Overcoming Struggles in Physics: Seeking Advice

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a student's struggles with IB SL physics, expressing feelings of obligation and stress regarding the subject. Participants share their experiences and offer various suggestions on how to improve skills and find enjoyment in physics, touching on motivation, study strategies, and personal reflections on the subject.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a lack of enjoyment in physics, influenced by external expectations, and seeks advice on improving skills and finding enjoyment.
  • Another participant questions the specific reasons for the student's struggles, suggesting that understanding the root cause may help in addressing the issues.
  • A participant notes that many people experience difficulties in physics, highlighting the need for contemplation and practice.
  • One reply suggests that fear might lead to a dislike of the subject, encouraging the student to reflect on their struggles and willingness to address them.
  • A former IB physics student recommends utilizing past exam papers to familiarize oneself with the standardized nature of the questions, implying that this could aid in preparation.
  • Another participant echoes the advice about past papers and emphasizes the importance of remembering the goals and potential achievements in studying physics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of reflection and practice in overcoming struggles in physics, but there is no consensus on the best approach to finding motivation or enjoyment in the subject.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the influence of external expectations and personal motivations, but these factors remain subjective and unresolved in the discussion.

L²Cc
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I'm taking IB SL physics this year. I've already taken it last year, and I didn't enjoy it much. Due to IB guidelines, I'm somewhat obliged to finish off this year. Sadly, I have a physics exam to write at the end of this year, which is causing me incredible stress. I first considered pursuing an engineering career, but, after a lot of reflection this summer, I decided to reconsider my future major. To be honest with you, I chose physics last year under my dad's influence. Now, I am "stuck" with taking physics. Do you have any suggestions on how I can better my physics skills and handle this subject in a way that I could enjoy it...?

(Anyone who has had trouble with physics, please share you experience and let me know what career you pursued at the end).

Thank you very much!
 
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Whats the problem. Do you not like physics, is it too hard, boring, is there too much maths, or not enough maths so you don't understand why something happens?
Even if you don't do any more physics it's still a good basis for lots of other things.

Most people on this board probably enjoy physics - so we might not be the best people to ask!
 
Everybody has trouble at some point in physics. Take for instance relativity. Some of the ideas are off the chain. Physics, just like mathematics, takes contemplation and plenty of practice.
 
Fear can make you find reasons to dislike a subject, even if you really do enjoy it. I think before you make any decision you should reflect on why you are struggle. Once you ID your problem(s) then ask yourself, "am I willing to correct these problems or is it to much effort?" If it is the former, then go for physics if it is the latter, then it'll be for the best if you left.
 
As far as motivation goes, i can't help tou there, but as a former IB physics student id advice you to get your hands on as many Past papers as possible. youll notice that many of the questions are highly standardized and the IB tends to ask very similar questions year after year. Do a few papers and check the procedure they expect from you with a teacher and mark scheme and you should do just fine. Good luck
 
Dissonance in E said:
As far as motivation goes, i can't help tou there, but as a former IB physics student id advice you to get your hands on as many Past papers as possible. youll notice that many of the questions are highly standardized and the IB tends to ask very similar questions year after year. Do a few papers and check the procedure they expect from you with a teacher and mark scheme and you should do just fine. Good luck

Yup, i totally agree with him. sure you can take a few breaks in between but remember what you are doing and what you can achieve from it! GOOD LUCK!
 

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