs, extracting gradient and area with units.

Solve constant-acceleration problems using v = u + at and d = ut + ½at², showing full working.

Set up a formula-and-units reference sheet covering mechanics conventions used in NCEA answers.

Apply Newton's three laws to free-body diagrams of common situations (incline, lift, friction, tension).

Calculate weight, normal force, friction and net force, then resolve forces into components.

Relate work, energy and power (W = Fd, P = E/t) and apply conservation of energy to falling and sliding objects.

Explain the difference between mass and weight and between elastic and inelastic collisions in momentum terms.

Describe wave properties (wavelength, frequency, period, amplitude, speed) and use v = fλ.

Distinguish transverse and longitudinal waves and describe reflection, refraction and diffraction qualitatively.

Apply Snell's law and ray diagrams to refraction at a boundary, including total internal reflection.

Explain the electromagnetic spectrum and give one practical use of each region.

Apply electrical circuit rules (V = IR, series and parallel resistance, power) to simple circuits.

Calculate energy transfer and cost of electricity using power and time.

Describe the Earth's internal structure and the evidence (seismic waves, density) used to infer it.

Explain plate tectonics: plate boundaries, convection, and the formation of earthquakes and volcanoes.

Classify rocks as igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic and describe the processes forming each.

Interpret the rock cycle and explain how fossils and superposition give relative ages.

Describe the geological timescale and distinguish relative from absolute dating methods.

Explain weathering, erosion and deposition and their role in shaping landforms.

Describe the Earth's atmosphere: composition, layers and the greenhouse effect mechanism.

Explain the causes and consequences of climate change, distinguishing natural and human drivers.

Interpret simple climate data (temperature, CO2 records) and describe trends with appropriate language.

Explain ocean circulation, the water cycle and their role in transferring heat around the Earth.

Describe the solar system: planet order, relative sizes and distances, and the role of gravity.

Explain day/night, seasons, phases of the Moon, eclipses and tides using diagrams.

Describe stars: life cycle, nuclear fusion, and how colour and brightness relate to temperature and distance.

Explain the Big Bang evidence (redshift, cosmic microwave background) and the scale of the universe.

Complete two full-length mock papers under timed conditions, one weighted to Physics and one to Earth and Space Science.

Review every incorrect answer and write the underlying concept and corrected method for each.

Rehearse NCEA-style answer structure: state the formula, substitute, calculate, give units, and explain in context.

Build a final one-page 'top 20 mistakes' revision card and re-test those items.