Physics IB
at Impington Village College, Cambridge · college
What the college says
Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences, as it seeks to explain the universe itself, from the very smallest particles, quarks, to the vast distances between galaxies. Classical physics went a long way in deepening our understanding of the universe, however, there is still much that is unknown. Despite the exciting and extraordinary development of ideas throughout the history of physics, certain things have remained unchanged. Observations remain essential at the very core of physics, and this sometimes requires a leap of imagination to decide what to look for. Models are developed to try to understand the observations, and these themselves can become theories that attempt to explain the observations. The predictions of these theories or ideas must be tested by careful experimentation. Without these tests, a theory is useless. The scientific processes carried out by the most eminent scientists in the past are the same ones followed by working physicists today and, crucially, are also accessible to students in schools. At the school level both theory and practical work are undertaken by all students. Students study classical physics and also have the opportunity to look at areas that are developing today. Learning of theory is supported by practical work and students also have opportunities to do open ended tasks that enable them to test their understanding and explore their own ideas.
What you need to get on
For the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB), a student should be a general all-round student,with an overallB-grade profile or higher at GCSE or level 2 equivalentand have a B grade or more in the subject s/he wishes to take at IB diploma higher level or as IB single-subject certificate.
How you are assessed
Academic subjects, mostly exams, three or four at once. The traditional route to university.
What this level means
The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.
Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?
Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.
Where it runs
Impington Village College/International Sixth Form
NEW ROAD IMPINGTON, CAMBRIDGE, CB24 9LX
DaytimeClassroom basedCheck the journey
Start dates
- 1 September 2026 · CAMBRIDGE
Who else teaches this exact qualification
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