Offered at both the higher and standard levels, Physics is designed to introduce students to the laws of physics, the experimental skills required in physics, and the social and historical aspects of physics as an evolving body of human knowledge about nature.  The core of Physics consists of study in six topics:  measurement; mechanics; thermal physics and properties of matter; waves; electricity and magnetism; and atomic and nuclear physics.  At the higher level, students perform further study in all of these areas.  At the standard level, students must complete two of eight optional topics in:  mechanics extension; atomic and nuclear physics extension; energy extension; biomedical physics; historical physics; astrophysics; relativity; or optics.   Physics HL students complete two of five options in similar topics.

 

At the higher and standard levels, Physics is assessed through three written examination papers, which constitute 76% of the final grade.  IN addition, students must participate and report upon a multidisciplinary project and complete a comprehensive portfolio of laboratory investigations.  This work constitutes the remaining 24% of the final grade.  This work is internally assessed by the teacher and externally moderated by the IBO.