Physics IB

Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences, as it seeks to explain the universe itself, from the very smallest particles, quarks, to the vast distances between galaxies. Classical physics went a long way in deepening our understanding of the universe, however, there is still much that is unknown. Despite the exciting and extraordinary development of ideas throughout the history of physics, certain things have remained unchanged. Observations remain essential at the very core of physics, and this sometimes requires a leap of imagination to decide what to look for. Models are developed to try to understand the observations, and these themselves can become theories that attempt to explain the observations. The predictions of these theories or ideas must be tested by careful experimentation. Without these tests, a theory is useless.

The scientific processes carried out by the most eminent scientists in the past are the same ones followed by working physicists today and, crucially, are also accessible to students in schools. At the school level both theory and practical work are undertaken by all students.

Students study classical physics and also have the opportunity to look at areas that are developing today. Learning of theory is supported by practical work and students also have opportunities to do open ended tasks that enable them to test their understanding and explore their own ideas.

Higher Level

Students study the subject specific core, additional higher level material and two options.

Subject specific core includes the following topics: mechanics, thermal physics, oscillations and waves, electric currents, fields and forces, atomic and nuclear physics and energy, power and climate change.

Additional higher level includes the following topics: motion in fields, thermal physics, wave phenomena, electromagnetic induction, quantum physics and nuclear physics and digital technology.

Options. Two of the following will be studies: astrophysics, communications, electromagnetic waves, relativity, medical physics and particle physics.

Standard Level

Students study the subject specific core and two options. Subject specific core includes the following topics: mechanics, thermal physics, oscillations and waves, electric currents, fields and forces, atomic and nuclear physics and energy, power and climate change.

Options. Two of the following will be studied: sight and wave phenomena, quantum physics and nuclear physics, digital technology, relativity and particle physics, astrophysics, communications and electromagnetic waves.

The course content will be taught by a variety of methods and there will be a strong emphasis on practical work. IT skills are an integral part of the course.

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme We require at least seven GCSEs with an average of Grade 6, including English Language and Maths. For subjects you wish to take at higher level you will need at least a grade 6. International Baccalaureate Career Programme We require at least five subjects at GCSE grade 5 or higher, ideally including Mathematics and English and preferably with a grade 5 in your area of specialism. Strong interest in the vocational BTEC subject will need to be in evidence at the guidance meeting.