What Is the ESS Internal Assessment?
The IB Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) IA is an individual investigation where students explore an environmental issue using scientific methods. It's worth 25% of your ESS grade, and includes planning, data collection, analysis, and evaluation.
👉 The Blueprint to Crafting a 7-Mark ESS IA
Step 1: Choose a Focused Topic and Research Question
Choose a topic you're passionate about—something measurable and locally accessible. Then turn it into a sharply focused research question.
👉 IB ESS IA Ideas and Tips: How to Score a 7
Example:
- How does pH level affect the biodiversity of aquatic invertebrates in a local stream?
Step 2: Design a Clear Investigation Plan
Your plan should include:
- Sampling method
- Variables
- Safety and ethical considerations
- Rationale for your approach
Detailed planning boosts your marks in Criterion B.
👉 Internal Assessment Planning Guide (Mr Kremers Science)
Step 3: Collect Data (Fieldwork or Secondary Sources)
Decide whether you’ll collect primary data (e.g., fieldwork or surveys) or use reliable secondary data. Ensure data is well-organized and labeled.
👉 HelpForAssessment: ESS IA Data Collection Tips
Step 4: Analyze and Interpret Your Data
Use appropriate statistical tests (e.g., t-tests, regression) and create graphs/tables to show patterns. Then:
- Interpret your findings
- Relate them to the research question
- Discuss environmental context
Step 5: Evaluate Your Methods and Findings
Your evaluation should reflect:
- Data limitations
- Methodological weaknesses
- Suggestions for improvement
- Ethical implications
Strong evaluations show mature thinking and can differentiate a 6 from a 7.
👉 How to Write a High-Scoring ESS IA (Writing Metier)
Step 6: Structure and Format Your IA Properly
Your IA should include:
- Title page
- Introduction
- Methodology
- Results and Discussion
- Conclusion
- References and Appendices
Stay under the word limit (max ~2,250 words). Communicate clearly and professionally.
👉 The Blueprint to Crafting a 7-Mark ESS IA
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👉 Browse All IB ESS IA Posts
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long should the ESS IA be?
Max 2,250 words (excluding references/appendices).
Q2: Can I use secondary data?
Yes—if it’s recent, relevant, and properly cited.
Q3: What earns the most marks in the IA?
Strong evaluation, clear structure, relevant data, and sharp focus.
Q4: What are common IA mistakes?
Vague research questions, messy data, and unsupported conclusions.
Q5: Can Jojo AI help me with the IA?
Absolutely! It offers structure suggestions, sample intros, and more.
Conclusion & Call to Action
The IB ESS Internal Assessment is a great opportunity to explore a topic you care about while earning top marks. Stay focused, structured, and reflective.
🚀 Ready to build a high-scoring IA? Visit RevisionDojo to explore IA templates, blog guidance, and Jojo AI prompts.
