IB ESS Internal Assessment: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

RevisionDojo
4 min read

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

👉 Mr G Science – ESS IA Tips

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

Bonus: High-Level Support from RevisionDojo

RevisionDojo offers:

  • 🎯 Curated IA topic lists
  • 🧪 Mark scheme insights
  • ✍️ Jojo AI support for structuring your investigation

Explore now:
👉 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.

👉 Start Your ESS IA Journey with RevisionDojo

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