ib extended essay rubric physics

Extended essay

The extended essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper.

One component of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) core, the extended essay is mandatory for all students.

Read about the extended essay  in greater detail.

You can also read about how the IB sets deadlines for the extended essay , find examples of extended essay titles from previous DP students and learn about the world studies extended essay .

Learn more about the extended essay in a DP workshop for teachers . 

DP subject briefs

Find out about what each subject offers within the Diploma Programme (DP).

Our DP subject briefs—for both standard and higher level—contain information about core requirements, aims and assessment.

• Explore the DP subject briefs

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IB Extended Essay: Assessment Criteria

• Research Questions
• Past Essays
• Notes & Outlines
• Works Cited Page
• In-Text Citations
• Assessment Criteria
• Reflections
• Supervisor Info
• Net Valley Library This link opens in a new window

Score Descriptors for each Criterion:

• A - Focus and Method
• B - Knowledge and Understanding
• C - Critical Thinking
• D - Presentation
• E - Engagement

Printable: Full Rubric  for all subjects

To view details for your SUBJECT, open the correct page below.

• Choose "Interpreting the EE Assessment Criteria" on the sidebar to see how to score well in YOUR subject area

Language & literature (language A)

Language acquisition (language B)

Mathematics

Visual Arts

World Studies

Business Management

Grade Boundaries

What's Expected?

• A: Focus/Method
• B: Knowledge
• C: Critical Thinking
• D: Presentation
• E: Engagement
• A: Focus and Method (6 marks)
• B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 marks)
• C: Critical Thinking (12 marks)
• D: Presentation (4 marks)
• E: Engagement (6 marks)
• Total marks possible: 34 (see grade boundaries below)
• Printable:  Full Rubric
• Printable: A3 size with details
• Printable:  Details for each criterion , via the Oxford guide

Criterion A:  Focus and Method (6 points)

What It Means:   This criterion focuses on the topic, the research question and the methodology. It assesses the explanation of the focus of the research (this includes the topic and the research question), how the research will be undertaken, and how the focus is maintained throughout the essay.

Questions to ask:  

• Does this essay meet the requirements for the subject for which you are registering it?
• Is your research question stated as a question?
• Have you explained how your research question relates to the subject that you selected for the extended essay?
• Have you given an insight into why your area of study is important?
• Is your research question feasible within the scope of the task? Could your research question be “answered” or it is too vague?
• Did you refer to your research question throughout the essay (not only in the introduction and conclusion)?
• Did you explain why you selected your methodology?
• Are there other possible methods that could be used or applied to answer your research question? How might this change the direction of your research?
• If you stated a particular methodology in the introduction of your essay, or specific sources, have you used them?
• Are there any references listed in the bibliography that were not directly cited in the text?

(Source: Susan Trower, via West Sound Academy)

Criterion B:  Knowledge and Understanding (6 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the extent to which the research relates to the subject area/discipline used to explore the research question; or in the case of the world studies extended essay, the issue addressed and the two disciplinary perspectives applied; and additionally, the way in which this knowledge and understanding is demonstrated through the use of appropriate terminology and concepts.

• Have you explained how your research question relates to a specific subject you selected for the extended essay?
• Have you used relevant terminology and concepts throughout your essay as they relate to your particular area of research?
• Is it clear that the sources you are using are relevant and appropriate to your research question?
• Do you have a range of sources, or have you only relied on one particular type, for example internet sources?
• Is there a reason why you might not have a range? Is this justified?

(Source: Oxford EE manual, p. 110)

Criterion C:  Critical Thinking (12 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the extent to which critical thinking skills have been used to analyze and evaluate the research undertaken.

• Have you made links between your results and data collected and your research question?
• If you included data or information that is not directly related to your research question have you explained its importance?
• Are your conclusions supported by your data?
• If you found unexpected information or data have you discussed its importance?
• Have you provided a critical evaluation of the methods you selected?
• Have you considered the reliability of your sources (peer-reviewed journals, internet, and so on)?
• Have you mentioned and evaluated the significance of possible errors that may have occurred in your research?
• Are all your suggestions of errors or improvements relevant?
• Have you evaluated your research question?
• Have you compared your results or findings with any other sources?
• Is there an argument that is clear and easy to follow and directly linked to answering your research question, and which is supported by evidence? Are there other possible methods that could be used or applied to answer your research question? How might this change the direction of your research?

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p. 111)

Handy Links:

• Presentation One Pager  via Catalina Bordoy
• Presentation Checklist
• Sample Title page   (see below - top half of the page)

Criterion D:  Presentation ( 4 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the extent to which the presentation follows the standard format expected for academic writing and the extent to which this aids effective communication.

• Have you read and understood the presentation requirements of the extended essay?
• Have you chosen a font that will be easy for examiners to read on-screen?
• Is your essay double-spaced and size 12 font?
• Are the title and research question mentioned on the cover page?
• Are all pages numbered?
• Have you prepared a correct table of contents?
• Do the page numbers in the table of contents match the page numbers in the text?
• Is your essay subdivided into correct sub-sections, if this is applicable to the subject?
• Are all figures and tables properly numbered and labelled?
• Does your bibliography contain only the sources cited in the text?
• Did you use the same reference system throughout the essay?
• Does the essay have less than 4,000 words?
• Is all the material presented in the appendices relevant and necessary?
• Have you proofread the text for spelling or grammar errors?

Criterion E: Engagement

• Three reflections (best after meeting with your supervisor)
• 500 words TOTAL (100 + 150 + 250?)
• Reflections are done in Managebac on your Reflection space
• See the "Reflections" tab above for prompts to write about

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p.135)

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p.133)

• Sample Reflections
• Full chapter on Reflections from the Oxford Guide

Criterion E:  Engagement (6 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the student’s engagement with their research focus and the research process. It will be applied by the examiner at the end of the assessment of the essay, after considering the student’s RPPF (Reflections on planning and progress form).

• Have you demonstrated your engagement with your research topic and the research process?
• Have you highlighted challenges you faced and how you overcame them?
• Will the examiner get a sense of your intellectual and skills development?
• Will the examiner get a sense of your creativity and intellectual initiative?
• For prompts to deepen your reflections, go  here  and then to the bottom of the page
• Presentation Quick Guide
• << Previous: In-Text Citations
• Next: Reflections >>
• Last Updated: Apr 9, 2024 9:39 AM
• URL: https://sis-cn.libguides.com/ExtendedEssay

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, the complete ib extended essay guide: examples, topics, and ideas.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

IB students around the globe fear writing the Extended Essay, but it doesn't have to be a source of stress! In this article, I'll get you excited about writing your Extended Essay and provide you with the resources you need to get an A on it.

If you're reading this article, I'm going to assume you're an IB student getting ready to write your Extended Essay. If you're looking at this as a potential future IB student, I recommend reading our introductory IB articles first, including our guide to what the IB program is and our full coverage of the IB curriculum .

IB Extended Essay: Why Should You Trust My Advice?

I myself am a recipient of an IB Diploma, and I happened to receive an A on my IB Extended Essay. Don't believe me? The proof is in the IBO pudding:

If you're confused by what this report means, EE is short for Extended Essay , and English A1 is the subject that my Extended Essay topic coordinated with. In layman's terms, my IB Diploma was graded in May 2010, I wrote my Extended Essay in the English A1 category, and I received an A grade on it.

What Is the Extended Essay in the IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Extended Essay, or EE , is a mini-thesis you write under the supervision of an IB advisor (an IB teacher at your school), which counts toward your IB Diploma (learn more about the major IB Diploma requirements in our guide) . I will explain exactly how the EE affects your Diploma later in this article.

For the Extended Essay, you will choose a research question as a topic, conduct the research independently, then write an essay on your findings . The essay itself is a long one—although there's a cap of 4,000 words, most successful essays get very close to this limit.

Keep in mind that the IB requires this essay to be a "formal piece of academic writing," meaning you'll have to do outside research and cite additional sources.

The IB Extended Essay must include the following:

• A title page
• Contents page
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References and bibliography

Additionally, your research topic must fall into one of the six approved DP categories , or IB subject groups, which are as follows:

• Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
• Group 2: Language Acquisition
• Group 3: Individuals and Societies
• Group 4: Sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics
• Group 6: The Arts

Once you figure out your category and have identified a potential research topic, it's time to pick your advisor, who is normally an IB teacher at your school (though you can also find one online ). This person will help direct your research, and they'll conduct the reflection sessions you'll have to do as part of your Extended Essay.

As of 2018, the IB requires a "reflection process" as part of your EE supervision process. To fulfill this requirement, you have to meet at least three times with your supervisor in what the IB calls "reflection sessions." These meetings are not only mandatory but are also part of the formal assessment of the EE and your research methods.

According to the IB, the purpose of these meetings is to "provide an opportunity for students to reflect on their engagement with the research process." Basically, these meetings give your supervisor the opportunity to offer feedback, push you to think differently, and encourage you to evaluate your research process.

The final reflection session is called the viva voce, and it's a short 10- to 15-minute interview between you and your advisor. This happens at the very end of the EE process, and it's designed to help your advisor write their report, which factors into your EE grade.

Here are the topics covered in your viva voce :

• A check on plagiarism and malpractice
• Your reflection on your project's successes and difficulties
• Your reflection on what you've learned during the EE process

Your completed Extended Essay, along with your supervisor's report, will then be sent to the IB to be graded. We'll cover the assessment criteria in just a moment.

We'll help you learn how to have those "lightbulb" moments...even on test day!  

What Should You Write About in Your IB Extended Essay?

You can technically write about anything, so long as it falls within one of the approved categories listed above.

It's best to choose a topic that matches one of the IB courses , (such as Theatre, Film, Spanish, French, Math, Biology, etc.), which shouldn't be difficult because there are so many class subjects.

Here is a range of sample topics with the attached extended essay:

• Biology: The Effect of Age and Gender on the Photoreceptor Cells in the Human Retina
• Chemistry: How Does Reflux Time Affect the Yield and Purity of Ethyl Aminobenzoate (Benzocaine), and How Effective is Recrystallisation as a Purification Technique for This Compound?
• English: An Exploration of Jane Austen's Use of the Outdoors in Emma
• Geography: The Effect of Location on the Educational Attainment of Indigenous Secondary Students in Queensland, Australia
• Math: Alhazen's Billiard Problem
• Visual Arts: Can Luc Tuymans Be Classified as a Political Painter?

You can see from how varied the topics are that you have a lot of freedom when it comes to picking a topic . So how do you pick when the options are limitless?

How to Write a Stellar IB Extended Essay: 6 Essential Tips

Below are six key tips to keep in mind as you work on your Extended Essay for the IB DP. Follow these and you're sure to get an A!

#1: Write About Something You Enjoy

You can't expect to write a compelling essay if you're not a fan of the topic on which you're writing. For example, I just love British theatre and ended up writing my Extended Essay on a revolution in post-WWII British theatre. (Yes, I'm definitely a #TheatreNerd.)

I really encourage anyone who pursues an IB Diploma to take the Extended Essay seriously. I was fortunate enough to receive a full-tuition merit scholarship to USC's School of Dramatic Arts program. In my interview for the scholarship, I spoke passionately about my Extended Essay; thus, I genuinely think my Extended Essay helped me get my scholarship.

But how do you find a topic you're passionate about? Start by thinking about which classes you enjoy the most and why . Do you like math classes because you like to solve problems? Or do you enjoy English because you like to analyze literary texts?

Keep in mind that there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing your Extended Essay topic. You're not more likely to get high marks because you're writing about science, just like you're not doomed to failure because you've chosen to tackle the social sciences. The quality of what you produce—not the field you choose to research within—will determine your grade.

Once you've figured out your category, you should brainstorm more specific topics by putting pen to paper . What was your favorite chapter you learned in that class? Was it astrophysics or mechanics? What did you like about that specific chapter? Is there something you want to learn more about? I recommend spending a few hours on this type of brainstorming.

One last note: if you're truly stumped on what to research, pick a topic that will help you in your future major or career . That way you can use your Extended Essay as a talking point in your college essays (and it will prepare you for your studies to come too!).

#2: Select a Topic That Is Neither Too Broad nor Too Narrow

There's a fine line between broad and narrow. You need to write about something specific, but not so specific that you can't write 4,000 words on it.

You can't write about WWII because that would be a book's worth of material. You also don't want to write about what type of soup prisoners of war received behind enemy lines, because you probably won’t be able to come up with 4,000 words of material about it. However, you could possibly write about how the conditions in German POW camps—and the rations provided—were directly affected by the Nazis' successes and failures on the front, including the use of captured factories and prison labor in Eastern Europe to increase production. WWII military history might be a little overdone, but you get my point.

If you're really stuck trying to pinpoint a not-too-broad-or-too-narrow topic, I suggest trying to brainstorm a topic that uses a comparison. Once you begin looking through the list of sample essays below, you'll notice that many use comparisons to formulate their main arguments.

I also used a comparison in my EE, contrasting Harold Pinter's Party Time with John Osborne's Look Back in Anger in order to show a transition in British theatre. Topics with comparisons of two to three plays, books, and so on tend to be the sweet spot. You can analyze each item and then compare them with one another after doing some in-depth analysis of each individually. The ways these items compare and contrast will end up forming the thesis of your essay!

When choosing a comparative topic, the key is that the comparison should be significant. I compared two plays to illustrate the transition in British theatre, but you could compare the ways different regional dialects affect people's job prospects or how different temperatures may or may not affect the mating patterns of lightning bugs. The point here is that comparisons not only help you limit your topic, but they also help you build your argument.

Comparisons are not the only way to get a grade-A EE, though. If after brainstorming, you pick a non-comparison-based topic and are still unsure whether your topic is too broad or narrow, spend about 30 minutes doing some basic research and see how much material is out there.

If there are more than 1,000 books, articles, or documentaries out there on that exact topic, it may be too broad. But if there are only two books that have any connection to your topic, it may be too narrow. If you're still unsure, ask your advisor—it's what they're there for! Speaking of advisors...

Don't get stuck with a narrow topic!

#3: Choose an Advisor Who Is Familiar With Your Topic

If you're not certain of who you would like to be your advisor, create a list of your top three choices. Next, write down the pros and cons of each possibility (I know this sounds tedious, but it really helps!).

For example, Mr. Green is my favorite teacher and we get along really well, but he teaches English. For my EE, I want to conduct an experiment that compares the efficiency of American electric cars with foreign electric cars.

I had Ms. White a year ago. She teaches physics and enjoyed having me in her class. Unlike Mr. Green, Ms. White could help me design my experiment.

Based on my topic and what I need from my advisor, Ms. White would be a better fit for me than would Mr. Green (even though I like him a lot).

The moral of my story is this: do not just ask your favorite teacher to be your advisor . They might be a hindrance to you if they teach another subject. For example, I would not recommend asking your biology teacher to guide you in writing an English literature-based EE.

There can, of course, be exceptions to this rule. If you have a teacher who's passionate and knowledgeable about your topic (as my English teacher was about my theatre topic), you could ask that instructor. Consider all your options before you do this. There was no theatre teacher at my high school, so I couldn't find a theatre-specific advisor, but I chose the next best thing.

Before you approach a teacher to serve as your advisor, check with your high school to see what requirements they have for this process. Some IB high schools require your IB Extended Essay advisor to sign an Agreement Form , for instance.

Make sure that you ask your IB coordinator whether there is any required paperwork to fill out. If your school needs a specific form signed, bring it with you when you ask your teacher to be your EE advisor.

#4: Pick an Advisor Who Will Push You to Be Your Best

Some teachers might just take on students because they have to and aren't very passionate about reading drafts, only giving you minimal feedback. Choose a teacher who will take the time to read several drafts of your essay and give you extensive notes. I would not have gotten my A without being pushed to make my Extended Essay draft better.

Ask a teacher that you have experience with through class or an extracurricular activity. Do not ask a teacher that you have absolutely no connection to. If a teacher already knows you, that means they already know your strengths and weaknesses, so they know what to look for, where you need to improve, and how to encourage your best work.

Also, don't forget that your supervisor's assessment is part of your overall EE score . If you're meeting with someone who pushes you to do better—and you actually take their advice—they'll have more impressive things to say about you than a supervisor who doesn't know you well and isn't heavily involved in your research process.

Be aware that the IB only allows advisors to make suggestions and give constructive criticism. Your teacher cannot actually help you write your EE. The IB recommends that the supervisor spends approximately two to three hours in total with the candidate discussing the EE.

#5: Make Sure Your Essay Has a Clear Structure and Flow

The IB likes structure. Your EE needs a clear introduction (which should be one to two double-spaced pages), research question/focus (i.e., what you're investigating), a body, and a conclusion (about one double-spaced page). An essay with unclear organization will be graded poorly.

The body of your EE should make up the bulk of the essay. It should be about eight to 18 pages long (again, depending on your topic). Your body can be split into multiple parts. For example, if you were doing a comparison, you might have one third of your body as Novel A Analysis, another third as Novel B Analysis, and the final third as your comparison of Novels A and B.

If you're conducting an experiment or analyzing data, such as in this EE , your EE body should have a clear structure that aligns with the scientific method ; you should state the research question, discuss your method, present the data, analyze the data, explain any uncertainties, and draw a conclusion and/or evaluate the success of the experiment.

#6: Start Writing Sooner Rather Than Later!

You will not be able to crank out a 4,000-word essay in just a week and get an A on it. You'll be reading many, many articles (and, depending on your topic, possibly books and plays as well!). As such, it's imperative that you start your research as soon as possible.

Each school has a slightly different deadline for the Extended Essay. Some schools want them as soon as November of your senior year; others will take them as late as February. Your school will tell you what your deadline is. If they haven't mentioned it by February of your junior year, ask your IB coordinator about it.

Some high schools will provide you with a timeline of when you need to come up with a topic, when you need to meet with your advisor, and when certain drafts are due. Not all schools do this. Ask your IB coordinator if you are unsure whether you are on a specific timeline.

Below is my recommended EE timeline. While it's earlier than most schools, it'll save you a ton of heartache (trust me, I remember how hard this process was!):

• January/February of Junior Year: Come up with your final research topic (or at least your top three options).
• February of Junior Year: Approach a teacher about being your EE advisor. If they decline, keep asking others until you find one. See my notes above on how to pick an EE advisor.
• April/May of Junior Year: Submit an outline of your EE and a bibliography of potential research sources (I recommend at least seven to 10) to your EE advisor. Meet with your EE advisor to discuss your outline.
• Summer Between Junior and Senior Year: Complete your first full draft over the summer between your junior and senior year. I know, I know—no one wants to work during the summer, but trust me—this will save you so much stress come fall when you are busy with college applications and other internal assessments for your IB classes. You will want to have this first full draft done because you will want to complete a couple of draft cycles as you likely won't be able to get everything you want to say into 4,000 articulate words on the first attempt. Try to get this first draft into the best possible shape so you don't have to work on too many revisions during the school year on top of your homework, college applications, and extracurriculars.
• August/September of Senior Year: Turn in your first draft of your EE to your advisor and receive feedback. Work on incorporating their feedback into your essay. If they have a lot of suggestions for improvement, ask if they will read one more draft before the final draft.
• September/October of Senior Year: Submit the second draft of your EE to your advisor (if necessary) and look at their feedback. Work on creating the best possible final draft.
• November-February of Senior Year: Schedule your viva voce. Submit two copies of your final draft to your school to be sent off to the IB. You likely will not get your grade until after you graduate.

Remember that in the middle of these milestones, you'll need to schedule two other reflection sessions with your advisor . (Your teachers will actually take notes on these sessions on a form like this one , which then gets submitted to the IB.)

I recommend doing them when you get feedback on your drafts, but these meetings will ultimately be up to your supervisor. Just don't forget to do them!

The early bird DOES get the worm!

How Is the IB Extended Essay Graded?

Extended Essays are graded by examiners appointed by the IB on a scale of 0 to 34 . You'll be graded on five criteria, each with its own set of points. You can learn more about how EE scoring works by reading the IB guide to extended essays .

• Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum)
• Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum)
• Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum)
• Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum)
• Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum)

How well you do on each of these criteria will determine the final letter grade you get for your EE. You must earn at least a D to be eligible to receive your IB Diploma.

Although each criterion has a point value, the IB explicitly states that graders are not converting point totals into grades; instead, they're using qualitative grade descriptors to determine the final grade of your Extended Essay . Grade descriptors are on pages 102-103 of this document .

Here's a rough estimate of how these different point values translate to letter grades based on previous scoring methods for the EE. This is just an estimate —you should read and understand the grade descriptors so you know exactly what the scorers are looking for.

Here is the breakdown of EE scores (from the May 2021 bulletin):

How Does the Extended Essay Grade Affect Your IB Diploma?

The Extended Essay grade is combined with your TOK (Theory of Knowledge) grade to determine how many points you get toward your IB Diploma.

To learn about Theory of Knowledge or how many points you need to receive an IB Diploma, read our complete guide to the IB program and our guide to the IB Diploma requirements .

This diagram shows how the two scores are combined to determine how many points you receive for your IB diploma (3 being the most, 0 being the least). In order to get your IB Diploma, you have to earn 24 points across both categories (the TOK and EE). The highest score anyone can earn is 45 points.

Let's say you get an A on your EE and a B on TOK. You will get 3 points toward your Diploma. As of 2014, a student who scores an E on either the extended essay or TOK essay will not be eligible to receive an IB Diploma .

Prior to the class of 2010, a Diploma candidate could receive a failing grade in either the Extended Essay or Theory of Knowledge and still be awarded a Diploma, but this is no longer true.

Figuring out how you're assessed can be a little tricky. Luckily, the IB breaks everything down here in this document . (The assessment information begins on page 219.)

40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme

In case you want a little more guidance on how to get an A on your EE, here are over 40 excellent (grade A) sample extended essays for your reading pleasure. Essays are grouped by IB subject.

• Business Management 1
• Chemistry 1
• Chemistry 2
• Chemistry 3
• Chemistry 4
• Chemistry 5
• Chemistry 6
• Chemistry 7
• Computer Science 1
• Economics 1
• Design Technology 1
• Design Technology 2
• Environmental Systems and Societies 1
• Geography 1
• Geography 2
• Geography 3
• Geography 4
• Geography 5
• Geography 6
• Literature and Performance 1
• Mathematics 1
• Mathematics 2
• Mathematics 3
• Mathematics 4
• Mathematics 5
• Philosophy 1
• Philosophy 2
• Philosophy 3
• Philosophy 4
• Philosophy 5
• Psychology 1
• Psychology 2
• Psychology 3
• Psychology 4
• Psychology 5
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 1
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 2
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 3
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 1
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 2
• Visual Arts 1
• Visual Arts 2
• Visual Arts 3
• Visual Arts 4
• Visual Arts 5
• World Religion 1
• World Religion 2
• World Religion 3

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Extended Essay Writers

How to Write a Physics Extended Essay? A Guide for IB Students

Luke MacQuoid

In my years of experience as an IB writer, I’ve come to appreciate the nuances and depth of the Physics extended essay. It is an opportunity for IB students to showcase their knowledge and passion for this subject.

Today, I’d like to share my insights and help guide you on how to write a compelling and well-structured Physics extended essay .

Understanding the Physics Extended Essay Requirements

According to general IB criteria, this work has specific guidelines that students must adhere to, ensuring they remain within the Physics extended essay requirements:

• Ensure your topic is rooted in Physics. It should focus on experimental work, though some theoretical essays are acceptable if they tackle unconventional issues.
• While the word limit for the essay is 4,000 words, I’ve often observed that the most impactful papers are concise and straight to the point.
• A well-defined research question is at the heart of every essay. Ensure it’s precise and relevant to the Physics extended essay topics you’re considering.
• If you’re leaning towards an experimental Physics extended essay, remember that your experiments should be replicable. They should also provide insights that can be extrapolated to real-world scenarios.

In conclusion, while the Physics extended essay might seem like a mountain to climb, it’s achievable with the proper guidance and a clear understanding of the requirements.

Choosing the Right Topic for Your Physics Extended Essay

Often, students ask me about the best Physics extended essay topics. I think choosing an option that truly resonates with your interests but also aligns with IB’s expectations is essential. It brings me to the specifics of the IB extended essay Physics topics , which get into detailed research scopes and can challenge your analytical skills.

Possible Extended Essay Topics in IB Physics

So, what are the possible extended essay topics in IB Physics ? Here are a few options for you to consider:

• The Physics of Black Holes.
• Quantum Entanglement and its Implications.
• The Effects of Material and Thickness on Solar Cell Efficiency.
• The Acoustic Properties of Different Woods.
• Relativity in Modern GPS Systems.
• The Physics Behind Magnetic Levitation Trains.
• Fluid Dynamics in Sports.
• The Correlation Between Altitude and Boiling Points of Liquids.
• Thermoelectric Materials and their Potential in Waste Heat Recovery.
• The Harmonics of String Instruments.

Think of areas in Physics that intrigue you: Quantum mechanics? AstroPhysics? Thermodynamics? The options are numerous, but the best topics align with your passion and the IB’s expectations.

Experimental Physics Extended Essay vs. Theoretical: What’s the Difference?

Ah, the age-old debate: Experimental or Theoretical? From my experience, this decision can make or break your essay. So, let’s break it down.

• Experimental Physics . In essence, this approach is hands-on. It’s about setting up experiments, recording observations, and making inferences. If you enjoy the tangible aspects of Physics and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, this might be your calling.
• Theoretical Physics . Now, this is where things get abstract. Theoretical Physics deepens into concepts, relying heavily on mathematical models and predictions. It’s less about “doing” and more about “thinking”. If abstract ideas and critical thinking excite you, this path might be the one for you.

In conclusion, always remember to stay true to your passions while adhering to the set standards. From what I know, the path might seem challenging, but the sense of accomplishment at the end is unparalleled!

IB Physics Extended Essay: What Resources You Can Use

Taping into many resources is critical to strengthen your research and arguments. Here’s a comprehensive list that can guide you through this venture:

• Primary Textbooks . These are the backbone of your foundational knowledge. But don’t just stick to your coursebook. Check advanced-level Physics textbooks for deeper insights.
• Academic Journals . Google Scholar , JSTOR , and the American Physical Society’s journals offer up-to-date research findings and specialized knowledge.
• University Libraries . Many institutions allow the public, especially students, access to their libraries. They can be gold mines for specialized books and research papers.
• Online Platforms & Databases . You can use arXiv — a free distribution service and archive for preprints. NASA AstroPhysics Data System is also a perfect digital library portal for researchers in astronomy and Physics.
• Research Institutions & Laboratories . Some institutes allow students to access their data or even conduct experiments. Examples are CERN, Fermilab, or local universities with robust Physics departments.
• Educational Websites . Websites like Khan Academy or The Physics Classroom can elucidate complex topics.
• Software & Simulation Tools . Use COMSOL MultiPhysics for modeling and simulating experiments. PhET Interactive Simulations offers free interactive math and science simulations.
• Expert Interviews . Engaging with Physics professors, researchers, or professionals can offer unique insights. They might also point you to niche resources.
• Seminars & Workshops . Attend these, especially ones that align with your essay topic. They offer cutting-edge insights and networking opportunities.
• Your School’s Resources . Think about your school’s lab equipment, library, and, most importantly, your Physics teacher!
• Peer-Reviewed Conferences . Look for published proceedings for the latest in Physics research.
• Popular Science Books & Magazines . These can be used sparingly for general context or simply explaining complex concepts. Magazines like Scientific American or Physics Today might be helpful.

According to general IB criteria, while it’s essential to gather as much information as possible, always ensure the credibility of your sources. Cross-reference data and opt for primary over secondary sources.

The Structure of the Physics Extended Essay

Structuring your paper can make all the difference. Let’s discuss all parts of the Physics extended essay to ensure clarity and coherence.

1. The Informative Abstract

Venturing forward, you’d step into the abstract. Think of this as your elevator pitch, where you have around 300 words to present the crux of your research. Start by briefly explaining the purpose of your essay.

2. The All-Important Introduction

The introduction is your gateway to captivate the reader. Set the stage by introducing your topic and providing context. Why is it important? What real-world implications does it have? How does it tie into the larger world of Physics?

3. Methodology and Approach

Detail out the methods you’ve employed. Clarity is vital, whether it’s an experimental setup or a theoretical analysis. Describe your approach, any equipment used, variables considered, and how you collected data.

4. To the Body

It’s the heart of your essay. Analyze your findings, relate them to existing theories, and critically evaluate any discrepancies or anomalies. Break down complex concepts, ensuring they’re accessible to the reader. Use diagrams, graphs, or tables if they aid in understanding.

5. Conclusions and Reflections

Summarize your findings, reiterating their significance in the broader context of Physics. Reflect upon the entire research process, discussing your challenges and what you learned from them. Highlight potential areas for further research or unanswered questions that arose.

6. References and Bibliography

Every piece of information, data, or idea that isn’t original to you needs to be cited. Adhere to the citation style preferred by the IB and ensure consistency throughout.

Need help with your IB extended essay?

From research and analysis to structuring and editing, our skilled mentors will be by your side, helping you craft an exceptional extended essay that not only meets the wordcount and stringent IB criteria but also reflects your passion for selected IB group .

Writing the Perfect Experimental Physics Extended Essay

Ah, the realm of experimental Physics extended essay. Many students assume this is the most challenging assignment , but this is only sometimes the case. With the right approach, you can quickly reveal your topic and get the highest grade, so do not be afraid to experiment.

What Makes an Experimental Physics Extended Essay Stand Out?

Based on my experience, the most outstanding essays consistently demonstrate these characteristics:

• They don’t just regurgitate known facts. They take risks, push novel ideas, or offer a fresh perspective on classic experiments.
• It’s not just about noting observations but explaining why specific results were obtained, possibly linking to underlying Physics principles.
• A standout essay meticulously details the experiment setup, ensuring reproducibility. Every step, from equipment calibration to data collection, is clearly articulated.
• Beyond presenting results, these essays interpret data critically, drawing meaningful conclusions and suggesting further research areas.

Remember that the best essays often link findings to real-world applications or implications, showing a broader understanding of Physics in our daily lives.

Tips for a Successful Physics Extended Essay

Throughout my path as an IB tutor, I’ve picked up a few tricks of the trade that I believe can improve any paper:

• Start Early . Physics, being a comprehensive subject, demands time for research, experimentation (if you’re doing an experimental essay), and analysis.
• Pick a Manageable Topic . Getting into highly complex areas is tempting, but remember that depth trumps breadth. 
• Align with Your Interests . Your enthusiasm will shine through in your writing. Choose a topic you’re genuinely curious about. 
• Prioritize Your Research Question . It should be clear, focused, and researchable within the word limit. Avoid overly broad or vague questions.
• Use Varied Resources . While textbooks are a good starting point, venture into academic journals, online databases, and expert interviews to gather diverse insights.
• Stick to the IB Rubric . Familiarize yourself with the IB Physics extended essay criteria . This rubric will be your guiding light, ensuring you hit all the necessary points.
• Draft, Revise, Repeat . Your first draft is unlikely to be your final one. Write, take a break, return with fresh eyes, revise, and repeat the cycle.
• Maintain Academic Integrity . Cite all sources diligently. Plagiarism is a strict no-no in the IB world.
• Understand the Theory . Even if you’re focusing on an experiment, grounding your observations in theoretical concepts is crucial. It shows a holistic understanding of the topic.
• Maintain a Consistent Structure . Introduction, research question, body, analysis, conclusion, and references — maintaining this flow aids in readability and coherence.

Over the years, I’ve seen students get lost in the vastness of their chosen subjects, but with a straightforward question, you can remain focused. Lastly, avoid straying from the IB extended essay Physics guidelines. They’re there for a reason, and adhering to them can significantly boost your score.

So, writing the Physics extended essay is no small feat, but with the right approach and a sprinkle of dedication, it’s an enriching experience. Follow the guidelines, choose your topic wisely, and structure your essay well, and you’ll be on the path to success. Best of luck to you!

Luke MacQuoid has extensive experience teaching English as a foreign language in Japan, having worked with students of all ages for over 12 years. Currently, he is teaching at the tertiary level. Luke holds a BA from the University of Sussex and an MA in TESOL from Lancaster University, both located in England. As well to his work as an IB Examiner and Master Tutor, Luke also enjoys sharing his experiences and insights with others through writing articles for various websites, including extendedessaywriters.com blog

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IB Physics EE examples

Filter exemplars, fluid’s density effect on falling objects, how is the lift at various angles of attack affected by flap deflection angles, want to get full marks for your ee allow us to review it for you 🎯, what effect does the difference in radius at the top and bottom of the roller coaster loop have on the maximum change in g-force that a passenger experiences, what is the relationship between the height of the siphon and the flow velocity out of the siphon, how does increasing the angle of a simple pendulum affect its time period, fast track your coursework with mark schemes moderated by ib examiners. upgrade now 🚀, how does the velocity of a bicycle on a flat horizontal surface affect its stability, investigación sobre el movimiento giroscópico de una peonza y su estabilidad dependiendo de la velocidad de rotación., what effect do mass, radius and length have on the moment of inertia of a cylinder being rotated about its central diameter, how does the total energy supplied during ultrasonic cavitation of benzene affect the integrated photoluminescence intensity and quantum yield of graphene quantum dots (gqds), can the relationship between drag and velocity, r=bv^2, be proved experimentally by finding the constant of proportionality (25/34), how do changes in viscosity of fluid affect the speed and amplitude of surface waves that are generated by an impact of spherical object, can the technology currently under development for wireless power transfer provide a viable and efficient method for delivering electrical power to a wide range of home and industrial applications, “how does the length of a u folded metallic chain with one end fixed affect the time taken for it to unfold under the influence of gravity”, quel est l'effet de la masse et de la pression initiale sur la portée d'une fusée à eau, can we validate the conclusions from the 1919 dyson & eddington total solar eclipse expedition through data analysis of succeeding total eclipse expeditions, how do the angular momentum and orbital velocity affect the eccentricities of planetary orbits, how does the phase of argon crystal (density, volume, length and msd) change as the crystal is monotonically heated in the temperature range from 50 to 150 kelvins, to what extent does the bend radius of a silicone tube affect the loss in light intensity for different incoming wavelengths, to what extent do cloud chambers effectively display subatomic particles and the fundamental interactions in the surrounding environment, what is the relationship between the critical air speed required to blow a bubble and the radius of the wand forming it, how does altering the curvature of an aircraft wing function to reduce aerodynamic drag and thus aircraft greenhouse emissions, what is the effect of manipulating the coefficient ’a’ of the parabolic function ax2 on the intensity of the light reflecting off a parabolic object, emitted from set different angles (0°, 15°, and 30°), how does strain rate affect the true stress and true strain of aluminium, steel and polystyrene subject to uniaxial tension, an investigation into the physics of toroidal banked turns, ee physics - what are the requirements for an underwater structure to maintain its structural integrity, to what extent does the backward motion of a human foot impacts the rebound distance of a soccer ball after they collide, how does the maximum height that the water rocket can reach change with the variation of the initially filled amount of water, evidence for the existence of dark matter, when powering a home-built bobbin- tractor, how does the stored energy of a rubber band change depending on the number of twists and the number of elastic bands used, the relationship between the salinity of water and the refractive index of water, what is the effect of inclination of open drainage channels on the rate of flow of water and silt-retention in channels, investigating the effect of changing the distance between the magnets (distance between the stages in a gaussian gun) and the velocity of the ejected metal marble., to what extent do the properties of delta cephei compare to those of the sun.

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• Assessment of the Extended Essay
• IB Core and Philosophy
• Extended Essay

How is the Extended Essay Assessed?

From May 2018 new assessment criteria and a new emphasis was implemented for the Extended Essay. On this page we will look at the criteria, how they relate to ESS and World Studies essays and what this means for the Extended Essay process.

This information is adapted from the IB's own TSM for Extended Essays which you can find on the Programme Resource Centre of MyIB. It is very comprehensive and worth a look.

There are five criteria with a total of 34 marks

A: Focus and Method (total 6 marks)

B: Knowledge and Understanding (total 6 marks)

C: Critical Thinking (total 12 marks)

D: Presentation (total 4 marks)

E: Engagement (total 6 marks)

The grade boundaries in 2018 were as follows:

To guarantee a pass you need 7 points.

Overall, the IB does not expect perfection or originality in the EE but credit should be given to the following/compliance of the subject criteria. 

Best fit approach

The aim is to find the mark band descriptor that conveys most accurately the level attained by the candidate's work, using the  best fit  approach.

A best fit approach means that compensation should be made when a piece of work matches aspects of different mark bands.

The mark awarded should be one that most fairly reflects the balance of achievement against the mark band.

It is not necessary for every indicator within a mark band to be met for a mark to be awarded in a mark band.

 Criterion A: Focus and Method

In this criteria, the examiner looks at the development of the research question and how the methodology will address the question. The examiner wants to see a focus on the research question throughout the essay and not just at the start and end.

Criterion B: knowledge and understanding

Criterion c: critical evaluation , criterion d: presentation, criterion e: reflection .

Guide to the IB Extended Essay in 2024

January 24, 2024

If you’re an International Baccalaureate student getting ready to write your IB Extended Essay, you might be experiencing some very understandable trepidation. But have no fear—we’re here to help you understand what’s required of you, how to plan ahead (IB extended essay topics), and how you’ll be graded (IB extended essay rubric). Keep reading for a good dose of preparation and confidence before you begin the journey. In this article, we’ll cover:

What is the IB Extended Essay?

The ib extended essay—required content, ib extended essay topics.

IB Extended Essay—Sample Essays

IB Extended Essay Tips

Ib extended essay rubric, ib extended essay—more resources.

The IB Extended Essay is a 4,000-word paper that asks you to immerse yourself in research and academic writing. A required part of the IB program, the Extended Essay is a chance to dig deep into a topic that fascinates you.

Although it’s no small task, the IB Extended Essay is an opportunity to gain practical research and writing skills that will come in handy again in college. As you write, you’ll learn how to:

• Identify credible sources
• Formulate a research question and limit your scope of research
• Communicate ideas to an audience
• Develop a well-supported argument

The IB Extended Essay is largely an independent, self-directed project, but don’t worry—the IB program doesn’t throw you into the deep end. You do get to select a mentor (usually a teacher at your school) to help guide you through the process. As you write, you’ll be required to meet with your mentor three times. As part of your final evaluation, your mentor will interview you in a final reflection section called a viva voce . During the viva voce, your mentor will check for plagiarism and malpractice, ask you to reflect on challenges and difficulties, and prompt you to discuss what you’ve learned through the research and writing process. Your mentor will then generate a report that factors into your final grade.

Your final essay must include the following:

• Contents page
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References and bibliography

For this essay, it will be up to you to generate a topic; the International Baccalaureate does not provide prompts. However, your essay will need to fit within one of six provided subject areas . You’ll choose from the following list of IB Extended Essay Topics:

• Language and literature
• Language acquisition
• Individuals and societies
• Mathematics

IB Extended Essay Topics (Continued)

At a glance, the subject areas might look limited, but the topics you can choose to write about are actually wide-ranging. The “Individuals and societies” category includes social science topics like economics, history, world religions, and philosophy. And, if you’re leaning toward “Science,” you can choose from classic subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics, or related topics like environmental systems or health science, among others.

The IB also offers a special “World Studies” option for students interested in researching global issues. This subject would allow you to center your writing on global issues such as migration, global health, cultural exchange, or climate change.

Wondering what an outstanding IB Extended Essay looks like? The International Baccalaureate provides quite a few sample student essays online . Here are five essays that earned A grades.

Language and literature: An exploration of an aspect of the narrative voice in Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita

Environmental Systems and Societies: The economic impact of the 1995 reintroduction of grey wolves to Yellowstone National Park

Psychology: To what extent do social networking sites (SNS) usage lead to experience of anxiety in adolescents?

Music: Composition techniques in the 1st movement of Johannes Brahms’s Symphony No. 2, Op. 73

Business Management: Corporate Culture at Oracle

1) Pick something you’re passionate about

As you can see from the titles above, the IB Extended Essay is a great place to delve into a niche topic that fascinates you. Since you’ll be spending many months on this essay, you’ll want to pick a topic you genuinely enjoy spending time learning about. It’s also smart to choose something you’ve already learned about in your IB classes so that you have a strong foundation of knowledge to start with. In music class, do you love pondering why music makes us feel a certain way? Maybe an essay about music theory will keep your gears turning. Do you come alive trying to solve seemingly impossible problems in physics class? Now’s your chance to put those equations into action.

Since this essay is all about your academic interests, it’s also a good idea to pick a topic that’s relevant to what you plan to study in college. Selecting a relevant topic will provide you with significant exposure to the field and will also give you something meaningful to talk about in your college admissions essays.

2) Limit your scope

What’s the meaning of life? Why do wars happen? What is time? Some questions are just way too big to answer, and your IB Extended Essay is not a good place to tackle expansive, philosophical questions. Instead, think of this essay as a place to investigate one piece of a big question. If, let’s say, you’re generally interested in what helps women reach positions of leadership in business, this is a good place to examine how one or a few companies approach this issue. Or, if you’re interested in studying what inspires surrealist painters, you’ll want to pick one or a few painters to research, likely all from the same time period. For both these topics, you’d need a whole textbook to tackle the full question, but limiting your scope will make it much easier to write a clear and cohesive 4,000 words.

On the other hand, it’s possible to narrow your focus too much. It would be impossible, for example, to write 4,000 words about a single sentence in a novel. Make sure you talk about scope early and often with your mentor. Together, you can find the perfect Goldilocks scope for your project that’s not too big and not too small.

3) Choose a good mentor

Speaking of mentors, choosing wisely will help you enormously as you embark on your IB Extended Essay. You’ll want to make sure you choose someone with existing knowledge in your research topic. Your English teacher may be able to give you great writing advice, for example, but they won’t be able to guide your research and scope if you’re writing about marine animals or modern dance.

Before you approach a teacher, make sure you have at least one topic idea (or even a few ideas) in mind so that you can make sure they’ll be a good fit to supervise your project. When you meet with them, find out what their mentorship style is like. Make sure they’ll have time to read several drafts of your essays, meet with you a few times, and give you feedback. Some IB schools will require your IB Extended Essay mentor to sign an agreement form too, so make sure you find out what paperwork is required in advance.

4) Get organized, way organized

The IB Extended Essay is not something you can crank out the night before it’s due. The essay is meant to be a substantive, in-depth, thoughtful, and thoroughly researched analysis, and Rome simply isn’t built in a day. This might be the longest paper you’ve written to date, and this project might require more research than you’ve been asked to do before. Timelines vary by school, but you’ll likely spend between eight months and a year working on your IB Extended Essay. So, how will you pull it all off? For these 8-12 months, organization will be your guiding light. We recommend you:

• Get started early. If your essay is due November of your senior year, start generating topic ideas during your junior year right after winter break.
• Create a long-view schedule for yourself. What will you accomplish each month of your process?
• Give yourself deadlines. Once you choose a mentor, suggest 2-3 draft deadline dates so that you will be held accountable throughout the writing process.
• Find a note-taking system that works for you. You’ll be reading many articles and books and it’s hard to keep track of all your sources. Create a document or spreadsheet where you keep track of the sources you’ve found and check them off as you read. As you finish reading a text, type up important quotes and a few notes explaining how it connects to your topic and to your other texts.

5)Write a messy first draft

Writing never comes out perfect the first time, even for New York Times bestselling authors and the most experienced researchers. In your first draft, give yourself permission to get all your thoughts out, no matter how unstructured or rambling they are. Call this your brainstorming draft. When you’re ready to revisit it, see what patterns emerge, what common ideas you can group together, what beginning buds of ideas you can make bloom into full-fledged analysis.

6) Communicate for an audience

When you’re used to producing writing that only your teacher reads, it can be hard to remember to write for an audience. But at the end of the day, writing is communication , and the best writing is clear and thorough communication that anyone could pick up and read. For your IB Extended Essay, you’ll want to remember that many people will be reading your final essay, and not all of them will be experts in the niche topic you choose to study. Ask yourself: how can I explain my research to an audience who doesn’t already agree with my analysis?

To communicate to an audience, you’ll want to:

• Provide lots of general background information on your topic.
• Don’t assume your reader is familiar with your sources. Introduce them as if they’re guest speakers about to walk up to a podium and deliver a lecture.
• After including quotes, facts, and figures, be sure to explain what those sources mean in your own words and how they connect to your bigger-picture argument.
• Don’t assume your arguments are self-evident. In this essay, communicating for an audience means supplying ongoing interpretation and analysis, even if it feels like you’re explaining the obvious. Your reader isn’t on your research journey with you, so your points might not be so obvious to your reader.

Although your IB Extended Essay provides a report that factors into your grade, your essay will also be assessed by external examiners the IB. Per the IB Extended Essay Rubric , essays are graded on a scale from 0 to 34 based on 5 different criteria:

• Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum)
• Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum)
• Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum)
• Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum)
• Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum)

As you can see, Critical Thinking is the most significant rubric category. This means that the IB wants to see you arrive at your own unique analysis of your topic, drawing connections between sources and data, and making well-supported arguments. This means they want a lot of you: your ideas, your interpretations, your thoughts. Make sure you emphasize that in your essay, but of course don’t forget the other categories.

The score a student receives corresponds to a letter grade scale that is slightly different than what we’re accustomed to in the U.S. Here’s the letter grade to numerical score breakdown:

You must earn a D or higher to receive your IB Diploma. To learn more about the different criteria included in the IB Extended Essay Rubric, you can explore the IB’s full guide to the Extended Essay .

We hope you found our look at the IB extended essay rubric and IB extended essay topics to be helpful. Ready to dive into research? You may want to read our 10 Expert Tips for Improving Reading Comprehension before you hit the books.

And if you’re a high school student in the process of mapping out your pathway to college, take a look at a few other useful guides:

• IB vs AP—Which Classes are Best for College Admission?
• How to Earn College Credit in High School
• High School Course Requirements for College Admission
• SAT Score Calculator
• ACT Score Calculator 
• High School Success

Christina Wood

Christina Wood holds a BA in Literature & Writing from UC San Diego, an MFA in Creative Writing from Washington University in St. Louis, and is currently a Doctoral Candidate in English at the University of Georgia, where she teaches creative writing and first-year composition courses. Christina has published fiction and nonfiction in numerous publications, including The Paris Review , McSweeney’s , Granta , Virginia Quarterly Review , The Sewanee Review , Mississippi Review , and Puerto del Sol , among others. Her story “The Astronaut” won the 2018 Shirley Jackson Award for short fiction and received a “Distinguished Stories” mention in the 2019 Best American Short Stories anthology.

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IB Physics Extended Essay Topics for IB

Table of contents

• Writing Metier

What’s up, IB scholars? You’re about to start writing your IB Physics Extended Essay, and I know you’re searching for that killer topic that’s going to stand out. Well, guess what? I’ve got over 100 extended essay topics and research questions ready for you. 

You do not need to thank me; you better say thank you to our IB writers at Writing Metier , who have invented and forwarded this awesome list to me for submission.

This isn’t just about getting it done; it’s about crushing it with something you’re passionate about.  So let’s get straight to the point and find you Physics EE ideas that will make some noise and show what you’ve got!

100+ Physics Extended Essay Topics

I’m breaking the list into ten categories for IB Physics extended essay topics, each with three subcategories for easier navigation:

• Projectile Motion (e.g., trajectory analysis, range equations, effects of air resistance)
• Circular Motion (e.g., centripetal force in different systems, banking angles, conical pendulums)
• Dynamics of Rigid Bodies (e.g., rotational inertia, torque, angular momentum conservation)
• Thermodynamics
• Heat Transfer (e.g., efficiency of different materials as insulators, rate of cooling, Newton’s law of cooling)
• Gas Laws (e.g., pressure-volume relationship, temperature effects, real vs. ideal gases)
• Phase Changes (e.g., specific heat capacities, latent heat, cooling curves)
• Waves and Oscillations
• Harmonic Motion (e.g., pendulums, mass-spring systems, resonance)
• Wave Properties (e.g., speed of sound in various media, diffraction patterns, polarization)
• Sound and Acoustics (e.g., Doppler effect, sound intensity, acoustic properties of materials)
• Electricity and Magnetism
• Circuit Analysis (e.g., Ohm’s law, series vs. parallel circuits, Kirchhoff’s laws)
• Electromagnetism (e.g., Faraday’s law, magnetic fields around conductors, applications of electromagnets)
• Capacitance and Inductance (e.g., time constants, LC circuits, energy storage)
• Modern Physics
• Quantum Phenomena (e.g., photoelectric effect, electron diffraction, energy levels in atoms)
• Nuclear Physics (e.g., radioactive decay, half-life, nuclear reactions)
• Special Relativity (e.g., time dilation, length contraction, mass-energy equivalence)
• Energy and Power
• Renewable Energy Sources (e.g., efficiency of solar panels, wind turbine performance, biofuels)
• Energy Conversion (e.g., internal combustion engines, thermal power plants, regenerative braking)
• Power Transmission (e.g., electrical grid efficiency, power loss, superconductors)
• Fluid Dynamics
• Aerodynamics (e.g., lift and drag forces, Bernoulli’s principle, airfoil shapes)
• Hydrodynamics (e.g., flow rate, viscosity effects, Reynolds number)
• Buoyancy and Density (e.g., Archimedes’ principle, floating and sinking, density stratification)
• Astrophysics and Cosmology
• Stellar Physics (e.g., Hertzsprung-Russell diagram, star classifications, blackbody radiation)
• Cosmological Models (e.g., Big Bang theory, cosmic microwave background, dark matter)
• Orbital Mechanics (e.g., Kepler’s laws, satellite motion, escape velocity)
• Optics and Light
• Reflection and Refraction (e.g., Snell’s law, critical angle, optical fibers)
• Lens and Mirror Optics (e.g., image formation, focal length, magnification)
• Interference and Diffraction (e.g., double-slit experiment, diffraction gratings, holography)
• Electromagnetic Waves
• Radio and Microwave Radiation (e.g., antenna design, signal propagation, communication systems)
• Infrared and Ultraviolet Light (e.g., thermal imaging, UV radiation effects, spectroscopy)
• X-rays and Gamma Rays (e.g., medical imaging, radiation therapy, nuclear gamma spectroscopy)

Each of these categories and subcategories can be explored through experiments, data analysis, or theoretical investigation, offering a wide range of possibilities for IB students to develop their IB Physics EE topics.

Mechanics Topics and Research Questions

Projectile Motion

Topic:  The effect of launch angle on the range of a projectile.

Research Question:  How does changing the launch angle affect the horizontal distance traveled by a projectile?

Topic:  The impact of air resistance on the trajectory of a projectile.

Research Question:  To what extent does air resistance alter the trajectory of a projectile compared to the idealized motion?

Topic:  The accuracy of range equations in predicting projectile motion.

Research Question:  How accurately do standard range equations predict the motion of a projectile in a controlled environment?

Circular Motion

Topic:  Measuring centripetal force in a rotating system.

Research Question:  How does the centripetal force required for circular motion change with the radius and speed of the rotating object?

Topic:  The physics of banking angles in road design.

Research Question:  What is the optimal banking angle for a curve on a road to maximize friction and safety at a given speed?

Topic:  Investigating the period of a conical pendulum.

Research Question:  How does the length of the string affect the period of oscillation of a conical pendulum?

Dynamics of Rigid Bodies

Topic:  The relationship between rotational inertia and angular acceleration.

Research Question:  How does changing the distribution of mass affect the rotational inertia and angular acceleration of a rigid body?

Topic:  The conservation of angular momentum in a closed system.

Research Question:  How does the angular momentum of a system change when the moment of inertia is altered?

Topic:  The effect of torque on rotational motion.

Research Question:  How does the application of torque affect the rotational motion of a rigid body with a fixed axis?

Mechanics shows us how things move and what affects them, but when we start talking about thermodynamics, we’re dealing with heat and energy. 

It’s like going from watching a ball roll down a hill to understanding why it feels warm to the touch on a sunny day.

Thermodynamics Topics and Research Questions

Heat Transfer

Topic:  Comparing the thermal insulation properties of various materials.

Research Question:  Which material provides the best thermal insulation for a given application, and why?

Topic:  The rate of cooling of a liquid in different environments.

Research Question:  How does the rate of cooling of a hot liquid differ between various environmental conditions?

Topic:  Investigating Newton’s law of cooling.

Research Question:  How closely does the cooling of a warm object follow Newton’s law of cooling in a real-world setting?

Topic:  The pressure-volume relationship of a gas at constant temperature.

Research Question:  How does the volume of a gas change with pressure at a constant temperature, and does it align with Boyle’s law?

Topic:  Temperature effects on the pressure of an enclosed gas.

Research Question:  How does the pressure of a fixed amount of gas change with temperature in a sealed container?

Topic:  Real vs. ideal gases under different conditions.

Research Question:  How do the behaviors of real gases deviate from the predictions of the ideal gas law under high-pressure conditions?

Phase Changes

Topic:  Measuring specific heat capacities of different substances.

Research Question:  How do the specific heat capacities of different substances compare, and what implications does this have for their use in heat storage?

Topic:  The energy involved in the phase change of materials.

Research Question:  How much energy is absorbed or released during the phase change of a substance, and how does this relate to its latent heat?

Topic:  Analyzing cooling curves of substances.

Research Question:  What can the cooling curve of a substance tell us about its phase change properties and purity?

After getting a grip on how heat works, it’s pretty cool to see how that energy gets around. Waves are all about energy transfer, whether it’s the sound from your speakers or the ripples on a pond when you toss a stone.

Waves and Oscillations Topics and Research Questions

Harmonic Motion

Topic:  The period of a simple pendulum.

Research Question:  How does the length of a pendulum affect its period, and does this confirm the theoretical model?

Topic:  The behavior of mass-spring systems.

Research Question:  How do different spring constants affect the oscillation of a mass-spring system?

Topic:  Resonance frequencies in mechanical systems.

Research Question:  At what frequencies do various mechanical systems resonate, and what factors influence this?

Wave Properties

Topic:  Measuring the speed of sound in different media.

Research Question:  How does the speed of sound compare in various gases, and what does this tell us about the properties of those gases?

Topic:  Investigating diffraction patterns through different apertures.

Research Question:  How do diffraction patterns change with the shape and size of apertures?

Topic:  Polarization of light by various materials.

Research Question:  How effectively can different materials polarize light, and what does this indicate about their structure?

Sound and Acoustics

Topic:  The Doppler effect and moving sources.

Research Question:  How does the frequency of a sound wave change as the source moves relative to an observer?

Topic:  Sound intensity levels at different distances.

Research Question:  How does the intensity of sound change with distance from the source, and is it consistent with the inverse square law?

Topic:  Acoustic properties of materials in soundproofing.

Research Question:  Which materials are most effective at soundproofing a room, and how do their acoustic properties contribute to this effectiveness?

Each of these topics can be tailored to fit the requirements of an IB Physics extended essay, with the research question guiding the experimental design, data collection, and analysis.

If you are interested, we also have a list of potential  Physics IA topic ideas  for you. Make sure to check them out as well.

Once you’ve got a handle on waves, you’re ready to see how they relate to electricity and magnetism. It’s like connecting the dots between the vibrations in the air and the current in the wires of your headphones.

Electricity and Magnetism Topics and Research Questions

Circuit Analysis

Topic:  The resistance of series and parallel circuits.

Research Question:  How does the total resistance in a circuit vary with the arrangement of resistors in series and parallel configurations?

Topic:  Verification of Kirchhoff’s laws in complex circuits.

Research Question:  How accurately do Kirchhoff’s laws predict the current and voltage distribution in a multi-loop circuit?

Topic:  The temperature dependence of resistivity in conductors.

Research Question:  How does the resistivity of a metallic conductor change with temperature, and what does this imply about electron scattering?

Electromagnetism

Topic:  Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction.

Research Question:  How does the rate of change of magnetic flux influence the induced EMF in a coil?

Topic:  The magnetic field patterns around different conductor configurations.

Research Question:  How do the configurations of conductors affect the shape and strength of the magnetic fields they produce?

Topic:  The efficiency of electromagnets.

Research Question:  What factors determine the lifting power of an electromagnet, and how can its efficiency be maximized?

Capacitance and Inductance

Topic:  Time constants in RC circuits.

Research Question:  How does the capacitance and resistance in an RC circuit affect its charging and discharging time constants?

Topic:  Resonance in LC circuits.

Research Question:  At what conditions does resonance occur in an LC circuit, and how does this affect the circuit’s impedance?

Topic:  Energy storage in capacitors and inductors.

Research Question:  How do capacitors and inductors store energy, and what factors affect their energy storage capacity?

Electricity and magnetism are pretty easy to see in action, but modern physics? That’s where things get wild. You’re not just looking at what’s in front of you anymore; you’re considering what’s happening on a scale so small or so huge that it bends your mind a bit.

Modern Physics Topics and Research Questions

Quantum Phenomena

Topic:  The photoelectric effect and Planck’s constant.

Research Question:  How can the photoelectric effect be used to determine Planck’s constant, and what does this reveal about the nature of light?

Topic:  Electron diffraction and crystal structure.

Research Question:  How does electron diffraction provide evidence for the wave nature of electrons and the structure of crystals?

Topic:  Energy levels in hydrogen atoms.

Research Question:  How do the observed spectral lines of hydrogen correspond to the theoretical energy levels predicted by quantum mechanics?

Nuclear Physics

Topic:  Radioactive decay series.

Research Question:  How does the decay series of a radioactive isotope correspond to theoretical predictions of half-life and decay pathways?

Topic:  The effect of shielding on radiation intensity.

Research Question:  How effective are different materials at shielding against various types of radioactive emissions?

Topic:  Nuclear reaction energy calculations.

Research Question:  How does the measured energy released in a nuclear reaction compare to the values predicted by the mass-energy equivalence principle?

Special Relativity

Topic:  Time dilation observed in cosmic muons.

Research Question:  How does the observed decay rate of cosmic muons provide evidence for time dilation effects predicted by special relativity?

Topic:  Length contraction and high-speed particles.

Research Question:  How can length contraction be demonstrated or inferred from high-speed particle interactions?

Topic:  Mass-energy equivalence in particle physics.

Research Question:  How does the increase in mass of particles at high velocities provide evidence for the mass-energy equivalence principle?

But even with all that mind-bending stuff, physics isn’t just about theory. It’s also about practical stuff, like how we use energy. From solar panels on your roof to the battery in your phone, it’s all about getting the power we need to do what we want.

Energy and Power Topics and Research Questions

Renewable Energy Sources

Topic:  The efficiency of photovoltaic cells under different conditions.

Research Question:  How do factors such as light intensity, wavelength, and temperature affect the efficiency of solar panels?

Topic:  Performance analysis of wind turbines.

Research Question:  How does blade design affect the efficiency and power output of a wind turbine?

Topic:  The viability of biofuels compared to fossil fuels.

Research Question:  How do the energy outputs and carbon footprints of biofuels compare to those of traditional fossil fuels?

Energy Conversion

Topic:  The efficiency of internal combustion engines.

Research Question:  How do variables such as fuel type and engine temperature affect the efficiency of an internal combustion engine?

Topic:  Thermal efficiency of power plants.

Research Question:  What are the main factors that limit the thermal efficiency of modern thermal power plants?

Topic:  The effectiveness of regenerative braking systems.

Research Question:  How much energy can regenerative braking systems realistically recover during vehicle deceleration?

Power Transmission

Topic:  Electrical grid efficiency and power loss.

Research Question:  How does the distance and cross-sectional area of transmission lines affect power loss in an electrical grid?

Topic:  The potential of superconductors in power transmission.

Research Question:  What are the challenges and potential benefits of using superconductors for power transmission?

Topic:  The impact of load balancing on power grid stability.

Research Question:  How does load balancing affect the stability and efficiency of a power grid?

These topics and research questions are designed to inspire a range of investigations for the Physics Extended Essay, allowing students to delve into both experimental and theoretical aspects of physics.

And speaking of practical, fluid dynamics is all about understanding how liquids and gases move. It’s like figuring out why blowing over a hot soup cools it down or how an airplane stays up in the sky.

Fluid Dynamics Topics and Research Questions

Aerodynamics

Topic:  The effect of airfoil shape on lift generation.

Research Question:  How does altering the curvature and angle of an airfoil affect its lift and drag forces?

Topic:  Application of Bernoulli’s principle to various wing designs.

Research Question:  How do different wing designs in aircraft utilize Bernoulli’s principle to achieve lift?

Topic:  Drag force comparison on streamlined vs. bluff bodies.

Research Question:  How does the shape of an object affect the drag force experienced at different flow velocities?

Hydrodynamics

Topic:  The relationship between flow rate and pipe diameter in fluid dynamics.

Research Question:  How does changing the diameter of a pipe affect the flow rate of a fluid within it, given a constant pressure difference?

Topic:  Viscosity effects on fluid flow in channels.

Research Question:  How does the viscosity of a fluid influence its flow characteristics in narrow channels?

Topic:  Analysis of Reynolds number in predicting fluid flow regimes.

Research Question:  How does the Reynolds number determine the transition from laminar to turbulent flow in a pipe?

Buoyancy and Density

Topic:  Investigating Archimedes’ principle for irregularly shaped objects.

Research Question:  How accurately does Archimedes’ principle predict the buoyant force on objects with complex shapes?

Topic:  The stability of floating bodies and the concept of metacentric height.

Research Question:  How does the distribution of mass affect the stability of a floating vessel?

Topic:  Density stratification in fluids and its impact on layered flow.

Research Question:  How does density stratification affect the movement and mixing of different fluid layers?

From there, it’s a big leap to astrophysics and cosmology—literally. You go from studying the flow of air around a plane to the flow of galaxies in space. It’s about seeing the bigger picture and our place in it.

If you need Physics paper writing help , we have a separate team of experts who can handle almost any tasks.

Astrophysics and Cosmology Topics and Research Questions

Stellar Physics

Topic:  Analyzing the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram for star clusters.

Research Question:  What can the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram reveal about the age and composition of a star cluster?

Topic:  Classification and analysis of star spectra.

Research Question:  How does the classification of stellar spectra correlate with a star’s temperature, luminosity, and lifecycle stage?

Topic:  Investigating blackbody radiation in stars.

Research Question:  How well does the blackbody radiation model fit the observed spectral energy distribution of stars?

Cosmological Models

Topic:  Evidence for the Big Bang theory from cosmic microwave background radiation.

Research Question:  What does the cosmic microwave background radiation tell us about the origins and evolution of the universe?

Topic:  The role of dark matter in galaxy formation and rotation.

Research Question:  How does the presence of dark matter influence the rotational speeds of galaxies?

Topic:  Verifying Kepler’s laws through observation of planetary motion.

Research Question:  How accurately do Kepler’s laws describe the motion of bodies in the solar system?

Orbital Mechanics

Topic:  The energy requirements for satellite launch and achieving escape velocity.

Research Question:  What are the energy considerations and optimal conditions for a satellite to achieve escape velocity from Earth?

Topic:  The effects of orbital perturbations on satellite stability.

Research Question:  How do factors such as atmospheric drag and gravitational influences affect the stability of satellite orbits?

Topic:  Analysis of gravitational slingshot maneuvers in space missions.

Research Question:  How can gravitational assist maneuvers be optimized to increase spacecraft velocity?

But even with our heads in the stars, we can’t forget about light. Optics brings it back down to earth, showing us how light works, whether it’s bending through a lens or bouncing off a mirror.

Optics and Light Topics and Research Questions

Reflection and Refraction

Topic:  The efficiency of optical fibers in transmitting light.

Research Question:  How do imperfections in optical fibers affect the total internal reflection and efficiency of light transmission?

Topic:  Investigating Snell’s law at various interfaces.

Research Question:  How accurately does Snell’s law predict the angle of refraction for different transparent materials?

Topic:  The critical angle for total internal reflection in various media.

Research Question:  How does the critical angle for total internal reflection change with the refractive index of different materials?

Lens and Mirror Optics

Topic:  The formation of images by converging lenses under various conditions.

Research Question:  How does the focal length of a lens affect the properties of the image it forms?

Topic:  The magnification power of compound microscope systems.

Research Question:  How do the focal lengths of the objective and eyepiece lenses in a microscope affect its overall magnification?

Topic:  The aberrations in images formed by lenses and mirrors.

Research Question:  What types of optical aberrations are most prevalent in simple lens systems, and how can they be minimized?

Interference and Diffraction

Topic:  The double-slit experiment and wave-particle duality.

Research Question:  How does the double-slit experiment provide evidence for the wave-particle duality of light?

Topic:  Measuring the wavelength of light using diffraction gratings.

Research Question:  How can diffraction gratings be used to accurately measure the wavelength of light?

Topic:  The application of holography in image storage and retrieval.

Research Question:  How does holography utilize the principles of interference and diffraction to store and reconstruct images?

And light’s just one piece of the whole world of Physics. Electromagnetic waves are everywhere, from the microwave that heats your lunch to the X-rays at the dentist. It’s all part of the same big family that keeps our world connected and our lives running.

Electromagnetic Waves Topics and Research Questions

Radio and Microwave Radiation

Topic:  The design and optimization of antennas for radio communication.

Research Question:  How does the geometry of an antenna affect its radiation pattern and signal reception?

Topic:  Signal propagation in different atmospheric conditions.

Research Question:  How do atmospheric conditions affect the propagation of radio and microwave signals?

Topic:  The effectiveness of microwave radiation in communication systems.

Research Question:  What are the advantages and limitations of using microwave radiation in satellite communications?

Infrared and Ultraviolet Light

Topic:  Thermal imaging and the emissivity of different materials.

Research Question:  How does the emissivity of a material affect its detection in thermal imaging?

Topic:  The effects of UV radiation on various substances.

Research Question:  How does exposure to ultraviolet light affect the chemical structure and properties of different materials?

Topic:  Spectroscopy and the identification of chemical compounds.

Research Question:  How can infrared and ultraviolet spectroscopy be used to identify and analyze different chemical compounds?

X-rays and Gamma Rays

Topic:  The application of X-ray imaging in medical diagnostics.

Research Question:  How do different tissues and materials affect the absorption and transmission of X-rays in medical imaging?

Topic:  Radiation therapy and the optimization of gamma ray dosage.

Research Question:  How can the dosage and targeting of gamma rays in radiation therapy be optimized for cancer treatment?

Topic:  Nuclear gamma spectroscopy and nuclear structure.

Research Question:  What can gamma-ray spectra reveal about the structure and energy states of atomic nuclei?

These topics and research questions are designed to guide students in their exploration of advanced concepts in physics, providing a foundation for a thorough and insightful Extended Essay.

Creating an engaging and contemporary Physics Extended Essay can be particularly rewarding when the topic is relevant to modern situations and challenges. 

Fresh Breath Ideas for Physics IB EE in 2023/2024

Here are 12 topics that connect to current events or recent advancements in technology, along with a brief explanation of their relevance:

The Physics of Electric Vehicles

Investigate the efficiency of regenerative braking systems in electric cars and how they contribute to the overall energy efficiency of the vehicle.

Renewable Energy Harvesting

Analyze the potential of piezoelectric materials in converting mechanical stress from human activities into electrical energy, contributing to sustainable power generation.

Smartphone Sensors

Explore the use of gyroscopes and accelerometers in smartphones for navigation and gaming, and how these sensors rely on principles of mechanics and material science.

Wireless Charging Technologies

Examine the electromagnetic principles behind wireless charging pads and the efficiency of energy transfer at various distances and alignments.

Solar Panel Coatings

Research the effectiveness of anti-reflective coatings on solar panels and their role in enhancing the absorption of light and overall energy conversion efficiency.

Aerodynamics of Drones

Study the impact of drone design on flight stability and energy consumption, which is critical for extending their use in delivery systems and aerial photography.

Physics in Sports Equipment

Investigate the materials and design features that contribute to the performance and safety of modern sports helmets, from bicycles to football.

Thermal Imaging and Disease Detection

Explore the use of thermal imaging in detecting fevers and its potential application in managing pandemics by early identification of symptomatic individuals.

Nanomaterials in Electronics

Analyze the electrical conductivity and properties of graphene and other nanomaterials that are revolutionizing the electronics industry.

Physics of Modern Building Design

Investigate how principles of thermodynamics are applied in the design of eco-friendly and energy-efficient buildings.

Quantum Computing

Study the basic principles of quantum computing and the challenges in maintaining quantum coherence in qubits, which are the fundamental building blocks of quantum computers.

SpaceX and Reusable Rockets

Research the physics behind the reusability of rockets, focusing on the landing mechanisms employed by companies like SpaceX and how they conserve momentum and energy.

Each of these topics is not only grounded in physics principles but also has a wealth of information available due to their current relevance and the ongoing research in these areas. 

They offer a chance to combine theoretical physics with practical application in the modern world, which can be particularly engaging for an Extended Essay.

Need a Hand with Your Physics IB EE?

Hey there, IB students! If you’re stuck on coming up with a topic or diving into writing your Physics IB Extended Essay, don’t sweat it. Our team of IB experts at Writing Metier is here to help you write a custom IB EE on this exciting subject . 

Whether you need a spark of inspiration for your topic or you want a custom-written EE following the word count , rubric and criteria that hits all the right notes, we’ve got your back. 

Reach out to us at Writing Metier extended essay writing service and have a rest while experts are working on your task.

So, that’s the rundown. Physics isn’t just about equations and lab coats; it’s the stuff all around us, from the smallest particles to the vastness of space. It’s about getting to the heart of how things work, from the every day to the extraordinary. 

And the more you learn, the more you see how everything’s linked together in one big, amazing picture.

Free topic suggestions

Vasy kafidoff.

Vasyl Kafidoff is a co-founder and CEO at WritingMetier. He is interested in education and how modern technology makes it more accessible. He wants to bring awareness about new learning possibilities as an educational specialist. When Vasy is not working, he’s found behind a drum kit.

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• IB Physics: SL & HL Complete Syllabus & Assessment Guide

International Baccalaureate (IB) Physics offers students a comprehensive exploration of fundamental physics concepts, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to understand the physical world around us. At Ignite Training Institute , we understand the challenges students face in mastering IB Physics , which is why we offer specialized tutoring support tailored to their needs. 

Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of IB Physics and discover how Ignite Training Institute can help you succeed in your IB Physics journey.

Table of Contents

What Is IB DP Physics?

Key features of the ib dp physics curriculum, ib physics sl – standard level syllabus outline, ib physics hl – higher level syllabus outline, assessment model of ib physics sl & hl, how should students prepare for ib physics exams , ignite training institute – ib physics tutoring support.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) Physics offers a demanding curriculum aimed at fostering a profound comprehension of fundamental principles, concepts, and theories in physics for students. Tailored for students aged 16 to 19, the course aims to develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills through inquiry-based learning approaches. 

IB DP Physics covers a wide range of topics including mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity and magnetism, atomic and nuclear physics, as well as optional topics such as optics, quantum physics, astrophysics, and relativity.

What distinguishes IB DP Physics is its emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and experimental investigations. Students engage in hands-on laboratory work, data analysis, and scientific inquiry to develop their investigative skills and deepen their understanding of the scientific method. Additionally, the course encourages interdisciplinary connections, allowing students to explore how physics concepts relate to other scientific disciplines and real-world applications. 

IB DP Physics prepares students for higher education in physics-related fields and fosters an appreciation for the role of physics in addressing global challenges and shaping our understanding of the universe.

Related: 10 IB Learner Profile Attributes Shaping Your Future

The IB DP Physics curriculum is characterized by several key features aimed at providing students with a comprehensive understanding of physics principles and fostering their analytical and investigative skills. Available at standard (SL) and higher levels (HL), the course ensures flexibility and depth of study to suit students’ academic aspirations and interests.

• SL & HL Levels: Available at standard (SL) and higher levels (HL), offering flexibility and depth in study hours—150 for SL and 240 for HL.
• Assessment: Students are assessed both externally and internally, with a common core syllabus and internal assessment (IA) scheme for both SL and HL.
• Depth Of Study: HL students delve deeper into certain topics, study additional content, and engage with more challenging extension material, reflecting a broader and more in-depth curriculum.
• Practical Approach: Emphasizes hands-on experimentation and investigation through a mix of short-term and long-term experiments, including the interdisciplinary group 4 project.
• Internal Assessment: Accounts for 20% of the final assessment, conducted through a single individual investigation. This may involve hands-on experimentation, data analysis, modeling, or simulation, and is internally assessed by teachers and externally moderated by the IB.

Related: Leading IB Tutors In Dubai For MYP & IBDP: Know Everything

The IB Physics Standard Level (SL) syllabus provides students with a comprehensive understanding of fundamental physics principles while offering a balanced curriculum that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Here’s an outline of the SL syllabus components and recommended teaching hours:

Core Components:

• Measurements and Uncertainties: Understanding of measurement techniques and the assessment of uncertainties. (Recommended teaching hours: 5)
• Mechanics: Study of motion, forces, and energy in mechanical systems. (Recommended teaching hours: 22)
• Thermal Physics: Exploration of thermal concepts, including temperature, heat transfer, and thermodynamics. (Recommended teaching hours: 11)
• Waves: Examination of wave properties and behaviors. (Recommended teaching hours: 15)
• Electricity and Magnetism: Study of electric and magnetic fields, circuits, and electromagnetic induction. (Recommended teaching hours: 15)
• Circular Motion and Gravitation: Analysis of circular motion and gravitational forces. (Recommended teaching hours: 5)
• Atomic, Nuclear, and Particle Physics: Exploration of atomic structure, radioactivity, and particle interactions. (Recommended teaching hours: 14)
• Energy Production: Understanding of energy sources, transformations, and applications. (Recommended teaching hours: 8)

Option Component (Choice Of One):

• Engineering Physics
• Astrophysics

(Recommended teaching hours: 15 for each option)

Practical Scheme Of Work:

• Prescribed and Other Practical Activities: Hands-on experimentation and laboratory work to reinforce theoretical concepts. (Recommended teaching hours: 40)
• Individual Investigation (Internally Assessed): In-depth investigation allowing students to demonstrate their understanding and analytical skills. (Recommended teaching hours: 20)
• Group 4 Project: Interdisciplinary collaborative project integrating physics with other sciences. (Recommended teaching hours: 10)

This structured syllabus outline ensures that students cover a broad range of topics in physics while also engaging in practical activities and independent research, preparing them for further studies in physics or related fields.

Related: Top Colleges That Accept IB Diploma In The USA, UK, & UAE

The IB Physics Standard Level (SL) curriculum offers a comprehensive journey through fundamental concepts in physics, carefully structured to provide students with a solid understanding of the subject. Here’s an overview of the syllabus components along with their recommended teaching hours:

• Measurements and Uncertainties: Delving into measurement techniques and the evaluation of uncertainties, this section lays the groundwork for precise scientific inquiry. (Recommended teaching hours: 5)
• Mechanics: Explores the dynamics of motion, the principles of forces, and the conservation of energy and momentum, providing essential insights into the behavior of physical systems. (Recommended teaching hours: 22)
• Thermal Physics: Investigates temperature, heat transfer mechanisms, and thermodynamic principles, offering a deeper understanding of energy transfer and transformation in various systems. (Recommended teaching hours: 11)
• Waves: Examines wave phenomena, including the properties and behaviors of waves, such as reflection, refraction, and interference, essential for understanding diverse natural and technological phenomena. (Recommended teaching hours: 15)
• Electricity and Magnetism: Delves into electric and magnetic fields, circuits, and electromagnetic induction, providing insights into the fundamental forces governing electrical and magnetic interactions. (Recommended teaching hours: 15)
• Circular Motion and Gravitation: Explores circular motion dynamics and gravitational forces, shedding light on celestial mechanics and planetary motion. (Recommended teaching hours: 5)
• Atomic, Nuclear, and Particle Physics: Investigates atomic structure, radioactivity, and the behavior of subatomic particles, revealing the fundamental constituents of matter and the forces governing their interactions. (Recommended teaching hours: 14)
• Energy Production: Focuses on energy sources, transformations, and applications, addressing the role of energy in various natural and technological processes. (Recommended teaching hours: 8)

Additional Higher Level Components:

• Wave Phenomena: Further explores wave behavior and phenomena, including advanced topics such as wave interference and diffraction. (Recommended teaching hours: 17)
• Fields: Studies the concept of fields and their role in describing interactions, including gravitational and electric fields. (Recommended teaching hours: 11)
• Electromagnetic Induction: Examines the principles of electromagnetic induction and its applications, providing insights into generating electrical energy. (Recommended teaching hours: 16)
• Quantum and Nuclear Physics: Explores the quantum nature of matter and radiation, as well as nuclear processes and their applications. (Recommended teaching hours: 16)

(Recommended teaching hours: 25 for each option)

• Prescribed and Other Practical Activities: Hands-on experimentation and laboratory work to reinforce theoretical concepts. (Recommended teaching hours: 60)
• Individual Investigation (Internally Assessed): In-depth investigation allowing students to demonstrate their understanding and analytical skills. (Recommended teaching hours: 40)
• Group 4 Project: Collaborative project integrating physics with other sciences. (Recommended teaching hours: 10)

By navigating through these core and additional components, students gain a comprehensive understanding of physics principles while honing their analytical and investigative skills, preparing them for further academic pursuits or applications in various scientific and technological fields.

Related: 30 Engaging IB CAS Ideas For IB Diploma Students

The assessment model for IB Physics at both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) incorporates a combination of external and internal assessments, allowing students to demonstrate their understanding of the subject through various formats.

Assessment Model Of IB Physics SL:

External Assessment:

• Paper 1: Consists of 30 multiple-choice questions, assessing students’ knowledge and understanding across the syllabus. (Weighting: 20%, Time: 0.75 hours)
• Paper 2: Includes short answer and extended response questions covering core topics. (Weighting: 40%, Time: 1.25 hours)
• Paper 3: Comprises data- and practical-based questions along with short answer and extended response questions related to the chosen option. (Weighting: 20%, Time: 1 hour)

Internal Assessment:

Individual Investigation: Requires students to conduct an investigation and produce a write-up of 6 to 12 pages. This assessment allows students to apply their investigative skills and explore a physics topic of their choice. (Weighting: 20%, Time: 10 hours)

Assessment Model Of IB Physics HL:

• Paper 1: Includes 40 multiple-choice questions covering a broad range of topics. (Weighting: 20%, Time: 1 hour)
• Paper 2: Consists of short answer and extended response questions, covering both core and higher level topics. (Weighting: 36%, Time: 2.25 hours)
• Paper 3: Comprises data- and practical-based questions along with short answer and extended response questions related to the chosen option. (Weighting: 24%, Time: 1.25 hours)
• Individual Investigation: Similar to SL, students undertake an investigation and produce a write-up of 6 to 12 pages. This internal assessment allows students to delve deeper into a topic of interest and demonstrate their research and analytical skills. (Weighting: 20%, Time: 10 hours)

Overall, the assessment model for both SL and HL ensures that students are assessed on their knowledge, understanding, and practical skills in physics, providing a comprehensive evaluation of their abilities in the subject.

Related: Step-By-Step Guide On IB Extended Essay With 10 Tips

Preparing for IB Physics exams requires a strategic approach that combines a thorough understanding of concepts, effective study techniques, and disciplined revision methods. Here are five pointers to help students prepare effectively:

• Understand the Syllabus and Assessment Structure: Familiarize yourself with the IB Physics syllabus and exam format, including the weighting of each component. Understand the breakdown of topics and the types of questions that may be asked in each paper. This will help you prioritize your study efforts and allocate time accordingly to areas of greater importance.
• Master Conceptual Understanding: Focus on developing a deep conceptual understanding of physics principles rather than rote memorization. Practice applying theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios and problem-solving exercises. Use resources such as textbooks, past exam papers, and online tutorials to reinforce your understanding of key topics.
• Practice Regularly: Practice is crucial for exam success. Regularly attempt practice questions and past papers to familiarize yourself with the exam format and improve your problem-solving skills. Focus on managing your time efficiently during practice sessions to accurately replicate exam conditions. Review your answers critically to identify areas for improvement and revise accordingly.
• Utilize Resources Effectively: Make use of a variety of resources to support your preparation, including textbooks, study guides, online resources, and peer discussions. Join study groups or online forums to exchange ideas, clarify doubts, and benefit from collective learning. Seek guidance from your teachers or tutors whenever you encounter challenges or need clarification on complex topics.
• Develop Effective Revision Strategies: Prioritize topics based on your strengths and weaknesses, allocating more time to areas requiring further revision. Create concise notes, mind maps, or flashcards to condense key information and aid memory retention. Use active recall techniques, such as self-quizzing, to reinforce learning. Plan your revision schedule well in advance of the exam date, allowing time for thorough review and consolidation of knowledge.

Related: The IB CAS Program: A Unique Approach to Learning

Ignite Training Institute provides tailored IB Physics tutoring to aid students in excelling in their International Baccalaureate (IB) Physics studies with specialized support. Our dedicated team of experienced tutors is committed to providing personalized guidance and assistance tailored to the individual needs of each student. 

Whether students require reinforcement of fundamental concepts, assistance with problem-solving skills, or preparation for IB Physics exams, our tutors are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to facilitate their learning journey. Through engaging teaching methods, interactive sessions, and targeted practice, we aim to instill confidence and foster a deep understanding of physics principles, empowering students to achieve academic success and realize their full potential in IB Physics. 

With Ignite Training Institute’s IB Physics tutoring support, students can overcome challenges, build a strong foundation in the subject, and thrive in their IB Physics coursework.

1. What Is IB In Physics?

IB in Physics refers to the International Baccalaureate (IB) program’s physics curriculum, which offers a comprehensive study of fundamental physics concepts and principles at either Standard Level (SL) or Higher Level (HL), preparing students for higher education and fostering critical thinking and analytical skills.

2. Is Physics IB Hard?

Physics in the IB program can be challenging due to its depth of content and the emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical applications, but with dedication and effective study strategies, students can succeed.

3. Is IB Physics Harder Than AP?

Comparatively, IB Physics tends to be more rigorous and comprehensive in its approach, covering a wider range of topics and requiring a deeper understanding of concepts, while AP Physics courses may offer more flexibility in topic selection and focus on specific areas in greater depth.

4. Is IB Physics Harder Than CBSE Physics?

IB Physics is typically more challenging than CBSE Physics due to its emphasis on critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and a broader range of topics covered, while CBSE Physics tends to focus more on rote memorization and traditional examination formats.

In conclusion, IB Physics offers students an enriching and challenging academic experience that not only deepens their understanding of the natural world but also fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical abilities crucial for achievement in advanced education and beyond.

Throughout this blog, we’ve explored the diverse topics and rigorous curriculum of IB Physics, as well as the importance of seeking support and guidance, such as the specialized tutoring services offered by Ignite Training Institute. 

As you continue your journey in IB Physics, remember that perseverance, dedication, and effective study strategies are key to overcoming challenges and achieving your academic goals. Embrace the excitement of discovery, and let your passion for physics propel you towards excellence.

Ignite Training Institute

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IB TOK Essay Rubric. Grading Criteria

As someone deeply immersed in the IB curriculum, I’ve encountered difficulty writing Theory of Knowledge (TOK) essays more times than I can count. Today, I’m here to tell you about the IB TOK essay rubric and grading criteria, offering insights I’ve gathered over the years. Trust me, understanding these elements can transform your TOK essay from good to exceptional.

What Is IB Theory of Knowledge Essay?

The International Baccalaureate TOK essay is a critical element of the IB Diploma Programme that pushes students to ponder the nature and acquisition of knowledge. This task requires students to examine and articulate their understanding of how we come to know what we claim to know, engaging them in a deep reflection on knowledge itself, its sources, and its application in various contexts.

This essay is a philosophical research that encourages critical thinking and analysis across different areas of knowledge, including ethics, science, mathematics, and the arts. At the heart of the IB TOK essay are several key components that students must know:

• The essay prompts students to reflect on the nature of knowledge and how we come to know what we claim to know. It is an exercise in critical thinking and philosophy, where students examine the bases of knowledge and how it intersects with the world around them.
• Students choose from a list of prescribed titles the IB organization releases annually. These titles prompt discussions on various topics in knowledge, ethics, science, mathematics, human sciences, and more.
• There is a maximum TOK essay word count of 1,600 words. This strict limit requires students to articulate their thoughts clearly and concisely.
• The essay is assessed using criteria that evaluate students’ ability to identify and research knowledge issues, contrast TOK key concepts , demonstrate critical thinking, and organize their ideas coherently.
• Students are encouraged to start early, select a topic that interests them, and engage in extensive research and critical thinking. Collaboration with TOK teachers for guidance and feedback throughout the writing process is also crucial.
• Through the TOK essay, students develop skills in critical thinking, analysis, synthesis of information from various disciplines, and the ability to argue coherently and persuasively.

The TOK essay and the TOK exhibition contribute up to three points towards the total score of the IB Diploma. The performance in TOK is combined with the Extended Essay (EE) to determine the number of additional points awarded.

IB Theory of Knowledge Essay Rubric

As an IB writer and mentor, I’ve seen these guidelines as a checklist and a map for writing insightful, coherent works in the IB Theory of Knowledge . My goal here is to explain these criteria.

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Addressing the Knowledge Question (0-2 points)

A central component of the TOK essay is its focus on a knowledge question directly related to the chosen title. This question must be explicitly identified early in the essay as a foundation for your analysis and arguments. The clarity with which you state this question and the extent to which it informs the development of your essay is crucial for scoring in this category.

Grasping Knowledge Issues (0-2 points)

Your essay must profoundly comprehend the knowledge issues connected to your central knowledge question. It includes recognizing the diverse methods through which knowledge is obtained and acknowledging the potential limitations and biases influencing our perception of the world. A high score in this area reflects your ability to dig into these complexities and present them thoughtfully within your essay.

Critical Analysis and Evaluation (0-2 points)

A critical dissection and assessment of the knowledge question are imperative in your TOK essay. It involves using relevant examples and evidence to bolster your arguments alongside a meticulous examination of the various approaches to knowledge, highlighting their strengths and pitfalls. Additionally, it includes appraising the comparative worth of these different approaches and showcasing your ability to engage with the question at hand critically.

Incorporating AOKs and WOKs (0-2 points)

our essay must showcase an adept understanding of the multifaceted nature in which knowledge is acquired, highlighting the roles of empirical evidence, logical deduction, and personal experiences. Equally important is demonstrating a thorough grasp of the various Ways of Knowing (WOKs) — including reason, emotion, perception, and language — and articulating how these intersect and interact with the central knowledge question. A high score in this criterion indicates a comprehensive integration and consideration of AOKs and WOKs in your analysis.

Demonstrating Personal Engagement (0-2 points)

Your TOK essay should vividly reflect your connection and engagement with the knowledge question. It should show your awareness of how the arguments presented resonate with your experiences and perceptions and their broader implications for the world you inhabit. Achieving high marks in this area means successfully conveying how researching the knowledge question has influenced your understanding and perspective, integrating personal insight with academic analysis.

Coherence and Structure (0-2 points)

A well-written TOK essay is characterized by its organization and clarity, featuring a distinct introduction, body, and conclusion. The arrangement should be logical and enhance the essay’s central argument, ensuring a seamless flow of ideas from start to finish. High scores in this domain are awarded to essays demonstrating meticulous planning and an ability to guide the reader.

Clarity in Presentation (0-2 points)

Your TOK essay should be articulated clearly, concisely, and well-structured, paying close attention to the accuracy of grammar, spelling, and punctuation. It is also essential to adhere to the proper referencing and citation style throughout the document. Essays that score well in this category prioritize readability and scholarly integrity, making it easy for the reader to follow and appreciate the depth of the analysis. So, follow the IB TOK essay structure in detail.

Innovative Approach and Creativity (0-2 points)

Your TOK essay should exhibit originality and inventiveness in addressing the knowledge question and selecting examples and evidence to bolster your arguments. High-scoring essays in this category are characterized by their creative insights and the ability to think outside the box, demonstrating a proactive approach to elucidating the knowledge question.

IB TOK Essay Grading Criteria Explained

The grading criteria for the TOK essay follow a holistic approach, considering all aspects of the rubric. Essays are marked on a scale, with each level reflecting a range of performance in the criteria mentioned above. Here are some insights:

• Excellent Performance . Essays in this category exhibit a deep understanding of knowledge issues, sophisticated analysis, and clear, coherent organization. They effectively incorporate multiple perspectives and are enriched with well-integrated examples.
• Good Performance . These essays demonstrate a good understanding and analysis of knowledge issues, though they may lack the depth or coherence of the top-tier essays. The organization is solid, and examples are used effectively, though perhaps with less sophistication.
• Satisfactory Performance . Here, essays adequately understand the knowledge issues but may struggle with in-depth analysis or coherent organization. Using examples and considering different perspectives is present but not fully developed.
• Basic Performance . Essays in this range have a basic grasp of the knowledge issues but significant weaknesses in analysis, organization, and examples. They may overlook essential perspectives or implications.

From my experience, the key to excelling under these grading criteria lies in understanding what each criterion asks for and integrating these elements into a cohesive, compelling narrative. Crafting your essay with an awareness of these grading nuances can elevate your work from satisfactory to exceptional.

Passing Grade for the Theory of Knowledge Essay

The TOK essay and the TOK presentation form part of the core of the IB Diploma Programme, and students must pass both components to receive their diploma. The TOK essay and presentation are graded on a letter scale of A (excellent) to E (elementary), with D considered a passing grade. However, it’s important to remember that the final TOK grade is combined with the Extended Essay grade, which can significantly impact your overall diploma points.

You generally need to avoid receiving an E grade to pass the TOK component. The combined points for TOK and the EE can contribute up to 3 bonus points towards your diploma, depending on their combined quality. Scores are determined by a matrix that the IB updates periodically, so aiming for the highest possible grades in TOK and EE is crucial to maximizing your diploma points.

Remember, the specific criteria for passing can vary slightly with changes to the IB curriculum and assessment guides, so it’s always a good idea to consult the latest materials or speak with your TOK teacher for the most current information.

In summary, passing the TOK essay requires a comprehensive understanding of the knowledge issues, a critical and reflective approach to the essay question, and a commitment to articulate your thoughts clearly and coherently.

So, mastering the IB TOK essay rubric and grading criteria is a worthwhile path. It’s not just about securing high marks; it’s about developing a nuanced understanding of knowledge. As you prepare to tackle your TOK essay, carry with you the insights and strategies shared.

So, start early, seek feedback, and let your understanding of the rubric infuse every paragraph of your essay. With the right approach, the TOK essay expands your horizons of learning. Good luck, and remember, our experts are always by your side and can help you with the TOK essay .

Valerie Green

Valerie Green is a dedicated educator who spends her time helping high school and college students succeed. She writes articles and guides for various online education projects, providing students with the tools they need to excel in their studies. Friendly and approachable, she is committed to making a difference in the lives of students.

This article provides essential insights and strategies for understanding the assessment process and helping you write essays that meet and exceed the rigorous standards of the IB curriculum. Whether you’re striving for clarity of argument, effective integration of knowledge, or personal engagement, our tips will help you achieve a higher score.

IB Internal Assessment Rubric and Grading Criteria

The IB IA rubric is carefully structured to assess students’ understanding, skills and application of subject matter in a nuanced and comprehensive manner. Each subject rubric, whether for sciences such as Biology and Chemistry, humanities such as History and Psychology, or Mathematics, emphasizes a unique set of criteria tailored to assess specific competencies and skills.

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When selecting a topic for your IB Music Internal Assessment, both SL and HL students face a unique set of challenges and opportunities. As a seasoned IB educator with years of experience guiding students through this process, I’ve come to recognize the importance of choosing a topic that aligns with the IB criteria and resonates with your musical interests and strengths.

Film IA Topics: SL and HL Topic Ideas

Choosing a topic for your IB Film Internal Assessment (IA) can be exciting and daunting. Whether you’re enrolled in the Standard Level (SL) or Higher Level (HL), the key is to select an option that not only intrigues you but also meets the criteria of the IB Film course. In this article, we dig into a variety of creative and thought-provoking ideas for both SL and HL Film IA topics.

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