IB Diploma Program: Physics

In the IBDP, the purpose of teaching physics to the students is to make them knowledgeable about how the vast universe and the whole processes in the universe are working. Through, the course of Physics IBDP students are prepared to investigate, experiment, collect and analyze data, obtain results, and evaluate the data into proper format. The curriculum is taught through labs based experiments and simulations.

In this article, we will be focusing on the aims and objectives of IBDP Physics, what are the key features of the curriculum, and what benefits and future options this course offer. 

The aims and objectives of the Physics course are as follows:

  • Stimulating Questioning opportunities are offered through scientific study.
  • Scientific techniques and knowledge gained through experimental observations.
  • Ability development through scientific data evaluation, analysis, and synthesis.
  • Scientific skills improvement and gains by using the present technologies.
  • Ability to use advanced scientific communication aptitudes.
  • Appreciation acquisition about the scientific possibilities.

Key features of the curriculum

  • The course is offered at both SL and HL levels.
  • The maximum hours offered at SL is 150 hours and for HL for 240.
  • Assessment is done both externally and internally.
  • Students with physics courses at SL and HL take a common core syllabus and internal assessment is conducted.
  • Common core skills and activities are offered in both SL and HL. Students at HL have to go to some in-depth study, additional study material.
  • A better approach is offered to students through a group 4 project system. 

In the Physics external assessment, 3 written papers are included.

  • For paper 1, 30 multiple-choice questions at SL and 40 multiple-choice questions at HL.
  • For paper 2, there is an extended response and short answer question for the core.
  • In paper 3, there are two sections:
    • Section A (One data-based question with multiple short questions)
    • Section B (extended response questions and short questions are included)

Benefits of choosing Physics:

  • By studying physics courses, students are prepared for the analytical, experimental investigation of physics knowledge.
  • A better understanding of the vast universal processes.

Graduate programs to pursue if you study physics:

  • Study of Astronomy
  • Study of clinical science and medical physics.
  • Study of nanotechnology.
  • Practitioner as radiation protection
  • Research scientist.
  • Assistant teaching.
  • Sound engineering.
  • Study of geophysics.
  • Meteorology studies

Bonus:

Get your hand on the key concepts, important topics, and past paper questions of IBDP Physics from the quick resources section of Blen.

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