Criterion D asks you to step back from the lab and show what physics does in the world: how it is applied, who gains and who bears the costs, and what the evidence says.
You explain the science behind a specific real-world solution or issue.
You weigh benefits and drawbacks for people, society, the economy or the environment.
Precise terms, units and symbols, used correctly and in context.
Every idea or figure from someone else is referenced with a recognised convention.
A little of the criterion is addressed. Ideas are basic, partly missing, or not linked to the task.
The main points are there but thin. Some explanations are correct; links to the task or evidence are incomplete.
Mostly accurate, well explained and consistently tied to the task, with only small gaps.
Detailed, precise and justified throughout, with ideas connected and applied to new situations or evidence.
A plain-language guide only. Your teacher marks against the official IB level descriptors.
Discuss the use of nuclear power to reduce carbon emissions.
Nuclear power makes electricity without carbon so it is good, but it is dangerous.
In a nuclear reactor, fission of uranium-235 releases thermal energy that boils water to drive turbines, so no carbon dioxide is released during generation (Source 1). This could cut emissions compared with coal, but it creates radioactive waste that stays hazardous for thousands of years, so storage becomes a long-term cost for future communities. On balance, nuclear power helps most as one part of a mix with renewables, provided waste storage is funded and regulated.
Criterion D is Reflecting on the impacts of science. It is marked out of 8 across 4 strands (D.i, D.ii, D.iii, D.iv). Criterion D asks you to step back from the lab and show what physics does in the world: how it is applied, who gains and who bears the costs, and what the evidence says.
Choose one specific application (wind turbines, X-rays, GPS) rather than physics in general. Explain the physics behind it first, then discuss the implications. Weigh at least two kinds of impact (social, economic, environmental, ethical) and reach a balanced judgement.
Generic statements such as technology is good and bad. Discussing the issue without explaining the science that makes it work. Using facts and figures with no source given.
Written by CritABCD for study and revision, in our own words. The official MYP Physics guide and assessment criteria are published by the International Baccalaureate. Official IB guide ↗