IB Math Internal Assessment
The IB Math Internal Assessment is a mathematical exploration that counts for 20% of your final grade. This comprehensive resource hub provides everything you need to excel in your IA, from topic selection and research methodology to mathematical communication and assessment criteria. Get expert guidance for all IB Math LA courses (AA SL, AA HL, AI SL, AI HL) with step-by-step tutorials and proven strategies.
IB Math IA Resources
Everything you need to excel in your IB Math Internal Assessment, organized and accessible in one place
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Assessment Guide
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IB Math Internal Assessment Criteria
4/4
Criterion A
Presentation
3/3
Criterion B
Mathematical Communication
3/3
Criterion C
Personal Engagement
4/4
Criterion D
Reflection
6/6
Criterion E
Use of Mathematics
- Syllabus Topics Overview
Presentation
Mathematical Communication
Personal Engagement
Reflection
Use of Mathematics
Criterion A: Presentation
Overview
Assesses clarity, structure, and professionalism of the IA.
Strong mathematics can lose marks if the IA is unclear or disorganized.
Marking levels:
2 marks → Partially coherent, partially organized.
3 marks → Coherent and organized, but not concise.
4 marks → Fully coherent, well-organized, and concise.
Formatting & Structure
Title page with clear title and total number of pages.
Length: 12–20 pages, double-spaced (excluding bibliography & appendix).
Page numbers included (recommended bottom-right).
Logical flow: Introduction → Body → Conclusion.
Use of headings and subheadings to guide the reader.
Introduction, Aim, and Rationale
Introduction: State the topic and investigation clearly.
Aim: Direct, precise, focused on mathematical purpose.
Rationale: Explain why the topic was chosen (interest, curiosity, relevance).
Strong aim: Apply calculus to model water flow efficiency in tanks.
Weak aim: Study volumes of containers.
The Plan
Outline how the aim will be achieved.
Briefly describe methods, mathematical concepts, and approaches.
Distinguish:
Rationale = Why this aim?
Plan = How to achieve the aim?
Conclusion
Summarize findings clearly.
Link conclusion directly to the aim.
Avoid vague or general summaries.
Use of Visuals
Formulas and calculations center-aligned.
Graphs, tables, diagrams placed near discussion.
All visuals labeled and referenced.
Introduce visuals with short sentences (e.g., “Figure 3 shows population growth”).
Large tables moved to Appendix.
Relevance and Clarity
Every page must add value to the IA.
Avoid repetition of graphs, data, or calculations.
Keep concise, professional, and easy to follow.
Citations & References
Cite all data sources, tools, and models not in syllabus.
Reference definitions, theories, and explanations beyond IB.
Acknowledge software (Desmos, GeoGebra, Excel, etc.).
End with a complete bibliography.
Appendix
Optional.
Include only raw data, extended graphs, or lengthy calculations.
Criterion B: Mathematical Communication
What Does This Criterion Assess?
Clarity, correctness, and consistency in mathematical communication.
Awarded out of 4 marks.
To achieve full marks, communication must be:
Relevant
Appropriate
Consistent
Mathematical Language
Use correct mathematical notation, symbols, and terminology.
Present equations in proper mathematical formatting.
Maintain consistency throughout the IA.
Variables and Terms
Define all variables when first introduced.
Provide units where appropriate.
Clearly explain key terms relevant to the investigation.
Visuals
Label graphs, tables, and diagrams clearly.
Include titles, numbering, and axis labels with units.
Refer to visuals appropriately in the text.
Accuracy and Rounding
Round values to a suitable degree of accuracy.
State the level of precision applied.
Ensure consistency in rounding across the IA.
Criterion C: Personal Engagement
What Does This Criterion Assess?
Awarded out of 3 marks.
Focuses on your curiosity, initiative, and personal voice.
Goes beyond calculations — it shows that the IA is truly your work.
Must be demonstrated throughout the IA, not only in the introduction.
How to Show Personal Engagement
Clearly explain your motivation for choosing the topic.
Keep your introduction and rationale personal, but concise.
Include personal comments and opinions on your results.
Ask curious and relevant questions within your IA and provide answers later.
Connect your math to real-world situations and applications.
Ensure that your IA reflects your voice and perspective, not just textbook-style math.
Making Your IA Unique
Original topics show strong engagement — but common topics can also be made personal by:
Using unique or local datasets.
Deriving your own models.
Adding original interpretations.
Exploring the topic from multiple perspectives (mathematical, social, economic, scientific).
Optional Ways of Showing Engagement
Collect and analyze your own data.
Learn and apply a new math concept (at the appropriate IB level).
Derive your own model or formula from the data.
Use new tools such as GeoGebra, Desmos, or Excel.
Compare different models for the same situation and evaluate which works better.
Criterion D: Reflection
What Does This Criterion Assess?
Awarded out of 3 marks.
Focuses on your ability to critically evaluate your mathematics.
Shows that you can analyze, interpret, and consider limitations of your methods and results.
Reflection should be throughout the IA, not just in a conclusion section.
How to Reflect Effectively
Comment on the results you obtained: are they what you expected?
Identify limitations in your methods or assumptions.
Suggest possible improvements or extensions to your work.
Discuss mathematical implications of your results.
Consider real-world relevance and potential impact of your conclusions.
Examples of Reflective Questions to Include
“How reliable are my models given the assumptions made?”
“What would happen if I changed this variable or condition?”
“Are there alternative methods that could improve accuracy?”
“Does the data suggest a pattern I didn’t anticipate?”
Strategies for Strong Reflection
Compare predicted vs. actual outcomes.
Evaluate different approaches or models you applied.
Highlight sources of error and their effect on results.
Suggest extensions for further investigation.
Use mathematical reasoning to justify your reflections, not just opinions.
Tips to Maximize Marks
Include reflection at multiple points, not only at the end.
Be specific and concise — general statements don’t earn full marks.
Connect reflection to your aim and research question.
Show a personal understanding of the topic and the mathematics involved.
Criterion E: Use of Mathematics
What Does This Criterion Assess?
Awarded out of 6 marks.
Evaluates the level, correctness, and sophistication of mathematics used in your IA.
Measures whether your math is appropriate for your topic and research question.
Focuses on depth, complexity, and correct application of mathematical techniques.
Key Components for Full Marks
Correctness
All calculations, formulas, and derivations must be accurate.
Avoid careless errors; double-check your results.
Appropriateness
Use mathematics that is suitable for your topic.
Examples: calculus for rates of change, statistics for data analysis, algebra for modelling.
Variety and Sophistication
Include more than one type of mathematical method where appropriate.
Examples:
Differentiation and integration for modelling curves.
Regression, correlation, or probability for data analysis.
Matrices or sequences for structured calculations.
Correct Use of Technology
Use tools like Desmos, GeoGebra, Excel, or Python correctly to support your mathematics.
Clearly show how technology is applied and cite any external models or functions.
Communication of Mathematics
Present all work clearly using proper notation, symbols, and terminology.
Center equations, number diagrams, and label graphs correctly.
Strategies for Maximizing Marks
Apply mathematical methods at a level appropriate for HL or SL.
Integrate different techniques to explore your research question.
Demonstrate logical progression in calculations and derivations.
Include interpretation of results, linking math back to the aim.
Highlight novel applications or extensions of mathematics beyond routine exercises.
Common Problems to Avoid
Using only basic or superficial math techniques.
Mathematical errors that undermine your argument.
Failing to show steps or reasoning behind results.
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For more Information
5 Critical Mistakes That Cost IA Marks
Learn from common pitfalls and discover best practices for IA success
❌ What NOT to Do
Choosing Overused Topics
Golden ratio, Fibonacci in nature, basic probability
Insufficient Mathematical Depth
Using only basic curriculum mathematics
Poor Mathematical Communication
Missing steps, incorrect notation, unclear explanations
Weak Personal Engagement
No personal connection or mathematical curiosity shown
Superficial Reflection
Just summarizing results without critical evaluation
✅ Best Practices
Original, Personal Topics
Connect to your hobbies, interests, or experiences
Advanced Mathematical Techniques
Extend beyond syllabus with relevant methods
Crystal Clear Explanations
Every step explained, proper notation, logical flow
Genuine Mathematical Curiosity
Show initiative, ask "what if" questions
Deep Critical Analysis
Evaluate methods, discuss limitations, suggest improvements
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about IB Math Internal Assessment
The Internal Assessment is a mathematical exploration that counts for 20% of your final IB Math grade. It's a 12-20 page investigation where you explore a mathematical topic that interests you, using appropriate mathematical techniques and demonstrating personal engagement with the subject. The IA is assessed on five criteria: Presentation, Mathematical Communication, Personal Engagement, Reflection, and Use of Mathematics.
Choose a topic that genuinely interests you and connects to your personal experiences or hobbies. Ensure it allows for mathematical exploration at your course level (SL or HL) and isn't too complex or too simple. Good topics often involve real-world applications, patterns in nature, sports analysis, or mathematical modeling. Avoid overused topics like the golden ratio in art or simple probability calculations.
Use mathematics appropriate to your course level that goes beyond basic curriculum content. For SL students, this might involve extending topics like calculus applications or statistical analysis. HL students should demonstrate more sophisticated mathematical techniques. The key is using relevant mathematics correctly rather than including complex math for its own sake. Quality over complexity is essential.
Personal engagement is worth 3 out of 20 marks and demonstrates your genuine interest in the mathematical exploration. Show this through your choice of topic (personal connection), independent thinking in your approach, and evidence of mathematical curiosity throughout your investigation. Explain why the topic matters to you and what insights you gained during the exploration process.
Your reflection should go beyond summarizing what you did. Critically evaluate your mathematical processes, discuss unexpected findings, consider limitations of your approach, and suggest improvements or extensions. Reflect on what you learned about mathematics and your problem-solving process. This shows mathematical maturity and earns marks in the Reflection criterion worth 3 points.