How to approach the IB Internal Assessment (IA) with less stress
The IA is marked by your teacher and moderated by the IB. A practical way to choose a topic, plan your time and avoid common mistakes.
Assignment guidanceIBMathematics5 min read
Most IB Diploma subjects include an Internal Assessment. It is coursework that counts towards your final grade, so a calm, organised approach pays off.
Choose a topic you can sustain
Pick a question that interests you and that you can actually investigate with the data or sources you can get. A narrow, well-defined question usually works better than a huge one.
Read the criteria first
Each subject publishes the marking criteria. Check your plan against them regularly, because they show exactly where marks are awarded.
Plan backwards from the deadline
- Set dates for the topic, the first draft and the final version.
- Leave time for feedback from your teacher.
- Do not leave the write-up until the last week.
Common mistakes
- A topic that is too broad.
- Describing instead of analysing and evaluating.
- Missing units, sources or references.
- Ignoring the word or page limit.
Use help in the right way
A tutor can help you think through the method, check your reasoning and explain the criteria. The work, the data and the writing must be your own.