Why Reflection Sentences Are the Secret to Top Criterion E Scores
IB examiners don’t just want to see that you did the math — they want to see that you understood it.
Reflection is where that understanding becomes visible.
One of the easiest ways to strengthen your Criterion E (Reflection) mark is to sprinkle short, purposeful reflection sentences throughout your IA.
These sentences demonstrate awareness, insight, and evaluation — without needing long paragraphs.
With RevisionDojo’s IA/EE Guide and Reflection Prompts, you’ll learn how to write concise, high-impact reflection sentences that raise your score with minimal extra effort.
Quick-Start Checklist
When writing reflection sentences:
- Keep them short and precise (1–3 sentences).
- Place them after major steps, models, or results.
- Start with an observation, then interpret it.
- Focus on insight — not summary.
- Use RevisionDojo’s Reflection Prompts for structure and tone.
Step 1: Understand the Goal of Reflection Sentences
Reflection sentences prove that you’re thinking critically about your own work.
They show you can evaluate accuracy, assumptions, and implications — the core of Criterion E.
Example:
“Although the model fits well within the data range, extrapolation beyond x = 10 would be unreliable due to the nonlinearity observed.”
RevisionDojo’s Reflection Builder gives you templates for each type of reflection sentence — evaluation, limitation, or insight.
Step 2: Use Reflection Sentences Throughout the IA
Don’t save reflection for the conclusion.
Insert it naturally after key moments:
- After data analysis
- After model fitting
- After result interpretation
- After testing assumptions
Example:
“This deviation highlights that the chosen model may oversimplify the underlying physical process.”
RevisionDojo’s Section Prompts tell you exactly where to place reflection sentences for maximum impact.
Step 3: Follow a Simple Three-Part Formula
Each reflection sentence should follow this logic:
- Observation – What happened or what did you find?
- Interpretation – Why did it happen?
- Implication – What does it mean for your math or aim?
Example:
“The R² value decreased when the model was extended, suggesting that the mathematical relationship only holds under specific conditions.”
RevisionDojo’s 3-Part Reflection Formula walks you through building these in under a minute.
Step 4: Reflect on Limitations and Assumptions
IB examiners reward awareness of model boundaries.
Use reflection sentences to highlight these briefly and professionally.
Example:
“Since air resistance was ignored, the model likely overestimates projectile range — an acceptable simplification for small distances.”
RevisionDojo’s Limitations Prompts help you express critical awareness without undermining your analysis.
Step 5: Reflect on Mathematical Decisions
Show that your choices were intentional and reasoned.
Example:
“A logarithmic model was chosen because it represents diminishing returns more realistically than a linear trend.”
RevisionDojo’s Decision Reflection Library offers phrasing examples for explaining why specific methods were used.
Step 6: Reflect on Technology Use
Discussing how technology helped your understanding earns reflection credit too.
Example:
“Using GeoGebra to visualize function behavior revealed why the slope approached zero as the variable increased.”
RevisionDojo’s Tech Reflection Templates help you phrase these insights effectively.
Step 7: Reflect on Mathematical Understanding
Highlight what you learned through the process.
Example:
“This model deepened my understanding of how differential equations can represent changing velocity in real-world motion.”
RevisionDojo’s Learning Reflection Prompts guide you to express growth clearly and confidently.
Step 8: Reflect on Model Improvement
Examiners value constructive thinking — mention how your model could evolve.
Example:
“Including resistance terms in the equation could improve prediction accuracy under real conditions.”
RevisionDojo’s Improvement Builder provides professional, concise phrasing for enhancement suggestions.
Step 9: Reflect on Real-World Meaning
A reflection that connects math to the real world adds both depth and engagement.
Example:
“This mathematical pattern explains why population growth slows as resources become limited, linking abstract functions to practical sustainability issues.”
RevisionDojo’s Application Reflection Prompts help you phrase such insights naturally.
Step 10: End Each Major Section With Reflection
Conclude every significant section (e.g., model analysis or result evaluation) with one or two reflective sentences.
Example:
“This process revealed that even small parameter adjustments can significantly alter model predictions — emphasizing the importance of precision.”
RevisionDojo’s Section Reflection Templates ensure your IA feels continuously analytical and aware.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many reflection sentences should I include?
Aim for at least one every page or section — roughly 10–15 across your IA.
2. Should reflection sentences be in first person?
Occasionally yes (“I realized…”) is fine, but mix with formal phrasing for professionalism.
3. Do short reflections really affect my mark?
Yes. Consistent, focused reflection is one of the clearest indicators of Criterion E achievement.
Final Thoughts
Reflection sentences are small but powerful.
They show that you’re not just doing math — you’re thinking mathematically.
This awareness is what separates an average IA from a top-band one.
With RevisionDojo’s IA/EE Guide and Reflection Prompts, you’ll master the art of concise, insightful reflections that lift your Criterion E score effortlessly.
Call to Action
Add reflection with purpose.
Use RevisionDojo’s Reflection Prompts and IA/EE Guide to craft short, meaningful sentences that prove your mathematical insight and boost your IA grade.
