Mathematics Analysis and Approaches (AA) IA Exemplar: Basketball… | RevisionDojo
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IB Mathematics Analysis and Approaches (AA) SL Internal Assessment Example
Modeling free throws of basketball.SL
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5
Official IB Result
13/20
General feedback
13/20
0
10
20
No overall summary is available for this report.
6.1·Suggestion
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Defining the flat terrain assumption simplifies the model but undermines realism. Consider discussing how slight court inclines or floor compliance could influence results.
Criteria A: Presentation
2/4
0
2
4
Criteria Strands
A.1Coherence and logical development
Good
A.2Organization and structure
Good
A.3Conciseness and relevance
Moderate
Criteria Feedback
Clear section headings improve navigation
Logical sequence from introduction through conclusion
The introduction is overly verbose and contains digressions. Consider streamlining by focusing on key motivations and removing repetitive phrases to enhance clarity and conciseness.
1.2·Suggestion
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Including full Logger Pro data tables in the main text pads the discussion. Move extensive raw data to the appendix and summarize key values in the body.
1.3·Strength
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Label “Optimization” clearly signals a new stage of the investigation. This structure enhances reader navigation.
1.4·Strength
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References and bibliography are formatted consistently and include pertinent sources, demonstrating good research practice.
Criteria B: Mathematical Communication
3/4
0
2
4
Criteria Strands
B.1Mathematical language and notation
Good
B.2Multiple representations
Good
B.3Logical structure and clarity
Good
Criteria Feedback
Generally consistent use of mathematical notation and terminology
Effective integration of graphs, tables and schematic diagrams
Inconsistent symbols (e.g. V_γ vs V_x) and occasional typographic slips
Some minimal captions and swapped variable definitions
2.1·Weakness
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In the variables table, and definitions are swapped. Ensure is horizontal displacement and is vertical displacement.
2.2·Weakness
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Notation is used instead of . Adopting consistent symbols throughout will avoid confusion in component decomposition.
2.3·Weakness
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Lines of gibberish () appear in the derivation. Remove placeholders and ensure all displayed math is accurate and meaningful.
2.4·Weakness
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Phrase “very no variation” in explaining is unclear. Revise to more precise language when describing the coefficient of determination.
2.5·Weakness
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Caption for Figure 6 refers to instead of . Correct notation in captions to maintain mathematical consistency.
Criteria C: Personal Engagement
2/3
0
2
3
Criteria Strands
C.1Independent thinking
Good
C.2Personal approach
Good
C.3Creativity and initiative
Good
Criteria Feedback
Personal motivation (basketball free throws) clearly frames the investigation
Use of video analysis and self‐collected data shows initiative
Approach closely mirrors classroom examples without novel extensions
Limited deeper reflection on how the project shaped personal understanding
3.1·Suggestion
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Personal interest in basketball is evident, but deeper reflection on how the project influenced your understanding could strengthen personal engagement.
Criteria D: Reflection
2/3
0
2
3
Criteria Strands
D.1Depth of reflection
Good
D.2Critical analysis
Good
D.3Evaluation of outcomes
Good
Criteria Feedback
Meaningful reflection on modelling limitations and errors
Thoughtful comparison of experimental and theoretical angles
Limited quantitative discussion of air resistance effects
Brief mention of future improvements without in‐depth evaluation
4.1·Suggestion
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The assumption that air resistance is negligible is stated without discussing its quantitative effect. Reflect more deeply on how drag would alter the trajectory and optimal angle.
4.2·Strength
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Acknowledging loss of precision from rounding to three decimals shows good consideration of error sources.
4.3·Question
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The unexpected high value for trial 4 (5.804 m/s) is a clear outlier. Discuss why this anomaly occurred or consider excluding it when averaging.
4.4·Suggestion
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Averaging across all trials without addressing the outlier inflates the mean. Consider robust statistics (e.g., median) or justify inclusion.
4.5·Suggestion
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Choosing the larger root (53.503°) for the optimal angle requires justification. Discuss physical reasoning for preferring the higher-angle solution.
4.6·Strength
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Comparison of model and experimental angles acknowledges a 4.7° discrepancy and links back to initial assumptions, demonstrating thoughtful critical analysis.
4.7·Suggestion
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Acknowledge how iterative model refinement (e.g., adding drag) could extend the exploration, offering avenues for further investigation.
4.8·Suggestion
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Conclusion effectively restates the aim and findings, linking to literature value (52°). Consider adding implications for training practice or further research.
Criteria E: Use of Mathematics
4/6
0
3
6
Criteria Strands
E.1Relevance of mathematics
Good
E.2Level appropriateness
Good
E.3Understanding and accuracy
Good
Criteria Feedback
Relevant projectile-motion, regression and optimisation techniques applied effectively
Derivations and statistical summaries are generally correct and well presented
Minor notational and parameter inconsistencies
Omission of integration constant discussion and sign‐convention clarity
5.1·Weakness
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The description ‘horizontal component represents how fast the ball moves upward’ is incorrect. Revise to state the horizontal component governs lateral motion.
5.2·Suggestion
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The integration of gravity term omits a clear discussion of the constant of integration and sign conventions. Clarify how corresponds to .
5.3·Strength
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The clear derivation demonstrates correct mathematical thinking in isolating time for substitution.
5.4·Weakness
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Substitution in the optimization equation uses despite earlier stating basket is 2 m away. Check consistency of parameter values.
5.5·Strength
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Tabulated optimal angles and their average are clearly presented, reflecting good use of statistics to summarize results.