Course Description
Course Structure
SL and HL
Prerequisites:
Nil
Exclusions:
Nil
Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences, as it seeks to explain the universe itself — from the behaviour of subatomic particles to the vast distances between galaxies.
The IB Physics course is a rigorous, mathematically grounded subject structured around five unifying themes: space, time and motion; the particulate nature of matter; wave behaviour; fields; and nuclear and quantum physics. Three overarching concepts — forces, energy and particles — permeate the entire course, ensuring that students develop connections across topics rather than learning them in isolation. Students begin by building a strong foundation in kinematics, forces and energy before progressing through thermal physics, wave phenomena, gravitational and electromagnetic fields, and ultimately the quantum and nuclear world.
Throughout the course, students apply mathematical models, equations and graphical analysis to physical systems of increasing complexity. Emphasis is placed on developing quantitative reasoning — including vector analysis, uncertainty calculations and data interpretation — reflecting the way physicists construct and test knowledge claims. Students also develop practical skills including experimental design, measurement techniques and critical evaluation of evidence.
A significant experimental component underpins the course, culminating in the Internal Assessment (IA) — an individual scientific investigation in which students design and carry out their own research question and communicate their findings in a written report.
The Higher Level course extends both the breadth and depth of understanding — including topics such as rigid body mechanics, special relativity, thermodynamics and electromagnetic induction — and is comparable to first-year university study.
IB Physics develops strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills, while encouraging students to reflect on the ethical, environmental and societal implications of scientific and technological progress. It provides excellent preparation for further study and careers in physics, engineering, medicine, architecture and related fields.
Coursework
| Group 4 | Syllabus Requirements | Teaching Hours | |
| SL | HL | ||
| Core | A. Space, time and motion B. The particulate nature of matter C. Wave behaviour D. Fields E. Nuclear and quantum physics | 27 24 17 19 23 | 42 32 29 38 39 |
| Experimental programme | Practical work Collaborative sciences project Scientific investigation | 20 10 10 | 40 10 10 |
| Total teaching hours | 150 | 240 | |
Assessment
| Group 4: | Physics Standard Level | Physics Higher Level | ||||
| Type of Assessment | Format of assessment | Time (hours) | Weighting of final grade (%) | Format of assessment | Time (hours) | Weighting of final grade (%) |
| External | 3 | 80 | 4.5 | 80 | ||
| Paper 1 | Part A: 30 multiple-choice questions | 0.75 | 36 | Part A: 40 multiple-choice questions (Core and HL) | 1 | 36 |
| Part B: One data-based question and some questions on experimental work for a total of 25 marks | 0.75 | Part B: One data-based question and some questions on experimental work for a total of 35 marks | 1 | |||
| Paper 2 | Short answer questions and extended response questions. All questions are compulsory, i.e. there is no choice of questions. | 1.5 | 44 | Short answer questions and extended response questions. All questions are compulsory, i.e. there is no choice of questions. | 2.5 | 44 |
| Internal Individual Investigation | Investigation and write-up of maximum 3000 words | 10 | 20 | Investigation and write-up of 6 to 12 pages | 10 | 20 |
