Typical topics covered in IGCSE Physics include forces and motion, electricity, thermal physics, nuclear physics and astrophysics. The aim of the subject is to help students to develop an understanding of the technological world around them, including the methods of scientific discovery, the underlying theories behind scientific developments and the applications of physics. The rigorous syllabus helps students to develop scientific skills that are required to progress into A-Levels or IB physics. If your child wishes to study for a related degree at university level, such as engineering, it is particularly important that they do well in Physics at IGCSE level.
IGCSE Physics Exam Boards
Different schools may opt for different exam boards, which all have a slightly different assessment structure. For example, Edexcel, one of the most popular exam boards chosen by competitive schools, requires students to sit two written papers. Paper 1 is longer and has a heavier weighting of around 60% of the final grade, assessing students on the core content of the syllabus, while Paper 2 takes up around 40% of the final grade and assesses students on all the contents covered in the syllabus, including some of the more advanced sub-topics. Both papers have a combination of different question styles, from multiple choice to open response questions. If you find your child struggling to keep up with the syllabus, it may be in their interest to engage an IGCSE Physics tutor who can guide your child through the challenging syllabus to make sure they can perform their best in the exams.
Mathematical skill for IGCSE Physics
Physics is also the most demanding in terms of mathematical skills required out of all the three sciences. For example, students have to be able to understand and apply different physics formulae such as acceleration and velocity, momentum, refraction angles and energy relationships. It is also not uncommon for students to struggle with understanding and constructing electrical circuits with the conventional symbols. As such, it may be beneficial to engage an IGCSE Physics tutor to support your child throughout the course to ensure they are fully ready and prepared for the upcoming exams.
Our tutors here at Aegis Advisors have a proven track record of helping students excel in IGCSE Physics, helping them to identify areas of struggle and to assist them on the challenging course in preparing for the exams. Classes can take place at our centre or online. Private one-on-one, semi-private and group courses are available.
Contact us to see how we can help you.