What Is an IA in the IB?
An Internal Assessment (IA) is a key component of many International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. It is a piece of work completed by students during the course and assessed internally by teachers, but moderated externally by the IB to ensure fairness.
IAs allow students to:
- Apply skills learned in class
- Demonstrate research, analysis, and problem-solving abilities
- Explore topics of personal interest within the subject framework
Types of IAs Across IB Subjects
- Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics): Experimental investigations or research projects.
- Mathematics: Mathematical explorations or modeling.
- Individuals and Societies: Essays, fieldwork reports, or data analysis.
- Languages: Oral presentations, writing portfolios, or literary analyses.
- Visual Arts: Portfolios and reflective processes.
Why Is the IA Important?
- Contributes significantly (usually around 20%) to your final grade.
- Offers a chance to improve marks independently of exams.
- Develops critical thinking, research, and time management skills.
- Encourages personal engagement with the subject.
How to Excel in Your IA
- Choose a topic you are genuinely interested in.
- Follow IA guidelines and assessment criteria carefully.
- Plan your work and manage time effectively.
- Seek feedback from teachers regularly.
- Write clearly and support your analysis with evidence.
FAQs About IA
Q1: How long is an IA?
Length varies by subject, from 6–12 pages in sciences to shorter tasks in language courses.
Q2: Can I get help on my IA?
You can receive guidance but the work must be your own.
Q3: When is the IA submitted?
Submission deadlines depend on your school and subject schedule.
Q4: Is IA harder than exams?
It’s different. IA tests skills like research and analysis rather than exam recall.
Q5: Can IA boost my final IB score?
Yes, doing well on the IA can significantly improve your overall grade.
Final Thoughts
The Internal Assessment is a valuable opportunity to showcase your understanding and creativity in IB. Taking it seriously and approaching it strategically can make a big difference in your results.
Want tips or templates for your IA?
RevisionDojo offers resources tailored to IA success across IB subjects!
