Choosing IB Math Internal Assessment Topic
29 Apr 2021
Choosing IB Math Internal Assessment Topic for IB Students
Are you struggling to write for the IB math internal assessment? Many students are at a loss when it comes to writing their IB Math Internal Assessment. The most challenging part is selecting a suitable topic. In this article, I will share with you 5 simple tips to find a Math IA topic quickly.
Here are some pointers to help you select the most suitable topic.
Brainstorm on topics you are interested in.
Create a mind map of the topics that interest you. List out areas that you can relate to and are close to your heart. A good way to start is to identify topics that are sparked off by things in your own life over the course of your IB studies.
Research on the topics that you have listed.
One of the most common reasons why students get stuck writing their Math IA is because the topic does not work out. There are several reasons why that happens.
–The topic may be too complicated and beyond what an IB student can handle.
-The topic is too simple and the solution can be obtained with just half a page of calculations.
-The topic is too theoretical and lacks real life applications.
To avoid getting into such a situation, make sure you do some research and planning on the topics you have mapped out. Quote by Benjamin Franklin: “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail!” Read Math journals on all the topics which interest you, you will have a better idea on the appropriate math formulas you can apply in your IA Google Scholar is a great place to search for free Math journals.
IB internal Assessments are crucial in the IB program, as they are sent directly to the IB and marked by IB Examiners, significantly impacting your final IB grade.
Check the IB Math guide
Make sure the topic you have chosen makes use of Math that is at least of the same level as found in the IB Math guide. It is perfectly fine to use Math that is beyond your IB syllabus. Do make sure you are able to demonstrate real understanding of the Mathematics used. A common mistake made by students is applying complicated Math without good knowledge of the Math involved. Having a revision plan from the beginning is considered a good practice to develop the necessary qualities for success within the program.
Avoid Common Topics
According to the IB Math subject guide, common topics such as the Fibonacci sequence, the golden ratio, the Monty Hall problem, the SIR model for epidemics, casino games, cryptography, graphing musical tones, and projectile motion are often chosen for the Internal Assessment. These topics are often poorly done and do not score a good grade. Try to avoid these topics.
Search for Math ideas in Science topics
There are many mathematically rich topics found in the sciences. For example if you take Biology, you can model the population of animals.
For IB Physics students you may like to calculate the length of planetary orbits.
The IB program hopes IB learners strive be knowledgeable. Students demonstrate in depth knowledge when they are able to draw connections across different subjects. The holistic nature of the IB program ensures that students develop socially, emotionally, and physically, fostering curiosity and compassion.
The IB Diploma encourages the organic development of qualities such as international mindedness, cultural understanding, and self-awareness, which are core to the program.
IB students are expected to develop a multidimensional mindset, making connections between academic disciplines and understanding the importance of holistic education.
The importance of IB subjects lies in their ability to empower students to become self-regulated learners, making connections and exploring relationships between academic disciplines.
International mindedness is a key attribute developed in IB students, fostering cultural understanding and a positive impact on the world.
I have also created a video with more IB Math IA tips on how to write a Math IA in one day.
