INTRODUCTION This Exam Preparation Guide for IB Physics supports you through the whole course. It provides concise and straightforward coverage of the syllabus, alongside specially designed guidance to help you to apply your knowledge when you get into the exams. It is intended to be used alongside a Coursebook throughout the IB Physics course; in particular as you prepare to sit your exams at the end of course. In addition to the concise coverage of the full syllabus, the Exam Preparation Guide also includes annotated exemplar answers, model answers and hints as well as lots of questions to test your understanding and track your progress.
Preparing for the examination When preparing for the examination, make sure that you have seen as many past papers and mark schemes as possible. It is important that you use mark schemes as well, so that you can understand how the examiners will mark your paper. Past papers and mark schemes are not confidential information and should be made readily available to you by your school.
Sitting the examination During the examination itself, you must pay attention to the following points for each of the three papers. For a start, make sure you have a ruler with you! It is a vital tool and will make life easier for you.
Paper 1 It is very important to really read the question carefully! Some of the questions are tricky and play on the meaning of words. On many occasions most, if not all, of the four possible answers may be correct statements. However, you must choose the option that answers the question and not one that is merely a correct statement. When compressing a gas, the molecules collide more frequently with each other, but that does not explain why the pressure goes up. Do not spend too much time on any one question. Remember that these are supposed to be questions that you can answer quickly. Long algebraic or arithmetical calculations are unnecessary in this paper and if you cannot get the answer quickly, the chances are that you will not get it even if you spend a long time on the question. If you cannot choose the correct answer, see if you can eliminate those that are obviously wrong. Sometimes you can choose the correct answer just by checking the units of the answer. If you are looking for a force, your chosen answer must have units of force! Do not leave any blank answers. Guess if necessary!
Papers 2 and 3 Read the questions carefully and answer what is being asked. Perfect answers to questions that are not being asked do not gain you any points.
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