Course Outline

The IB Physics SL covers themes that are used to tie together basic concepts and present physics as an integrated discipline, rather than an array of separate parts. The course places great emphasis on the required 40 hours of experimental work in the laboratory. Topics covered in the theory portion of the course include the following mandatory topics:  measurements and uncertainties, mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity and magnetism, circular motion and gravitation, atomic, nuclear and particle physics, and energy production. Teachers must also choose one of the following optional topics: relativity, engineering physics, imaging and astrophysics

The final grade comprises an external component of 80 percent and an internal component of 20 percent. The internal component (20 percent) is based on experimental work in the laboratory which culminates with the design and execution of an individual investigation and write up. The external component (80 percent) is a final examination made up of one paper of multiple-choice questions, and two papers of both data-based short-answer questions and extended response questions.

For more information please go to: https://ibo.org/