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 (95 hours), one option (15 hours), practical investigations (20 hours), an individual project (10 hours) and a Group 4 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 (95 hours), additional HL material (60 hours), one option (25 hours), practical investigations (40 hours), an individual investigation (10 hours) and the Group 4 Project (10 hours). For each course, the options offered are the same but Standard Level students are allocated 15 hours of teaching time for the option, Higher Level students are allocated 25 hours teaching time for the option.

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: 

• measurement,
• mechanics,
• thermal physics,
• waves,
• electricity and magnetism,
• circular motion and gravitation,
• atomic, nuclear and particle physics; and 
• energy production. 

Standard and Higher Level students are required to study one option from: Relativity, Engineering Physics, Imaging or Astrophysics.

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. appreciate scientific study and creativity within a global context through stimulating and challenging opportunities;
2. acquire a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize science and technology;
3. apply and use a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize science and technology;
4. develop an ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesize scientific information;
5. develop a critical awareness of the need for, and the value of, effective collaboration and communication during scientific activities;
6. develop experimental and investigative scientific skills including the use of current technologies;
7. develop and apply 21st century communication skills in the study of science;
8. become critically aware, as global citizens, of the ethical implications of using science and technology;
9. develop an appreciation of the possibilities and limitations of science and technology;
10. develop an understanding of the relationships between scientific disciplines and their influence on other areas of knowledge.

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.