The IB Psychology Internal Assessment (IA) is a critical component where you demonstrate your understanding of research methods by conducting an original investigation. Reviewing examples helps you grasp the structure, rigor, and depth expected. Let’s discuss a sample IA and how RevisionDojo’s IA library can boost your preparation.
Sample IB Psychology IA Overview
Research Question:
Does background music affect concentration levels in IB students during a cognitive task?
Key Components:
- Introduction: Clear context about music’s effect on cognition, referencing previous studies.
- Hypothesis: Predicts improved concentration with instrumental music.
- Method: Controlled experiment using the Stroop test, with music and silence groups.
- Results: Quantitative data showing faster completion times and fewer errors in the music group.
- Analysis: Interpretation linking findings to psychological theories on attention and distraction.
- Evaluation: Addresses strengths like control of variables and limitations such as sample size and participant bias.
Discussion of the Example
This IA example excels by:
- Clear operationalization of variables: concentration measured via Stroop test time and errors.
- Ethical considerations: ensuring voluntary participation and minimizing risk.
- Data reliability: Using repeated trials and averaging results.
