Which fields subtopics get assessed most in IB Physics Paper 1?

IB Physics First Assessment 2016, Topic 10, “Fields”, has two subtopics: Describing fields and fields at work. This post is part of a larger analysis. I wanted to figure out which topics were heavily assessed in IB Physics Paper 1 exams. I classified all of the questions from 1999 to 2023. In this post, I am particularly interested in “What is the frequency distribution of the questions with respect to subtopic in Topic 10, fields?” This information may help you with being strategic about planning your studies, especially for revision, especially if the exam is getting closer.

Frequency distribution of questions by fields subtopics for SL

Between 1999-2023

As shown in Figure 1, there seems to be about a 5% difference in emphasis between describing fields and fields at work subtopics. We can say they are equally assessed in Paper 1.

frequency_distribution_questions_IB_Physics_topic_10_Fields_HL_1999_2023

Figure 1

Between 2016-2023

As shown in Figure 2, the emphasis seems to have reversed between these years in favor of fields at work. Still, both subtopics can be said to be equally assessed.

frequency_distribution_questions_IB_Physics_topic_10_Fields_HL_2016_2023

Figure 2

Where to go from here?

You may want to check out the other related subtopics:

  1. Describing fields
  2. Fields at work

You can go for the broader analysis of the topics.

  1. Measurement and uncertainties
  2. Mechanics
  3. Thermal physics
  4. Waves
  5. Electricity and magnetism
  6. Circular motion and gravitation
  7. Atomic, nuclear and particle physics
  8. Energy production
  9. Wave phenomena
  10. Fields
  11. Electromagnetic induction
  12. Quantum and nuclear physics

Or check out the analysis for Distribution of Questions by Topic in IB Physics Paper 1

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