IB Global Politics Paper 1 tests a student’s ability to analyse unfamiliar sources and apply course concepts under time pressure. Unlike essay-based assessments, Paper 1 focuses on skills, not memorised case studies. High-scoring answers demonstrate careful reading, clear structure, and precise use of concepts.
The first step in answering Paper 1 questions is reading the sources carefully. Many students lose marks by rushing or relying on prior knowledge instead of the sources provided. Every answer must be grounded in the information, perspectives, and evidence within the sources. Even when you recognise a real-world issue, you must treat the sources as your primary evidence.
Understanding the command terms is essential. Paper 1 questions often ask you to identify, explain, compare, or evaluate. Each command term requires a different depth of response. For example, “identify” requires brief, accurate points, while “evaluate” requires weighing strengths and limitations. IB examiners assess whether your response matches the command term exactly.
Strong Paper 1 answers use course concepts explicitly. Concepts such as power, sovereignty, legitimacy, human rights, and development should be integrated naturally into responses. This shows conceptual understanding rather than simple description. However, concepts must be relevant to the question and supported by the sources, not added mechanically.
Structure is another key factor. Even short answers should be clearly organised, with one idea per paragraph or point. Begin with a direct response to the question, then support it with evidence from the sources. Clear structure helps examiners follow your reasoning and rewards precision.
For comparison questions, students should focus on both similarities and differences. A common mistake is describing one source fully and then the other. Instead, comparisons should be integrated, directly linking the sources. This shows analytical skill rather than parallel description.
Evaluation questions require balanced judgement. This means acknowledging limitations, bias, or uncertainty in the sources. Students should not assume sources are neutral. Evaluating reliability, perspective, and purpose demonstrates higher-level thinking, which is rewarded in Paper 1.
Time management is crucial. Paper 1 is fast-paced, and students must avoid spending too long on early questions. Practising under timed conditions helps develop efficiency and confidence.
For IB Global Politics students, success in Paper 1 comes from precision, relevance, and conceptual clarity. High-level answers stay focused on the question, use the sources effectively, and apply concepts accurately without unnecessary background knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you need outside knowledge for Paper 1?
No. Paper 1 is source-based. Using outside knowledge instead of the sources can reduce marks. IB examiners reward source-focused analysis.
How important are concepts in Paper 1?
Concepts are essential. They show understanding of the course framework. However, they must be relevant and supported by the sources.
What is the biggest mistake students make in Paper 1?
Not answering the command term properly. Another common mistake is summarising sources without analysis. Precision is key.
Should you quote the sources directly?
Direct quotes are not required. Paraphrasing is often better. What matters is accurate reference to source content.
How can you improve Paper 1 performance?
Practice analysing unfamiliar sources under timed conditions. Focus on structure, command terms, and concepts. Consistent practice leads to improvement.
