IB Physics SL is a two-year course of study. As one of the three natural sciences in the IB Diploma Programme, physics is concerned with an attempt to understand the natural world; from determining the nature of the atom to finding patterns in the structure of the universe. It is the search for answers from how the universe exploded into life to the nature of time itself. Physics is designed to enable students to recognize the mathematical expression of the physical world around them; physics is the mathematical description of the universe. This course is a two-year course of study that meets the science requirement of the IB programme. Students investigate such core topics as classical mechanics, thermal physics, electricity and magnetism, electrical circuits, wave and simple harmonic motion (including sound and light), atomic and nuclear physics (including fission, fusion, and stars). IB Physics emphasizes the use of laboratory experiences, the collection and interpretation of data, and their presentation, to develop mathematical models of physical systems. Students are required to carry out an interdisciplinary Collaborative Science Project in conjunction with other IB Sciences classes at W-L. IB Physics students will take a comprehensive final exam at the end of Year 1 over the core topics completed.
Prerequisites
Algebra II with a grade of B or better, or Algebra II, Intensified with a grade of C or better. Open to all Grade 11 W-L students who meet the prerequisites.
This course is year 1 of a two-year sequence and prepares students for the required Standard Level IB assessments at the end of the course of study. Students will complete an Internal Assessment and sit for External Assessments (papers/exams). This IB course is weighted by applying an additional 1.0 quality point value assigned to the final grade upon completion of the course.