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DP courses
Internal Assessment
Internal Assessment
A Complete Guide to the IB Maths Internal Assessment (IA)
The Internal Assessment is an individual piece of written work known as the mathematical exploration. Rather than a collection of calculations or a textbook report, it is a focused investigation where the student applies mathematics to a topic, concept, or real-world issue of their own choosing.
The IA at a glance
Weighting
The IA is a mandatory component, accounting for exactly 20% of the overall grade across all DP Mathematics pathways.
Course invariance
The core framework and the first four criteria (A to D) are identical for both pathways: Analysis and Approaches (AA) and Applications and Interpretation (AI).
Level adjustments
SL and HL explorations share identical operational mandates but diverge under Criterion E (Use of Mathematics), which calibrates mathematical depth to each syllabus.
Operational rules
Rules and Technical Specifications
Page count
The exploration must be between 12 and 20 pages, inclusive of all text, equations, charts, graphs, spreadsheets and imagery. Going over or under can cost presentation marks.
Typography and layout
Use double-line spacing throughout the main body so moderators can clearly read multi-line algebraic proofs and expressions.
Academic honesty
Every concept, secondary dataset, external theorem and non-original diagram must be cited. Missing attribution risks disqualification for academic misconduct.
Digital tools
The IB expects you to use external software: graphing tools, spreadsheet engines, dynamic geometry software and advanced statistical packages.
Marking criteria
The Five Assessment Criteria (20 marks)
Criterion A: Presentation
Key mandates
A cohesive structure: a clear introduction that contextualizes the problem, a logical body, and a formal conclusion.
Technical rules
Integrate tables, diagrams and graphs alongside the relevant text rather than dumping them into an unreferenced appendix.
Criterion B: Mathematical Communication
Key mandates
Accurate, consistent and professional use of mathematical symbols, terminology and notation throughout.
Technical rules
Raw calculator or spreadsheet readouts (such as 5.2E10 or asterisks for multiplication) are rejected. Convert them into formal notation, for example 5.2 x 10^10, and label every axis, line and variable.
Criterion C: Personal Engagement
Key mandates
Genuine curiosity, independent thought and creativity that show real ownership of the exploration.
Technical rules
Repeating a generic textbook or tutorial problem does not count. Show unique data collection, adapt standard models to unusual contexts, or view a familiar concept from a fresh perspective.
Criterion D: Reflection
Key mandates
Meaningful, continuous reflection throughout the paper, not just a summary paragraph at the end.
Technical rules
Evaluate the reliability of your data, point out the limitations of your models, explain what the results mean in a real-world context, and suggest how the study could be extended.
Criterion E: Use of Mathematics
Key mandates
Evaluates the accuracy, depth and appropriateness of the mathematics used. This is the only criterion that differs between SL and HL.
Standard Level
The mathematics must match the depth and complexity of the SL syllabus, be completely correct, and show full understanding of the concepts used.
Higher Level
The exploration must use HL syllabus mathematics or significantly extend an SL concept, demonstrating sophistication, abstract logic, depth and rigorous precision.
Tutoring approach
Why students in IB Courses choose us
Our instruction for IB Math IA is built around current school work, assessment dates, and the way IB marking rewards communication. Students get topic clarity and a repeatable way to show their thinking.
Course prep
IB Math IA Course & Exam Prep
Sessions cover topic understanding, written method, calculator habits, assessment timing, and review of current school tasks. The plan adapts around the student's syllabus and grade target.
Results
What Students and Parents Say
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