IBDP Physics

Group 4 | Physics

Each of the Experimental Sciences has the same course structure: 

The Standard Level course involves 150 indicative teaching hours over two years. It consists of core material (110 hours), practical work (20 hours), an individual scientific investigation (10 hours) and a collaborative sciences project (10 hours), in which students from all Science subjects cooperate on an investigation. 

The Higher Level course involves 240 indicative teaching hours over two years. It consists of the SL core material plus additional HL material (total of 180 hours), practical investigations (40 hours), an individual investigation (10 hours) and a collaborative sciences project (10 hours). 

What will I learn?

Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences as it seeks to explain the universe itself, from the very smallest particles to the vast distances between galaxies. This course aims to develop an understanding of the theoretical concepts and principles of physics, and the experimental work which tests the theories. Practical work is therefore an integral part of the syllabus. Physics is, above all, a human activity, and the course will also examine the historical developments of physics, and the place of physics and physicists in society. Students needs to be familiar with a range of mathematical techniques, but do not need to be able to do calculus. 

The Topics covered in the Core are: 

• Space, time and motion
• The particulate nature of matter
• Wave behaviour
• Fields
• Nuclear and quantum physics

Higher level core and option material includes the same topics as the Standard Level but in more detail (Additional Higher Level).

Why should I consider this course?

“Physics is a tortured assembly of contrary qualities: of scepticism and rationality, of freedom and revolution, of passion and aesthetics, and of soaring imagination and trained common sense.” Leon M Lederman (Nobel Prize for Physics, 1988)

Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences, as it seeks to explain the universe itself from the very smallest particles—currently accepted as quarks, which may be truly fundamental—to the vast distances between galaxies.

Assessment

What Skills does this course provide?

The Diploma Programme physics course allows students to develop traditional practical skills and techniques and increase their abilities in the use of mathematics, which is the language of physics. It also allows students to develop interpersonal and digital communication skills which are essential in modern scientific endeavour and are important life-enhancing, transferable skills in their own right.

Through studying physics, students should become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. While the scientific method may take on a wide variety of forms, it is the emphasis on a practical approach through experimental work that characterizes the science subjects. 

The aims enable students, through the overarching theme of the Nature of science, to: 

1. develop conceptual understanding that allows connections to be made between different areas of the subject, and to other DP sciences subjects
2. acquire and apply a body of knowledge, methods, tools and techniques that characterize science
3. develop the ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesize scientific information and claims
4. develop the ability to approach unfamiliar situations with creativity and resilience
5. design and model solutions to local and global problems in a scientific context
6. develop an appreciation of the possibilities and limitations of science
7. develop technology skills in a scientific context
8. develop the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively
9. develop awareness of the ethical, environmental, economic, cultural and social impact of science.

What Pathway Options does this course provide?

Physics is a pre-requisite subject for tertiary engineering and some tertiary science and applied science degrees  Physics also helps students to build their general scientific literacy which is essential for all members of our community.