Physics · IB SL
IB Physics SL — papers & markbands
Multiple choice (Paper 1), structured/extended response (Paper 2) and the data/option paper (Paper 3). Below are the papers you'll sit and how examiners award marks. Practise past papers, learn the markbands, then check your own answers for feedback.
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Physics SL chapters
19 topics · free- A.1Kinematics
- A.2Forces and momentum
- A.3Work, energy and power
- B.1Thermal energy transfers
- B.2Greenhouse effect
- B.3Gas laws
- B.5Current and circuits
- C.1Simple harmonic motion
- C.2Wave model
- C.3Wave phenomena
- C.4Standing waves and resonance
- C.5Doppler effect
- D.1Gravitational fields
- D.2Electric and magnetic fields
- D.3Motion in electromagnetic fields
- E.1Structure of the atom
- E.3Radioactive decay
- E.4Fission
- E.5Fusion and stars
Papers in Physics SL
- Paper 1SL
Practise this paper under timed conditions, then mark against the band descriptors.
- Paper 2SL
Drill the question style, then review the markbands to push into the top band.
- Paper 3SL
Drill the question style, then review the markbands to push into the top band.
How IB marking differs
Unlike point-based A-Level mark schemes, IB uses markbands — examiners place your answer in a level band against descriptors. Knowing the band wording is how you turn a 5 into a 7.
Check your work
Upload a photo of your answer and get structured, criteria-based feedback on where the marks are.
Get feedback →Frequently asked questions
- What papers are in IB Physics SL?
- IB Physics at SL is assessed by Paper 1, Paper 2, Paper 3, plus internal assessment. Multiple choice (Paper 1), structured/extended response (Paper 2) and the data/option paper (Paper 3).
- How is IB Physics marked?
- IB uses markbands and assessment criteria rather than point-based A-Level marking codes — examiners place your response in a level band against descriptors. Our guides show what separates the top band from the middle on each paper.
- Where can I find IB Physics SL past papers?
- Browse every recent Physics SL exam series on our IB Physics past-papers page, organised by session and paper, with mark-scheme guidance for each.
- Is there a free IB Physics course?
- Yes — MarkScheme has a free topic-by-topic IB Physics course with worked examples, flashcards, and criterion practice marking on every syllabus point.
Best free IB Physics resources
Hand-picked, fully legal and free — official IB papers plus the best teacher-made notes and solutions.