Physics IB Higher and Standard Level

Physics IB (Higher and Standard Level)

PHYSICS (HL/SL)

International Baccalaureate

Campus: Cheadle and Marple (27.02.09)

This course is offered as part of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. You will take 3 Higher Level subjects and 3 Standard Level subjects and complete components in Theory of Knowledge, Creativity Action Service and an Extended Essay.

Course overview

Everything around us everywhere we go can be related to physics. Physics is the most fundamental science as it tries to explain everything from the very smallest particles to the universe itself. It can be used to explain the basic features of the natural world around us, for example why is the sky blue? Physics is used for many different applications in areas such as space, science, microelectronics, environmental science, transportation, medical technology, computer technology and many more.

Students on the IB Physics course examine the laws of physics, learn experimental skills and look at the social and historical aspects of physics.

How you will learn

Standard Level:

You will complete 8 core topics over 80 hours:

• Physics and physical measurement


• Mechanics


• Thermal physics


• Oscillations and waves


• Electric currents


• Fields and forces


• Atomic and nuclear physics

You also complete two optional topics, e.g. Digital Technology and Relativity and Particle Physics, taking 15 hours each.

Optional topics give you the opportunity to gain a much wider view of the world of physics and you are placed at great advantage with knowledge of subjects that some will not meet until they go to university.

Higher Level:

In addition to the standard syllabus, you will undertake 6 extensions to the core topics over 55 hours:

• Motion in fields


• Thermal physics


• Wave phenomena


• Electromagnetic induction


• Quantum physics and nuclear physics


• Digital technology

You also take extensions to the optional topics e.g. Medical Physics and Communications (22 hours each).

How you will be assessed

External Assessment:

You will take three examinations during year 2 made up from multiple choice and short answer questions, together worth 76% of the course.

Internal Assessment:

You will also complete a portfolio of practical coursework, worth 24% of the course. Each experimental write-up is assessed according to all or some of the assessment criteria design, data collection and processing and evaluation.

In addition, you will work with scientists from other disciplines on a Group 4 Project. This provides you with the opportunity to look at an aspect of science from all points of view - physical, chemical, biological and technological, this will enable you to appreciate the skills of other scientists and the need for these different perspectives. This work contributes a further 10 hours of practical work to your portfolio.

Special entry requirements

Standard college entry criteria for I.B., normally 6 GCSEs at Grade B or above in appropriate subjects.

What students say about the I.B.

The I.B. is challenging yet great fun it educates students for success beyond school or college

I think I.B. students are much better prepared for University, as they have good time management skills and really know how to learn

Other useful information

You will be taught in small groups, completing practical work tasks regularly.