1. Understand the Purpose of Moderation
TOK Exhibition moderation is the IB’s way of checking if your three objects and commentaries meet the assessment criteria. The aim is to demonstrate clear links to a Knowledge Question, Ways of Knowing, and Areas of Knowledge, with strong real-world context. Learn how to fulfill these expectations in our Structuring for Success in IB TOK Essays guide.
2. Choose Objects That Meet the Rubric
Select three diverse objects that:
- Clearly tie into your Knowledge Question
- Connect with distinct Ways of Knowing and Areas of Knowledge
- Have strong real-world relevance
For object-selection strategies, see our article How the TOK Exhibition Objects Reflect Real-World Knowledge.
3. Craft Focused and Insightful Commentaries
Each commentary (400–600 words) should:
- Describe the object and its origin
- Connect it to your Knowledge Question
- Analyze it via one WOK and one AOK
- Reflect on implications or limitations
Use our Examples and Tips for Writing IB TOK Knowledge Questions guide to ensure commentary aligns tightly with TOK criteria.
4. Highlight Connections Across Your Objects
Moderators look for a cohesive theme. Clearly explain how your objects interrelate and support the same overarching Knowledge Question. You can model these cross-object links with ideas from our Step‑by‑Step Guide to Effective TOK Essay Strategies.
