What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?

IB Physics at HL and SL level is demanding and requires dedication and ability. Students should be aiming to achieve at least a BB in GCSE science or a B in GCSE Physics to be considered for the HL or SL course. A strong background in Mathematics would be an advantage in this subject.

Communication is also important in physics so you will need to be able to communicate effectively, be able to research and critically think about problems.

What will I learn on this course?

Physics is a group 4 subject and is offered at Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL).

Core topics covered are:

#	Title	# of Hours
1	Physics and physical measurement	5
2	Mechanics	17
3	Thermal physics	7
4	Oscillations and waves	10
5	Electric currents	7
6	Fields and forces	7
7	Atomic and nuclear physics	9
8	Energy, power and climate change	18
	Total hours	80

Core topics covered are:

#	Title	# of Hours
9	Motion in fields	8
10	Thermal physics	6
11	Wave phenomena	12
12	Electromagnetic induction	6
13	Quantum physics and nuclear physics	15
14	Digital technology	8
	Total hours	55

All students will spend a significant amount of time on the Internal Assessment (IA), which consists of an interdisciplinary project (The Group 4 Project) and a series of practical activities. Students will spend 60 hours at HL and 40 hours at SL on the Practical Activities. This includes 10 hours spent on the group 4 project. A log will be kept of the activities to ensure that the time requirements are met. The IA is worth 24% of the final assessment.

Finally, students will cover two optional topics. Students at SL are required to study any two options from A-G (15 hours each). Students at HL are required to study any two options from E-J (22 hours each).

The topics will be selected by your teachers from those listed below:

	Weighting	Duration	Format
1	20%	45 mins	30 multi-choice questions on Core
2	32%	75 mins	A) Database question and short answer B) Choice of one question from three
3	24%	60 mins	Questions on the 2 options studied

	Weighting	Duration	Format
1	20%	60 mins	40 multi-choice questions on Core + AHL
2	36%	135 mins	Compulsory questions on Core + AHL + Choice of two questions from four
3	20%	75 mins	Core + AHL + Questions on the 2 options studied

HL Options	Title	# of Hours
H	Relativity	22
I	Medical physics	22
J	Particle physics	22

How will my work be assessed?

Standard Level

Component	Overall Weighting	Duration (Minutes)	Format & Syllabus Coverage
Paper 1	20%	45	30 multi-choice questions on the core
Paper 2	32%	75	A) Compulsory questions on the core B) One extended response question on the core from a choice of three
Paper 3	24%	60	Questions on the two options studied

Higher Level

Component	Overall Weighting	Duration (Minutes)	Format & Syllabus Coverage
Paper 1	20%	60	40 multi-choice questions on Core + AHL
Paper 2	36%	135	A) Compulsory questions on Core + AHL B) Two extended response question on the core and AHL from a choice of four
Paper 3	20%	75	Questions on the 2 options studied

The IA (Internal Assessment) is worth 24%

What kind of student is this course suitable for?

IB Physics is suitable for students who:

• have an interest in, and enjoy physics
• want to find out about how things in the physical world work
• enjoy applying their mind to solving problems
• enjoy carrying out investigations by the application of imaginative, logical thinking
• want to use physics to support other qualifications or progress onto further studies or employment

What skills can I develop by taking this course?

The study of Physics necessitates that students are:

Inquirers

Curiosity in understanding the basic laws that govern everything from the very small subatomic scale to the very large cosmic scale is nurtured. Students acquire the skills necessary to conduct constructive inquiry and research into physical processes and ideas and, in doing so, become independent active learners.

Knowledgeable

Physics is a complex subject and there is much valuable research going on in the world of particle physics in particular. During the course students will explore the many varied concepts, ideas and issues which have global relevance and importance to physicists today. They will explore the links and interdependence between physics and other subjects.

Critical thinkers

Physicists must be good problem solvers, throughout the course and particularly during their group 4 project.

Communicators

The physics course is structured in order to enable students to understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively using a variety of modes of communication including discussions about topical issues, presentations and written work.

Risk-takers

During the course, and particularly during their group 4 projects, physicists learn to approach unfamiliar practical work with confidence and forethought built up over time, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies.

Principled

Physicists must have a sound grasp of the principles of moral reasoning. This is important throughout the course but particularly when dealing with the issues involved in the options.

Caring

Physicists work together, particularly during projects and experimental work which necessitates empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. The environment is very important to physicists of the twenty first century and they are expected to have a personal commitment to action and service to make a positive difference.

Open-minded

It is important that Scientists consider the values and traditions of other individuals and cultures and are accustomed to seeking and considering a range of points of view, particularly when making decisions which will affect the lives of others.

Well-balanced

Physics is a challenging subject and it is important that students appreciate the need for a balance between academic work and other activities.

Reflective

The physics course allows students to give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and personal development. Individually and in groups they are able to analyse their strengths and weaknesses in a constructive manner.

What could I go on to do at the end of this course?

Physics leads on to a wide range of degree courses which prepare students for careers in many areas such as:

Pure Physics, Engineering, Communications, Space Physics, Nuclear Physics, Cosmology, Astrophysics, Radiography, Biotechnology, Nuclear Medicine, Sports Medicine, Medicine, Environmental Sciences, Education, Dentistry.

There are many more career opportunities for the physicist and the analytical skills and knowledge developed in studying physics, The Fundamental Science, is valued for admission to many university courses such as Accountancy, Law, Architecture and countless others.

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