IB Physics Program: Required Knowledge & Practicals

[eoinfahey]

Hi, I am going to be starting to teach the IB Physics program in a few months so wanted to get up to speed on it.
What is the level of knowledge required? I am currently teaching the physics syllabus in the irish system.
The practicals that are to be done? How many should be done? is there suggested titles?
Any thoughts on the choice of options that are available?
Any other info that you can give would be great.

Thanks

 

[JazzFusion]

Welcome to Physics Forums!

Two suggestions:

1. If at all possible, get or borrow a syllabus from one or two other teachers that have taught the course before (either at your school, or at another). This would give you a good idea of the scope and sequence of what is covered.

2. Please provide more info on the Irish school system. I had to Google what little I could find, but I *think* IB Physics is very much like A-Level Physics in the British system, or AP Physics in the US system. If so, you might get more suggestions asking about those, by name, as more people on this forum are familiar with them.

 

[Maybe_Memorie]

I'm also Irish. Starting the LC tomorrow.

I found this, it may be of use to you.
http://kstruct.com/ib_notes/IB_Physics
There's more to it than the Irish system. The mechanics section resembles LC Applied Maths, although I see no mention of Differential Equations.

 

[gretun]

It's nothing like AP Physics C, it has no calculus.

 

[Matrix0]

,

I am familiar with the IB Physics program and its requirements. The level of knowledge required for the IB Physics program is quite advanced, as it is designed for students who have a strong interest and aptitude in physics. It covers a wide range of topics, including mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, waves, and atomic and nuclear physics. It is important for teachers to have a thorough understanding of these concepts in order to effectively teach the course.

In terms of practicals, the IB Physics program requires students to complete a minimum of 40 hours of practical work. This includes both hands-on experiments and data analysis tasks. It is recommended that students complete at least 10-12 practicals throughout the course, covering a range of topics. The IB provides a list of suggested practical titles, but teachers are also encouraged to develop their own experiments based on the specific needs and interests of their students.

When it comes to the choice of options, the IB Physics program offers a variety of options for students to choose from, including astrophysics, engineering physics, and digital technology. These options allow students to focus on areas of physics that align with their career aspirations or interests. It is important for teachers to familiarize themselves with the options and guide their students in choosing the most suitable one for them.

In addition to the required knowledge and practicals, the IB Physics program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and experimental skills. Teachers should incorporate these skills into their lessons and assessments to help students become well-rounded and independent learners.

I hope this information has been helpful in preparing you for teaching the IB Physics program. I believe that this program provides a rigorous and comprehensive education in physics and prepares students for further studies in the field. Good luck with your teaching!