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1. Essentials of the Internal Assessment | RevisionDojo

1. Essentials of the Internal Assessment 2.1 Unpacking the IB Math IA Assessment Criteria 2.2 Criterion A: PresentationPRO 2.3 Criterion B: Mathematical Communication 2.4 Criterion C: Personal EngagementPRO 2.5 Criterion D: ReflectionPRO 2.6 Criterion E: Use of MathematicsPRO 3. IA Comment Bank (Pre-written Feedback)PRO 4.1 Criterion A InsightsPRO 4.2 Criterion B InsightsPRO 4.3 Criterion C InsightsPRO 4.4 Criterion D InsightsPRO 4.5. Criterion E InsightsPRO 5. Suggested timeline 6. IA checklist 7. Student planning sheets

IA Guides
1. Essentials of the Internal Assessment

1. Essentials of the Internal Assessment

Mathematics Analysis and Approaches (AA)

Internal Assessment

Purpose of the Internal Assessment

The Internal Assessment (IA) is a cornerstone of the IB Mathematics programme, representing 20% of the final grade across all four courses.
It provides a unique opportunity for students to apply mathematical concepts to areas of personal interest, free from the constraints of timed examinations,

Why the IA Matters for Students:

Real-World Application: Students connect abstract mathematical ideas to diverse situations and other fields of knowledge, fostering adaptability and problem-solving skills.
Ethical Awareness: Encourages appreciation for the moral, social, and ethical implications inherent in mathematical applications.

Global Perspective: Develops an understanding of the international dimensions and universality of mathematics.

Beyond Research: Unlike a traditional research report, the IA offers an open-ended and personalised exploration, allowing students to delve deeper into mathematical curiosities.

IA Structure & Formatting Essentials

To ensure a cohesive and standardized presentation, guide your students on these fundamental formatting requirements:

Document Length & Layout

Length: 12–20 pages (including graphs and diagrams, excluding bibliography/references).
Font: Consistent font size 12 throughout.
Spacing: Double-spacing for readability.
Citations: Adhere to the school's chosen citation style (e.g., APA, MLA), ensuring proper referencing of all sources.

Note

Remember, integrity is paramount. Any theoretical concept, graph, figure, or idea not original to the student must be cited.

Document Organisation Tips

Front Cover: Should clearly feature the exploration's title and the current page number.
Table of Contents/Index:
1. Optional.
2. Only recommended if the exploration has a substantial number of titles and subtitles that genuinely enhance organisation. (It is not penalised if included unnecessarily, but simplicity is often best.)
Introduction and context with a clear aim:
1. Unlike the Extended Essay, the Math IA does not require a specific research question.
2. The objective should be stated clearly in the introduction.
Background mathematical theory: Only if the mathematics explored is outside the syllabus.
Development of mathematical processes:
1. The core of the IA lies here: the clear application and explanation of relevant mathematical methods.
2. The mathematics used must be accurate, serve a clear purpose, align with the course level, and demonstrate logical reasoning without unnecessary repetition.
Results and interpretation:
1. This section presents processed data, mathematical findings, and visual representations (such as graphs or tables).
2. Focus on what the results mean, how they connect to the mathematics used, and how they relate to the exploration's aim.
Critical reflection:
1. Should be integrated throughout.
2. This includes evaluation of mathematical choices, limitations of the model or method, and possible improvements or extensions.
3. Demonstrates depth of understanding and learning over time.
Conclusion:
1. A brief summary that restates the aim and responds directly to it based on key findings.
2. It should tie the investigation together and emphasize the most significant insights.
References/Bibliography: All non-original sources, including technology tools, must be cited consistently using a standard style (APA, MLA, etc.).

Leveraging Technology for Precision

Mathematical Software: Strongly recommend using tools like GeoGebra, Desmos, or other mathematical software for creating clear, precise tables, diagrams, and graphs.
Math Writing Tools: Advise using equation editors (e.g., in Word, LaTeX) to enhance the clarity and professionalism of mathematical notation.

Types of Mathematical Exploration

Students may select from a range of investigative methods such as:

Modelling real-life phenomena
Statistical analysis of primary or secondary data
Theoretical explorations of abstract problems
Interdisciplinary applications (e.g., physics, economics)

Note

The topic should:

Be focused and achievable
Allow for substantial mathematics aligned to the course level (SL or HL)
Be of genuine interest to the student

Academic Honesty

All externally sourced ideas, images, graphs, or formulas must be cited.
Failure to do so may result in disqualification.
Students should:
1. Use a consistent citation style (APA, MLA, etc.)
2. Include a bibliography
3. Use original visuals when possible

View Mathematics Analysis and Approaches (AA) IA Exemplars

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