tok essay grading scale

Understanding the TOK essay rubric

TOK Home > Free TOK notes > TOK essay guidance > Understanding the TOK essay rubric

After understanding the of the basics of the essay, your next step is to grasp how it is evaluated and marked, which is outlined in the ‘assessment instrument’. Your TOK teacher will give you a copy of this, or you can find it online in the 2022 TOK Guide.

The overall assessment objective of the TOK essay is to answer the prescribed essay title in a clear, coherent, and critical way. In order to do this, the assessment ‘instrument’ looks for five different skills.

STEP 1: Understand the TOK essay rubric

1. making links to tok.

The discussion within your TOK essay should be linked very effectively to the  areas of knowledge . Most, TOK essays expect you to discuss two AOKs, which will provide you with the context to explore and answer the prescribed title you’ve chosen.

2. Understanding perspectives

Your TOK essay should show a clear awareness of different points of view, and should offer an evaluation of them. This means considering how different perspective might approach the question in different ways.

3. Offering an effective argument

The arguments within your TOK essay are clear and coherent, and are supported by strong examples.

This means expressing your opinions clearly, and supporting them with original and meaningful real-life situations.

4. Keeping discussions relevant

Your essay’s discussions should offer a ‘sustained focus’ on the title. This means that you should be able to pick out any section of your essay, and be able to identify what question it is answering.

5. Considering implications

Your essay needs to not just present and evaluate arguments, it also needs to say why these arguments are significant, and what their implications are.

After you have grasped the rubric strands, you are ready to move on to choosing your prescribed title from the choice of six that are published in March or November – which we provide guidance on here .

Creating a TOK essay: our four-step guide

Click on the buttons below to take you to the four steps of creating a great TOK essay. Don’t forget that we have plenty of videos on this and other aspects of the course, and members of the site have access to a huge amount of other resources to help you master the course and assessment tasks.

How to write a TOK essay: webinar

This 80-minute webinar video and presentation gives you a clear, engaging, step-by-step guide to the task, helping you to understand the assessment rubric, choose the right PT, and produce an essay that hits all the assessment targets.

The video is supported by a presentation, and a Q&A debrief answering some of the most common questions asked about writing a TOK essay. Purchase your ticket here .

More support for the TOK essay

Make sure that your TOK teacher has given you access to all the documents and online material that support the essay. These include the TOK Subject Guide, the TOK essay rubric, and exemplar TOK essays (found in ‘MyIB’, which is accessible to teachers).   Make sure you go through our other pages on writing the TOK essay. You’ll find help on understanding what the is looking for, that works for you, what each of the should focus on, how to an effective TOK essay, and how to fill in your .   If your school is a  member  of theoryofknowledge.net, we have designed a series of lessons on the essay, with two formative assessment tasks. These will familiarize you with the essay rubric, knowledge questions, real-life situations, how to deal with perspectives and implications, and structuring an essay. If you are signed into the site, you can access these lessons  here .   You can also find out our thoughts on the TOK essay (and the TOK exhibition) in several webinars that we have delivered. The main one is the TOK Assessment 2022 webinar, but we also consider this form of assessment in our free webinars on the 2022 course. You can see these webinars on  this page  of the site.

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TOK Essay Assessment Criteria

TOK and TOK Essay a Definitive Guide Series: Part 4

TOK and TOK Essay: a Definitive Guide Series Part 4

Welcome to our Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and TOK Essay a Definitive Guide Series! In this series of articles, you will learn everything there is to know about the IB TOK course, TOK exhibition, and writing a compelling TOK essay. So let’s get started!

In order to excel in writing a successful TOK (Theory of Knowledge) essay one needs a clear understanding of the assessment criteria. In this article, we will explore the key aspects that examiners consider when evaluating  TOK essays. Understanding these criteria will enable you to write a well-structured and insightful essay that demonstrates your critical thinking skills. So, let’s delve into the TOK essay assessment criteria and learn how to succeed in this task.

Clear, Coherent, and Critical Exploration

The primary criterion for a TOK essay is whether the student provides a clear, coherent, and critical exploration of the essay title. It is essential to maintain focus on the central question throughout your essay. By continuously relating your arguments and analysis to the essay title, you demonstrate your ability to stay on topic and present a well-developed response.

Emphasize How We Know, Not What We Know

A crucial aspect of the TOK essay is to focus on the process of knowledge acquisition rather than merely presenting factual information. Instead of providing lengthy descriptions  of knowledge, your essay should explore how we acquire, produce, and pass on knowledge within the areas of knowledge. It is crucial to reflect on the methods, biases, limitations, and implications of knowledge within these areas.

Effective Use of Examples

While discussing the process of knowledge acquisition, it is essential to support your arguments with relevant examples. These examples can be drawn from subject lessons or real-life situations. By using examples, you can illustrate your points effectively and provide concrete evidence to support your claims. However, be cautious not to make your essay overly descriptive; instead, maintain a focus on critical analysis.

Coherence and Flow

A well-structured essay is coherent and allows the examiner to follow your line of reasoning. Introduce your ideas clearly and use appropriate connectives and paragraphs to enhance the flow of your writing. Ensure that your arguments are logically connected, allowing the examiner to understand the progression of your thoughts. This coherence and flow contribute to the overall quality of your essay.

Consider Multiple Perspectives

An excellent TOK essay incorporates and analyzes several perspectives on the given topic. It is vital to explore different angles and present a balanced view. Your essay should not offer a one-sided answer but should rather showcase your ability to consider multiple viewpoints. By engaging with various perspectives, you demonstrate your critical thinking skills and make your essay more compelling.

Implications and Significance

Consideration of the implications and significance of your claims is a crucial element of a strong TOK essay. When presenting your arguments or conclusions, analyze the broader implications they have for the quality, reliability, or nature of knowledge within the specific area of knowledge. Reflect on how your ideas connect to knowledge as a whole, exploring the larger implications of your claims.

Answer the Essay Prompt

Addressing the essay prompt directly is of utmost importance. Even if you manage to cover all the necessary elements required for an excellent essay, failure to answer the prompt itself can significantly impact your score. Ensure that you understand the essay question and frame your arguments accordingly. This clarity of purpose will enhance the coherence and relevance of your essay.

Concluding Remarks

Crafting a successful TOK essay requires adherence to the assessment criteria outlined by examiners. By providing a clear, coherent, and critical exploration of the essay title, emphasizing the process of knowledge acquisition, utilizing relevant examples, ensuring coherence and flow, considering multiple perspectives, and reflecting on implications, you can create a compelling essay that showcases your intellectual abilities.

Official Assessment Criteria

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can I use personal experiences as examples in my TOK essay?

Yes, personal experiences can be used as examples in your TOK essay, as long as they are relevant and contribute to the critical exploration of the essay topic.

How many perspectives should I include in my TOK essay?

There is no fixed number of perspectives you should include. The key is to present multiple viewpoints that offer a well-rounded analysis of the topic, ensuring that your essay remains focused and coherent.

Should I include a conclusion in my TOK essay?

Yes, a conclusion is essential to summarize your main points and provide a final reflection on the essay topic. It helps bring your essay to a logical close and reinforces the overall argument.

Can I use rhetorical questions in my TOK essay?

Yes, rhetorical questions can be effective in engaging the reader and encouraging critical thinking. However, use them sparingly and ensure they contribute to the coherence and flow of your essay.

How can I ensure my TOK essay is unique and avoids plagiarism?

To maintain uniqueness and avoid plagiarism, ensure that you express ideas in your own words and properly cite any sources you reference. Take care to provide proper attribution for any quotes, examples, or evidence used in your essay.

About the Author

Anzhelika is a PhD candidate in Genetics and a marketing consultant at U4Success from Vienna, Austria. She leads our website and social media content strategy.

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Extended Essay Writers

IB TOK Essay Rubric and Assessment Criteria

Luke MacQuoid

As a seasoned IB writer, I’ve seen my fair share of IB Theory of Knowledge essays. Let me share some insights on the TOK essay rubric that can transform your writing experience from daunting to manageable. In my opinion, knowing this rubric is your golden ticket to excelling in the TOK component of the IB program.

What Is the TOK Essay Rubric?

The TOK essay rubric is not just a scoring guide but a map for intellectual exploration. According to general IB criteria, this rubric assesses your ability to engage critically with different ways of knowing and areas of knowledge. It’s about how well you can intertwine personal reflection with academic rigor.

As I understand it, the rubric primarily evaluates two key areas: your grasp of knowledge questions and your skill in developing a cohesive and coherent argument. The first part, dealing with knowledge questions, is where you demonstrate your understanding of the complexities and nuances of knowledge itself. It’s about probing into what we know and how we know it.

Equally important, as per the rubric, is the organization and clarity of your essay. From my experience, a well-written TOK essay presents ideas logically, making them more persuasive and impactful. Remember, clarity and coherence are your allies in conveying complex thoughts.

The TOK essay rubric also places a significant emphasis on real-life relevance. It’s not enough to theorize; you must connect your ideas to the real world. In my experience, essays that effectively bridge theoretical insights with practical examples tend to score higher.

So, understanding and skillfully applying the TOK essay rubric can be a game-changer. It’s a tool that, when used wisely, can improve your essay from good to great. Remember, this rubric is your guide to expressing your critical and reflective thinking.

Key Components of the TOK Essay Rubric

The rubric for evaluating the TOK essay focuses on several components. Understanding these components is crucial for writing an effective essay. Here are the primary aspects of the TOK essay rubric.

1. Understanding Knowledge Issues

Grasping the essence of knowledge issues is fundamental to your TOK essay. When I approach these essays, I ensure that my understanding of the knowledge issues related to the prescribed title is not just superficial. The discussion should go beyond textbook definitions, drawing deeply from real-life situations and examples. It makes the essay relatable and intellectually engaging.

2. Quality of Analysis of Knowledge Issues

As I know from my years of writing, it’s not enough to simply identify knowledge issues; you must dissect them. That means considering different points of view, understanding the implications, and untangling the complexities. A well-analyzed question demonstrates your ability to think critically and reflect on the nature of knowledge.

3. Organization of Ideas

As per the general IB criteria, the organization of your essay is crucial. In my experience, a well-organized essay begins with an introduction that does more than just outline the main points; it should captivate the reader’s interest. Each paragraph should be a logical progression from the previous one, building your argument step by step. The conclusion is your final opportunity to make an impact. It should not only wrap up your argument but leave a lasting impression on the reader, tying together all your points cohesively and persuasively.

4. Clarity and Precision of Expression

I can’t stress enough the importance of expressing your ideas clearly and precisely. You need to communicate complex thoughts understandably and engagingly. It’s perfectly fine to use specialized terminology, but it’s crucial to explain it clearly, especially considering the diverse audience of the IB community. Your goal should be to make your essay accessible and understandable without oversimplifying the complex concepts inherent in TOK.

5. Supporting Examples

In my essays, I always reinforce my arguments with relevant examples. These can be drawn from personal experiences, which add a unique touch, or from historical events and various areas of knowledge. The key here is relevance and how well these examples illustrate your point.

6. Critical Thinking

In my opinion, the heart of a TOK essay lies in its demonstration of critical thinking skills. It isn’t just about presenting information; it’s about engaging with it. Whenever I write, I make it a point to question underlying assumptions and explore counter-arguments. It’s essential to look at the strengths and limitations of the arguments you present. It shows a depth of understanding and a willingness to engage with complex ideas.

7. Engagement with the Prescribed Title

From my experience, a successful TOK essay maintains a laser focus on the prescribed title . It’s easy to get sidetracked with interesting side discussions, but according to general IB criteria, the essay should directly and thoroughly address the title. It means every argument, every example, and every analysis should be relevant and contribute towards exploring the title. It’s about showing how each piece of your essay contributes to a more extensive understanding of the title’s theme.

8. Adherence to the Word Limit and Formal Requirements

As any seasoned IB writer would tell you, respecting the word limit and formal requirements of the IB is not just a recommendation; it’s a necessity. It includes adhering to the prescribed word count and following the formal guidelines for citations and referencing. From my perspective, these constraints are not just bureaucratic necessities. They challenge you to be concise, to distill your thoughts, and to present your ideas in a clear, direct manner.

9. Personal Engagement and Reflection

Finally, the most compelling TOK essays, in my view, reflect a personal thought. The essay should be more than a scholarly discussion; it should reflect your engagement with the topic. How do the knowledge issues you discuss resonate with your experiences and thoughts? This personal touch doesn’t undermine the academic rigor of your essay; rather, it enriches it, providing a unique perspective and demonstrating a deep, thoughtful engagement with the subject matter.

How to Use TOK Essay Rubric and Write A-Grade Work?

The TOK essay is graded on a scale of A to E, with A representing an excellent performance and E representing an elementary performance. This assessment, combined with the student’s performance in the TOK exhibition, contributes to their overall IB score.

Writing an A-grade TOK essay for the International Baccalaureate curriculum involves a deep understanding of the TOK essay rubric and how to apply it effectively. Here’s a guide based on my extensive experience with IB essays.

Deeply Understand the Rubric

My first and foremost tip is a profound understanding of the TOK essay rubric. This understanding is crucial because each rubric criterion guides your essay’s essential aspects. It’s not just about knowing the criteria but also about understanding how they interconnect and what they mean for the TOK essay’s structure and content.

Select the Right Prescribed Title

Choosing the right prescribed title is more than just picking a topic. It’s about finding a question that resonates with you and where you can demonstrate a strong understanding of the knowledge issues. This choice is crucial because it shapes your essay, from your argument to your chosen examples.

Plan and Structure Your Essay Thoughtfully

As I begin writing, I always emphasize the importance of planning and structuring the essay. It involves creating a basic outline and thinking about how each part of your essay will contribute to a coherent and compelling argument. A well-structured essay guides the reader through your points logically and effectively.

Engage Deeply with Knowledge Issues

Engaging with knowledge issues is at the heart of a TOK essay. It’s about more than just mentioning these issues; it’s about exploring them in depth. It means analyzing them from different perspectives, understanding their implications, and relating them to real-life situations.

Demonstrate Critical Thinking

In your essay, showcasing critical thinking is essential. It involves questioning assumptions, considering various viewpoints, and weighing the strengths and weaknesses of different arguments. Critical thinking elevates your essay from merely describing knowledge issues to an insightful analysis.

Need help with your IB TOK essay?

From research and analysis to structuring and editing, our skilled mentors will be by your side, helping you write an exceptional TOK essay that meets the word count and stringent IB criteria.

Maintain Clarity and Precision in Expression

Clarity and precision in writing are critical. You must express complex ideas understandably and engagingly. Avoid unnecessary jargon; if technical terms are used, ensure they are well-explained.

Use Relevant Examples Effectively

Using relevant examples is a powerful way to strengthen your arguments. These examples should be carefully chosen and well-integrated into your essay. They should illustrate your points and add depth and context to your analysis.

Reflect on Your Personal Perspective

Finally, personal engagement and reflection are what make your TOK essay unique. It is where you show your personal connection to the topic, how you relate the knowledge issues to your own experiences, and what you think about them. This personal touch adds depth and authenticity to your essay.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, understanding and adhering to the TOK essay rubric is essential. It’s a guide that, when followed, can lead to academic success in the IB program. Remember, this rubric is your ally, not your enemy. Also, you can contact our experts from EEW Service if you need help with writing the TOK essay .

Luke MacQuoid has extensive experience teaching English as a foreign language in Japan, having worked with students of all ages for over 12 years. Currently, he is teaching at the tertiary level. Luke holds a BA from the University of Sussex and an MA in TESOL from Lancaster University, both located in England. As well to his work as an IB Examiner and Master Tutor, Luke also enjoys sharing his experiences and insights with others through writing articles for various websites, including extendedessaywriters.com blog

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Guide to the TOK Presentation

What’s covered:, what is the theory of knowledge (tok) presentation, how is the tok presentation scored, how to pick a tok presentation topic, how to structure your tok presentation.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB/IBDP) is a high school program offering courses in subjects, ranging from mathematics to Arabic. Students sign up for a holistic approach to learning including external examinations, internal assessments, research papers and community service hours. Students will have to do a bit of everything while completing IB’s core, including CAS, Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and the extended essay (EE). Understanding how to excel in TOK will usually help students in their other aspects of student life. It’ll be important to be familiar with the basics of TOK as a subject before progressing into one of its components, the presentation. 

Quite similar to the TOK essay , the TOK presentation is an attempt to assess your critical thinking skills while conveying your opinions in a clear cut manner. While a TOK essay is more conceptual in its nature in tackling the focal point, the TOK presentation answers a knowledge question by making use of actual real life scenarios to display your understanding of TOK concepts .

The TOK presentation can be done individually, in pairs, or in a group of three. It’s usually delivered in front of your TOK classroom, making this an internal assessment that other students are watching and taking peer review notes on. Each presentation gets a max of 10 minutes per presenter, meaning if you have three people, you get 30 minutes. The actual presentation is followed by a discussion section where the presenter actively engages in a Q&A with the audience and the teacher.

A lot of students really struggle with where to start the presentation, but if you break it down by following a few steps it gets a lot more manageable:

1. Knowledge Question (KQ)

The knowledge question is the focus of your presentation. Upon being given a list of topics for the TOK presentation, keep in mind that the list of selections changes every examination set. So, once you pick a topic, you could create a KQ that analyzes this topic to a greater degree. An example of a knowledge question could be: “What is the role of faith in making ethical decisions.” This is a good knowledge question because it incorporates ways of knowing (WOKs) which are important to analyze in any TOK presentation.

2. Real Life Situation (RLS)

A RLS is supposed to be an example or situation that you can directly use as an expression of your KQ. Relating your RLS to numerous WOKs and areas of knowledge (AOKs) strengthens the arguments you make (the claims and counterclaims for your presentation) and earns you a chunk of your grade for the presentation. 

3. Planning out your presentation 

Creating an outline that details each slide, and even writing down how many minutes you spend on each section of your presentation is important, allowing you to allocate time and manage your presentation efficiently. Creating this outline can also help you feel more confident when your presentation day comes around too!

These three tips can serve as the founding basis for your presentation and will definitely help get you started on the right track!

The grade you get in IB includes the core (CAS, extended essay and TOK). And, 33% of your total IB TOK grade is dependent on your TOK presentation, which is usually graded externally, but recorded internally. What this means is, your actual presentation will be recorded by your teacher, and the recording with your slides will be sent to the IB board, who then assigns an external grader to assess it. The presentation is scored out of ten points, as well as the essay, and the following formula explains the grading schema:

(presentation score) + (essay score * 2) = overall score out of 30

To correlate a letter grade to your score out of 30, IB uses grade boundaries. These boundaries can change any year so checking in with your school for the most updated ones is best. Here is a past example of grade boundaries:

Upon receiving a letter grade you can calculate your grade for the core of IB, which includes the extended essay, CAS, and TOK. Passing the core is essential to earning your diploma in IB and the table below outlines this further: 

Your topic should be presented in the form of a knowledge question that isn’t easily answered with two-dimensional answers like “yes” and “no.” It should in its nature make both the presenter and the audience think deeper into multilevel ways of understanding knowledge as a concept. More often than not, a KQ will usually end up with people having more questions than ending up with a satisfying answer, and that’s exactly what IB wants from a presentation, a debatable and questioning idea. This is usually achieved with a KQ and RLS that work hand in hand, and successful students make sure to consistently link back to their solid topics throughout the presentation. An example of a good TOK presentation topic might look like this: To what extent does faith play a part in online shopping experiences?

In this case a related RLS could be:

Purchases of overpriced and highly coveted products with little to no inherent practical value.

Your topic should have an RLS that the audience can at least relate to, making it easier for them to stay on board for the duration of your presentation, but as well as stay engaged with what you’re talking about. Once you pick a great topic for the presentation, the rest of the planning and work actually falls in place a lot more steadily. 

Breaking the presentation down slide-by-slide is the best way to plan it out, and the following structure may help streamline the process of creating it from start to finish.

• Slide 2 – RLS and Context In this slide you introduce your RLS and provide all the required context and information to explain what your RLS is to the audience. Make sure to start using jargon specific to TOK. Introducing your WOKs and AOKs is a good idea in this slide, and relating it to your RLS should be how you wrap it up.
• Slide 3 – KQ and RLS Declare the KQ that you’ve decided upon and analyze the KQ by breaking it down into segments that can be further developed on. If the KQ contains or mentions a WOK or AOK, further contextualize that specific AOK or WOK for the audience. Explain any assumptions you’ve made on the basis of your KQ and RLS as well, before you continue to develop on them.

The most important tip for IB students when it comes to TOK is the most generic one: start as early as possible! IB is an ultra-holistic approach to schooling, so there’s a lot more than just TOK going on; students usually need to make time to study for internal and external assessments, CAS service hours, and even writing their extended essays. Starting TOK work as early as possible not only sets you up with more time to produce work of higher quality, but also allows you to allocate time for other tasks as well. 

Otherwise, you might find yourself feeling burnt out and unmotivated before actually submitting the essay, and maybe even prevent yourself from achieving that high score in IB that you wanted. So start early, and give yourself that easy extra advantage!

While your IB scores aren’t as important to college admissions as one might assume, showing proof that you’re taking rigorous classes and demonstrating hard work throughout your time as an IB student is more impactful. For better insight into how your chances of college admissions look, check out CollegeVine’s admissions calculator ! 

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Presentation TOK Grade Boundaries?

• Theory Of Knowledge
• Prsentation
• TOK presentation

By SuperChickenRun November 27, 2015 in Theory of Knowledge

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Superchickenrun.

Hey Everyone! I just have a simple question (hopefully)...

What are the grade boundaries for TOK for the new syllabus? Both for the presentation and for the essay?

So basically what I am asking is for the grade boundaries, and if anyone thinks I can still get an A in TOK having only gotten 7 in my presentation, or do you think I should resit and invest more time in the presentation?

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• 2 weeks later...

Hey Everyone! I just have a simple question (hopefully)...   What are the grade boundaries for TOK for the new syllabus? Both for the presentation and for the essay?   Also, I got a 7 out of 10 in my first attempt at the TOK presentation (had it on a Friday and my prelims from Monday to Thursday so it held no priority therefore I invested no time ). I was wondering, should I do a second attempt (our school allows a "practice" but if you do well then they don't make you do it again)? I am aiming to get my 3 points for TOK and EE because I want a good score by the end of this, BUT I am not sure if I can completely put my faith in getting an A for my EE...   So basically what I am asking is for the grade boundaries, and if anyone thinks I can still get an A in TOK having only gotten 7 in my presentation, or do you think I should resit and invest more time in the presentation?   Thank you

okay so the presentation is 1/3 of your TOK grade, and the essay is 2/3;  with a 7 in the presentation it's hard to get an A in TOK, as you'd need 10/10 in the essay. But if you get a B in TOK (so get a 9 in the essay) and an A in the EE, you can still score three points. If you redo the presentation and do well on the essay, and get an A for TOK, then you can allow yourself a B in the EE and still get the three points. Below I leave th TOK-EE point matrix just in case.

  Hey Everyone! I just have a simple question (hopefully)...   What are the grade boundaries for TOK for the new syllabus? Both for the presentation and for the essay?   Also, I got a 7 out of 10 in my first attempt at the TOK presentation (had it on a Friday and my prelims from Monday to Thursday so it held no priority therefore I invested no time ). I was wondering, should I do a second attempt (our school allows a "practice" but if you do well then they don't make you do it again)? I am aiming to get my 3 points for TOK and EE because I want a good score by the end of this, BUT I am not sure if I can completely put my faith in getting an A for my EE...   So basically what I am asking is for the grade boundaries, and if anyone thinks I can still get an A in TOK having only gotten 7 in my presentation, or do you think I should resit and invest more time in the presentation?   Thank you

that one is wrong --- they kinda changed the system.   I think the combination of B and C will get you 2 points. 

Alright, firstly don't listen to eross cause he doesn't know what he's talking about

Alright, firstly don't listen to eross cause he doesn't know what he's talking about   Grade boundaries change from year to year, but in May 2015 they were as follows.   A- 23-30 B- 17-22 C- 11-16 D- 5-10 E- 0-4   So you received a 7/10 on your presentation, which isn't bad at all. Your presentation is worth 1/3 of your TOK and your essay is worth the remaining 2/3. They just double your essay grade and add it to your presentation to sum it out of 30. If you do the math, you need to score 8 in the essay to get an A, going by the May 2015 boundaries.  

yeah don't listen to me hahah I don't know what math I was doing when I posted that... clearly lack of sleep and stress have been messing with my brain (just in time for my math final next week!) 

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The Admissions Strategist

Ib scores: the fundamental guide.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme is a rigorous curriculum for talented and motivated students. Although it’s challenging and time-consuming, it offers many rewards. For example, students receive a well-rounded and in-depth education, excellent preparation for college, and—in many cases—extensive college credit.

Earning the IB Diploma requires navigating a series of exams, essays, and projects. Although it can be intimidating, about 80 percent of students who complete the IB Programme also earn the IB Diploma. In this fundamental guide, we’ll tell you the scores you need in order to earn the Diploma, how the tests are scored, and some key information about IB tests.

Click above to watch a video on IB Scoring.

IB Tests: The Basics

IB students take exams in subjects such as English literature, mathematics, a foreign language, a social science, and an experimental science (Physics, Chemistry, or Biology). Students may also take a course (and the corresponding exam) in the arts, or they may substitute for another course in one of the five previously listed areas.

IB tests measure the skills and knowledge students have acquired during the IB Programme. They also determine whether students qualify for the IB Diploma. The diploma is not a requirement for high school graduation.

IB students qualify for an IB Diploma if they complete Diploma Programme Core requirements and earn at least 24 points on IB tests.

However, students will not qualify for the diploma if they:

• Score a 1 in any subject
• Score more than two 2’s in any subject
• Score more than three 3’s or lower in any subject

IB tests are writing intensive, with an emphasis on essays and short answer responses that require critical thinking. They evaluate skills like creative problem solving, analytical thinking, and evaluating and constructing arguments.

Many tests include both a standardized written exam and an internal assessment supervised by the course teacher. Internal assessments consist of mathematical investigations, oral examinations in languages and literature, labs in science classes, fieldwork in geography, artistic performances, and other portfolios and projects.

HL and SL Subjects

IB courses and their exams are classified as Higher Level (HL) or Standard Level (SL). HL courses are more in-depth than SL courses and signify a greater time commitment, although the same general content is covered.

Generally, HL exams are more challenging than SL exams. Students are expected to be more adept at applying their knowledge of the subject area. Scoring is the same for both levels.

SL subjects include 150 teaching hours, while HL subjects require 240 hours. Students must take at least three of their courses at the higher level, and may take no more than four at HL. In many cases, the school decides for the students which courses will be HL and which will be SL, based on the curriculum and schedule offered.

When Are IB Tests Taken?

Typically, IB students take their exams in May of senior year . Schools may also elect to participate in a November test session. Internal assessments begin during the second semester of junior year and conclude around February of senior year.

The International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) does allow students to take a maximum of one or two standard level exams at the end of junior year, but this is up to each school’s IB coordinator.

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How are ib tests scored.

For each IB subject area (six total), students receive a score ranging from 1 to 7 . To earn the diploma, students must achieve a score of at least 24 points. Both the final written examination and internal assessments are considered in the scoring. Internal assessments are either assessed by external evaluators, or graded by the teacher and moderated by the IBO.

To moderate a teacher’s grading, the IBO requests the assessments of several students selected at random. The moderator grades the assessments and compares their grades to the teacher’s grades . If the teacher’s grades are too lenient, all student scores are adjusted downward. If the teacher’s grades are too harsh, all student’s scores are adjusted upward.

IB uses “ grade descriptors ” to determine how many points a student earns in each subject area. This is similar to a rubric.

For example, to earn a 7 (maximum score) in language and literature, a student must demonstrate “excellent understanding and appreciation of the interplay between form and content in regard to the question or task; responses that may be convincing, detailed, independent in analysis, synthesis and evaluation; highly developed levels of expression, both orally and in writing; very good degree of accuracy and clarity; very good awareness of context and appreciation of the effect on the audience/reader; very effective structure with relevant textual detail to support a critical engagement with the thoughts and feelings expressed in the work(s).”

A student who earns a 1 (minimum score) demonstrates “very rudimentary knowledge and understanding of the question or task; responses that are of very limited validity; very limited powers of expression, both orally and in writing; widespread lapses in accuracy and clarity; no awareness of context and appreciation of the effect on the audience/reader; very rudimentary structure within which the thoughts and feelings of the work(s) are explored.”

Up to 3 extra points may be awarded for the Diploma Programme Core elements: extended essay, Theory of Knowledge (TOK) essay/presentation, and Creativity, Action, and Service (CAS) hours. The extended essay and TOK essay are evaluated by examiners appointed by the IBO. The highest possible score for the IB Diploma is 45 points.

Diploma Programme Core Scoring

To earn the diploma, students must fulfill the Diploma Programme Core requirements mentioned above: extended essay, TOK essay/presentation, and CAS.

The TOK essay/presentation and extended essay are each scored individually, and they can earn students a total of 3 points toward the diploma.

Extended essays are 4,000-word essays on a topic of interest to the student. They combine research, synthesis, analysis, and developing an argument. Examiners appointed by the IBO assess the extended essay on a scale of 0-34 . The student then receives a score related to a band:

• A = Work of an excellent standard
• B = Work of a good standard
• C = Work of a satisfactory standard
• D = Work of a mediocre standard
• E = Work of an elementary standard ( Note: A grade of E on the extended essay disqualifies a student from receiving the IB Diploma).

TOK essays/presentations are evaluated according to the same scoring range and grade bands as the extended essay. (Again, a level E disqualifies a student from receiving the diploma.) The presentations are recorded via video and assessed internally, while the essays are externally graded by IBO-appointed examiners.

Based on the overall grades obtained on both the extended essay and TOK, students receive a maximum of three points. For instance, a student who scores a level B on TOK and a level C on the extended essay is awarded two points toward the diploma.

Students must successfully complete CAS requirements to earn the diploma. This involves a variety of projects, including volunteer work, totaling 150 hours. However, no diploma points are awarded for CAS hours.

When Do IB Scores Come Out?

The IBO releases scores for May exams on July 5 th of the same year.

For tests taken in November, the IBO releases scores on the following January 2 nd , two months after the exams.

Students can typically access the scores online one day after they are released to schools.

How Do You Check Your IB Score?

You check your scores on the IB candidate’s results website . Type in the individual PIN provided by your school’s IB Coordinator, then click on the Results tab.

Scores are posted at staggered times based on time zones. If you check and don’t see your scores yet, you might just be a little too early!

What If You Think Your IB Score Was Unfair?

You have the option to challenge any scores that you feel are unfair. But you should know that it’s an expensive process, and it can potentially result in your score being lowered instead of raised.

The process is known as Enquiry Upon Results (EUR). First, you must talk to your IB Coordinator and ask them to contact the IBO on your behalf. Written consent from you or your legal guardian is required. Once the IBO has completed the EUR process, they communicate the results to the IB Coordinator. If the grade is changed, it will also be updated on the candidate’s result website.

There are several types of EURs. You can request to have externally evaluated materials (like an exam or the extended essay) re-assessed by individual component or for all components within a subject. Afterwards, you can order a report on the re-assessment.

You may also request to have externally evaluated materials returned to you so you can review the markings and feedback. Another option is to request the re-moderation of all internal assessments for a specific subject, like labs for your Physics class or projects in a foreign language.

If you are still unsatisfied, you can request an appeal from higher up in the IBO. Depending on what type of EUR you request, costs range from about $50 to almost $300 per request. Further appeal costs extra. On the plus side, your fee(s) is returned if your grade changes as a result of the enquiry.

What IB Scores Do Colleges Accept?

Every college has their own policies about awarding credit for IB classes. The best place to learn about an individual school’s credit policies is on their website. You can also Google “IB credit policy [name of school]” if you’re having trouble finding the right page.

Here are a few examples:

• Stanford University awards credit for HL exams only, usually requiring a 5 or higher. Some subjects, like Physics, require at least a 6.
• The University of Florida awards credit for a 4 or higher on both HL and SL exams.
• University of California (UC) schools award a year of credit to students who earn the diploma with a score of 30 or higher. Additional credit is awarded for scores of 5 or higher on HL exams.
• MIT typically does not award credit for advanced coursework. However, students who earn a 7 on certain exams, like Physics and Mathematics, may receive some credit.

As you can see, policies vary widely. In some cases, you can earn a year or more of college credit with high IB test scores and/or your IB Diploma. This saves you a lot of time and money as you work toward your degree.

How to Request IB Score Transcript

IB score transcripts are not sent directly to students, but you can request to have them sent to colleges. Before score results are released, you can request to have score transcripts sent to six universities free of charge. Typically, your IB Coordinator must make this request for you.

After results are released, visit the IB’s Request for Results Service page to have transcripts sent to schools. A fee of $17 is charged for each request, even if you haven’t sent results previously.

How to Request IB Diploma

If you earn the IB Diploma, you will receive it from your school. If the diploma is lost or damaged, you can request a placement through the Request for Results Service page (the same one you use to send score transcripts).

Currently, you can only request a replacement within 6 months after receiving your results. You must provide proof of identity, and the process takes up to 28 days.

Final Thoughts: IB Scores

The IB testing process sounds a bit complicated, but your IB Coordinator and your teachers will guide you through it. When it comes to scoring, the main thing you need to remember is that you’ll need at least 24 points to get your diploma.

For each of the six subject areas, you earn between 1-7 points. These points are awarded based on how well you’ve demonstrated your understanding of the subject, plus your ability to apply your knowledge. For each subject area, you’ll take a written exam and complete internal assessments such as oral exams, essays, and other projects.

You can earn up to three additional points by performing well on your TOK project, TOK essay, and extended essay. And if you aren’t happy with your scores, there is a review/appeal process.

You should also keep in mind that the IB Diploma is not required for graduation. It’s an extra honor for students who successfully complete their exams. It looks good to colleges, and it can help you earn a substantial amount of credit at many schools. If you apply yourself throughout the IB Programme, you shouldn’t have to worry too much about your IB test scores—you’ll be extremely well-prepared!

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• Jul 8, 2023

Deconstructing a 10/10 TOK Exhibition: How to Score FULL MARKS!

The TOK Exhibition is a new assessment in the revised TOK syllabus for first examination in 2022. Since it is a new format, there is quite a bit of confusion on how to do well on it. The best way to learn is to look at what the IB considers to be a 10/10 full mark TOK Exhibition. So let's deconstruct the below perfect scoring exhibition and find out what merits it has to do so well in the eyes of the IB.

The key to any assessment is to look at the grading criteria. For the TOK exhibition, you can find out more about the criteria and key specifications in my explainer article . But taking it straight from the TOK guide, the summary of the criteria includes:

Has three objects with clear real-world context

The connection between each of the three objects and the prompt chosen is clear

Each object's place in the exhibition is justified

Every point you make is directly related to the prompt and explained with evidence from the object

The Example

So let's take a look at this 10/10 TOK Essay example:

Here is what the IB said about this piece of work:

This is an example of an excellent exhibition. It was awarded a mark of 10/10. The student has clearly identified three specific objects and has effectively linked each one to the selected prompt. There is also a strong justification for the selection of each object. This student has included an introduction to their work. It should be noted that this is not required, but students are free to include a short introduction if they wish to do so. In this case the introduction is helpful as the student clearly identifies their selected prompt and theme, and explains why they have focused particularly on issues around subtext and connotation. The student then makes explicit references to the prompt throughout the response. In their discussion of the third object, the student makes a comparison between the dictionary and the song. It should be noted that there is no requirement that students make connections or comparisons between their objects. They may choose to do so, but it is also perfectly acceptable to discuss each of the three objects entirely individually. The piece of work should be judged holistically using the marking instrument, which means that, for example, the discussion of the dictionary should be rewarded wherever it appears in the response, not just where it appears under the section labelled object two.

Keys to success

After looking at the exhibition, you can see a few properties within this assessment example that clearly connects with the criteria as the IB has pointed out.

Objects and their real world contexts

There is a lot of confusion between students about what constitutes an object and what it means by the real world context of objects. I did a full explainer on exactly this here. But to briefly recap, almost anything can be objects from tweets to textbooks to songs. However, you must be specific as to where and how this object exists and is used in the real world. In this particular example, the three objects they have chosen are:

Starbucks cup used in 2017 during the holiday season

The author's personal translation dictionary which they use to translate between English and Chinese

The song 'Strange Fruit' by Billie Holliday.

In each case, you will see that they aren't TOO specific as to every single detail of their object, but only the ones relevant to their exhibition. Often, students interpret having to convey a clear real world example as listing irrelevant details like publisher or author or date of publishing, etc. Sometimes, it is simply unnecessary as this real world context means the object's 'place in the world'. If it is clear where the object would be seen, when it would be seen, and how it would be used or interacted with, there is no need to add any additional frivolous details.

For the first object - the starbucks cup, for example, the student didn't really go into detail about the specific designer, locations or even the season in which this cup was introduced. However, their introduction was already quite clear that this was an object which existed in the world during a particular time (2017) in a particular place (Starbucks) and interacted with in a particular way (to hold a drink obviously, but also to communicate a message). Similarly, the second object doesn't really go into detail about when and who published the dictionary, et cetera, but the key here is the focus on how the author uses the object (as a translation tool) as that is relevant to the whole knowledge and language theme of the exhibition. So the guidance for how to introduce the real-world contexts of an object is very clear: you don't need to list anything and everything about the object itself, but only the key details that establishes the object's place in the world. If that still isn't quite clear to you, you can check if you have done the real-world contexts well if your introduction can answer the following questions:

What is the object used for

How it exists in the world - physical or digital, personal to you or something you found, how people perceive the object (whether it is how you see it if it is a personal object, or how the wider public sees it)

As to the issue of researched vs personal objects, there is no clear answer. This example uses two 'researched' objects and one object which has a clear personal connection. In the TOK Guide, the IB recommends that you derive your objects from personal experience, but that doesn't necessarily mean that the object has to belong to you. However, I do recommend having at least one personal object just like the example, which can really demonstrate your 'connection' with the object and your experience with the issue presented in the TOK IA Prompt.

An interesting comment made by the examiners is that the exhibition is viewed as a whole rather than as each individual object's commentary. So you can draw links between each other, or not, and both should be equally rewarded. But the bigger picture here is that you must ensure each object tells a 'unique' story, and contribute equally to the exhibition in revealing a different perspective or a variation on your overall answer to the IA prompt. This is something I have talked about more extensively in my article on structuring your exhibition .

Finally, each object is justified within the exhibition as required by the criteria. You can see that the overall theme of the exhibition is how subtexts and the hidden connotations of language can present challenges to how knowledge is communicated. However, each object tells a slightly unique aspect towards this point. The starbucks cup focuses on how vague language can promote all sorts of different connotations that may be positive or negative, while the second object - the dictionary, convinces us the challenge of communicating knowledge due to different languages, and finally, the song reveals that these subtexts which are so key to communicating knowledge can often change based on personal experiences and cultural differences that presents yet another challenge to knowledge communication. The result is a cohesive answer to prompt, and yet a nuanced one, as each object is justified by introducing a unique perspective to the prompt.

Discussing the IA Prompt

This particular exhibition closely resembles the structure that I have proposed to use for a good exhibition . As the IB Examiner noted, it is not necessary to have an introduction at the very beginning of your exhibition. In fact, there is no requirement to even seperate the dicussion of each object as the whole exhibition is marked together, not as a commentary of each object. However, what I do think is important to take away from this is that it is very important to outline the particular theme you will be focusing on, the prompt that you are using and the angle you will be tackling the prompt from. It is actually not necessary to have a single theme to your exhibition, but I highly recommend that you do as it provides the necessary focus for your exhibition. You can do this through an exhibition, or alternatively, integrate this theme clearly into the rest of your discussion to save a little on the tight word count.

The example does make comparisons between objects, but this is not expected nor is it needed to score good marks. I personally believe that you should use those extra words to elaborate on the discussion of the object instead to boost their relevance to the prompt.

So how is the discussion done? You can see that it is in very simple language. Unlike the TOK Essay, this is a less 'academic' piece of work. It is meant to be more like a personal reflection on the manifestations of TOK in your life which you have noticed. So the ideal tone for the task would be one that is formal, yet personal rather than academic. I encourage you to use first person for the exhibition as it really drives home this idea that this is a non-academic piece of writing. At the same time though, there are still standards of academic integrity, so anything that you got from the internet must still be cited and referenced.

You can see that the example doesn't waste any words going around the prompt but tackles it head on - pointing out the immediate challenges with communicating knowledge in each of the three objects. The starbucks cup for example centres around the many different interpretations of subtexts, and their effects on different communities. If you are having trouble finding things to say for your object, I recommend that you focus on the different communities of knowers that may interact with your object and how their interactions differ. I also urge you to read the TOK Guide in depth, particularly on the various themes as it already prompts several questions and dicussion points for you to use within the exhibition. The language they use is also exactly the type of terms they expect from your exhibition. Treat the TOK Guide as the TOK Bible and never deviate from it!

One final thing: word count is truly very constrained in this task. You must be concise, and every sentence you use must be clear, reflective and actually useful. There is no room for fluff or rambling (unlike the TOK Essay). So this means that for many, there won't be enough words within the 950 word requirement for an introduction or conclusion, or another idea that you wish to discuss. When it comes to prioritising your ideas, you should place utmost importance on your object's discussion as it contributes to most of the criteria, and then all the accesories like introductions and conclusions.

Hopefully, by deconstructing a 10/10 example of a TOK Exhibition, you had a few takeaways as to what makes a good exhibition and know what you need to do to improve! Any questions, chuck it in the comments!

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Filter exemplars, for artists and natural scientists, which is more important: what can be explained or what cannot be explained discuss with reference to the arts and the natural sciences., does it matter if our acquisition of knowledge happens in "bubbles" where some information and voices are excluded discuss with reference to two areas of knowledge., want to get full marks for your tok essay allow us to review it for you 🎯, is replicability necessary in the production of knowledge discuss with reference to two areas of knowledge., are visual representations always helpful in the communication of knowledge discuss with reference to the human sciences and mathematics., fast track your coursework with mark schemes moderated by ib examiners. upgrade now 🚀, to what extent is the knowledge we produce determined by the methodologies we use discuss with reference to history and one area of knowledge., tok essay: 5. “how can we distinguish between good and bad interpretations discuss with reference to the arts and one other area of knowledge”, 如果我们是在排除某些信息和声音的“信息同温层”里获取知识，这有关系吗请参考两个知识领域展开你的应答。, does it matter if our knowledge acquisition happens in "bubbles" where some information and voices are excluded discuss with reference to two areas of knowledge., is replicability necessary in the production of knowledge discuss with reference to two areas of knowledge, do you agree that it is “astonishing that so little knowledge can give us so much power” (bertrand russell) discuss with reference to the natural sciences and one other area of knowledge., does it matter if our acquisition of knowledge happens in “bubbles” where some information and voices are excluded discuss with reference to two areas of knowledge., to what extent is the knowledge weproduce determined by the methodologieswe use, for artists and natural scientists, which is more important: what can be explained or what cannot be explained discuss with reference to the arts and natural science., êtes-vous d'accord qu'il est "étonnant que si peu de connaissance puissent nous donner autant de pouvoir" (bertrand russell) - discutez cette question en faisant référence aux sciences naturelles et à un autre domaine de la connaissance, est-il important que notre acquisition des connaissances se fasse dans des « bulles » où certaines informations et certaines voix sont exclues discutez cette question en faisant référence à deux domaines de la connaissance., to what extent is the knowledge we produce determined by the methodologies we use discuss with reference to history and one other area of knowledge., is replicability necessary in the production of knowledge discuss with reference to two area of knowledge, are visual representations always helpful in communicating knowledge discuss with reference to the human sciences and mathematics., are visual representations always useful in communication of knowledge discuss with reference to the human sciences and mathematics., for artists and natural scientists which is more important: what can be explained or what cannot be explained, is replication necessary in the production of knowledge discuss with reference to two aoks., do you agree that it is "astonishing that so little knowledge can give us so much power" (bertrand russell) discuss with reference to the natural sciences and one other area of knowledge., is replicability necessary in the production of knowledge.

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Tok / ee matrix.

Marks from the EE are turned into grades, using the grade boundaries . The EE grade is combined with the TOK grade to determine the number of bonus points awarded, using the following 'matrix'. If you do not submit your extended essay on time (NS = Not Submitted) , or you do not submit your TOK essay on time you will not be awarded your IB Diploma. Failure to submit either will result in a failure to receive the Diploma.

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) is of course the third required component of the IB Diploma Programme 'core'. Besides earning grades for the EE and TOK, candidates must fulfil the requirements for CAS in order to receive their diploma.

So how many students are awarded bonus points on the average? These numbers vary from year to year, but generally speaking these are world averages. See the latest IB Statistical Bulletin for the most recent numbers.

3 bonus points = 8% 2 bonus points = 36% 1 bonus point = 26% 0 bonus points = 30%

Why are they called 'bonus' points (or previously 'additional' points)? The 24-point requirement for receiving the Diploma cannot be attained through bonus points but from the candidate's six subjects.

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IB TOK Exhibition Rubric: Learn About the Assessment Criteria

by  Antony W

January 9, 2024

This guide covers everything you need to know about TOK exhibition rubric. We’ve included everything you need to know about the assessment criteria so that you can have an easy time working on the assignment.

Introduced to the TOK syllabus in 2022, the ToK Exhibition  subject is a replacement for the ToK Presentation. 

The exhibition is an individual project worth 33% of the total grades awarded to the Theory of Knowledge subject.

Although the TOK Exhibition is a relatively new subject, it’s not complicated because the concepts taught in the subject are easy to understand.

Your TOK teacher is the one to moderate the work, so you do have the opportunity to ask as many questions as you can to get the assignment right.

The aim of the Theory of Knowledge Exhibition is to assess your ability to apply ToK concepts  to the real world.

If you can demonstrate your ability to discuss the subject matter that you’ve studied in the classroom, based on evidence, you’re already a step ahead to score good marks for the exhibition.

Once you have looked at exhibition examples and understood the basic requirements of the TOK exhibition, spend some time to understand how your teacher evaluates and marks the work.

You will get the information in the assessment instrument that your teacher will share with you.

TOK Exhibition Rubric Explained

Below is a detailed explanation of the TOK Exhibition rubric:

Scoring a zero means you failed to meet the standards that IB set for the TOK exhibition project.

In other words, either you’ve failed to submit your assignment or it doesn’t reflect the standards set out by other levels in this assessment criteria.

Also, it’s possible to get a zero if your TOK exhibition doesn’t answer one of the topics provided in the IA prompts .  

Rudimentary (1 to 2)

A student who earns rudimentary score has identified the three TOK exhibition objects but failed to explain their real-world context.

Also, you score 1 to 2 marks if you present generic images instead of real-world objects - or images of objects.

IB teachers also award 1 to 2 points to students who link minimally between their IA prompts and the objects.

More often than not, tenuous linking means a student isn’t sure about what they’re trying to communicate.

Rudimentary marks show that a student offered minimal justification for including the three objects in their exhibition.

Also, the commentary isn’t descriptive enough or includes assertions that you haven’t attempted to support.

Basic (3 to 4)

IB students who earn 3 to 4 marks for their exhibition are those who have identified the three objects in their exhibition but failed to state the real-world context of these objects.

They have made link between their selected IA prompt and the objects, but they don’t offer a comprehensive and convincing explanation of the link.

If you score the basic marks, it’s because your justification for including the objects in the commentary is but superficial. And although you’ve given reasons for including the three objects in your work, you’ve not backed them with relevant evidence.

Basic marks is also an indication that your commentary has a series of repetition in the text.

Satisfactory (5-6)

You have successfully identified three objects in the TOK exhibition. However, your objects’ real-world context is vague.

While you’ve explained the link between the IA prompt and the three objects, your explanation doesn’t meet the standards set by the TOK Exhibition assessment criteria because it’s weak.

 In other words, you only include brief explanation for including each object in the exhibition, backing only a few of your points with evidence.

If you score a 7 or an 8, it means you’ve identified the three objects, explained their real-world context, linked the three objects to each other, and explained how each object (or image of objects) relates to your IA prompt.

In addition to justifying the contributions the objects make to the exhibition, you’ve included evidence and reference link to the IA prompt to make your work as comprehensive as you possibly can.

However, your work isn’t suitable for the excellent marks because it lacks clarity and precision in some parts.

Excellent (9-10)

It’s the highest score awarded to TOK learners whose exhibitions identify three objects, their definite real-world contexts, and make clear links between the selected IA prompts and the three objects.

Your exhibition demonstrates strong justification for the specific contribution that individual objects make and provides appropriate evidence for all the   points you’ve made.

Also, your work includes clear references from each object back to your chosen IA prompt.

The TO Exhibition Assessment Cornerstone

The overriding objective of the TOK exhibition is to show how theory of knowledge (TOK) manifests itself in the real world.

To do this, you have to demonstrate four skill sets in your exhibition.

These include the following:

1. Interlinking Ideas

 Your exhibition commentary should explain the links or connections between your chosen objects and the IA prompt.

You also need to make distinct references to the IA prompt

2. Justification for Ideas

Your TOK commentary should feature a bold justification for why you have chosen the objects for your exhibition.

You should do this within the core theme context or one of the optional themes in TOK .

3. Using Evidence

Support all the points you make in your commentary with evidence.

Hinge all opinions and ideas you use on real-life situations and you can even use ideas by top thinkers to support your points or opinions.

4. Identifying the Real-world Context

In TOK exhibition, you have to go beyond identifying the three objects – or images of the objects. You also have to explain their real-world context.

In other words, you have to choose images of objects or real objects as opposed to just generic objects.

Final Thoughts

Page 47 of the TOK subject guide outlines the rubric for the exhibition.

The criteria include information on what you should do to get the highest marks, so you should aim to get a 7 to an 8 if not a 9 to a 10.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

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