IB Math AA Internal Assessment (IA) : How to get a 7
What is IB Math
Have you struggled to get that high 7 in your IB Math class?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Mathematics course is designed for students aged 16-19 to develop a deeper understanding of concepts and principles in Mathematics. The course is split into two different Mathematics: Analysis or Approaches (AA) and Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (AI). Math AA is considered to be the course that focuses more on analytical and abstract concepts such as trigonometry, calculus, and geometry.
Here, we’ll explore a key component of the IB Math course: The Internal Assessment.
What is the IA?
The IA is a key component of the IB Math AA course. It allows you to explore a mathematical topic of personal interest in depth during the 2 years of your IB. It is the only internally assessed element of the math course, therefore you want to make sure you are giving it sufficient attention.
It is a concise yet comprehensive report of 12-20 pages that ensures you explore your topic in sufficient detail while remaining focused.
This length allows you to present your findings, analysis, and reflections clearly without overwhelming the reader. A well-structured report demonstrates your ability to communicate complex mathematical ideas effectively.
Choosing a topic
Choosing your topic fosters a sense of ownership and motivation.
When you select a subject that genuinely interests you, you’re more likely to engage deeply, leading to a more meaningful exploration. This aspect of the IA highlights your ability to pursue independent research and apply mathematical concepts to real-world situations. Ensuring you choose an engaging and personal topic for your IA will help boost the quality of your work.
Explore Personal Interests
Selecting a topic that interests you will naturally lead to greater engagement and enthusiasm throughout the research process.
Reflect on areas of mathematics that intrigue you, such as algebra or geometry, and consider hobbies or passions outside of school, like sports, music, or environmental issues, and think about how mathematics applies to them.
For example, are you a basketball fan?
Why not create a mathematical model using quadratic functions to analyze the trajectory of a projectile for a basketball shot?
This personal connection is crucial for demonstrating personal engagement in your IA and helping you score higher points.
Connect to Real-World Applications
Topics grounded in real-world applications can also enhance your personal engagement and make your findings more relevant and impactful.
This connection can lead to deeper exploration and more insightful reflections. Identify current events, social issues, or scientific phenomena that can be analyzed mathematically.
For example, are you interested in demographics?
Why not model population growth using differential equations and explore how different factors affect the growth rate?
Emphasize Creativity and Originality
Unique and creative topics can capture the interest of both your readers and examiners. This will not only boost your personal engagement score but can set you apart if you are exploring unconventional mathematical concepts.
For example, why not model trigonometric functions on sound waves and analyze the frequencies on sound quality? Although this may be a more standard math IA topic, why not look at a specific instrument that may not have been analyzed previously?
The more original the topic, the more you will become interested and engaged in writing and developing your IA.
Amount of work needed
One thing to remember about your IA is that it accounts for 20% of your final grade. Performing well on the IA can substantially impact your overall performance in the course.
Another substantial element of your IB Math marks will be your exam papers. Check out Aegis’ guide on how to get a 7 in your IB Math AA Paper 2.
Therefore the IB recommends a 15-hour minimum amount of time spent on your IA, however, we recommend spending at least 20 hours on it. Investing this time allows you to thoroughly investigate your topic, apply various mathematical methods, and refine your findings. This time commitment is essential for producing quality work that meets the assessment criteria.
Internal vs external marking
While writing the IA, you will be allowed to submit one draft and receive feedback for it.
Constructive feedback from your teacher allows you to identify areas for improvement before the final submission. At the end of the day, your teacher will be the one who marks your IA, so you want to make sure you take her comments strongly into consideration.
However, remember that your IA will be moderated by an IB examiner. This will ensure that your grade is fair and meets international standards.
Assessment Criteria
Since your IA will be marked internally and moderated externally, you must be familiar with the assessment criteria that will be used to grade your work. The total marks available for the IA are 20 which are divided accordingly:
Criterion A: Presentation (4 Marks)
A clear and logical presentation helps convey your mathematical ideas effectively. It sets the tone for your work and allows the reader to follow your reasoning easily.
Criterion B: Mathematical Communication (4 Marks)
Effective mathematical communication ensures that your findings are articulated clearly, using appropriate terminology and notation. This criterion demonstrates your ability to convey complex ideas succinctly.
Criterion C: Personal Engagement (3 Marks)
Showing personal engagement reflects your interest and investment in your topic. It allows your unique voice to shine through and adds depth to your exploration.
Criterion D: Reflection (3 Marks)
Reflective thinking enhances critical analysis of your findings and their implications. It shows your ability to evaluate your work and consider future directions for your mathematical inquiry.
Criterion E: Use of Mathematics (6 Marks)
The application of appropriate mathematical techniques is fundamental to your investigation. This criterion assesses the depth and complexity of your mathematical understanding, showcasing your ability to engage with advanced concepts.
Have Fun!
Embracing your mathematical interests can transform the IB Mathematics Analysis and Approaches Internal Assessment into a rewarding journey of discovery and growth.
By choosing a topic that resonates with you, you not only enhance your engagement but also open the door to deeper insights and innovative ideas.
Remember, the IA is more than just an assignment; it’s an opportunity to showcase your creativity, critical thinking, and passion for mathematics. With dedication and enthusiasm, you can achieve a high score while enriching your understanding of the mathematical world.
Conclusion
We know that your IA can be a daunting task, but if you enjoy it and find something you are genuinely interested in you can achieve a high score, which can help you go into your exams more confidently.
Personalized tutoring can help you understand the making criteria better, find a topic that is both engaging and likely to score high, and proofread your IA before submitting it.
At Aegis Advisors, we specialize in guiding students through the intricate world of IB Math, contact us to start your tutoring journey today!