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2023 IB Physics Syllabus Changes: What to Expect

Learn about the new and improved IB Physics course

Written by Anzhelika Tauber, MSc

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Physics program is undergoing significant changes with the introduction of the new syllabus set to be implemented in 2023 with the first examination in 2025. These changes aim to provide students with a more comprehensive and interconnected understanding of physics. In this blog article, we will explore the content changes, examination format, and assessment changes in the new 2023 IB Physics syllabus, providing students with everything they need to know to understand and prepare for the upcoming changes.

Everything you need to know about the content changes, examination format, and assessment changes in the new 2023 IB Physics syllabus.

Table of Contents

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Content Changes: A More Interconnected Approach

One of the key aspects of the new IB Physics syllabus is its focus on developing conceptual understanding and making connections between different areas of the subject and other DP science subjects. The previous eight (or twelve for HL) main topic areas have been replaced with five themes, enabling students to develop a deeper understanding of the underlying principles and concepts of physics. There is no longer a “core” and options, making it more cohesive and integrated. This shift allows for a more cohesive and integrated learning experience, where students can see the interrelationships between different areas of physics.

Overview of the physics syllabus:

What is CAS?<br /> CAS stands for Creativity, Activity, and Service. It is an essential component of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, designed to develop well-rounded individuals who are actively engaged in their communities. CAS encourages students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and contribute positively to society.
  • Topics marked as SL, standard level, will be covered by all level students.
  • High level students will have additional HL content for topics marked SL and HL.
  • Topics marked HL are only covered by HL students.

Along with this reorganization, several new sub-topics have been added to the syllabus. Topics such as relativity, engineering, astrophysics, entropy, compton scattering, apparent brightness and energy resources have been included, reflecting the relevance of these areas in our modern world. Students will have the opportunity to explore these fascinating subjects that have profound implications for various aspects of our daily lives.

While new topics have been added, some topics have been removed from the syllabus. Topics like quarks, capacitors, diodes, the weak force, thin films, and cosmology have been taken out. These changes have been made to ensure a more comprehensive and integrated understanding of physics, aligning with the program’s aims outlined here to provide students with a solid foundation in the subject.

Examination and Assessment Changes: A New Format

The examination format in the new IB Physics syllabus has undergone modifications to better align with the updated content and skills emphasized. The time allocated for the external examination papers remains the same (SL: 3 hours; HL: 4.5 hours), but there are now only two examination papers for each level.

Paper 1, which includes multiple-choice questions, now consists of two sections: Section A and Section B. Section A comprises 30 multiple-choice questions, while Section B focuses on data-based and experimental work questions. It is worth noting that students can use a calculator for all of Paper 1, including both sections.

Paper 2 begins with short-answer questions, focusing on specific areas of the curriculum. It then moves on to extended-response questions that draw content from different areas of the guide. For standard level (SL), there is one extended-response question, while higher level (HL) has two extended-response questions.

Details of the examinations:

Paper 1 SL

  • Total time: 1.5 hours
  • Total raw marks: 55
  • Component weighting: 36%
  • Two booklets completed together without interruptions on SL level material only
  • Section A: 30 multiple-choice questions (30 marks)
  • Section B: Data-based and experimental work questions (25 marks)

Paper 2 SL

  • Total time: 1.5 hours
  • Total raw mark: 50
  • Component weighting: 44%
  • Short-answer and extended-response questions on standard level material only

Paper 1 HL

  • Total time: 2 hours
  • Total raw marks: 75
  • Component weighting: 36%
  • Two booklets completed together without interruptions on SL and AHL material
  • Section A: 40 multiple-choice questions (40 marks)
  • Section B: Data-based and experimental work questions (35 marks)

Paper 2 HL

  • Total time: 2.5 hours
  • Total raw marks: 90
  • Component weighting: 44%
  • Short-answer and extended-response questions on SL and AHL material

Internal assessment changes:

Internal assessment (IA) has also seen changes in the new syllabus. The IA research work has been renamed as the “scientific investigation.” Students now have the opportunity to collaborate with one or two other students, allowing for shared methodologies. Nevertheless, the independent or dependent variables must differ, and the data collected must be unique to each student. The report for the scientific investigation is assessed based on four, not five, criteria: research design, data analysis, conclusion, and evaluation. There is a greater emphasis on higher-order thinking skills, with 50% of the marks allocated for conclusion and evaluation.

Here you can find more details of the new syllabus.

    IB Physics Practical Scheme of Work

    The practical scheme of work (PSOW) remains unchanged in terms of the number of hours allocated to practical work. For Standard Level (SL), students have 40 hours, while Higher Level (HL) students have 60 hours. The PSOW still includes 10 hours for the scientific investigation, which was previously known as the individual scientific investigation. Additionally, there are 10 hours dedicated to the collaborative sciences project, formerly known as the Group 4 project.

    The purpose of the PSOW is to provide students with opportunities to practice the tools, techniques, and inquiry processes listed under the required skills. These practical activities complement the coverage of the course and enable students to gain hands-on experience in conducting experiments, collecting data, and developing their scientific inquiry skills. Unlike the previous 2014 Guide, there are no mandatory areas that must be covered, allowing for more flexibility and customization in practical work.

    Skills and Tools for the New IB Physics Syllabus

    The 2023 Guide introduces a clearer and more explicit outline of the required skills compared to the 2014 Guide. Although no specific teaching time is allocated to cover these skills, they are essential and will be assessed both externally and internally. The required skills encompass two main areas: tools and the inquiry process.

    The skills related to tools include experimental techniques, the use of technology in physics investigations, and the application of mathematics in analyzing and solving physics problems. These skills enable students to effectively conduct experiments, utilize relevant technology, and apply mathematical concepts to deepen their understanding of physics.

    The inquiry process skills focus on various stages, including exploring and designing investigations, collecting and processing data, and drawing meaningful conclusions and evaluations. These skills emphasize critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and the ability to analyze and interpret data accurately. It is important for students to familiarize themselves with these required skills, as they form the foundation for successful completion of practical work and overall assessment.

    IB Physics Data Booklet Updates

    The data booklet for the first exams in 2025 has undergone some changes. It is now organized by topic, similar to the previous version, but with some modifications. The new version incorporates content from the previous Measurements and Uncertainties topic, which now joins the other mathematics concepts at the front of the booklet. This reorganization aims to provide a more logical and cohesive presentation of the content.

    Students should also be aware of how Additional Higher Level (AHL) content is displayed in the booklet. It is positioned at the end of the Standard Level (SL) content within each theme. This arrangement helps students differentiate between the SL and AHL content and ensures clarity when referring to specific topics and concepts.

    By understanding the practical scheme of work, familiarizing themselves with the required skills, and keeping updated with the changes in the data booklet, students can better prepare for their IB Physics studies and assessments. These aspects contribute to a well-rounded and comprehensive understanding of physics, enhancing their overall learning experience.

    Understanding and Preparing for the New Syllabus

    To understand and prepare for the new IB Physics syllabus, students should familiarize themselves with the changes and requirements. It is crucial to review the revised content, noting the new topics and understanding their significance in the field of physics. By recognizing the interconnectedness of different areas, students can develop a deeper appreciation for the subject and its applications.

    Additionally, students should become acquainted with the updated examination format, including the sections and question types in each paper. Being aware of the calculator usage and the expectations for short-answer and extended-response questions will help students plan their study and revision effectively.

    Furthermore, understanding the changes in the internal assessment and the criteria for the scientific investigation is essential. Students should be prepared to collaborate and develop their research skills, with a greater emphasis on conclusion and evaluation. Familiarity with the assessment criteria and the maximum word count for the report will contribute to successful completion of the internal assessment component.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, the new IB Physics syllabus for 2023 brings exciting changes that aim to provide students with a more comprehensive and interconnected understanding of physics. By exploring the updated content, becoming familiar with the examination format, and understanding the assessment changes, students can prepare themselves for a rewarding and successful learning experience. Embracing the new syllabus and its emphasis on conceptual understanding and interdisciplinary connections will help students develop a solid foundation in physics and excel in their IB Physics journey.

    By understanding these changes and preparing accordingly, students can navigate the new IB Physics syllabus successfully and develop a deep appreciation for the subject. It is an exciting opportunity to explore the interconnected nature of physics and build a solid foundation for future scientific endeavors.

    About the Author

    About the Author

    Anzhelika is a PhD candidate in Genetics and a marketing consultant at U4Success from Vienna, Austria. She leads our website and social media content strategy.

    Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

    What is the International Baccalaureate (IB) Physics program?

    The International Baccalaureate (IB) Physics program is a globally recognized high school level course that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of physics. It is designed to encourage students to think critically and develop a deep understanding of the underlying principles and concepts of the subject.

    What changes have been made to the IB Physics syllabus for 2023?

    The new 2023 IB Physics syllabus has undergone a major overhaul, focusing on developing conceptual understanding, making connections between different areas of physics, and introducing new topics. The examination format and internal assessment have also been revised to align with the updated content and skills emphasized.

    What are the aims of the new IB Physics syllabus?

    The new IB Physics syllabus aims to develop conceptual understanding, encourage interdisciplinary connections, and enable students to evaluate knowledge claims. Italso emphasizes the importance of understanding the nature of science and exploring individual and cultural perspectives on scientific knowledge.

    What are the changes in the examination papers?

    The examination papers now consist of two papers for each level, with multiple-choice questions and data-based/experimental work questions in Paper 1, and short-answer and extended-response questions in Paper 2. Students can use a calculator for all of Paper 1, including the multiple-choice questions and Section B.

    How has the internal assessment changed?

    The internal assessment has been renamed as the “scientific investigation” and allows for collaboration among students. The report is assessed based on four criteria: research design, data analysis, conclusion, and evaluation. There is a greater emphasis on higher-order thinking skills, with 50% of the marks allocated for conclusion and evaluation.