How to excel at IB Physics

Physics is a popular subject studied as part of Subject Group 4, Sciences, of the IB. As with the majority of IB subjects, Physics can be studied at both Standard and Higher level. 

What do I need to know for IB Physics?

IB Physics emphasises not only theoretical knowledge but its application in practical scenarios. Students are expected to understand and apply concepts, conduct experiments, and critically evaluate scientific theories and models. However, the substantive and procedural knowledge required as part of IB Physics depends on the level you plan to take. Here we provide a breakdown of the specification for IB Physics at both Standard and Higher level.

Core Topics:

1. Measurements and Uncertainties:

  • Understanding SI units, measurement techniques, and uncertainties in experimental data.

  • Use of significant figures and error analysis in experimental results.

2. Mechanics:

  • Kinematics, including motion graphs, projectile motion, and circular motion.

  • Newtonian mechanics, laws of motion, momentum, and energy conservation.

3. Thermal Physics:

  • Thermal concepts, heat transfer mechanisms (conduction, convection, radiation).

  • Laws of thermodynamics, thermal equilibrium, and entropy.

4. Waves and Oscillations:

  • Properties of waves, including wave behavior, interference, and diffraction.

  • Simple harmonic motion, resonance, and wave-particle duality.

5. Electricity and Magnetism:

  • Electric circuits, Ohm's law, Kirchhoff's laws, and circuit analysis techniques.

  • Magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction, Faraday's law, and applications.

6. Atomic, Nuclear, and Particle Physics:

  • Structure of the atom, radioactivity, nuclear reactions, and decay processes.

  • Particle physics, fundamental particles, and interactions in the Standard Model.

Optional Topics (HL Only):

1. Relativity:

  • Special relativity, time dilation, length contraction, and relativistic momentum.

  • Understanding the concepts of mass-energy equivalence (E=mc²).

2. Engineering Physics:

  • Fluid dynamics, properties of materials, stress, strain, and material behavior.

  • Investigation of technological applications in various fields of engineering.

3. Astrophysics:

  • Understanding astronomical phenomena, such as stellar evolution, cosmology, and the Big Bang theory.

  • Applications of physics principles in the study of the universe.

What are the findings from recent examiners’ reports?

Examiners’ reports are a crucial resource when planning your revision. By thinking proactively about common pitfalls, it is possible to ensure that you will avoid dropping crucial marks when it comes to the day of the exams. Here we provide a summary of the findings from recent examiners reports as they relate to both pathways within IB Physics.

Areas of Strength:

Understanding of Core Concepts:

  • Students generally demonstrated a strong grasp of fundamental physics principles and theories.

  • Clear application of theoretical knowledge to solve problems and analyze scenarios.

Practical Skills and Investigations:

  • Effective execution of experiments, data collection, analysis, and evaluation.

  • Well-structured and comprehensive reports for the internal assessment.

Application of Mathematical Skills:

  • Competent use of mathematics to solve complex problems and perform calculations.\

Areas for Improvement:

Depth of Understanding (HL):

  • In Higher Level (HL) papers, students might benefit from deeper analysis and application of more complex theories.

  • Encouragement to explore more challenging aspects of optional topics, such as relativity or astrophysics.

Exam Technique and Time Management:

  • Suggestions to manage time effectively during exams to ensure all questions receive sufficient attention.

  • Guidance on structuring answers, providing clear explanations, and using relevant diagrams and examples.

Interdisciplinary Connections:

  • Encouragement to make connections between different topics within physics and with other subjects where applicable.

Use of Scientific Terminology:

  • Emphasis on precise use of scientific terminology and correct notation in explanations and calculations.

Our Insights

Physics is a challenging subject at IB and it is crucial to approach your revision in a structured, considered way. At Chapkin Edwards, we have a number of key strategies developed by our tutors in the field which can help put your mind at ease, and enable you to embark upon revision with confidence and purpose.

Ensure that your understanding of core content is water-tight. Comprehensively review your class notes and textbooks to ensure you have a solid grasp of fundamental concepts before applying the knowledge in practice and specimen papers. Create concept maps or mind maps to visualise connections between different topics and theories. A tried and tested method is to continually condense your notes so that you eventually summarise the key content for Physics on a single side of A4.

Practice, smart. Once you have mastered and conceptualised key substantive and procedural knowledge, it is time to apply this knowledge. Working through past papers, textbook problems, and exam-style questions is, of course, a crucial element in your revision. But make sure that you take the initiative when choosing how to answer practice questions. Try approaching physics problems from different angles by changing variables in order to solidify your problem-solving skills.

Make use of a wide range of resources. There is a plethora of excellent revision resources available both in print and on the web which can help you master the content of IB Physics. Excellent books by Michael Bowen-Jones and K. A. Tsokos will provide a sound base for your physics revision, but it is important also to consult online resources which are better able to scaffold and model success. Andy Masley is a good place to start, whilst Tsokos also has an excellent website which complements the IB textbook.

IB Physics Tutoring at Chapkin Edwards

Chapkin Edwards is a leading provider of expert tuition, homeschooling and school and university admissions support. If your child requires tutoring in Physics or any other subject at IB, please contact us here.

Josh Chapkin