The Confusion Around IA and IO
If you're taking IB Language B, you might have heard about terms like IA (Internal Assessment) and IO (Individual Oral). These acronyms can be confusing, especially when you're trying to understand what exactly is expected of you in your language course. Let's clarify these terms and how they apply to your Language B studies.
The Acronym Avalanche
Feeling overwhelmed by the barrage of IB acronyms? IA, IO, EE, TOK—it's enough to make your head spin. But don't worry, we're here to break it down and help you navigate the specifics of IA and IO in your Language B course.
Interest: What are IA and IO?
Internal Assessment (IA)
What is it?
- The Internal Assessment (IA) is a critical component of the IB curriculum, designed to assess your abilities through coursework that is evaluated internally by your teachers and externally moderated by the IB.
Language B IA Specifics:
- In Language B, the IA primarily refers to the Individual Oral (IO) component, but it can also encompass other coursework elements, such as written assignments or projects, depending on the specific language course structure.
Individual Oral (IO)
What is it?
- The Individual Oral (IO) is a key part of the assessment for Language B students. It involves an oral examination where you demonstrate your speaking skills in the target language.
IO Structure:
- Preparation: You will be given a prompt or visual stimulus related to one of the prescribed themes (e.g., identities, experiences, human ingenuity, social organization, sharing the planet).
- Presentation: You have 15 minutes to prepare a 3-4 minute presentation in the target language, discussing the stimulus and connecting it to broader themes.
