The IBDP Physics syllabus underwent a significant overhaul in August 2023, offering a more streamlined and comprehensive approach to the subject. Here's a breakdown of the key changes and what students can expect:

What's New?

Gone are the separate "core" and "options" sections. The new syllabus presents a cohesive program with 24 compulsory topics grouped into five themes:

• Space, Time and Motion

• The Particulate Nature of Matter

• Wave Behaviour

• Fields

• Nuclear and Quantum Physics

Emphasis on Exploration:

The focus has shifted from rote memorization to a deeper understanding of core concepts. The syllabus encourages students to explore the "why" behind the physics and develop critical thinking skills.

Topic Removals:

Some topics from the previous syllabus have been removed, such as:

• Quarks

• Capacitors

• Diodes

• Cosmology

What to Expect:

Deeper Understanding: Students will need to go beyond simply plugging numbers into equations. A strong grasp of fundamental concepts is crucial for success.

Integrated Learning: The new structure emphasizes connections between different areas of physics, encouraging a holistic understanding of the subject.

Stronger Practical Skills: The experimental program remains a vital component, with a focus on developing investigative and analytical skills through practical work.

Assessment Changes: The current syllabus uses a two-paper format with a focus on problem-solving and data analysis. Paper 1 is divided into two sections, part A : multiple choice questions and part B : data analysis. All the questions are compulsory in paper 1. Paper 2 is short answer structured questions. Calculator is allowed in both the papers along with the clean copy of physics data booklet.

Collaborative Sciences Project:

Students will work in groups to design and conduct an experiment, culminating in a written report. This project contributes to the overall assessment.