Real-world examples can significantly improve IB Design Technology exam answers, especially in extended responses. However, many students use examples incorrectly — either listing them without explanation or forcing them into answers where they do not belong. When used properly, examples strengthen application, support evaluation, and help access higher markbands.
The key is not which example you choose, but how you use it.
Why IB Examiners Value Real-World Examples
IB Design Technology is about applying theory to real design contexts. Examiners use examples to see whether students can:
- Apply concepts beyond memorised definitions
- Link theory to real products or systems
- Evaluate design decisions realistically
Examples act as evidence that your understanding goes beyond textbook language.
What Counts as a Real-World Example?
A real-world example can include:
- A familiar product (e.g. a chair, bottle, backpack)
- A system (e.g. adjustable furniture, modular storage)
- A design approach (e.g. flat-pack manufacturing)
You do not need brand names or complex case studies. Simple, well-explained examples often score higher than obscure ones.
Where Examples Are Most Effective
Extended Response Questions (Paper 2)
Examples are most valuable in:
- Analyse questions
- Evaluate questions
- Justification tasks
They help you demonstrate depth and support balanced judgement.
Application-Based Questions (Paper 1)
Examples can be used briefly to:
- Clarify an explanation
- Support a suggestion
- Show practical understanding
However, Paper 1 answers should remain concise.
How to Use Examples Properly (The Key Rule)
Never list an example without explaining it.
A weak example:
- “Office chairs are ergonomic.”
A strong example:
- “An adjustable office chair improves ergonomics by allowing users to alter seat height and backrest angle, reducing strain during prolonged sitting.”
Marks come from explanation and relevance, not the example itself.
Linking Examples to the Question
Every example must:
- Match the scenario
- Support the command term
- Link back to user needs or performance
Ask yourself:
- Does this example directly answer the question?
- Does it strengthen explanation or evaluation?
If not, leave it out.
Using Examples for Evaluation
Examples are especially powerful in evaluation questions.
Strong evaluation using examples:
- Explains benefits
- Acknowledges limitations
- Shows trade-offs
For example, you might explain how a sustainable material reduces environmental impact but increases cost or limits durability. This balance is what examiners reward.
Avoiding Brand Names and Over-Specificity
IB does not require brand knowledge.
Problems with brand-heavy answers:
- Risk of irrelevance
- Time wasted on description
- Reduced focus on theory
Generic examples keep answers flexible and applicable to many contexts.
Common Example-Related Mistakes
Students often lose marks by:
- Listing multiple examples with no explanation
- Using irrelevant examples
- Forcing examples into every answer
- Spending too much time describing products
One well-used example is far better than three weak ones.
How Many Examples Should You Use?
As a general rule:
- Paper 1: Often none or one brief example
- Paper 2: One or two well-developed examples
Quality always matters more than quantity.
Practising Example Use Effectively
To practise:
- Take one concept (e.g. ergonomics)
- Apply it to three everyday products
- Write short explanations linking feature → effect → user
This builds flexibility and confidence under exam conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need real-world examples for full marks?
Not always, but they often help access higher markbands, especially in evaluation and analysis questions.
Are hypothetical examples allowed?
Yes, as long as they are realistic and clearly explained.
Can bad examples lower marks?
Yes. Irrelevant or poorly explained examples can weaken answers and waste time.
Final Thoughts
Real-world examples are powerful tools in IB Design Technology exams when used selectively and strategically. They should clarify, support, and strengthen your argument — not distract from it.
RevisionDojo Tip
RevisionDojo is the best platform for IB Design Technology students who want guidance on using real-world examples effectively, practising application-based answers, and strengthening evaluation skills. With the right approach, examples become a reliable way to boost marks rather than a risky add-on.
