Introduction
One of the most challenging parts of the IB Diploma Programme is selecting a strong Internal Assessment (IA) topic. For IB Social Studies subjects like History, Geography, Psychology, and Global Politics, the IA is your chance to explore a topic that truly interests you while demonstrating academic skills.
This guide provides IA topic inspiration for IB Social Studies, helping you brainstorm ideas that are original, feasible, and capable of earning top marks.
What Makes a Strong Social Studies IA Topic?
Examiners look for IAs that are:
- Focused — narrow enough to answer clearly in limited word count.
- Relevant — connected to the IB syllabus but with personal engagement.
- Feasible — realistic with available resources and data.
- Analytical — allows interpretation, not just description.
- Original — shows creativity and genuine curiosity.
IB History IA Topic Inspiration
The History IA is a 2,200-word research investigation. Possible ideas include:
- Causes of conflict: “To what extent did propaganda contribute to the Spanish Civil War?”
- Impact of leaders: “How significant was Churchill’s leadership in Britain’s resistance during 1940?”
- Social history: “How did women’s roles in the workforce change during WWII in Canada?”
- Historiography: “How have historians’ interpretations of the Cold War origins shifted since the 1950s?”
Tips: Choose a topic with enough primary and secondary sources to analyze.
IB Geography IA Topic Inspiration
Geography IAs must be fieldwork-based and around 2,500 words. Possible ideas include:
