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WHY CHOOSE THIS SYLLABUS? 

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. Despite the exciting and extraordinary development of ideas throughout the history of physics, observations remain essential to the very core of the subject. Models are developed to try to understand observations, and these themselves can become theories that attempt to explain the observations.

 

Besides helping us better understand the natural world, physics gives us the ability to alter our environments. This raises the issue of the impact of physics on society, the moral and ethical dilemmas, and the social, economic and environmental implications of the work of physicists.

 

By 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 subject. Teachers provide students with opportunities to develop manipulative skills, design investigations, collect data, analyse results and evaluate and communicate their findings. 

 

ASSESSMENT OVERVIEW

Paper 1

• 40 multiple-choice questions
• 1 hour 
• 20% weighting of final grade

Paper 2

• Short answer and extended response questions
• 2 hours 15 minutes
• 36% weighting of final grade

Paper 3

• Data and practical – based questions, plus short answer and extended response questions on the option
• 1 hour 15 minutes
• 24% weighting of final grade

 

SUBJECT CONTENT

Core

• Measurements and uncertainties
• Mechanics
• Thermal physics
• Waves
• Electricity and magnetism
• Circular motion and gravitation
• Atomic, nuclear and particle physics
• Energy production

Additional Higher Level (AHL)

• Wave phenomena
• Fields
• Electromagnetic induction
• Quantum and nuclear physics

Option (Choice of one out of four)

• Relativity
• Engineering physics
• Imaging
• Astrophysics

 

SOURCE 

https://www.ibo.org/