Physics

Course summary

The IB Physics course is intended to build upon the principles established in GCSE Physics or Science/ Additional Science or any equivalent level studied outside the United Kingdom, such as the IGCSE. The aims set out in the Learner Profile will be used to influence the way in which students study Physics as part of the IB Diploma Programme. Students at SL and HL share the following. • An understanding of science through a stimulating experimental programme • The nature of science as an overarching theme • The study of a concept-based syllabus • One piece of internally assessed work, the scientific investigation • The collaborative sciences project The SL course provides students with a fundamental understanding of Physics and experience of the associated skills. The HL course requires students to increase their knowledge and understanding of the subject, including additional mathematical skills, and so provides a solid foundation for further study at university level. The distinction between SL and HL is therefore one of both breadth and depth. The increased breadth and depth at HL result in increased networked knowledge, requiring the student to make more connections between diverse areas of the syllabus. The structure of this physics syllabus is intended to promote concept-based learning and teaching that can be connected through three concepts: energy, particles and forces. These three concepts appear throughout the physics syllabus in each of the themes. There are five organising themes in the physics syllabus: A. Space, time and motion B. The particulate nature of matter C. Wave behaviour D. Fields E. Nuclear and quantum physics