St Peter’s School (Cambridge)
IB Physics
Course Description
IB Physics offers a thorough exploration of the fundamental principles governing the physical universe, from matter and energy to forces and motion. Through hands-on experimentation, students develop crucial scientific skills and gain a deep understanding of how these principles shape the world around us.
By emphasizing practical investigation and critical thinking, IB Physics equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in scientific fields and beyond. Whether pursuing further studies in physics or entering diverse careers, students emerge with a solid foundation in the principles of physics and the ability to apply them effectively in various contexts, ensuring they are well-prepared for future challenges and opportunities.
IB physics can be studied at both Higher and Standard Level. The course builds a body of knowledge across all the core areas of physics including: space, time and motion, The particulate nature of matter, wave behaviour, fields and nuclear physics. Higher Level physics allows students to study these topics in more depth.
| A. Space, time and motion | B. The particulate nature of matter | C. Wave behaviour | D. Fields | E. Nuclear and quantum physics |
| A.1 Kinematics • | B.1 Thermal energy transfers • | C.1 Simple harmonic motion •• | D.1 Gravitational fields •• | E.1 Structure of the atom •• |
| A.2 Forces and momentum • | B.2 Greenhouse effect • | C.2 Wave model • | D.2 Electric and magnetic fields •• | E.2 Quantum physics ••• |
| A.3 Work, energy and power • | B.3 Gas laws • | C.3 Wave phenomena •• | D.3 Motion in electromagnetic fields • | E.3 Radioactive decay •• |
| A.4 Rigid body mechanics ••• | B.4 Thermodynamics ••• | C.4 Standing waves and resonance • | D.4 Induction ••• | E.4 Fission • |
| A.5 Galilean and special relativity ••• | B.5 Current and circuits • | C.5 Doppler effect •• | E.5 Fusion and stars |
Students will learn key concepts from these topics and use these to solve problems, explain familiar and unfamiliar contexts and make predictions. Note that three dots indicates Higher Level course content only.
Experimentation is a key aspect of IB physics. Students will spend a minimum of 40 hours over the two-year course developing practical and ICT skills to investigate physics phenomena, culminating in an individual practical investigation.
The physics course relies heavily on both mathematical and literacy skills to enable students to problem solve and explain physics principles.
Instructions
Once you have selected a course from this group, please select three more International Baccalaureate courses.
Pre-requisites
Students choosing this course are expected to have a minimum of Securely at the expected level grades for year 11 physics or the physics components of the combined physics/chemistry course. Final entry is at the discretion of the Head of Faculty: science.
Course Specific Costs
$80 - course book, consumables
Pathway
Physics links into many courses at university, or may be studied as a major course for a science degree.
A qualification in physics is required, or desirable, for many careers (e.g. engineering, architecture, medical, veterinary, pilot etc.).
Assessment Information
Internal: 20% – one individual scientific investigationExternal: 80% – written examinations
Paper 1a - multiple choice questions
Paper 1b - data-based questions
Paper 2 - short-answer and extended response questions
Credit Information
You will be assessed in this course through all or a selection of the standards listed below.
Disclaimer
Specific course content may change from what has been advertised in order to remain current and meet students' needs.
The school has the right to make the best decision based on both staffing, and overall student interest, when preparing the final timetable.
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