What Is an IB Internal Assessment (IA)?
An IB Internal Assessment (IA) is a core component of every subject in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, allowing students to explore a focused area of study through independent research and practical application. Each IA is internally assessed by teachers and moderated by IB examiners, contributing 20–30% to the final subject grade depending on the course.
Unlike exams, the IA showcases a student's ability to analyze, evaluate, and communicate ideas effectively through a long-form report, project, or oral presentation.
Key Features of the Internal Assessment
Subject-Specific Formats
Each IA is tailored to the subject:
- Sciences (Biology, Physics, Chemistry): Scientific investigation or experiment with analysis.
- Mathematics (AA/AI): Mathematical exploration using modeling, problem-solving, or real-life applications.
- Humanities (History, Geography): Research essay on a historical event or case study.
- Languages: Oral analysis of texts or cultural elements.
- Arts (Visual Arts, Music): Creative portfolio or performance with critical reflection.
Independent Inquiry and Research
Students are encouraged to:
- Choose a personally relevant topic
- Formulate a research question
- Collect and analyze original or secondary data
- Present findings with critical evaluation
Teacher Assessment and IB Moderation
- Assessed by the subject teacher, who provides a mark based on IB criteria.
- Externally moderated to maintain global standards and fairness.
- Word count limits are strict—usually 2,200 to 3,000 words depending on subject.
Why the Internal Assessment Matters
Real-World Skill Development
Completing an IA builds key academic and life skills:
- Critical thinking
- Research methodology
- Data analysis
- Academic writing
- Time management
Weighting in Final Grades
The IA contributes significantly:
- 20% in most sciences, maths, and languages
- 25% in humanities and arts
- 30% in some courses like Business Management
Readiness for University
The IA mirrors university-style research projects, preparing students for independent study and scholarly writing at higher education levels.
How to Choose a Strong IA Topic
Aligning with Personal Interests
Select a topic you genuinely enjoy. Passion drives motivation, and that shines through in your work.
Ensuring Scope and Feasibility
Avoid overly broad or too complex topics. Your IA should:
- Be investigable within time and resource limits
- Use available tools and data
- Be aligned with IB assessment criteria
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Great IA
Step 1: Define a Focused Research Question
Use SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). Example: "How does temperature affect catalase activity in potatoes?"
Step 2: Plan and Conduct Your Investigation
Use controlled variables, ethical practices, and record accurate, replicable procedures.
Step 3: Analyze and Interpret Data
Create tables, graphs, and include error margins, standard deviation, or other statistical tools.
Step 4: Draw Conclusions and Reflect
Relate your findings to the hypothesis and evaluate the implications.
Step 5: Structure and Format Your Report
Follow the format required for your subject. Use headings, proper citations (APA/MLA), and include an appendix if necessary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in IAs
- Vague research questions
- Poor variable control in experiments
- Insufficient data analysis
- Plagiarism or missing citations
- Ignoring word count limits
- Weak or generic evaluations
Examples of Internal Assessments by Subject
IB Physics IA
Investigating the effect of string length on the period of a pendulum.
IB Biology IA
Analyzing the impact of different sugar concentrations on yeast respiration.
IB Math IA
Exploring the mathematics behind encryption algorithms.
IB History IA
Assessing the significance of the Treaty of Versailles on WWII.
Tools to Help You Succeed in Your IA
RevisionDojo: IA Grader and IA Library
RevisionDojo offers:
- An IA Grader tool to receive AI-powered feedback aligned with IB rubrics.
- A massive IA Library with verified sample IAs across all subjects.
- Support for topic selection, structure, and evaluation sections.
🟢 Visit RevisionDojo to explore these resources and improve your IA score with expert guidance.
Graphic Calculators, Data Tools, and Planners
- Use tools like Desmos, GeoGebra, or Excel for visualizations.
- Consider IA planners to track deadlines and structure effectively.
FAQs About IB Internal Assessments
Q1: How long should an IA be?
Most IAs range from 2,000 to 3,000 words, depending on subject requirements.
Q2: Can I get help from a tutor?
Yes, but the final work must be your own. Use tutors for guidance, not ghostwriting.
Q3: Are group investigations allowed?
In sciences, data collection can be shared, but each IA must be written independently.
Q4: What if I go over the word limit?
The IB may penalize or ignore excess text. Stay within limits!
Q5: Can I change my IA topic midway?
Yes, but early decisions save time. Confirm feasibility before starting.
Q6: How important is formatting?
Very! Use clear headings, consistent citation style, and a logical flow.
Final Thoughts: Master the IA with Confidence and Planning
The IB Internal Assessment is more than a project—it's your chance to showcase mastery, pursue interests, and develop research skills that last beyond the Diploma Programme. With the right topic, tools like RevisionDojo, and consistent effort, you can craft a high-scoring IA that reflects your academic strength and curiosity.
