As physicists, we ask the questions "why?" and "how?", using theory and experiment to explore the fundamental laws which underpin all natural phenomena. Through studying Physics, you'll learn about the science behind advances at the forefront of modern technology and develop your ability to solve problems.
Course Outline
Core topics:
-
Measurement and Uncertainties
-
Mechanics
-
Thermal Physics
-
Waves and Wave Phenomena
-
Electricity, Magnetism and Electromagnetic Induction
-
Circular Motion and Gravitation
-
Fields
-
Atomic, Nuclear, Quantum and Particle Physics
-
Energy production
In addition to the core topics, one option topic will be covered from:
- Relativity
- Engineering Physics
- Imaging
- Astrophysics
Assessment
| Paper 1 | Multiple choice questions (20%) |
| Paper 2 | Short answer and extended response questions on theory content (36%) |
| Paper 3 | Short answer and data analysis questions on the compulsory experiments; short answer and extended response questions on the Option topic (24%) |
| Internal Assessment | One extended practical investigation (20%) |
Practical Work
You will have the opportunity to design investigations, collect data, develop your manipulative skills, analyse results, collaborate with peers and evaluate and communicate your findings.
Experimental skills will be developed by spending 10 hours on the collaborative Group 4 project and completing a programme of 40 hours of practical work in lessons. It will be assessed through an investigative task spanning a further 10 hours of Physics lesson time, and some aspects of experimental work will be examined in the formal written papers.
Maths skills
Physics is a quantitative subject and you will learn to apply the skills that you have learnt in Maths to explain real world phenomena.
Recent IB Physics results
| 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entries (all HL) | 5 | 9 | 3 |
| % 7 | 20 | 22 | 0 |
| % 7-6 | 60 | 33 | 66 |
| % 7-5 | 100 | 55 | 66 |
| % 7-4 | 100 | 100 | 100 |
2019 Physics students university destinations
| Subject | Destination |
|---|---|
| Economics | Bath |
| Mathematics | Cambridge |
| Mathematics | Edinburgh |
| Engineering | USA |
| Music | Kings College London |
| Financial Mathematics and Statistics | London School of Economics |
|
Medicine and Surgery |
Newcastle |
| History and Economics | Oxford |
| History of Art | Warwick |
| Motorsport Engineering | Oxford Brookes |
| Biomedical Sciences | University College London |
| Mathematics | University College London |
| Engineering | Sheffield |