What Is the Role of the Reflective Project in the CP (Career‑related Programme)?

Option 2: Combined Essay and Creative Format
A shorter written component of 1,500–2,000 words, plus an additional format such as a short film, interview, performance, visual display, or oral presentation. Together, the written and creative elements must meet all assessment objectives.

Assessment and Grading

The Reflective Project is marked using a criterion-based rubric aligned to five assessment objectives (AO1–AO5), with a maximum of 36 marks.

The objectives assess:

• Focus and method
• Knowledge and understanding
• Critical thinking (the most heavily weighted element)
• Communication
• Engagement and reflection, assessed through the RPPF

To be awarded the IBCP Certificate, students must achieve at least a D grade in the Reflective Project. Falling below this threshold prevents CP completion, regardless of performance in other components.

Supervision and Moderation

Each student is assigned a Reflective Project supervisor, typically a CP teacher or staff member connected to the career-related study. The supervisor:

• Supports topic development
• Holds a minimum of three formal meetings
• Guides ethical focus and reflection
• Confirms academic honesty

After internal assessment, a sample of projects is sent to the IB for external moderation, ensuring fairness and consistency across schools worldwide.

Why the Reflective Project Matters

The Reflective Project embodies the IB’s emphasis on ethical, holistic education. It encourages students to think beyond technical skill and consider the moral implications of professional practice.

The skills developed align closely with the IB Learner Profile, particularly attributes such as principled thinking, reflection, communication, and intellectual courage.

It also acts as a bridge between:

• The CP core
• DP academic courses
• Career-related learning and real-world application

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Reflective Project compulsory?
Yes. Completion with a minimum D grade is required to earn the IBCP Certificate.

How much time should I expect to spend on it?
Students are expected to dedicate approximately 50 hours over the duration of the CP.

What formats are allowed?
Either a single essay of up to 3,000 words, or a shorter essay combined with a creative format such as a film, interview, performance, or visual presentation.

How is reflection assessed?
Reflection is documented in the RPPF, based on supervisor meetings, and contributes directly to AO5.

Who marks the project?
Your school marks it internally, and the IB moderates a sample to confirm grading accuracy.

Final Note

While RevisionDojo does not yet offer a dedicated Reflective Project guide, many of the skills required—ethical analysis, structured reflection, research planning, and academic communication—are reinforced through CP-aligned resources and Personal & Professional Skills materials.

Used strategically, those tools can still provide strong support for planning, reflection, and ethical reasoning throughout the Reflective Project process.