TOK Exhibition Rubric: How to Score Top Marks

1. What Is the TOK Exhibition?

The TOK Exhibition is a key component of the IB Diploma Programme, accounting for 33% of your TOK grade. You select one of 35 prescribed prompts and connect it to three real-world objects, explaining their relevance in a written commentary. The exhibition tests your ability to link practical items to TOK concepts effectively and coherently.

2. Four Core Assessment Criteria

The exhibition is scored out of 10 for each of four criteria. Here's a breakdown:

A. Interlinking Ideas

• Commentary must clearly show how each object relates to the chosen prompt.
• Objects should together offer unique but interconnected perspectives.
• Include explicit references to the prompt throughout.

B. Justifying Ideas

• Provide strong, logical explanations for each object.
• Move beyond basic description to show how each object illuminates knowledge questions.
• Use TOK terminology to support reasoning and depth.

C. Real‑World Context

• Use concrete, specific objects, not vague images.
• Explain each object’s context—when, where, why it exists.
• Ensure objects are distinct and relevant.

D. Focus & Coherence

• Keep commentary clear, organized, and focused on the prompt.
• Avoid unnecessary repetition; structure logically.
• Demonstrate how objects relate to knowledge acquisition, sharing, or evaluation.

3. Scoring Bands Explained

• 0 – No valid work or utter irrelevance.
• 1–2 (Rudimentary) – Objects mentioned without clear links or context.
• 3–4 (Basic) – Links exist but are surface-level; justification is weak.
• 5–6 (Satisfactory) – Clear connections and some use of TOK concepts; may lack depth.
• 7–8 (Good) – Solid links, focused reasoning, and effective use of terminology.
• 9–10 (Excellent) – Insightful, well-justified, distinct objects; lucid and precise commentary.

4. Steps to Nail Your Exhibition

• Select diverse objects that approach the prompt from different angles.
• Define the prompt using TOK language before linking your objects.
• Embed key TOK terminology, such as “knowledge question,” “perspective,” or “bias.”
• Explain real-world context—origin, purpose, and significance of each object.
• Balance your content—each object should receive roughly equal attention and insight.
• Keep the commentary focused (about 950 words total); avoid irrelevant tangents.

5. Put It All Together

A top-scoring exhibition features:

• Three distinct, real-world objects each tied clearly to the prompt.
• A coherent, well-structured commentary with TOK concepts and depth for each object.
• Balanced justification and smooth transitions, demonstrating context and insight.
• TOK terminology woven naturally, exhibiting strong subject understanding.

6. Why It Matters

A strong TOK exhibition demonstrates your ability to connect theory to practice, think critically, and express ideas clearly. The commentary isn't just descriptive—it shows analytical depth, clarifies knowledge questions, and reflects on real-world implications.

7. Boost Your Score with RevisionDojo

Struggling to pick objects? Unsure how to embed TOK concepts? RevisionDojo offers tailored support:

• Help choosing diverse, context-rich objects
• Commentary templates aligned with the rubric
• TOK terminology guidance and practice
• Minded feedback to elevate clarity and coherence

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Final Takeaway

To excel in the TOK Exhibition rubric, focus on clear linkages, justified analysis, real context, and coherent structure. With sharp planning and TOK awareness, you’ll demonstrate deep understanding in a concise and effective exhibition.