Master IB Physics SL & HL
with Canada's Leading Specialists

The 2025 IB Physics syllabus overhauled the structure. The old "Option Topics" (relativity, astrophysics, imaging, engineering) have been removed; instead the course is organised around five core themes: Space, Time & Motion; Particulate Nature of Matter; Wave Behaviour; Fields; and Nuclear & Quantum Physics.

No. Starting in 2025, Paper 3 has been scrapped. Instead, assessments are restructured: there is a combined Paper 1 (multiple-choice + data-based questions), and a Paper 2 (short-answer + extended response). Data-analysis skills are now integrated throughout the exams.

Both HL and SL cover the five core themes. HL includes additional higher-level content, requires stronger mathematics (vector calculus, advanced problem-solving) and deeper conceptual understanding. SL works with the core concepts at a slightly gentler depth. HL remains more rigorous.

While the syllabus doesn't mandate Math AA HL, strong mathematical skills definitely help. IB Physics HL demands algebra, trigonometry, sometimes calculus-level reasoning; weak math can make Physics questions much harder.

Because Physics doesn't just test facts — it tests application, mathematical reasoning, and problem-solving in novel contexts. Many students can memorize biology/chemistry content, but physics often requires you to apply core principles to unfamiliar situations.

Yes — especially with targeted support. Physics is a skills-based subject. If a student learns how to systematically draw free-body diagrams, handle vectors, structure answers, and avoid common mistakes, big jumps in grades are possible.

Some of the most frequent are: incorrect or imprecise definitions, misuse of units (e.g. mixing degrees/radians), poor handling of significant figures and uncertainties, misreading command words ("state" vs "explain"), and submitting physically impossible values.

Absolutely. Mechanics (motion, forces, energy) underpins many later topics: fields, waves, quantum physics, etc. Weakness here often causes difficulties down the road. Many tutors recommend mastering mechanics first before moving on.

It assesses understanding of definitions and concepts, mathematical and algebraic manipulation, data analysis and interpretation (graphs, tables, error/uncertainty), experimental design and evaluation (via IA), and problem-solving/applying physics to new contexts.

Very. Physics relies heavily on algebra, kinematics equations, vector mathematics, trigonometry, and sometimes calculus-level reasoning (especially HL). Weak math skills often lead to errors in calculations — even when the conceptual understanding is there.

The hardest questions tend to combine multiple concepts, demand precise mathematical reasoning, require data interpretation and uncertainty handling, or ask students to apply known physics ideas in novel contexts.

Yes — the revised Physics 2025 emphasizes experimental techniques, data collection and processing, uncertainty analysis, and scientific investigation as core skills. Practical work and experiments remain central.

Students undertake an individual investigation (though data-collection may be done in small groups). Each student must submit their own report (max 3000 words, excluding tables/graphs), with unique raw data. The IA is assessed on research design, data analysis, conclusion, and evaluation.

No. In fact, simple, well-controlled experiments often score best. The key is good design, clean data collection, correct data analysis (error bars, uncertainties), and strong evaluation/reflection — all of which tutors can guide you through.

Yes. A tutor familiar with the syllabus and marking criteria can help you choose a standard experiment — then suggest a "twist" (e.g. variable mass pendulum, changing fluid viscosity, varying material properties) that adds originality while staying within safe IA guidelines. Check out our guides on Science IA and crafting research questions.

Good reasons include: foundational gaps in math or core physics topics (like mechanics), repeated low or inconsistent grades despite studying hard, difficulty with data-analysis or graph-based questions, upcoming IA deadlines, or aiming for top grades/competitive university programs.

The tutor should be an IB-specialist — familiar with the 2025 syllabus and markscheme; comfortable with both conceptual and mathematical physics; able to guide IA work; experienced in exam strategy and common pitfalls.

A "homework-helper" may just help with specific textbook problems. An IB Physics Specialist tutor understands the exam style, markscheme expectations, common pitfalls, IA requirements, and can train a student in exam-friendly thinking, not just content.

Often: 1 session/week for maintenance, 1.5–2 sessions/week for serious improvement or exam prep. For students who are behind or aiming high (6–7), consistent, regular tutoring beats cramming.

Tutoring helps a lot — especially when the student struggles with reasoning, exam style, data-analysis, or IA design. A good tutor identifies gaps, helps build systematic thinking, provides practice under exam conditions, and guides lab/IA work.

Effective strategy includes: mastering definitions and command terms, building a clean formula/definitions sheet, practicing topic-by-topic questions, maintaining an error-log for mistakes, using past papers under timed conditions, and practicing data-analysis and problem-solving. See our tips for IB students for more strategies.

Yes — but smartly. Knowing precise definitions (vector, scalar, uncertainty, field, etc.) is important because many exam questions test them directly. But physics is more about using those definitions and applying formulas correctly than about reciting long lists.

Very important — much more than before. Data-based questions are now integrated in Paper 1B and Paper 2. Handling graphs, uncertainty, error bars, units, significant figures, and drawing reasonable conclusions are key skills for IB Physics 2025.

Many schools and tutors now accept simulations, especially if real lab equipment is not available. Simulations help visualise abstract topics (fields, quantum, waves) and allow repeated practice; they pair well with data-analysis tasks.

Focus on exam technique: time management, reading command words carefully, structuring answers step-by-step, showing full working, checking units, and valid reasoning. Learn how to ace the IB exam and manage exam anxiety. A tutor who understands IB assessment can help you retrain how you approach problems.

Yes. Physics HL develops strong mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, data-analysis skills and deeper conceptual understanding — all very useful for engineering, physics, or applied sciences. It also shows universities you can handle rigorous courses. Learn more about IB/AP and college admissions.

The new syllabus is more integrated; many topics link naturally (e.g. mechanics → fields → waves). With good time management, regular review, and perhaps tutoring help, it's possible to manage — but you'll need discipline and smart planning.

Many students begin to see better test or quiz marks within 4–6 weeks if they fix foundational gaps and adopt good exam habits. Larger gains (like 6 → 7) or consistent improvement typically take a full semester of regular practice and feedback.

Parents can help by ensuring the student: practices math fundamentals, reviews definitions regularly, does past-paper questions consistently, takes tutoring seriously, and balances workload. Also — encouraging their child to ask for help early if they struggle. Learn more about what the IB programme is and explore our free IB resources.

Yes — often more effective. Online sessions allow shared diagrams, digital whiteboards, instant access to past-papers and physics data booklets, screen-sharing simulations, and easy scheduling across time zones. For many students, online tutoring provides flexibility and access to top tutors not available locally.