As an experimental science, the Diploma Programme (DP) physics course requires not only a theoretical and practical understanding of the subject, but also an awareness of how physicists construct knowledge claims and the limitations of these method. Studying physics offers numerous benefits and opens a wide range of opportunities for further studies.
Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences, as it seeks to explain the universe itself from the very smallest particles to the vast distances between galaxies. The DP physics course requires a mathematical approach to the subject content to ensure an understanding of models, theories and laws. Data analysis is a key skill in DP physics and many opportunities to develop this are provided through the experimental programme.
Through studying DP physics, students will become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other and of the ethical debates and limitations of creative scientific endeavour.
It is therefore often a prerequisite for many other courses in higher education, such as mechanical engineering, architecture, astronomy or geophysics.
Nature of science
Nature of science is an overarching theme in the DP biology, chemistry, physics and sports, exercise and health science courses which aims to cultivate critical thinking, enabling students to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize scientific information while appreciating the limitations and possibilities of science in addressing global challenges.
Syllabus
The physics curriculum is grouped into five broad organizing themes, each of which are subdivided into several topics. Each of these themes is explored using the three concepts which permeate the course: forces, energy and particles, ensuring a more holistic understanding of the subject.
Practical work
Practical work is a central aspect of the DP physics course allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of the subject content and associated concepts. It provides opportunities to develop a wide range of practical and investigative skills and to collaborate with peers. It presents students with the opportunity to experience a wide range of tasks, from closed to open inquiry, and from hands-on experimentation through to the use of simulations and modelling, incorporating technology where appropriate. The practical approach to the course delivery culminates in the interdisciplinary collaborative sciences project, that addresses real-world problems that can be explored through the range of subjects in the sciences group, and the scientific investigation, an assessed independent research paper.
Physics subject brief
Subject briefs are short two-page documents providing an outline of the course. Read the standard level (SL) and/or higher level (HL) subject brief below.
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Latest curriculum updates
This subject is reviewed by the IB regularly to ensure the latest educational research is applied. Please keep up to date with the latest subject updates for Physics.
