IB Physics SL
Standard Level IB Physics introduces the core areas of physics — mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity, and modern physics — with strong experimental and data-analysis components.
Difficulty
Challenging
Popularity
62%
Past questions
3
Study tips
5
Key Topics
Exam Format & Dates
May & November, annually
Papers 1–2 ≈ 3h + Internal Assessment
1–7 scale (IB)
4 = passing | 6–7 = excellent
| Section | Duration | Content | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 — Multiple Choice + Data | 1 hour 30 minutes | ~30 MCQ + data analysis | 36% |
| Paper 2 — Extended Response | 1 hour 30 minutes | Short + extended answers | 44% |
| Internal Assessment | Coursework (10 hours) | 1 independent investigation | 20% |
Exam Breakdown & Insights
Difficulty · Demanding
Popularity score
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Study Tips
- 1
Review required practicals and data-analysis skills — experimental questions appear on nearly every paper.
- 2
Make concept maps connecting topics — modern exam questions frequently cross unit boundaries.
- 3
Draw and label diagrams for every major process — reproducing them from memory is a powerful test of understanding.
- 4
Past papers with mark schemes are the single best IB revision resource — learn exactly how marks are allocated.
- 5
Do not neglect your Internal Assessment: it is a significant chunk of your grade that you control before exam day.
Past Exam Questions
Define Mechanics and state the key facts a student must know, using precise scientific terminology.
Explain the mechanism behind Thermal Physics: describe what happens and, crucially, why it happens. Include a labelled diagram where appropriate.
Design an experiment (or interpret given data) to investigate Waves. Identify the variables, describe the method, and explain how you would analyse the results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕
Using vague everyday language where precise scientific terminology is required.
- ✕
Ignoring units and significant figures in calculations.
- ✕
Cramming content while neglecting experimental-design and data-analysis questions.
Official Resources
Free, official study material for IB Physics SL — always start with the source your exam board publishes.
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