Introduction
Humanities subjects like History, Geography, and Psychology place heavy emphasis on argumentation in the Internal Assessment (IA). Unlike science or math IAs that rely on experiments and data, humanities IAs are judged on how well you build, support, and evaluate arguments. Weak or descriptive essays rarely score well, while strong, structured arguments show examiners that you can think critically and engage with evidence.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to develop strong arguments in a humanities IA, from crafting a focused research question to structuring evidence and evaluating perspectives. For models of high-scoring humanities IAs, you can study RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars.
Quick Start Checklist: Strong Arguments in a Humanities IA
- Start with a clear, focused research question
- Use reliable primary and secondary sources
- Structure arguments logically with clear topic sentences
- Support claims with evidence, not just opinion
- Acknowledge counterarguments and alternative perspectives
- Conclude with a reasoned, evidence-based judgment
Step 1: Begin With a Focused Research Question
Strong arguments grow from strong questions. A vague or broad question will only lead to weak analysis.
Examples:
- Weak: “How did propaganda affect World War II?”
- Strong: “To what extent did Nazi propaganda influence German civilian morale between 1939–1945?”
The second example forces argumentation and invites multiple perspectives.
Step 2: Build Arguments Around Evidence
In humanities IAs, evidence is the foundation of every argument. Avoid generalizations like “propaganda was effective” unless you can back it up with data, sources, or case studies.
Types of evidence:
- Primary sources: Speeches, newspapers, letters, interviews.
- Secondary sources: Historians’ interpretations, academic studies.
Examiners want to see that your arguments are supported by credible sources, not just opinions.
Step 3: Structure Arguments Clearly
Each argument should follow a clear pattern:
- Topic sentence: State the argument.
- Evidence: Provide supporting data or sources.
- Analysis: Explain the significance of the evidence.
- Link back: Tie it to the research question.
This structure ensures examiners can follow your reasoning easily.
Step 4: Include Multiple Perspectives
Strong humanities IAs don’t just present one side — they acknowledge complexity.
Example:
- Argument: “Propaganda increased civilian morale.”
- Counterpoint: “However, some evidence suggests its impact was limited in rural areas.”
By balancing perspectives, you demonstrate critical thinking.
Step 5: Evaluate Reliability of Sources
TOK-style thinking is especially important in humanities IAs. Evaluate your sources:
- Who wrote it?
- What bias might they have?
- How reliable is it as evidence?
A strong IA doesn’t just present evidence — it questions how reliable that evidence is.
Step 6: Conclude With a Judgment
Your conclusion should answer the research question directly and decisively. Avoid vague endings like “It depends.” Instead, weigh evidence and offer a clear judgment while acknowledging limitations.
Example:
“This IA concludes that Nazi propaganda had a significant impact on urban civilian morale, though its effect in rural communities was less clear, suggesting limited overall influence.”
Common Mistakes in Humanities IA Arguments
- Being descriptive instead of analytical
- Using unreliable or uncredited sources
- Ignoring counterarguments
- Presenting claims without evidence
- Ending without a clear, reasoned conclusion
Why Exemplars Are Helpful
The best way to learn argumentation is to see it done well. RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars feature humanities IAs with strong, well-supported arguments that examiners rewarded with top marks.
FAQs on Humanities IA Arguments
1. What makes an argument strong in a humanities IA?
A strong argument is specific, evidence-based, balanced with multiple perspectives, and directly linked to the research question.
2. Do I need to include counterarguments?
Yes — acknowledging other perspectives strengthens your analysis and shows critical thinking.
3. How many arguments should I include in my IA?
Usually 2–3 well-developed arguments are enough, depending on word count.
4. Can I use online sources in my IA?
Yes, but they must be credible and evaluated for reliability. Academic and primary sources carry more weight.
5. Where can I find examples of strong humanities IA arguments?
Check RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars, which showcase well-structured humanities IAs.
Conclusion
Strong arguments are the key to success in a humanities IA. By starting with a focused research question, building claims around credible evidence, structuring clearly, considering counterarguments, evaluating reliability, and offering a reasoned conclusion, you’ll impress examiners with critical thinking and depth. For inspiration, review RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars, which highlight polished humanities IAs.
Call to Action
Ready to build stronger arguments in your humanities IA? Explore RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars today and learn how top IB students structured their arguments for maximum impact.
