How to write the perfect Chemistry Internal Assessment (IA)

The Internal Assessment (IA) for Chemistry in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is an experimental investigation that requires students to demonstrate their ability to design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and draw conclusions. Here is a plan for a Chemistry IA:

Topic Selection: Choose a topic that interests you and aligns with your learning objectives. Examples of topics could be, but not limited to:

• Determination of the concentration of an acid using titration
• Investigating the rate of reaction of magnesium and hydrochloric acid
• Investigating the effect of concentration on reaction rate
• Investigating the effect of temperature on the reaction rate
• Investigating the effect of pH on the reaction rate

Research Question: Formulate a research question that clearly identifies the variables you will be investigating. Ensure that the research question is focused and specific, and the variables are measurable.

Experimental Design: Design an experiment that will allow you to collect quantitative data that will help you to answer your research question. Ensure that your experimental design is detailed, safe, and reliable. Include an appropriate number of trials, controls, and independent variables. Make sure that your methodology aligns with best practices in experimental design.

Data Collection: Collect data using your experimental design. Ensure that you record all relevant data accurately, and take steps to reduce sources of error. Collect sufficient data to draw reliable conclusions.

Data Analysis: Analyze the data you have collected using appropriate statistical methods. Use your data to answer your research question, and draw conclusions based on your results. Consider any sources of error and their potential impact on your results.

Conclusion and Evaluation: Summarize your findings and draw a conclusion that answers your research question. Evaluate your experiment, including strengths and limitations, and consider how you might improve it in the future.

Communication: Write a report that clearly and concisely communicates your research question, experimental design, data, analysis, and conclusion. Use appropriate scientific language and structure. Include any necessary calculations, graphs, and diagrams to support your conclusions. Ensure that you cite all sources of information used in your report.

Reflection: Reflect on the process of conducting your IA. Consider what you learned, how you might improve your experimental design, and what you might do differently in future experiments.

Overall, ensure that you follow all guidelines and instructions provided by your teacher and the IB. Make sure that your IA demonstrates your ability to apply scientific knowledge, conduct research, and communicate your findings effectively.