phy

Question 1

What is the IB Physics HL Internal Assessment (IA)?

Answer 1

The IA is an individual investigation that counts for 20% of the final IB Physics grade.
Students design, conduct, and report on a scientific experiment related to physics.
The IA should reflect scientific thinking, analysis, and evaluation.

Question 2

What are the assessment criteria for the Physics HL IA?

Answer 2

The IA is marked out of 24 points using 4 criteria (6 marks each):

1. Design & Research Question
2. Data Collection & Analysis
3. Conclusion & Justification
4. Evaluation & Improvements

Each criterion contributes 25% to the IA score.

Question 3

What does Criterion A: Research & Design assess?

Answer 3

Clearly defined and focused research question.
Identification of variables (independent, dependent, and controlled).
Justification of methodology (why specific methods were chosen).
Consideration of safety, ethics, and environmental impact.
A well-planned methodology makes the experiment replicable.

Question 4

What does Criterion B: Data Collection & Analysis assess?

Answer 4

Accurate and systematic data collection.
Appropriate use of tables and graphs to display data.
Uncertainty analysis (error bars, percentage errors, significant figures).
Relevant mathematical processing of data (trend lines, equations).
Data should be presented clearly and scientifically.

Question 5

What does Criterion C: Conclusion & Justification assess?

Answer 5

Valid conclusions based on data.
Comparison with theoretical or published values.
Scientific explanations for trends and patterns.
Evaluation of reliability and limitations of findings.
Conclusions should be logical, well-reasoned, and supported by data.

Question 6

What does Criterion D: Evaluation & Improvements assess?

Answer 6

Discussion of limitations in methodology and data collection.
Impact of errors (random/systematic) and how they affect results.
Realistic improvements to enhance accuracy and reliability.
Suggestions for future investigations.
A strong evaluation shows critical thinking about the investigation.

Question 7

What is the recommended structure and word limit for the IA report?

Answer 7

A structured report should include:

1. Title
2. Candidate code
3. Introduction & Research Question
4. Methodology
5. Data Collection & Analysis
6. Conclusion
7. Evaluation
8. References

💡 Word Count: While there’s no strict limit, 1,500–2,500 words is recommended.

Question 8

Why is uncertainty and error analysis important in the IA?

Answer 8

Shows precision and accuracy of measurements.
Identifies random and systematic errors.
Uses error bars, uncertainty calculations, and percentage errors.
Helps justify improvements and reliability of conclusions.
Good uncertainty analysis = stronger scientific credibility.

Question 9

How does personal engagement impact the IA?

Answer 9

Choosing a topic of interest.
Showing initiative and independent thinking.
Demonstrating curiosity and problem-solving.
Making creative or original modifications to methodology.
Engagement isn’t a separate criterion but adds depth to the IA.

Question 10

What are some key tips for excelling in the IA?

Answer 10

✅ Choose a topic that interests you and allows for precise measurement.
✅ Ensure a clear, focused research question.
✅ Minimize systematic errors and consider multiple trials.
✅ Include detailed uncertainty calculations.
✅ Explain scientific concepts behind your results.
✅ Provide strong evaluation and realistic improvements.

💡 Start early and test your methodology before committing!