Yes, if you're pursuing the IB diploma, you will need to complete an Internal Assessment (IA) for every subject you take. IAs are a core component of the IB curriculum, designed to evaluate your understanding, skills, and application of knowledge in each subject. Unlike final exams, which test your knowledge under timed conditions, IAs allow for more in-depth exploration and continuous assessment throughout the course. Each IA is tailored to the specific subject, focusing on different skills and areas of knowledge relevant to that discipline. They can range from scientific experiments and mathematical explorations to historical investigations and creative performances. The purpose of the IA is to develop critical thinking, research abilities, and subject-specific skills that are essential for both academic and professional success.
The IA’s contribution to your final grade is significant. For Standard Level (SL) courses, the IA typically counts for 20-30% of your overall score. This percentage is similar for Higher Level (HL) courses, although the complexity and expectations are greater. Given this substantial weight, performing well in your IA can greatly influence your final grade, potentially offsetting weaker exam performance and showcasing your strengths in a specific area. Now, let’s dive into how the IA differs across various subjects, including Chemistry, History, Business Management, Physics, Mathematics, and Drama.
Chemistry
In Chemistry, the IA typically involves conducting a scientific investigation. This can range from exploring reaction rates to studying the properties of chemical compounds. You will need to design and carry out an experiment, collect and analyze data, and draw conclusions based on your findings. The emphasis is on your ability to apply scientific methods and principles. The written report is usually around 6-12 pages, including sections like introduction, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
History
The History IA involves conducting an in-depth investigation into a historical topic of your choice. This could be an event, individual, or movement. You’ll need to formulate a research question, gather and analyze primary and secondary sources, and present a well-argued interpretation of the historical issue. The final report is generally about 2,200 words and includes an introduction, a body of analysis, and a conclusion.
Business Management
In Business Management, the IA requires you to investigate a real-world business issue or decision-making process within an organization. You’ll collect primary and secondary data, analyze the business issue using relevant business theories and tools, and provide recommendations based on your analysis. The report should be around 1,500 words, including sections like introduction, methodology, analysis, conclusion, and recommendations.
Physics
Similar to Chemistry, the Physics IA involves conducting a scientific investigation, but within the realm of physical phenomena. You will design and execute an experiment, gather and analyze quantitative data, and draw conclusions from your results. The focus is on applying physical principles and methods. The written report typically spans 6-12 pages, with sections such as introduction, methodology, data collection, analysis, and conclusion.
Mathematics
The Mathematics IA, also known as the Mathematical Exploration, involves investigating a mathematical topic or problem of interest. You’ll explore mathematical concepts, apply mathematical reasoning, and possibly connect your findings to real-world applications. Creativity and originality are encouraged. The exploration is usually 12-20 pages, including introduction, exploration of the topic, mathematical analysis, and conclusion.
Drama
In Drama, the IA often involves practical performance or production work, such as creating a piece of theatre or analyzing a performance. You might be required to write a director’s notebook, reflecting on your process, choices, and the execution of your project. This includes analysis, planning, and evaluation of your performance or production work. The written component typically spans 20 pages, including reflections, analyses, and supporting materials like sketches or scripts.
How RevisionDojo Can Help with Your IAs
Given the significant impact of IAs on your final grade, utilizing resources like RevisionDojo can be transformative. RevisionDojo is an invaluable resource for tackling your IAs across different subjects. It offers subject-specific guides that help you understand the unique requirements and criteria for each IA. Whether you’re working on a scientific investigation in Chemistry or a historical analysis in History, RevisionDojo provides step-by-step instructions to manage the IA process from start to finish, ensuring you cover all crucial elements.
High-scoring IA examples and templates available on RevisionDojo can serve as a model for your own work, illustrating what excellence looks like. The platform also offers feedback and peer review options, allowing you to submit your drafts for constructive criticism before final submission. This feedback can help you refine your work and address any weaknesses.
Time management tools provided by RevisionDojo help you stay organized and meet all deadlines without last-minute stress, ensuring thorough preparation. Practice exercises and polishing resources on the platform reinforce your learning and help you present a well-crafted, error-free IA.
By leveraging the comprehensive support from RevisionDojo, you can navigate the unique demands of each IA and achieve the best possible grades in your IB subjects. Dive into your IAs with confidence, knowing you have the tools to succeed!
