IB Physics

Applications Open - 12 November 2025

Applications Close - 12 April 2026

Entry Requirements - All entry requirements can be found in our course directory here.

How to Apply - To apply for Post-16 at Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy, please follow the link to Applicca, our admissions registration form: https://sgla.applicaa.com/inyear

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. Despite the exciting and extraordinary development of ideas throughout the history of physics, observations remain essential to the very core of the subject. Models are developed to try to understand observations, and these themselves can become theories that attempt to explain the observations.

Besides helping us better understand the natural world, physics gives us the ability to alter our environments. This raises the issue of the impact of physics on society, the moral and ethical dilemmas, and the social, economic and environmental implications of the work of physicists. By studying physics students should become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. While the scientific method may take on a wide variety of forms, it is the emphasis on a practical approach through experimental work that characterises the subject.

Teachers provide students with opportunities to develop manipulative skills, design investigations, collect data, analyse results and evaluate and communicate their findings.

Through the overarching theme of the nature of science, the aims of the DP physics course are to enable students to:

appreciate scientific study and creativity within a global context through stimulating and challenging opportunities

acquire a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterise science and technology

apply and use a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterise science and technology

develop an ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise scientific information

develop a critical awareness of the need for, and the value of, effective collaboration and communication during scientific activities

develop experimental and investigative scientific skills including the use of current technologies

develop and apply 21st century communication skills in the study of science

become critically aware, as global citizens, of the ethical implications of using science and technology

develop an appreciation of the possibilities and limitations of science and technology

develop an understanding of the relationships between scientific disciplines and their influence on other areas of knowledge.

External

Paper 1: 40 multiple-choice questions

Paper 2: Short answer and extended response questions

Paper 3: Data and practical-based questions plus, short answer and extended response questions on the option

Internal

Investigation and write-up of 6 to 12 pages

5+ GCSEs at grades 9-4

Grade 7 in mathematics

Grade 7-7 in combined science or 7 in Physics