Navigating the New IB Physics Syllabus: What’s in Store for You

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Starting your IB journey is a thrilling yet challenging experience, and the recent changes to the IB Physics syllabus add an extra layer of excitement. These changes, which we’ll delve into, focus primarily on the structure of the syllabus, making it more interconnected and aligning with the core philosophy of the IB program.

Syllabus Structure: Overall, the new physics syllabus has been rearranged to become more connected. This new approach better aligns the syllabus with the IB’s overall principles. 

The syllabus is now divided into five broad topics, covering the fundamental aspects of physics. The subtopics within are essentially a rearrangement of the previous syllabus. However there are some notable changes. The first is the restructuring of “Tools and Skills.” This is no longer a standalone chapter, but instead is now integrated throughout the entire syllabus. While there’s still a list of essential knowledge, the approach is more holistic. The second is the adjustment of the Option topics. Parts of these resources have now been integrated into the core syllabus. Finally, prescribed labs, while no longer part of the curriculum, might still be conducted by your teacher due to their practicality and relevance.

Additionally, the new syllabus adopts a conceptual-based approach. This translates into the incorporation of three discipline-specific conceptual approaches to physics: energy, particles, and forces. This means that as you explore new subtopics, you’ll be encouraged to understand them from the perspectives of energy, particles, and forces.

New Content: Whilst most of the syllabus content remains the same there are some significant changes. The first is the integration of large portions Options A (Relativity), B (Engineering Physics) and D (Astrophysics) from the previous syllabus into the new core syllabus, offering a more comprehensive physics education. However, Option C (Imaging) has been essentially removed. Several concepts have also been removed and added into the new syllabus. For example, certain topics, such as polarization, Quarks, and the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, have been removed as they weren’t well connected to the rest of the syllabus. Concepts like 2D collisions (HL only) Kepler’s Law, Buoyancy force, and more have been added. It’s important to note that some of the concepts are also taken from previous Option topics. 

Exam Changes: The examination format has evolved, with reduced command terms and some significant changes to the papers. Paper 3 has been removed entirely, while Paper 1 now constitutes 36% of the grade and lasts 1.5 hours (SL) or 2 hours (HL). It introduces a new Section 1B focused on data-based questions and permits calculator use, primarily in Section 1B. Paper 2 now accounts for 44% of the grade and has a duration of 1.5 hours (SL) or 2.5 hours (HL).

Internal Assessment (IA): The IA criteria has also been updated. Personal Engagement and Communication have been removed, however are still required to be present throughout the IA. Instead, there’s a heightened emphasis on the Conclusion, which now alongside Evaluation carries a significant 50% of the IA grade. You will be required to go in further detail and be more critical in this section. 

The word limit for the IA has shifted to 3,000 words from the previous 12 pages. Furthermore, there’s now the possibility of a collaborative approach, allowing 2-3 students to work together, provided they investigate different variables and independently write their reports. This approach may vary based on your teacher’s discretion.

Can I still use old past paper questions to study?

Yes! You certainly can, however it’s important to remember a few key things when you do.

Content: The good news is that you can still make use of the old past papers. While there’s no entirely ‘brand new’ content, most of it has been carried over from the previous syllabus. Pay attention to Paper 3 and more specifically Options A, B, and D questions as they are now integrated into the core syllabus. However, remember that the syllabus is now more interconnected, so ensure that your answers and critical thinking reflect this change.

Practice Paper 3 questions from the previous syllabus to familiarize yourself with data-based questions, and be aware of the new exam structure and time limits. It’s crucial to learn the revised command terms, as they play a significant role in scoring well on the exam by guiding you on what the examiner expects.

We understand that there’s a lot to take in, but don’t worry; we’ve got you covered every step of the way. Our team of experienced tutors is well-versed in the new syllabus, and our resources are tailored to help you succeed in the evolving world of IB Physics. So, dive into your IB journey with confidence, knowing that Ascientia is here to support you.