What Are IB Science Practical Exams?
In the IB Diploma, Group 4 sciences like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics require students to complete a practical internal assessment (IA). This report-based task involves planning an investigation, conducting an experiment, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. It accounts for 20–24% of your final subject grade.
👉 See What Are the Specific Requirements for a Science IA? on RevisionDojo.
What Examiners Look For
Your IA is assessed across five key criteria:
- A focused research question
- A replicable methodology with proper control of variables
- Accurate data collection and processing
- Logical analysis and evaluation
- Clear scientific communication and referencing
👉 Learn more in Navigating the IB Chemistry IA: From Planning to Execution.
How to Prepare Effectively
✅ Use the IB Criteria as Your Checklist
- Avoid vague or untestable questions
- Pilot your experiment if possible
- Address limitations and uncertainties
- Reference sources properly
👉 Don’t miss Top IB Science IA Mistakes and How to Avoid Them.
🧪 Build Strong Lab and Writing Skills
- Detail every step of your procedure
- Collect raw data systematically
- Present your findings with graphs and tables
- Explain all errors and suggest realistic improvements
👉 Need clarity? Read How Detailed Should My Methodology Section Be?.
😲 Handle Unexpected Results with Confidence
Even if your data doesn't match expectations, what matters most is how well you reflect on and explain the results.
👉 Learn the approach in IB IA Unexpected Results: 7 Smart Strategies to Handle Them Like a Pro.
Assessment Breakdown
IA Section Key Focus Research Question Testable and clearly defined Methodology Controlled, replicable, ethical Data Analysis Organized, labeled, accurate Evaluation Honest reflection, error analysis Communication Structure, visuals, citations
FAQs
Q1: Can I do the IA at home?
A: Some students do, but it must be approved and supervised. See Can I Do the IB Science Lab Outside of School?.
Q2: Is word count strict?
A: Yes, keep your final IA around 2,500–3,000 words. Clear writing helps stay within limits.
Q3: What if my hypothesis is wrong?
A: That’s okay—evaluate what went wrong. IB marks you for reflection, not for getting it “right.”
Q4: How can I improve IA marks quickly?
A: Focus on clarity, consistent structure, and robust data interpretation. Start here: Comprehensive Guide to IB Coursework & Study Tips.
Conclusion & RevisionDojo Call to Action
The IB Science practicals test more than lab ability—they evaluate your scientific thinking. Planning, analyzing, and communicating clearly will put you ahead.
🎯 Ready to excel? Explore RevisionDojo’s IA Support Hub for templates, topic-specific examples, unexpected result strategies, and IA planning tools.
