ib biology ia essay examples

A collection of tips and notes for the International Baccalaureate.

IB Biology Internal Assessment (23/24)

Below I will attach a PDF of my Biology IA (submitted for Biology HL). It scored 23/24 (which, according to the boundaries of the M20 session, was a 7). Unfortunately, I don’t know where I lost the one mark.

Quick disclaimer; my Biology IA was a database IA, so the majority of the tips I’ll share in this post will specifically relate to writing a successful database IA. If you’re looking for tips for an experiment-based IA, I’d recommend you go check my post about my Chemistry IA , where I share some of my experiences with an experiment-based IA as well as a general structure I’d replicate when writing an experiment-based IA.

Across my three sciences (Biology HL, Chemistry HL, Physics SL), I wrote two experiment-based IAs and one database IA. As such, I feel as though I have a pretty solid understanding of the pros and cons of each IA “type” (excluding, of course, a simulation-based IA). In short, I can express the essence of these two IA types in quite a rudimentary table:

As per the above table, one of the downsides of an experiment-based IA is the amount of effort required to complete it. In experiment-based IAs, a lot of time and effort goes into planning your methodology, conducting preliminary trials, conducting the experiment itself etc. However, this hard work has a payoff, given that an advantage of an experiment-based IA is that the analysis and evaluation of your data is pretty straightforward, since there’s so much you could talk about when it comes to the accuracy and precision of your experiment.

On the other hand, a database IA requires a considerably smaller amount of time and effort to plan. Once you find a good data source and set up your primary equations on a spreadsheet, Excel practically does the rest of the work for you. It personally took me about 2 days to find all my data and process it. However, the drawback to a database IA is that it requires a lot of critical thinking and understanding of statistics and data sampling when it comes to the analysis and evaluation (which contribute half of the points you could achieve for your IA). Ultimately, because most people don’t have a good enough understanding of statistics and data sampling, they tend to score poorly in database IAs or shy away from them completely to begin with. In this post, I hope to provide you with a solid understanding of how to successfully complete a database IA, and hopefully my own IA acts as a decent exemplar for all of you to use.

The IA which I wrote was a “correlation-based IA”, which essentially means it explored the correlation between two (biology) related variables. I have not yet seen someone write a database IA that wasn’t correlation-based, so in this post I’ll be focusing on the structure and content of a correlation-based database IA. To do this, I’ll propose a general structure to use when writing a correlation-based database IA, and expand on some of the technical information that you should include in each section.

1. Research Question: In this section, state your research question. If you’re writing a correlation-based database IA, you want to make sure that your research question isn’t too simple, and that you add some unique ‘twist’ to your investigation. For example, instead of just determining the correlation between HDI and mortality rates due to CHD, I decided to specifically look at the distinction between this correlation in developing and developed countries. Some other ‘twists’ you could add to your investigation is to look at your correlation in different age groups, or between men and women.

2. Introduction: In this section, introduce why you ended up choosing to explore your particular research question. This is where I’d sneak in a bit about the connect between the research question and your interests/personal life (I was personally inspired to write my IA after I shadowed a cardiologist at a local hospital). You might also want to mention how answering your research question has important applications in the real world. In my own IA, I made the ‘Introduction’ section part of the ‘Background Information’ section to make sure my IA didn’t exceed the 12 page limit, but if you’re not running out of space I’d recommend making two separate sections.

3. Background Information: In this section, you want to illustrate all the biology knowledge that’s pertinent to your research question. This section is very important in a correlation-based database IA given that it’s one of the only sections where you’re provided an opportunity to discuss the biological background of your investigation. This section also acts as a reminder that your IA is biology-focused, not maths-focused. Additionally, in this section you should discuss other important background information that’s relevant to your investigation. For example, if you’re exploring the correlation between HDI and CHD mortality (as I have done), you’ll want to use the ‘Background Information” section to not only explain the pathogenesis of CHD but also the significance of CHD as a socioeconomic indicator.

4. Hypothesis: This section is pretty self-explanatory; just state your hypothesis. This should ideally be accompanied by a scientific explanation to support your hypothesis. In my case, I referenced a study about the correlation between the HDI and healthcare quality in a country to justify why HDI and CHD mortality should be negatively correlated.

5. Approach to the Research Question: In this section you should illustrate some of your personal engagement with the IA by explaining how you developed your methodology. For a correlation-based database IA, I suggest that three main points should be considered in this section: 1) how you will control confounding variables in your investigation, 2) how you minimised the effects of errors and variability in your data and, 3) how you standardised your variables. Below I further elaborate on these 3 points, using what I hope is a useful analogy.

In its most basic form, a correlation-based database IA is the development of an algorithm to process raw data into a form which allows you to determine whether a correlation exists between two variables. You can think of this algorithm like a machine, where your raw data is the input and the processed data is the output. In the “Approach to the Research Question” section, you essentially outline the three main ‘steps’ of the machine. The diagram below is a helpful guide:

As you see, the first “step” in the database machine is to control the raw data you collect for confounding variables. A confounding variable is a variable that influences both you dependent and independent variable (e.g. a variable that influences both HDI and mortality rates due to CHD). As such, if confounding variables are not controlled for it could lead to spurious correlations in your investigation. Confounding variables can also be variables other than your independent variable that influences your dependent variable, which you should also control (these types of variables are analogous to controlled variables in experiment-based IAs). For instance, lifestyle habits are an example of a variable which may affect both the HDI of a country and the mortality rate due to CHD. Ultimately, to control confounding variables in your experiment you must develop an inclusion criteria. The “Inclusion Criteria” section comes up later in the IA but you can foreshadow its existence in this section already.

The second “step” in the database machine is to take the data you’ve adjusted for confounding and further adjust it, this time for random variability. Random variability in data may be caused for a variety of reasons, and typically these reasons are difficult to identify. However, the existence of random errors in your data may contribute to a spurious correlation, and therefore random variability in data must be accounted for. For example, in my IA I looked at data relating to CHD mortality across different years in different countries. At any one year, there might have been some unknown factor which influenced the CHD mortality in a given country. This factor could be, for example, a sampling error or the introduction of a new procedure to treat CHD. As such, I decided to account for random variability by calculating the mean mortality rate due to CHD.

The last “step” in the database machine is to take the data you’ve adjusted (for confounding and random variability) and standardise it. Standardising data allows you to fairly compare it. For example, in my IA I looked at mortality rates due to CHD, and decided to standardise the mortality rate which I collected by expressing it per 100,000 people in a country’s population. This is important, given that the number of people who die from CHD in any given country is relative to that country’s population. There are, of course, many other ways to standardize data, but for most correlation-based database IAs which I’ve seen (where mortality/survival rates are used), expressing your data per the population is a good way to go.

6. Data sources : In this section of your IA, you should list all of the data sources which you’ve used to carry out your investigation. You should also provide an explanation as to how your chosen data sources are reliable and credible. Generally, if your data sources are well-recognised data-collecting institutions (e.g. the WHO, the World Bank), you can argue that they are also trustworthy and ergo reliable. For population statistics I’d use the World Bank database , mortality rates due to a variety of different diseases are provided by the WHO , and HDI data can be found online on United Nations Development Programme’s website.

7. Variables : In this section, state the final variables which you will explore in the investigation. This includes your independent variable (e.g. HDI) and your dependent variable (e.g. mortality rates due to CHD per 100,00 people). Additionally, state that other variables exist which you need to control (e.g. confounding variables), and that you will design an inclusion criteria in your investigation to control these variables.

8. Inclusion Criteria: In this section you will outline the inclusion criteria which you’ve designed for your investigation. In short, inclusion criteria are characteristics which the raw data you use must have in order to be used in the investigation. These criteria don’t only aim to adjust your data for confounding, but also to control other factors to ensure your results are more accurate and representative. As an example, the inclusion criteria for my own IA were as follows:

As you can see, my inclusion criteria consisted of four variables; location, population, HDI, and socioeconomic organisation, which were presented in a table. Given that my investigation looked at the distinction between developing and developed countries, I created separate inclusion criteria for each. For each inclusion criteria which you design, you need to provide an explanation for how it will enhance the accuracy or representativeness of your results. Below I outline the reason for choosing each of my variables. In your own IA, you should also provide a justification for the inclusion criteria you design.

Location : I chose to limit my chosen countries to European countries in order to limit the effects of confounding variables such as lifestyle and dietary habits. These European countries were those defined by the World Health Organidation, as per their website.This inclusion criteria was the same for both developing and developed countries.

Population : If you are sampling data from individual countries, it is necessary to ensure that the population size of these countries is sufficiently large. The larger the population, the more price and representative your results will be (and vice versa). Naturally, I’m not knowledgeable enough to decide which population size is sufficiently large to have confidence in the precision of my data. As such, I referenced a scientific study by Zhu et al. which stated that a sample size of 2 million is enough to ensure the precision of my data. This inclusion criteria excluded certain European countries, such as Liechtenstein and Monaco, from being included in my investigation.

HDI: According to the United Nations Development Programme, “countries with an HDI score higher than 0.788 are considered to be developed, while countries with an HDI value lower than 0.788 are considered to be developing”. I used this parameter to determine which sampled countries are developing and which are developed.

Socioeconomic organisation: I chose to further limit the eligible countries in my investigation to two socioeconomic organisations in order to limit the effects of confounding variables such as economic and cultural status. The two socioeconomic organisations which I chose were the CEIT (Countries with Economies in Transition) for developing countries and the OECD (Organisation for Economics Co-operation and Development) for developed countries.

As you can see, my inclusion criteria specified that variables such as population and HDI needed to be relevant as of 2000; meaning that an eligible developing country had to have, for example; a HDI smaller than 0.788 since the year 2000. This is because I sampled data from my investigation from the year 2000 onwards (given that this was the scope of raw data which I was able to find). Depending on the time period from which you sample your raw data from, this year would likely be different.

9. Safety, Environmental and Ethical Considerations: In this section, briefly outline which safety, environmental, and ethical precautions are necessary when conducting the experiment. Given the nature of a database IAs, there are no substantial safety and environmental considerations to be made. However, you may want to note that it is necessary to use data ethically and in accordance to guidelines set by your database sources (e.g. abide by copyright laws).

10. Methodology and Trial Investigation: In this section you should conduct a trial investigation to gain insight into the feasibility of the correlation you’re investigating, thus providing a justification for you to proceed and carry out the final investigation. Additionally, I would recommend using the trial investigation to explain the methodology you’ve designed for your IA. This will not only allow you to gain points in the ‘Analysis’ and ‘Communication’ criteria of the IA, but it will also save you space given that you will only need to provide the final results of your investigation later on, seeing as you’ve already explained your methodology beforehand.

In order to carry out a trial investigation, it is necessary to randomly sample your data to ensure that your trial investigation is truly representative of the rest of your data. For my IA, I randomly sampled 5 developing and 5 developed countries and carried out the investigation with their data. The way in which you randomly sample your data will vary per IA. Hereafter, explain your investigation’s methodology and all the different tables and calculation which you’ve used. For every calculation you make in the processing of your data, make sure to include a sample calculation. After processing all of your data and presenting it in a graph, determine which correlation exists in your data and justify why you should go ahead and conduct your final investigation. In my case, I used the R 2 values from my graphs to superficially assess how strong my correlations were, and thus whether I should continue with my final investigation.

(For those of you who don’t know, the R 2 value on a graph represents the proportion of the variance in the dependent variable that is predictable from the independent variable or, in layman terms, the degree of scattering of your data around the fitter trendline. The greater the R 2 value for a graph, the less scattering there is around the trendline, which may suggest a stronger correlation.)

11. Investigation and Results: Given that you’ve already explained your methodology in the previous section of your IA, all you need to do in this section is present the final processed data as well as any final graphs or tables you’ve created. Make sure to state in this section that you utilised the same methodology shown in the trial investigation to conduct the final one. Additionally, you may want to state that the raw data for the final investigation is “available upon request”, just to indicate to the person reading your IA that you actually processed the data yourself.

12. Statistical Testing: This section is, in my opinion, the one where most students miss out on marks for the ‘Evaluation’ criterion of the IA. In a correlation-based database IA, this section is where most students will conduct a statistical test to determine the strength of their correlation. Below I will provide a short description of how to conduct statistical testing for a correlation-based database IA:

Firstly, you need to determine which statistical test you will conduct. The two most frequently used statistical test for correlation are the Pearson’s correlation and Spearman’s correlation. The Pearson’s correlation tests for linear relationships, whereas the Spearman’s correlation tests for monotonic relationships. The difference between these two types of correlations is illustrated in the graphs below:

As you see, a linear relationship is a “straight-line” relationship between two variables, whereas a monotonic relationship is one where the function either always increases or always decreases, not both. Evidently, all linear relationships are monotonic, but not all monotonic relationships are linear. However, it will most probably not be clear whether the processed data in your investigation represents a linear relationship or one that is only monotonic. However, in order to conduct a Pearson’s correlation your data needs to meet certain assumptions, one of which is that your data is normally distributed, given that the test is sensitive to outliers and skewness in the data. As such, if you determine that your data is normally distributed, you should conduct a Pearson’s correlation. If your data is not normally distributed you won’t be able to conduct a Pearson’s correlation and should instead conduct a Spearman’s correlation.

An easy way to test whether your processed data is normally distributed, and thus whether you should conduct a Pearson’s correlation or not, is to conduct a skewness analysis. A skewness analysis is a quick calculation which tells you whether or not you data warrants concern of skewness. In a skewness analysis, you need to determine the value of two variables; the “skewness coefficient” and the “standard error”. Both of these variables can be calculated on Microsoft Excel.

The skewness coefficient is a variable which expresses how skewed your data is, and is a separate value for your independent and dependent variable data. Let’s say you want to calculate the skewness coefficient of your independent variable data. First, paste your data into a column on an Excel sheet. If your data spans from, say, cell E8 to cell E28, type the following equation into Excel in order to calculate the skewness coefficient of your data:

Use the same equation to calculate the skewness coefficient of your dependent variable data.

The standard error is different to the skewness coefficient and is usually the same value for both your independent and dependent variable data. The value of the standard error of your data depends on how many data points each of your variables has. In my investigation I had 31 pairs of data points, and therefore each of my variables (independent and dependent) had 31 data points. The value of the standard error was, therefore, the same for both the independent and dependent variable data. To calculate the standard error of your own data, use the following equation on Excel, where ‘N’ is the number of data points you have:

Finally, in order to assess the skewness of your data, you need to compare the absolute value of the skewness coefficient for each of your variables with twice the value of the standard error. If the value for the skewness coefficient is less than twice its standard error, then there is no concern of skewness in the data and the Pearson’s correlation can be conducted. If the value of the skewness coefficient is greater than twice its standard error, then there is concern of skewness and you need to conduct the Spearman’s correlation.

In short, the results of a skewness analysis can be presented in a table, as follows:

After the skewness analysis you need to conduct your chosen statistical test. I personally conducted the Pearson’s correlation, but I will demonstrate how to conduct both the Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation below:

Pearson’s correlation: The Pearson’s correlation tests the strength of a linear correlation. The result of the Pearson’s correlation; the Pearson correlation coefficient ( r ), expresses the strength of and direction of a linear correlation (ranging from -1 to 1). The Pearson’s correlation is conducted using the following formula, where r is the Pearson correlation coefficient, x is your independent variable data, y is your dependent variable data, and n is the number of data pairs in your investigation.

As illustrated by the above equation, it is necessary to determine the sum of x, y, xy, x 2 and y 2 . After doing so, plug in your results into the above equation (alongside the value for n ), and the result will be your Pearson correlation coefficient.

Spearman’s correlation: Conducting the Spearman’s correlation is slightly more complex than the Pearson’s correlation. Similarly to the Pearson’s correlation coefficient, the Spearman’s correlation coefficient expresses the strength of and direction of a linear correlation (ranging from -1 to 1). Given that I haven’t personally conducted the Spearman’s correlation for my IA, I’m not very experienced in the process of doing so, but I found a great link which is very clear at describing how to calculate the Spearman’s correlation, which I will link here .

Lastly, after conducting the statistical test of choice, you need to ensure that the results of your statistical test are “statistically significant”; that is to say that the correlation which you’ve determined using the statistical test is caused by something other than chance. To determine statistical significance, you need to compare the result of your statistical test to a certain “critical value” which is based on the degrees of freedom and level of confidence assumed. I defined the two latter terms below:

degrees of freedom : the number of values in the final calculation of a statistic that are free to vary. The degrees of freedom for an investigation is calculated as the number of data pairs minus 2 (e.g. for my investigation, which had 31 data pairs, there would be 29 degrees of freedom)
level of confidence : the level of confidence when determining statistical significance refers to the risk that the correlation investigated is due to chance. Typically, a level of confidence of 0.05 is chosen, which denotes a 5% risk that the correlation investigated is due to chance.

You can determine the critical value for your investigation using either this document for the Pearson’s correlation or this document for the Spearman’s correlation. For instance, if you conducted a Pearson’s correlation and had 10 degrees of freedom at a level of confidence of 0.05, your critical value would be 0.576 (with reference to the appropriate document). Ultimately, if the absolute value of the correlation coefficient you have determined is greater than your assigned critical value, the results of your statistical testing are statistically significant, and vice versa.

I know this section was long, but it’s really important to get this part of the IA right in order to score highly. Remember, the statistical testing has three main parts: 1) conduct a skewness analysis to determine which statistical test to conduct, 2) conduct your chosen statistical test and, 3) determine if the results of your statistical test are statistically significant.

13. Analysis and Conclusion : In this section, analyze your final, processed data and provide an answer to your research question (if possible). This section should summarize the data which you’ve collected and how it (hopefully) supports your initial hypothesis. When analyzing the data, take into account the results of your statistical testing as well as the R 2 values from your final graphs.

14. Evaluation of Errors and Improvements: This section is of paramount important to the overall quality of your IA. The more detailed and thoughtful your evaluation of your investigation is, the better. To begin your evaluation, start by pointing out some of the strengths of your investigation. This could be the use of a trial investigation, or the thoroughness of your statistical testing. However, the bulk of the ‘Evaluation’ section should focus on identifying errors in your investigation and suggesting possible improvements to them. I mainly focused on how my methodology failed to take into account certain confounding variables, given that I suggested that these confounding variables were what caused my final correlations to be less than perfect. As such, most of the major errors in my investigation were linked to the nature of my inclusion criteria. Additionally, you may wish to point out some methodological errors in your investigation, such as the way in which you standardised your data, or how you could enhance the precision of your results by reducing the effects of certain random errors.

15. Extensions: In this section, identify any possible extensions to your investigation. It’s important to differentiate between improvements in the previous section and extensions in this one. An improvement involves tweaking your current methodology to ensure a more accurate and precise investigation. An extension, on the other hand, is suggesting an entirely new part of the methodology that would explore another aspect of your investigation. The extension you identify should, however, still be aimed at exploring something in the domain of your research question.

16. Literature: This is the last section of your IA and should include all of the sources which you’ve used, referenced in whichever style you want (I chose Chicago-style citation). Make sure to also reference any images which you’ve included in your IA in this section as well.

I hope this information is useful, and good luck!

12 Examples and Tips for IB Biology IA

May 4, 2022 | IB subjects

IA is one of the many things IB students struggle with, but some might feel that writing the IA in Biology is especially confusing since it covers broad topics. This post is for those who are having a hard time coming up with a topic, are worried about writing the IA in Biology overall, or are interested in Biology but not so sure about taking it because of IA. An overview of the subject IB Biology can also be seen in a previous post: Exam Strategy for IB Biology (HL/SL) .

1. Overview of Biology IA

Both HL and SL students are expected to write an IA ( Internal Assessment ) in Biology which accounts for 20% of the final grade . The IA in biology is expected to be a 6-12 pages long report about an investigation a student carries out based on their own hypothesis.

1.1 IA Criteria

HL and SL share the same IA criteria and it’s important to understand the criteria before and while carrying out the investigation for your IA. (Reference: Biology Teacher Support Material )

2. Examples of Biology IA Topics

Many IB graduates have kindly answered an online survey by MakeSensei and given examples of IA topics in IB Biology. Some of them are RQs (Research Questions), so you might want to see the pattern of how they make RQs for your future IA.

What is the effect of exposure to different concentration of sodium chloride solutions for different duration time on the germination percentage, mean germination time, and relative injury rate of Ipomoea aquatica?
Lactic acid experiment in milk
What is the effect of sodium chloride concentration (0.0, 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, 1.6, and 2.0 %) on the rate of hydrolysis of 1.0 % starch solution by 2.0 % ɑ-amylase (Bacillus subtilis), measured as the rate of decrease in absorbance value (Au s–1), using Spectrophotometer Vis at 434.2nm?
Protein-digestive enzyme
What is the effect of fertiliser quantity on evening levels of dissolved oxygen in river water samples over a period of two weeks?
An Investigation into the Effect of Different Types and Concentrations of Pesticides (Orthoran Acephate, Kadan Safe, Kadan Plus DX) on Seed Germination: Observing Plant Growth of ErucaSativa, Brassica Oleracea, Lepidium Sativum and Perilla Frutescens
An investigation into the effect of sodium chloride on plant germination and its growth.
(Title: How to make delicious natto) RQ: What is the effect of pre-soaking time of soybeans, 0.00, 3.00, 6.00, 9.00, and 12.00 hours (±0.05 hours), on the length of threads between separated fermented soybeans (natto) measured by a clear plastic ruler (±0.1cm)?
Effect of light intensity on the travel activity of a Physella acuta
Investigating the effect of concentration of the salt solution on germination and growth of cotton and spinach seeds
Investigating the correlation of the length of knee roots of a mangrove and the number of holes crabs make in the given area
Effect of temperature on denaturation of albumin protein

3. Tips for Biology IA

3.1 Set Appropriate Independent/Dependent Variables

In order to carry out the investigation with sufficient sample size and trials, there needs to be independent and dependent variables that are both appropriate in terms of the purpose of your investigation. If you want to find out the relationship between X and Y (how X influences Y), then your independent variable should be X and your dependent variable should be Y. Both variables should be measurable , meaning quantitative, to allow various statistical analyses. But having qualitative data is valued in discussion as well.

3.2 The More Data, The Better

It is known that you should have at least 25 samples of data for your Biology IA, but let us explain why. While having multiple trials is necessary for the investigation, each trial should also have multiple samples. Therefore, 5 trials with 5 samples each make up 25 samples in total. Having said that, your sample size is up to you, and having more than 25 samples would only make your data more robust . But make sure you have enough time and energy to process the whole data.

3.3 Use Appropriate Secondary Sources

Doing background research on the field you’re focusing on in IA is required to back up your hypothesis, discussion, and conclusion. A lot of people use secondary sources (sources that are not first-hand) and most often through the internet. But, using Wikipedia or personal blogs would not be appropriate for your IA because they may not be reliable, accurate information. Instead, you might want to use these websites to search for previous academic articles and journals.

Google Scholar
The World Factbook (provides you data about the country of your interest)

3.4 Don’t Forget Annotations and Citations

Annotations

An annotation is a short comment written near an image to give an explanation. Annotations are necessary when the image and its title don’t give enough explanation to specific objects in the image and your word count is limited. For example, when you’re showing your method with an image of instruments, readers might not understand why you chose those instruments to carry out your experiment. To avoid such inconvenience, annotations provide more detailed information than the title and the main text.

A citation is a short version of the reference to your source and it needs to be in-text or footnote. Every time you mention something that is not original or first-hand, you need to put citation(s) to prove where that statement comes from. If you miss citations, it will be considered plagiarism and you could fail the IB. Therefore, citations are important!! You could use Citation Machine to create a reference list and citation for each reference (check which style is preferred by your teacher).

IB subjects
Intro to IB

Biology IA Examples: Exploring Interesting Projects

Biology Internal Assessments (IAs) are not just a part of the IB curriculum; they’re a golden ticket for students to dive headfirst into the fascinating world of scientific exploration. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through a variety of interesting Biology IA examples that go beyond the classroom, providing students with hands-on experiences that are both educational and fun.

Investigating Enzyme Activity:

Enzymes, those microscopic heroes in our cells, make biochemical reactions happen. For an engaging IA, students can explore how external factors influence enzyme activity. This might involve experimenting with varying temperatures to observe the effects on catalase activity in liver cells. By understanding these nuances, students not only unravel the complexities of enzymes but also gain insights into real-world applications.

Examining Plant Growth Responses:

Plants, often underestimated, are incredible organisms with complex growth responses. In a captivating IA project, students can experiment with different concentrations of plant growth hormones to decipher their impact on bean plant growth. This isn’t just about playing with plants; it’s a chance to uncover the regulatory mechanisms that govern plant development and growth.

Studying Microbial Growth:

Microbes, though tiny, wield substantial power in the biological landscape. IA projects focused on microbial growth open up a realm of possibilities. For example, investigating how antibacterial agents affect the growth of Escherichia coli or studying the influence of environmental factors on mold growth on bread provides valuable insights. These explorations not only contribute to our understanding of microbes but also have practical implications in fields like medicine and food safety.

Investigating Genetic Inheritance:

Genetics , the code of life, is a playground for exciting IA projects. Students can delve into genetic traits using model organisms like fruit flies, unraveling the principles of inheritance. Alternatively, exploring the distribution of blood types in a specific population unveils the intricacies of genetic inheritance. These projects not only enhance genetic literacy but also allow students to actively contribute to ongoing genetic research.

Analyzing the Impact of Environmental Factors

Ecology comes to life in IA projects examining the relationship between organisms and their environment. By experimenting with environmental factors such as pollution or habitat changes, students can uncover their impact on population dynamics. A compelling IA might involve studying the effects of different pollutants on the growth of aquatic microorganisms, providing valuable insights into the delicate balance of ecosystems.

Investigating Human Physiology:

Our own bodies are a treasure trove of mysteries. IA projects in human physiology can focus on systems like the heart, lungs, or senses. For instance, studying the effects of exercise on heart rate or exploring the connection between taste perception and genetic variations offers a window into the intricate workings of the human body. These projects not only deepen our understanding of human biology but also have implications for health and well-being.

Conclusion:

Biology IAs offer more than just grades; they offer a chance for students to actively engage with science. The examples explored in this guide highlight the vast possibilities within the realm of Biology IAs, showcasing how students can not only grasp theoretical concepts but also contribute to the broader scientific community. As students embark on these investigative journeys, they’re not just students – they’re budding scientists uncovering the mysteries of the biological world.

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How To Write a Perfect Biology IA

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July 26, 2023

Ace Your Biology IA (HL): A How-to Guide

The Higher Level (HL) Biology Internal Assessment (IA) is a crucial component of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. It allows students to delve deep into a scientific topic of their choice and showcase their research and analytical skills. In this guide, we will focus on the preliminary pages of the Biology IA, specifically the Title Page and the Content Page, which lay the foundation for a well-structured and successful IA.

Preliminary Pages

Generally, in a HL Biology IA , these pages refer to the Title Page and the Content Page. They come before the actual IA sections and write-up and usually do not require a page number.

Many IB students tend to place these pages on the last of their Biology IA to-do-list. However, we would advice that you do it first.

The Title Page is more than just a formality; it sets the tone for your entire IA. It should contain the following elements:

Title (e.g. “A study investigating…”)

A clear and concise title that reflects the essence of your study, such as “A Study Investigating the Impact of X on Y as Shown by…”

Research Question

It has to include both the dependent and independent variables.

Relevant details such as the scientific name of the organism (if applicable), units, time, and location.

Content Page

The Content Page serves as an organized outline of your IA. It should include the following sections:

Title and Research Question
Introduction
Background Information
Variables (Independent, Dependent, Controlled, and Uncontrolled)
Preliminary Experiment (with a focus on its relevance to the main experiment)
Risk Assessment

Processed Data

Analysis (including statistical calculations and graph details)

Bibliography

The IA Title and Research Question

Identify a broad topic statement, ensuring that your research question is stated and includes both the dependent and independent variables. For example, What is the effect of X on Y as shown by… ? Your research question should include the following, where appropriate:

The organism (if appropriate) has a scientific name

Including the following will allow you to effectively convey clarity in your research question , and thoroughly explain what you will be investigating .

Introduction and Background Information

Introduction:

Your introduction is rooted in background information about the organism and or the topic that you will be investigating in your IA. You should demonstrate strong personal engagement by a statement of purpose. For instance, you would avoid using cliche phrases such as “I have always loved..”, but rather opt for phrases that clearly illustrate your passion with the real, outside world, or your genuine reason for choosing the topic that you will be investigating.

Background info:

Go on to enhance your understanding of your research question while ensuring that your background information is:

Within context of the range of independent variables
Within context of the dependent variables being used
In-text cited, based on the referencing systems used in your school (e.g. Harvard/ MLA referencing)
Supported by a preliminary experiment through the inclusion of a short paragraph about how it was carried out, to show your clarity on how you would conduct your main experiment.

While conducting a preliminary experiment shows great engagement, many students do not do it/are not able to carry one out for various different reasons. If you have not carried out a preliminary experiment, research and describe the following instead :

Range and intervals of your independent variables
How you will be measuring your dependent variable

Null hypothesis :

“The null hypothesis is a typical statistical theory which suggests that no statistical relationship and significance exists in a set of given single observed variables, between two sets of observed data and measured phenomena” (“Null Hypothesis – an Overview | ScienceDirect Topics”).

For example,

“There is no statistically significant association between X and Y .”

Alternative hypothesis :

Your alternative hypothesis is an alternative theory that is suggested with direct polarity to the null hypothesis.

“There is a statistically significant association between X and Y .”

Independent, dependent and controlled variables are clearly stated
Ensure to have at least 5 intervals and at least 15 repeats for each interval
Explain how and why you are using those variables, how certain variables may not be controlled, and how you minimise the effects of these to suit it to your experiment effectively

Ensure that all apparatus, chemicals and solutions are listed and / or shown in a diagram if relevant and all apparatus used are relevant. (Not an obligatory list, can be given in the method)

Preliminary Experiment

The Preliminary Experiment is often overlooked, but it holds immense value in shaping your main investigation. Students can improve this section by linking it seamlessly to their IA. Describe how the preliminary experiment influenced your methodology, analysis, and decision-making process. If you haven’t conducted a preliminary experiment, research and discuss the range and intervals of your independent variables and the method of measuring the dependent variable.

Your method section demonstrates that you have sufficient data that has been collected, and that you have thoroughly reflected on each method of control.

Ensure to :

Outline method in a step by step, list-like format
Reflect on every controlled variable in the method while explaining
State that you have : “Repeated method ____ for verification” at the end of every section.

Risk assessment to ensure safety

Include a risk assessment of apparatus and chemicals and show awareness of:

ethical issues – eg handling of animals
environmental issues – eg impact on field sites

Once you have collected your raw data, the next step is to process and organize it for analysis. The Processed Data section is where you present your data in a structured manner, making it easier for readers to interpret and draw conclusions. Follow these steps to effectively present your Processed Data:

Data Organization Begin by organizing your data in a clear and systematic way. You can use tables, charts, or graphs, depending on the type of data you collected. Ensure that each piece of data is properly labeled and includes units, where applicable.
Data Manipulation In some cases, you might need to manipulate the data to calculate specific values or derive meaningful insights. Show your calculations and formulas used for any data manipulations, and explain the rationale behind these transformations.
Averaging and Standard Deviation When presenting numerical data, consider calculating the averages and standard deviations if relevant. These statistical values provide insights into the central tendency and variability of your data points.

The Analysis section is where you interpret your processed data and draw meaningful conclusions from your findings. To conduct a comprehensive analysis, consider the following steps:

Statistical Calculations Based on the nature of your data, choose appropriate statistical calculations to support your analysis. Depending on your research question and data type, you might use measures like mean, median, mode, range, standard deviation, t-test, chi-square test, etc. Mention the statistical methods you used and why they are appropriate for your investigation.
Graphs and Visualizations Graphs and visualizations are powerful tools to represent your data visually. Create clear and accurate graphs that effectively illustrate the trends, patterns, and relationships present in your data. Choose appropriate graph types, such as bar graphs, line graphs, scatter plots, or pie charts, based on the variables you are analyzing.
Data Interpretation Thoroughly interpret the patterns and trends depicted in your graphs and statistical results. Explain the significance of any relationships observed and how they relate to your research question. Use evidence from your processed data and refer to relevant scientific principles to support your interpretations.

Ensure that your analysis section includes sufficient correlated qualitative and quantitative observations, anomalies that have been clearly pointed out and explained, statistical tests and graphs that explain the data collected.

The figure below is an example graph taken from a model IA, where the student has clearly presented information in a graph.

In the Evaluation section, critically assess your investigation and methodology. Address strengths and weaknesses, reflect on potential sources of error, and suggest improvements for future studies. Consider the following points for a well-rounded evaluation

Methodological Considerations Discuss any limitations or challenges you encountered during your investigation. Analyze how these factors might have influenced your results and propose ways to mitigate potential errors.
Reliability and Validity Reflect on the reliability and validity of your data and methods. Identify factors that could have impacted the accuracy and generalizability of your findings.
Sources of Error Be honest about any sources of error that might have affected your results. Consider experimental errors, sample size, or unexpected external factors that could have influenced your outcomes.

Evaluation :

Conclude by making explicit reference to the research question. In other words, your conclusion should directly answer the question : “Does the data answer the Research Question?”
State if your null hypothesis is accepted or rejected
Refer to the graph and data points to clearly demonstrate your understanding and strong conclusion
Compare the conclusion with published data and predictions

( A good tip here is to put your graph in and next to it put a graph from a textbook or website. Can you either explain any differences or relate it to scientific theory?)

Strengths and weaknesses of your investigation
Further extensions that could have been carried out.

Figure 1 : Model student IA graph

The Conclusion section is where you summarize your key findings and directly address your research question. Follow these steps for an effective conclusion:

Restate the Research Question Begin by restating your research question to remind readers of the central focus of your investigation.
Answer the Research Question Clearly state whether your research question was supported or rejected by the evidence presented in your analysis. Use your processed data, statistical calculations, and graphs to support your conclusion.
Relate to Scientific Theory Connect your findings to established scientific principles or theories. Discuss how your results align with existing knowledge in the field of biology.

Finally, provide a comprehensive list of all the sources you used in your research. Include academic papers, textbooks, websites, and any other references you consulted. Use the appropriate citation style, such as Harvard or MLA, as required by your school or institution.

Sample IA marked and annotated :

http://xmltwo.ibo.org/publications/DP/Group4/d_4_biolo_tsm_1408_1/pdf/investigation_1b_e.pdf

If in doubt, reach out to experienced tutors at Quintessential Education for extra help and guidance. Start your journey towards academic success today!

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Guide for Students to the IB Biology IA Format

A fresh pair of eyes can catch mistakes you may have missed in IB Biology IA.

Ah, the allure of the International Baccalaureate (IB) ! While involved with IB, I’ve noticed that mastering the IB Biology IA is no small feat. However, it’s not as intimidating as it might seem at first. This article reviews the essential IB Biology IA format and structure, sprinkled with insights from my years of experience.

When I first encountered the IB Biology IA, I was a tad overwhelmed. Yet, as I explored more, I realized its fundamental importance. So, what exactly is the IB Biology IA? It’s a key assessment piece for IB students that evaluates their experimental and investigative skills. Furthermore, proper format and structure can significantly impact your final grade. From my experience, laying a solid foundation is vital for success.

Critical Components of the IB Biology IA Format

The IA is a laboratory report that is an integral part of the IB Biology curriculum. For assessments through May 2025, this 6-12 page work should include a research question, detailed methodology, data interpretation, and a concluding section.

But to understand the intricacies of the IB Biology IA, we need to peel back the layers. In my years of experience, getting a grip on these elements has often been the turning point for many students.

So, understanding and perfecting these sections is instrumental in crafting a standout IB Biology IA . And believe me, with the right approach, it’s more than achievable!

Title Page and Research Question

The beginning is often the most crucial. Just as a book is judged by its cover, your IA begins its impression with the title page. It should be sharp and concise but comprehensive enough to provide an inkling of the direction of your investigation. Alongside, the research question is the backbone of your research, guiding every step. It’s paramount for it to be precise and well-defined, illuminating the research path for the reader. By the way, you can read more about the IB Internal Assessment format in our blog.

Introduction and Background

It is where you roll out the context, much like a red carpet for what follows. This section offers the essential backdrop, helping readers grasp the significance of your study. Going by the general IB criteria, it’s pivotal to elucidate the relevance and importance of your chosen topic here, providing a solid rationale for its investigation.

Personal Engagement and Exploration

This section is truly a window to your academic soul. It reveals your genuine interest, passion, and personal connection to the IB Biology topic . It’s a space to articulate why this particular topic resonated with you. Over the years, I’ve discerned that students who showcase genuine enthusiasm and curiosity here tend to elevate their IAs to a new level.

Methods and Materials

Venturing into the practical realm is where you lay out your experimental master plan. Document every apparatus, tool, and step taken during your research. The idea is to draft this section with such clarity and precision that anyone reading it could replicate your experiment seamlessly.

So, the “Methods and Materials” section stands as your guidepost, shedding light on your experimental process. Here is an example of a step-by-step procedure:

Preliminary Setup . Always start with how you prepared the lab space, ensuring all equipment was clean, sterile (if necessary), and within easy reach.
Experiment Initiation . It could be preparing a solution, calibrating an instrument, or setting up the apparatus.
Data Collection Phase . Describe in detail how you collected data, at what intervals, and using which tools. For example, “Using a calibrated pipette, I extracted 5ml of the solution every 10 minutes.”
Safety Measures . Always document any safety protocols followed during the experiment, such as ensuring adequate ventilation or handling chemicals carefully.
Experiment Conclusion . Detail how you wrapped up the experiment . It could include turning off equipment, safely disposing of materials, or storing data.
Post-Experiment Cleanup . It is always a vital step to indicate how you restored the lab space to its original condition and how you stored or disposed of used materials.

The aim is to write this section thoroughly so that another student, perhaps halfway across the world, could read your description and carry out the same experiment with identical results. Clarity and meticulousness can raise your IA to a commendable standard.

With the right approach, the path to an impressive IB Biology IA becomes clearer.

Data Collection and Analysis

Ah, the realm of empirical evidence! As I’ve often reiterated in my interactions, this section forms the core of your IA. It’s where your observations and findings come alive. But numbers alone won’t suffice. Getting into analysis, identifying patterns, and drawing insightful conclusions is crucial. Precision and accuracy are the linchpins here.

Conclusion and Evaluation

This segment calls for introspection and a broad overview as we round off. Draw overarching inferences from your research, going beyond just stating the results. Understand the broader implications of your findings. Moreover, put on your critic’s glasses, judiciously assessing your study’s strengths while acknowledging its weaknesses.

Topics to Read:

Understanding the IB Curriculum: A Beginner’s Guide
Guide to the Official IBO Website for IB Student Advantages and Growth
How to Manage Time Effectively as an IB Student
How to Write a Strong IB IA Proposal?
The Benefits of Pursuing the IB Diploma Programme
What to Do if You Don’t Pass Your IB IA? How to Succeed Next Time?
Can I Order IB Internal Assessment Written Online?

Tips for Excelling in Your IB Biology IA

The path to mastering the IB Biology IA can be challenging, but it can be a smooth ride with a few strategic pointers. Having been deeply involved with the IB for years, I’ve collected vital insights that can distinguish between a satisfactory and a stellar IA . Let’s get right into them.

1. Selecting a Relevant Research Question

The foundation of your entire IA is your research question. What’s the secret sauce to crafting the perfect one? It’s all about relevance. Ensure that your question aligns neatly with the biology syllabus.

From my numerous sessions and interactions, a research question that resonates well with the core curriculum often garners more appreciation. Finding that sweet spot between ambition and practicality is also pivotal. While aiming high is commendable, choosing a feasible question within your means and resources is crucial.

2. Prioritizing Accurate Data Collection

Data is the heartbeat of your IA. Precise collection is non-negotiable. Here’s a valuable piece of advice I’ve echoed throughout my years — always double, if not triple, check your data. A minor mistake can alter your results significantly. Consistency is vital in this aspect. Make sure your data collection methods are systematic, repeatable, and free of any biases.

3. Emphasizing Personal Engagement

It is where your unique touch makes a difference. The IA isn’t just about presenting facts but also about your connection and enthusiasm for the topic. Standout IAs often have a strong undercurrent of genuine interest and dedication. From my vast experience, when students infuse their work with sincere passion, it shines through, making the IA genuinely memorable:

Initial Curiosity . Begin by shedding light on what piqued your interest in the topic.
Challenges and Overcoming Them . Maybe you faced difficulty sourcing materials or grappled with a particular concept.
Moments of Eureka . Highlight instances during your research when things clicked, or you experienced breakthrough moments.
Personal Stories . You may have always been fascinated by plant biology because you used to garden with a family member, or perhaps a unique health challenge drove your interest in human biology.
Reflections . Share your introspective moments. How has this research changed or deepened your understanding of the topic? How has it influenced your perspective or future aspirations in biology?

Remember, the personal engagement section is your canvas. It’s an opportunity to paint a picture of the researcher and the individual behind the research. By emphasizing these elements, you elevate the depth of your IA and create a resonant narrative that reviewers and readers can connect with.

4. Reflection and Evaluation of Your Findings

After all the rigorous work, it’s essential to pause and reflect. It involves not merely stating your results but also pondering their significance. How do your findings fit into the larger framework of biological understanding? Additionally, always be ready to assess your work critically. Pinpoint areas of improvement and suggest potential refinements. Such a holistic perspective adds depth to your IA and showcases your understanding and maturity.

Don’t let the stress of choosing an IA topic hold you back.

Are you struggling to come up with topic suggestions for your IB Internal Assessment?

Our experienced writers can help you choose the perfect topic for your IA

Tailored to your specific subject and requirements.

Simply click:

A female student standing still and smiling while holding a pen and a notebook, presumably contemplating IB IA topic suggestions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in IB Biology IA Structure

Over the years, I’ve seen students make the same mistakes. Let’s ensure you’re not one of them!

1. Skipping Peer Review and Feedback

In the thick of research and writing, it’s easy to become myopic and miss out on tiny errors or areas of improvement. That’s where a second set of eyes becomes invaluable. Peer reviews or feedback from mentors can offer fresh perspectives, identify overlooked mistakes, or even provide insights that can elevate the quality of your work. From my experience, students who embrace feedback often end up with more polished and well-rounded IAs.

2. Inconsistent Data Collection Methods

While the methodology might be sound, inconsistency in data collection can introduce significant errors. Maintaining uniformity throughout the data collection phase is crucial. For instance, if you’re measuring plant growth, ensuring that measurements are taken simultaneously, under the same conditions, can make a difference.

3. Neglecting the Significance of the Research Question

The research question is the north star of your IA. Sometimes, students opt for broad or overly ambitious questions, convoluting the research process. It’s essential to choose a question that’s both relevant and feasible, ensuring that it aligns with the IB Biology syllabus and is achievable within the scope of the IA.

4. Not Justifying Methodological Choices

Simply listing out methods isn’t enough. It’s crucial to explain why a particular way was chosen and its relevance to the research question. Offering a rationale can give depth to the methodology section and showcase a deeper understanding of the research process.

Conclusion: Perfecting Your IB Biology IA

The IB Biology IA format and structure might seem daunting initially, but it becomes manageable with the proper guidance and preparation. I believe that with dedication and focus, every student can succeed in their IB Biology IA. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

In conclusion, with the right approach and these strategic tips in your arsenal, the path to creating an impressive IB Biology IA becomes much more straightforward. Combine these insights with dedication, and you’re on your way to success! Here’s wishing you all the very best! And remember, you can always get help with IB Biology IA from our experienced writers.

Nora Spinster

Nora Spinster is a multi-talented individual who is an educator, lawyer, youth, expert IB tutor, education activist, and language and writing enthusiast. Nora has a wealth of experience in copywriting, having worked with various organizations and businesses to craft compelling and effective copy. Nora has published articles on young learners and teenage students in the International House Journal and occasionally posts on ibwritingservice.com educational blog

Nora Spinster https://ibwritingservice.com/blog/author/noraspinster/ Topics for Music Extended Essay
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IB Biology IA ideas (30+ topics) - A Goldmine You Can't Ignore.

Unleash your potential in IB Biology with our exclusive list of 30+ captivating IA ideas! Discover the secrets to scoring top marks & nail your IA now!

Table of content

Sitting in that quiet corner, sipping hot chocolate, hoping it rains IB Biology IA ideas, instead, going blank and utterly confused?

We don't want that to happen, do we?

Choosing the perfect IB Biology IA idea is only the first step in making one's IB Biology Investigation, but definitely, the most significant. IB Biology IA Ideas won't strike out of the blue, but here's a list of 30+ IB Biology IA ideas to inspire and stimulate your grey cells! Selecting an IBxq Biology IA idea has always been challenging!

Before we look for IB Biology IA ideas, let's clearly comprehend the IB Biology Diploma Programme Subject , its objectives, partwise breakdown, and what IB expects of you.

The IB IAs are essential to one's overall subject performance since they make up 20% of the final score. Internal Assessments are the perfect way to get students to put their knowledge to use by Observing, Questioning, and Investigating. Personal engagement , Exploration , Analysis , Evaluation , and Communication are the criteria against which the investigation is assessed.

The sure-shot way to ace one's IB Biology IA, or any IA, is by picking a topic that sparks one's interest. A well-planned , structured, and executed IA has been undertaken with zeal and enthusiasm. It is all the same when choosing that one Biology IA idea from a platter full of inspiration.

Before we dive more in-depth, you should check out our premium IB Biology SL Notes to own your Biology SL papers! Along with a bundle of Past Papers , these premium SL notes include guides for your Extended Essay and Internal Assessments with helpful examples! You certainly want to take advantage of these! Browse these for more information!

When it comes to selecting from several IB Biology IA ideas for your investigation, it is essential to note that your IA would either require you to:

Carry out experimental research in the laboratory or
Draw interpretation from a credible database or
Make a detailed analysis using a simulation/modelling.

Either way, you must connect to your topic and portray personal engagement as it lays the foundation for the rest of your investigation. Proper research is a bare minimum, and the rest follows. Here's a quick summary of how you are supposed to choose an appropriate IB Biology IA idea for your report:

Know your interest: Go through several IA ideas to understand what all topics are in sync with the IB Biology curriculum and if something grabs your attention, hold on to it!
Keep it specific: The idea should be more generic and more complex. An ideal IA idea reeks of originality and leaves room for proper investigation and analysis.
Let it be realistic: Outline the Equipment, time, and resources to check its feasibility.

Tada! There you go!

Now that you know how to settle on that one perfect topic, let's quickly brief ourselves on the proper planning and procedure involved in the making of an IB Biology IA:

Concise Research Question:

Your Research Question and the Aim of the Investigation are separate sub-headings with different implications. Keep the research question brief and relevant. The Aim answers Why while the Research Question answers the What.

It is essential to set the Research Question in the background of the chosen topic. My Background, IB expects you to briefly explain what encouraged you to select a particular topic and, hopefully, a personal story that validates your choice and engagement. For instance, if you choose to investigate how light levels affect the predation of peppered moths, you could set a background that you have gained a fascination for that species ever since it was introduced to you for some explanation in your regular classes and eventually give more scientific basis for your choice.
Independent, Dependent variables need to be highlighted, as should the hypothesis. State your hypothesis; it is important in the context of your research. Constraints, if any, need to be mentioned as well. Remember, the Independent variable is one that you are allowed to change(just one); the Dependent variable is one that you measure as it changes with the Independent variable; all the other experiment conditions must be kept constant to ensure that the experiment is fair.
The procedure used should be well structured.
Tables, Graphs, etc., should be used.
Perform the relevant analysis, consider the research question, and conclude.
Limitations and Improvements should be specified.

Acknowledging the safety protocols established by IB and considering the ethical aspects of your investigation is imperative.

Focus on the question:

"If there are any ethical implications to your report, how do you plan on minimizing the environmental impact of your experiment?"

Citing documents/web pages and giving references is another crucial aspect of your IA that needs to be taken care of.

An important thing to note here is that although you are allowed to take inspiration from existing research, papers/journals, you are expected to give a novel perspective to the idea while producing it in your investigation.

For example, an idea inspired by how the soil pH affects seed germination could be investigated in a new light; think of other factors controlling/affecting seed germination. You could progress further in your report with a focus on quantitative data.

With all the necessary information at your disposal, it is time to present some fantastic IB Biology IA ideas to encourage you to put your thinking caps on and take on the challenge with newfound zeal! These ideas are meant to give you a little head start along this path; your final IB Biology Investigation idea is your interpretation of one.

Without further adieu, let's dive headfirst into 30+ IB Biology IA ideas for your Biology IA Investigation!

Reference to Course: Molecular Biology (Metabolism, Cell Respiration, Photosynthesis)
Lab, Simulation-based
Reference to Course: Molecular Biology (Metabolism, Cell Respiration, Photosynthesis)
Experimental
Reference to Course: Cell Biology (Membrane Structure)
Experimental
Reference to Course: Plant Biology
Reference to Course: Molecular Biology (Enzymes)
Reference to Course: Cell Biology
Simulation/Modelling
Reference to Course: Cell Biology (Osmosis)
Database based
Reference to Course: Molecular Biology (Enzymes)
Reference to Course: Ecology
Reference to Course: Microbiology
Reference to Course: Molecular Biology(Enzymes)
Experimental, Simulation-based
Reference to Course: Buffers
Reference to Course: Human Physiology
Reference to Course: Molecular Biology(Enzymes)
Simulation Analysis
Database, Experimental
Reference to Course: Plants Physiology

These ideas are for you to start exploring and begin! Take inspiration from these and research further to land on that one idea that gets you going!

But is that it? Certainly not!

Here are a couple of other ideas you could browse and eventually take inspiration from:

Effect of Different Fertilizers on Eutrophication .
Analyzing Milk Spoilage under varying conditions of Temperature, Sunlight, etc.
Exploring how a particular variable affects the germination of seeds .
Investigating the rate of oxygen production of seaweed with variation in light intensity.
To prevent microbial growth, explore better ways to clean household items(for example - mats).
Studying the effect of temperature on photosynthesis in Green Gram(Vigna Radiata).
Understanding what effect different ethanol concentrations have on cell membranes.
Studying the biology behind Schizophrenia .
Investigating the decay time of different Genetically Modified Foods .
Understanding the impact of different variables on vegetable decay/ Exploring other methods to prevent vegetable decay.

And that's that!

These little ideas will help you brainstorm and explore further the vast yet intriguing expanse of biology. IB Biology curriculum expects you to appreciate scientific problems in a global context with stimulating opportunities, and IB Biology IAs help you accomplish just that. It might seem like a lot of work, but with the right topic, you will surpass your expectations! On this note, we wish you all the very best for your IB Biology IA Journey :)

Want some A-quality guidance? Look no further; at Nail IB, we have assembled premium content for you to ace your IBs, and you should check out our resources for a smooth IB experience. Click here for top-notch IB resources or to assess how your prep is going!

This article will be a foundation for you to get going on that IB Biology IA Investigation of yours!

IB Resources you will love!

Nan + free ib flashcards, -1 + free ia samples, nan + ib videos by experts, -1 + ib sample practice questions, ib resources for nan + subjects.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, the complete ib extended essay guide: examples, topics, and ideas.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

IB students around the globe fear writing the Extended Essay, but it doesn't have to be a source of stress! In this article, I'll get you excited about writing your Extended Essay and provide you with the resources you need to get an A on it.

If you're reading this article, I'm going to assume you're an IB student getting ready to write your Extended Essay. If you're looking at this as a potential future IB student, I recommend reading our introductory IB articles first, including our guide to what the IB program is and our full coverage of the IB curriculum .

IB Extended Essay: Why Should You Trust My Advice?

I myself am a recipient of an IB Diploma, and I happened to receive an A on my IB Extended Essay. Don't believe me? The proof is in the IBO pudding:

If you're confused by what this report means, EE is short for Extended Essay , and English A1 is the subject that my Extended Essay topic coordinated with. In layman's terms, my IB Diploma was graded in May 2010, I wrote my Extended Essay in the English A1 category, and I received an A grade on it.

What Is the Extended Essay in the IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Extended Essay, or EE , is a mini-thesis you write under the supervision of an IB advisor (an IB teacher at your school), which counts toward your IB Diploma (learn more about the major IB Diploma requirements in our guide) . I will explain exactly how the EE affects your Diploma later in this article.

For the Extended Essay, you will choose a research question as a topic, conduct the research independently, then write an essay on your findings . The essay itself is a long one—although there's a cap of 4,000 words, most successful essays get very close to this limit.

Keep in mind that the IB requires this essay to be a "formal piece of academic writing," meaning you'll have to do outside research and cite additional sources.

The IB Extended Essay must include the following:

A title page
Contents page
Introduction
Body of the essay
References and bibliography

Additionally, your research topic must fall into one of the six approved DP categories , or IB subject groups, which are as follows:

Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
Group 2: Language Acquisition
Group 3: Individuals and Societies
Group 4: Sciences
Group 5: Mathematics
Group 6: The Arts

Once you figure out your category and have identified a potential research topic, it's time to pick your advisor, who is normally an IB teacher at your school (though you can also find one online ). This person will help direct your research, and they'll conduct the reflection sessions you'll have to do as part of your Extended Essay.

As of 2018, the IB requires a "reflection process" as part of your EE supervision process. To fulfill this requirement, you have to meet at least three times with your supervisor in what the IB calls "reflection sessions." These meetings are not only mandatory but are also part of the formal assessment of the EE and your research methods.

According to the IB, the purpose of these meetings is to "provide an opportunity for students to reflect on their engagement with the research process." Basically, these meetings give your supervisor the opportunity to offer feedback, push you to think differently, and encourage you to evaluate your research process.

The final reflection session is called the viva voce, and it's a short 10- to 15-minute interview between you and your advisor. This happens at the very end of the EE process, and it's designed to help your advisor write their report, which factors into your EE grade.

Here are the topics covered in your viva voce :

A check on plagiarism and malpractice
Your reflection on your project's successes and difficulties
Your reflection on what you've learned during the EE process

Your completed Extended Essay, along with your supervisor's report, will then be sent to the IB to be graded. We'll cover the assessment criteria in just a moment.

We'll help you learn how to have those "lightbulb" moments...even on test day!

What Should You Write About in Your IB Extended Essay?

You can technically write about anything, so long as it falls within one of the approved categories listed above.

It's best to choose a topic that matches one of the IB courses , (such as Theatre, Film, Spanish, French, Math, Biology, etc.), which shouldn't be difficult because there are so many class subjects.

Here is a range of sample topics with the attached extended essay:

Biology: The Effect of Age and Gender on the Photoreceptor Cells in the Human Retina
Chemistry: How Does Reflux Time Affect the Yield and Purity of Ethyl Aminobenzoate (Benzocaine), and How Effective is Recrystallisation as a Purification Technique for This Compound?
English: An Exploration of Jane Austen's Use of the Outdoors in Emma
Geography: The Effect of Location on the Educational Attainment of Indigenous Secondary Students in Queensland, Australia
Math: Alhazen's Billiard Problem
Visual Arts: Can Luc Tuymans Be Classified as a Political Painter?

You can see from how varied the topics are that you have a lot of freedom when it comes to picking a topic . So how do you pick when the options are limitless?

How to Write a Stellar IB Extended Essay: 6 Essential Tips

Below are six key tips to keep in mind as you work on your Extended Essay for the IB DP. Follow these and you're sure to get an A!

#1: Write About Something You Enjoy

You can't expect to write a compelling essay if you're not a fan of the topic on which you're writing. For example, I just love British theatre and ended up writing my Extended Essay on a revolution in post-WWII British theatre. (Yes, I'm definitely a #TheatreNerd.)

I really encourage anyone who pursues an IB Diploma to take the Extended Essay seriously. I was fortunate enough to receive a full-tuition merit scholarship to USC's School of Dramatic Arts program. In my interview for the scholarship, I spoke passionately about my Extended Essay; thus, I genuinely think my Extended Essay helped me get my scholarship.

But how do you find a topic you're passionate about? Start by thinking about which classes you enjoy the most and why . Do you like math classes because you like to solve problems? Or do you enjoy English because you like to analyze literary texts?

Keep in mind that there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing your Extended Essay topic. You're not more likely to get high marks because you're writing about science, just like you're not doomed to failure because you've chosen to tackle the social sciences. The quality of what you produce—not the field you choose to research within—will determine your grade.

Once you've figured out your category, you should brainstorm more specific topics by putting pen to paper . What was your favorite chapter you learned in that class? Was it astrophysics or mechanics? What did you like about that specific chapter? Is there something you want to learn more about? I recommend spending a few hours on this type of brainstorming.

One last note: if you're truly stumped on what to research, pick a topic that will help you in your future major or career . That way you can use your Extended Essay as a talking point in your college essays (and it will prepare you for your studies to come too!).

#2: Select a Topic That Is Neither Too Broad nor Too Narrow

There's a fine line between broad and narrow. You need to write about something specific, but not so specific that you can't write 4,000 words on it.

You can't write about WWII because that would be a book's worth of material. You also don't want to write about what type of soup prisoners of war received behind enemy lines, because you probably won’t be able to come up with 4,000 words of material about it. However, you could possibly write about how the conditions in German POW camps—and the rations provided—were directly affected by the Nazis' successes and failures on the front, including the use of captured factories and prison labor in Eastern Europe to increase production. WWII military history might be a little overdone, but you get my point.

If you're really stuck trying to pinpoint a not-too-broad-or-too-narrow topic, I suggest trying to brainstorm a topic that uses a comparison. Once you begin looking through the list of sample essays below, you'll notice that many use comparisons to formulate their main arguments.

I also used a comparison in my EE, contrasting Harold Pinter's Party Time with John Osborne's Look Back in Anger in order to show a transition in British theatre. Topics with comparisons of two to three plays, books, and so on tend to be the sweet spot. You can analyze each item and then compare them with one another after doing some in-depth analysis of each individually. The ways these items compare and contrast will end up forming the thesis of your essay!

When choosing a comparative topic, the key is that the comparison should be significant. I compared two plays to illustrate the transition in British theatre, but you could compare the ways different regional dialects affect people's job prospects or how different temperatures may or may not affect the mating patterns of lightning bugs. The point here is that comparisons not only help you limit your topic, but they also help you build your argument.

Comparisons are not the only way to get a grade-A EE, though. If after brainstorming, you pick a non-comparison-based topic and are still unsure whether your topic is too broad or narrow, spend about 30 minutes doing some basic research and see how much material is out there.

If there are more than 1,000 books, articles, or documentaries out there on that exact topic, it may be too broad. But if there are only two books that have any connection to your topic, it may be too narrow. If you're still unsure, ask your advisor—it's what they're there for! Speaking of advisors...

Don't get stuck with a narrow topic!

#3: Choose an Advisor Who Is Familiar With Your Topic

If you're not certain of who you would like to be your advisor, create a list of your top three choices. Next, write down the pros and cons of each possibility (I know this sounds tedious, but it really helps!).

For example, Mr. Green is my favorite teacher and we get along really well, but he teaches English. For my EE, I want to conduct an experiment that compares the efficiency of American electric cars with foreign electric cars.

I had Ms. White a year ago. She teaches physics and enjoyed having me in her class. Unlike Mr. Green, Ms. White could help me design my experiment.

Based on my topic and what I need from my advisor, Ms. White would be a better fit for me than would Mr. Green (even though I like him a lot).

The moral of my story is this: do not just ask your favorite teacher to be your advisor . They might be a hindrance to you if they teach another subject. For example, I would not recommend asking your biology teacher to guide you in writing an English literature-based EE.

There can, of course, be exceptions to this rule. If you have a teacher who's passionate and knowledgeable about your topic (as my English teacher was about my theatre topic), you could ask that instructor. Consider all your options before you do this. There was no theatre teacher at my high school, so I couldn't find a theatre-specific advisor, but I chose the next best thing.

Before you approach a teacher to serve as your advisor, check with your high school to see what requirements they have for this process. Some IB high schools require your IB Extended Essay advisor to sign an Agreement Form , for instance.

Make sure that you ask your IB coordinator whether there is any required paperwork to fill out. If your school needs a specific form signed, bring it with you when you ask your teacher to be your EE advisor.

#4: Pick an Advisor Who Will Push You to Be Your Best

Some teachers might just take on students because they have to and aren't very passionate about reading drafts, only giving you minimal feedback. Choose a teacher who will take the time to read several drafts of your essay and give you extensive notes. I would not have gotten my A without being pushed to make my Extended Essay draft better.

Ask a teacher that you have experience with through class or an extracurricular activity. Do not ask a teacher that you have absolutely no connection to. If a teacher already knows you, that means they already know your strengths and weaknesses, so they know what to look for, where you need to improve, and how to encourage your best work.

Also, don't forget that your supervisor's assessment is part of your overall EE score . If you're meeting with someone who pushes you to do better—and you actually take their advice—they'll have more impressive things to say about you than a supervisor who doesn't know you well and isn't heavily involved in your research process.

Be aware that the IB only allows advisors to make suggestions and give constructive criticism. Your teacher cannot actually help you write your EE. The IB recommends that the supervisor spends approximately two to three hours in total with the candidate discussing the EE.

#5: Make Sure Your Essay Has a Clear Structure and Flow

The IB likes structure. Your EE needs a clear introduction (which should be one to two double-spaced pages), research question/focus (i.e., what you're investigating), a body, and a conclusion (about one double-spaced page). An essay with unclear organization will be graded poorly.

The body of your EE should make up the bulk of the essay. It should be about eight to 18 pages long (again, depending on your topic). Your body can be split into multiple parts. For example, if you were doing a comparison, you might have one third of your body as Novel A Analysis, another third as Novel B Analysis, and the final third as your comparison of Novels A and B.

If you're conducting an experiment or analyzing data, such as in this EE , your EE body should have a clear structure that aligns with the scientific method ; you should state the research question, discuss your method, present the data, analyze the data, explain any uncertainties, and draw a conclusion and/or evaluate the success of the experiment.

#6: Start Writing Sooner Rather Than Later!

You will not be able to crank out a 4,000-word essay in just a week and get an A on it. You'll be reading many, many articles (and, depending on your topic, possibly books and plays as well!). As such, it's imperative that you start your research as soon as possible.

Each school has a slightly different deadline for the Extended Essay. Some schools want them as soon as November of your senior year; others will take them as late as February. Your school will tell you what your deadline is. If they haven't mentioned it by February of your junior year, ask your IB coordinator about it.

Some high schools will provide you with a timeline of when you need to come up with a topic, when you need to meet with your advisor, and when certain drafts are due. Not all schools do this. Ask your IB coordinator if you are unsure whether you are on a specific timeline.

Below is my recommended EE timeline. While it's earlier than most schools, it'll save you a ton of heartache (trust me, I remember how hard this process was!):

January/February of Junior Year: Come up with your final research topic (or at least your top three options).
February of Junior Year: Approach a teacher about being your EE advisor. If they decline, keep asking others until you find one. See my notes above on how to pick an EE advisor.
April/May of Junior Year: Submit an outline of your EE and a bibliography of potential research sources (I recommend at least seven to 10) to your EE advisor. Meet with your EE advisor to discuss your outline.
Summer Between Junior and Senior Year: Complete your first full draft over the summer between your junior and senior year. I know, I know—no one wants to work during the summer, but trust me—this will save you so much stress come fall when you are busy with college applications and other internal assessments for your IB classes. You will want to have this first full draft done because you will want to complete a couple of draft cycles as you likely won't be able to get everything you want to say into 4,000 articulate words on the first attempt. Try to get this first draft into the best possible shape so you don't have to work on too many revisions during the school year on top of your homework, college applications, and extracurriculars.
August/September of Senior Year: Turn in your first draft of your EE to your advisor and receive feedback. Work on incorporating their feedback into your essay. If they have a lot of suggestions for improvement, ask if they will read one more draft before the final draft.
September/October of Senior Year: Submit the second draft of your EE to your advisor (if necessary) and look at their feedback. Work on creating the best possible final draft.
November-February of Senior Year: Schedule your viva voce. Submit two copies of your final draft to your school to be sent off to the IB. You likely will not get your grade until after you graduate.

Remember that in the middle of these milestones, you'll need to schedule two other reflection sessions with your advisor . (Your teachers will actually take notes on these sessions on a form like this one , which then gets submitted to the IB.)

I recommend doing them when you get feedback on your drafts, but these meetings will ultimately be up to your supervisor. Just don't forget to do them!

The early bird DOES get the worm!

How Is the IB Extended Essay Graded?

Extended Essays are graded by examiners appointed by the IB on a scale of 0 to 34 . You'll be graded on five criteria, each with its own set of points. You can learn more about how EE scoring works by reading the IB guide to extended essays .

Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum)
Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum)
Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum)
Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum)
Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum)

How well you do on each of these criteria will determine the final letter grade you get for your EE. You must earn at least a D to be eligible to receive your IB Diploma.

Although each criterion has a point value, the IB explicitly states that graders are not converting point totals into grades; instead, they're using qualitative grade descriptors to determine the final grade of your Extended Essay . Grade descriptors are on pages 102-103 of this document .

Here's a rough estimate of how these different point values translate to letter grades based on previous scoring methods for the EE. This is just an estimate —you should read and understand the grade descriptors so you know exactly what the scorers are looking for.

Here is the breakdown of EE scores (from the May 2021 bulletin):

How Does the Extended Essay Grade Affect Your IB Diploma?

The Extended Essay grade is combined with your TOK (Theory of Knowledge) grade to determine how many points you get toward your IB Diploma.

To learn about Theory of Knowledge or how many points you need to receive an IB Diploma, read our complete guide to the IB program and our guide to the IB Diploma requirements .

This diagram shows how the two scores are combined to determine how many points you receive for your IB diploma (3 being the most, 0 being the least). In order to get your IB Diploma, you have to earn 24 points across both categories (the TOK and EE). The highest score anyone can earn is 45 points.

Let's say you get an A on your EE and a B on TOK. You will get 3 points toward your Diploma. As of 2014, a student who scores an E on either the extended essay or TOK essay will not be eligible to receive an IB Diploma .

Prior to the class of 2010, a Diploma candidate could receive a failing grade in either the Extended Essay or Theory of Knowledge and still be awarded a Diploma, but this is no longer true.

Figuring out how you're assessed can be a little tricky. Luckily, the IB breaks everything down here in this document . (The assessment information begins on page 219.)

40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme

In case you want a little more guidance on how to get an A on your EE, here are over 40 excellent (grade A) sample extended essays for your reading pleasure. Essays are grouped by IB subject.

Business Management 1
Chemistry 1
Chemistry 2
Chemistry 3
Chemistry 4
Chemistry 5
Chemistry 6
Chemistry 7
Computer Science 1
Economics 1
Design Technology 1
Design Technology 2
Environmental Systems and Societies 1
Geography 1
Geography 2
Geography 3
Geography 4
Geography 5
Geography 6
Literature and Performance 1
Mathematics 1
Mathematics 2
Mathematics 3
Mathematics 4
Mathematics 5
Philosophy 1
Philosophy 2
Philosophy 3
Philosophy 4
Philosophy 5
Psychology 1
Psychology 2
Psychology 3
Psychology 4
Psychology 5
Social and Cultural Anthropology 1
Social and Cultural Anthropology 2
Social and Cultural Anthropology 3
Sports, Exercise and Health Science 1
Sports, Exercise and Health Science 2
Visual Arts 1
Visual Arts 2
Visual Arts 3
Visual Arts 4
Visual Arts 5
World Religion 1
World Religion 2
World Religion 3

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30 Amazing IB Biology Internal assessment topics you can't overlook

A good assessment determines what skills you have acquired and how productively you can practice those skills though it does not support that you have to come up with a masterpiece. A topic connected to your area of interest, logical structure, and a valid research topic will get an outstanding score.

Still, Puzzled? Definitely a perfect IA topic won't come out of the blue for you; but we got your back.

Here is a quick listing of 30 interesting and unique topic selection ideas for your IB Biology internal assessment:

Human Physiology:

1. Examine the heart rate response to the baroreceptor feedback. 2. Does the reflex action slow down with the age? 3. Determine the Co2 level difference exhaled after and before a hard exercise. 4. What impact energy drinks have on BP and Heart rate after a physical workout? 5. Determine the stress types on the ventilation rate. 6. Determine muscle activity used in ballet dancing. 7. Find how music affects the heart rate of humans? 8. Analyze how human eyes respond to electronic gadgets screens. 9. Test the precision of color vision by online color tests.

Plant Biology:

10. Determine the effect of light and temperature on fruit ripening. 11. Investigate the mitotic index in the root tips such as Onion. 12. Research the effects of stomatal density on different plant types. 13. Do the impact house goods have on the growth of plants? 14. Study how salt concentration affects seed germination. 15. Are antibiotics effective for seed germination?

Cell and Molecular Biology:

16. Determine the effect of sugar on the respiration rates of baker's and wine yeast. 17. Study the biological origin of Schizophrenia. 18. Explore human root hair cells and their visibility by age. 19. What happens to products after the sell-by date? 20. Investigation on DNA alteration and its possibilities. 21. Ethical essay on human cloning. 22. Examine the health effects of steroids on humans. 23. Examine the effect of the enzyme on the making of cheese. 24. The effect of carbohydrates on the blood sugar level.

Ecology and Environmental Biology

25. How do river pollutants affect the water species? 26. Effects of air pollutants on plants. 27. How do the abiotic components affect the biodiversity in a habitat? 28. How temperature effects in spreading of viral infections? 29. How does the sunlight affect the biomass? 30. How Global warming is affecting the human body?

Disclaimer: The topics suggested in this article are only for the motivational purpose and to give students some ideas of how you can link some real-world investigations with your IB chemistry internal assessment to score a good grade.

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Mastering the ib english oral commentary, an ultimate handbook for ib math internal assessment (ia), a comprehensive guide to choosing history ia topics, unveiling the perfect economics ia: exploring real-world applications, a comprehensive manual for crafting ib psychology internal assessment (ia), stuck for ideas for your chemistry ia, the power of mathematics ia: unlocking creativity and success.

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50 Biology IA Topics: Essential Selections for Learners

What is Biology IA

What are the Essential Components of the IA

Biology IA Topics

How Can I Prepare for a Biology IA

Final words.

I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of engaging with the right research question in biology. Drawing from years of experience and a deep understanding of the subject, I've curated a list of 50 Biology IA topics to guide students and researchers alike. This compilation is more than just a list; it's a bridge connecting curious minds to the vast and intricate world of biological sciences. Each topic has been carefully selected for its potential to challenge, inspire, and contribute to our growing body of knowledge. Whether you're exploring the microscopic intricacies of cell biology or the complex ecosystems that sustain life on Earth, these topics are designed to foster a profound appreciation for the living world and its phenomena.

What is Biology IA (Internal Assessment) ?

The IA involves the submission of a lab report by students as part of their IB biology curriculum. Until May 2025, the report must be between 6 and 12 pages, encompassing a research question, methodology, data analysis, and a conclusion. Starting from May 2025, the report's length will be capped at 3,000 words.

IA should begin with a research question that is not only testable but also deeply rooted in the biology syllabus. This question must be closely aligned with the curriculum, precisely defined, and specific. In the methodology section, a detailed account of the research process, including the materials and methods utilized, should be provided. This section must be thorough, clearly describing the research steps, resources employed, and any ethical considerations addressed. Analyzing the gathered data is a critical phase of the IA. Students are expected to organize their data neatly and apply suitable statistical methods for analysis, interpreting their findings accurately. They should also discuss any study limitations and the broader significance of their results. The conclusion should encapsulate the study's key outcomes, linking them directly to the initial research question, and suggest areas for future investigation. Moreover, students must submit a reflective statement as part of their IA. This narrative, approximately 500 words, should ponder the student's learning journey throughout the IA process. It should cover the student's personal experiences, highlighting both triumphs and obstacles faced, assess their performance and the competencies developed during the assessment, and provide a thoughtful evaluation of the entire experience. Throughout this process, students may find tools like " essay typer free " helpful in articulating their thoughts and insights effectively.

List of 50 Biology IA Topics

Deep Dive into the Syllabus: Start by thoroughly understanding the IB Biology syllabus. Knowing the curriculum inside out helps you identify areas that interest you and align with the IA requirements. It also ensures that your research question is relevant and grounded in the course content.
Practice Lab Report Writing: Enhance your lab report writing skills by practicing regularly. Familiarize yourself with the structure and conventions of scientific writing. Pay special attention to clarity, coherence, and the logical flow of information. Consider reviewing exemplar lab reports and seeking constructive feedback from teachers or peers.
Seek Feedback Early: Don't wait until your IA is fully developed to seek feedback. Discuss your ideas, research question, and methodology with your biology teacher or an IB tutor early in the process. Regular feedback can help refine your approach, identify potential pitfalls, and ensure your project is on the right track.
Master Data Analysis Techniques: A significant part of the IA is analyzing the data you've collected. Brush up on your statistical skills and familiarize yourself with software or tools that can aid in data analysis. Understanding how to interpret your results accurately is crucial for drawing meaningful conclusions.
Reflect on Your Learning: The IA is not just about demonstrating your knowledge of biology; it's also an opportunity to reflect on your learning process. Engage in self-reflection throughout your IA journey, noting what you've learned, challenges you've encountered, and how you've overcome them. This reflective practice not only enhances your IA but also contributes to your personal growth as a learner.
The Effect of pH on Enzyme Activity: Investigate how different pH levels affect the activity of a specific enzyme, such as catalase found in potato cells. You'll need pH buffers, potato extract, hydrogen peroxide, and a spectrophotometer to measure the reaction rate. This experiment explores how enzyme function is influenced by pH, demonstrating the importance of homeostasis in biological systems.
Photosynthesis Rate under Different Light Colors: Examine how light color affects the rate of photosynthesis using aquatic plants like Elodea. You'll need light sources of different colors, a carbon dioxide indicator solution, and a timer. By measuring oxygen production or CO2 consumption, students can understand how light wavelength influences photosynthetic efficiency.
The Effect of Temperature on Bacterial Growth: Explore how temperature impacts the growth rate of bacteria such as E. coli. Required materials include bacterial cultures, nutrient agar plates, incubators set at different temperatures, and a colony counter. This experiment highlights the importance of temperature in microbial ecology and food safety.
Plant Growth in Different Soil Types : Investigate how various soil types affect plant growth. You'll need seeds (such as beans), different types of soil (sand, clay, loam), pots, and a ruler to measure growth. This study can reveal the importance of soil composition on plant health and yield, essential for agriculture and ecology.
The Impact of Salt Concentration on Seed Germination: Study how varying salt concentrations in water affect the germination rate of seeds like radishes. Materials include seeds, petri dishes, filter paper, and salt solutions of different concentrations. This experiment simulates the effects of soil salinity on plant life, relevant to understanding agricultural challenges and ecosystem responses to salinity.
Caffeine's Effect on Daphnia Heart Rate : Examine the impact of different caffeine concentrations on the heart rate of Daphnia magna. You'll need a microscope, Daphnia, caffeine solutions, and a stopwatch. This experiment introduces students to the physiological effects of stimulants and the concept of dose-response relationships in pharmacology.
The Role of Light Intensity on Plant Stomatal Density: Investigate how varying light intensities affect stomatal density in leaf specimens. Necessary materials include leaves from plants grown under different light conditions, a microscope, and clear nail polish for leaf impressions. This study explores how plants adapt to their light environments, affecting gas exchange and water loss.
Antibiotic Resistance Spread in Bacteria: Explore how antibiotic resistance spreads among bacterial populations. Use antibiotic discs, bacterial cultures, nutrient agar, and an incubator. This experiment demonstrates the mechanism of natural selection and the importance of antibiotic stewardship in healthcare.
The Effectiveness of Natural vs. Synthetic Antibacterials: Compare the antibacterial efficacy of natural substances (e.g., garlic, honey) versus synthetic antibacterials (e.g., commercial disinfectants). Materials include bacterial cultures, nutrient agar plates, paper discs soaked in antibacterial solutions, and an incubator. This topic highlights the potential of natural substances in fighting bacteria and the concept of antibiotic resistance.
The Influence of Music on Plant Growth: Investigate the effect of different types of music on plant growth rates. You'll need plants, speakers, and various genres of music. By measuring growth over time, this experiment can explore the intriguing possibility of sound waves affecting plant physiology.
Osmosis in Potato Tissue: Examine how osmotic balance is affected by salt or sugar solutions using potato strips. Materials include potato strips, various concentrations of salt or sugar solutions, and a balance. This simple yet effective experiment teaches the principles of osmosis and cell membrane permeability.
The Impact of Different Fertilizers on Algae Growth: Study how various fertilizers influence algae proliferation in water samples. Required materials include water samples, different types of fertilizers, and a light source. This experiment highlights the issue of nutrient pollution and eutrophication in aquatic ecosystems.
The Role of Mycorrhizal Fungi in Plant Growth: Investigate the impact of mycorrhizal fungi on the growth of plant roots. Materials include plant seedlings, mycorrhizal fungi inoculum, and soil. This study sheds light on the symbiotic relationships in ecosystems and their importance for plant nutrition.
The Effect of Acid Rain on Plant Growth: E xamine how simulated acid rain (using solutions of different pH levels) affects the growth of plants. Materials include seedlings, pH-adjusted water solutions, and growth measurement tools. This experiment explores environmental stressors on plants and the broader implications of pollution.
Genetic Diversity in Plant Leaf Morphology: Analyze the genetic diversity within a plant species by comparing leaf morphology. You'll need leaves from various individuals of the same species, a scanner or camera, and image analysis software. This project introduces concepts of genetic variation and its observable effects in populations.
The Effects of Microplastics on Brine Shrimp Survival: Investigate the survival rate of brine shrimp in water with varying concentrations of microplastics. Use brine shrimp, microplastic particles, and tanks. This study highlights environmental issues and the impact of pollutants on aquatic life.
Comparing Plant Transpiration Under Different Humidity Levels: Examine how different environmental humidity levels affect plant transpiration rates. Materials include plants, plastic bags to create humidity conditions, and a balance to measure water loss. This experiment explores plant water relations and adaptations to environmental stress.
The Influence of Mobile Phone Radiation on Seed Germination: Study the effect of electromagnetic radiation from mobile phones on the germination rate of seeds. You'll need seeds, mobile phones, and controlled germination environments. This project investigates the potential impact of technology on biological processes.
Assessing Vitamin C Degradation in Fruit Juices Over Time: Measure the degradation of vitamin C in various fruit juices stored at different temperatures over time. Use fruit juices, vitamin C test strips or a titration kit. This experiment explores nutrient stability and the factors affecting it.
The Impact of Exercise on Human Heart Rate Recovery: Analyze how different intensities of exercise affect heart rate recovery in humans. Materials include a heart rate monitor, stopwatch, and volunteers. This study sheds light on cardiovascular fitness and physiological responses to exercise.
Soil pH and Its Effect on Earthworm Activity: Investigate how varying soil pH levels affect the activity and distribution of earthworms. Materials include soil samples with different pH levels, earthworms, and observation containers. This experiment highlights soil health and biodiversity.
The Role of Water Temperature in Goldfish Metabolism: Examine how changes in water temperature affect the metabolic rate of goldfish, using water baths, thermometers, and oxygen probes. This study explores ectothermic metabolism and environmental adaptations.
Investigating the Allelopathic Effects of Plant Extracts on Seed Germination: Study how extracts from certain plants inhibit or promote the germination of seeds from other plants. Use plant extracts, seeds, petri dishes, and filter paper. This experiment delves into plant interactions and chemical ecology.
The Effects of Different Light Intensities on Daphnia Heart Rate: Analyze how light intensity influences the heart rate of Daphnia magna, using a microscope, light sources with adjustable intensity, and a stopwatch. This explores the effects of environmental stimuli on physiological responses.
The Efficacy of Various Water Purification Methods on Bacterial Content: Compare the effectiveness of different water purification techniques in reducing bacterial content. Materials include contaminated water samples, purification methods (filtration, boiling, chemical treatment), and agar plates for bacterial culturing. This study is relevant to public health and sanitation.
The Impact of Aeration on Water Quality and Aquatic Life: Investigate how different levels of water aeration affect the quality of water and the health of aquatic organisms. Use tanks, aerators, water quality test kits, and aquatic plants or animals. This experiment highlights the importance of oxygen in aquatic ecosystems.
Studying the Biodegradation Rate of Various Organic Materials: Compare the biodegradation rates of different organic materials under the same environmental conditions. Materials include organic substances (food scraps, paper, etc.), soil, and compost bins. This project emphasizes sustainability and waste management.
The Effect of Light Wavelengths on Algae Photosynthesis: Examine how different wavelengths of light affect the photosynthesis rate of algae, using colored filters, light sources, and a CO2 indicator. This study contributes to understanding photosynthetic efficiency and light energy utilization.
Insect Biodiversity in Different Habitats: Assess insect biodiversity across various habitats using pitfall traps, sweep nets, and identification guides. This project explores biodiversity, ecosystems, and the importance of conservation.
The Influence of Sugar Types on Yeast Fermentation: Investigate how different types of sugar (glucose, fructose, sucrose) affect the fermentation rate of yeast, using yeast cultures, sugar solutions, and gas collection methods. This experiment explores cellular respiration and biochemistry.
Assessing the Impact of Noise Pollution on Plant Growth: Study how different levels of noise pollution affect the growth of plants, using speakers to simulate noise conditions and measuring plant growth parameters. This investigates environmental stressors and plant responses.
The Role of Antioxidants in Preventing Apple Browning: Examine the effectiveness of various antioxidants (lemon juice, vitamin C solution) in preventing the browning of apple slices, comparing treated and untreated samples. This explores oxidation reactions and food preservation methods.
The Effect of Different Substrates on Worm Composting Efficiency: Compare the composting efficiency of worms in different substrates (paper, vegetable scraps, mixed organic material), measuring decomposition rate and soil quality. This highlights sustainable waste management and soil health.
Exploring Plant Cloning Techniques in Potato Tubers: Investigate the efficiency of different plant cloning techniques using potato tubers, focusing on methods like cutting and grafting, and assessing growth success rates. This introduces genetic replication and agricultural practices.
Studying the Effectiveness of Sunscreen in Blocking UV Radiation: Compare the effectiveness of different SPF sunscreens in blocking UV radiation using UV-sensitive beads or paper, highlighting the importance of sun protection and skin cancer prevention.
The Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Function in Students: Examine the effects of varying degrees of sleep deprivation on cognitive functions such as memory and reaction time in student volunteers, using cognitive tests and questionnaires. This explores human physiology and health science.
Investigating the Rate of Water Absorption in Different Soil Types: Study how various soil types (clay, sand, loam) absorb water, using soil samples, water, and measuring equipment. This experiment is relevant to agriculture, gardening, and environmental science.
The Effect of Magnetic Fields on Plant Growth: Explore the influence of different strengths of magnetic fields on the growth and development of plants, using magnets and plant specimens. This investigates electromagnetic effects on biological systems.
Assessing the Antifungal Properties of Plant Extracts: Examine the antifungal efficacy of various plant extracts against fungal pathogens in plants, using fungal cultures, plant extracts, and agar plates. This study has implications for natural disease management in agriculture.
The Influence of Carbon Dioxide Levels on Plant Growth: Investigate how varying concentrations of CO2 affect the growth rate of plants, using controlled environments with adjusted CO2 levels. This experiment is relevant to studies on climate change and plant physiology.
Exploring the Effects of Different Pollutants on Microbial Soil Health: Assess the impact of various pollutants (oil, pesticides, heavy metals) on the microbial health of soil, using soil samples, pollutants, and microbial culture techniques. This highlights environmental pollution and ecosystem health.
The Role of Salinity in Fish Osmoregulation: Study how different salinity levels in water affect the osmoregulation mechanisms of fish, using aquariums, salinity meters, and fish specimens. This experiment explores marine biology and physiological adaptations.
Investigating the Effects of Urbanization on Bird Populations: Compare bird species diversity and population numbers in urban versus rural areas, using birdwatching techniques and data analysis. This project examines biodiversity loss and conservation in changing environments.
The Impact of Different Cooking Methods on Vegetable Nutrient Content: Examine how boiling, steaming, and microwaving affect the nutrient content of vegetables, using cooking equipment, vegetables, and nutrient testing kits. This explores nutrition science and food preparation methods.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Different Handwashing Techniques: Investigate the bacterial reduction efficacy of various handwashing techniques and products, using bacterial cultures, agar plates, and volunteers. This is crucial for public health and hygiene education.

For optimal preparation for the IA, students must have a solid grasp of the biology course content and hone their lab report writing skills. They should actively seek their teachers' input on their writing abilities and comprehension of the research methodology.

Deep Dive into the Syllabus: Thoroughly understand the IB Biology syllabus. Knowing the curriculum inside out helps you identify areas that interest you and align with the IA requirements. It also ensures that your research question is relevant and grounded in the course content.

Practice Lab Report Writing:

Enhance your lab report writing skills by practicing regularly.
Familiarize yourself with the structure and conventions of scientific writing.
Pay special attention to clarity, coherence, and the logical flow of information.
Consider reviewing exemplar lab reports and seeking constructive feedback from teachers or peers.

Seek Feedback Early: Don't wait until your IA is fully developed to seek feedback. Discuss your ideas, research question, and methodology with your biology teacher or an IB tutor early in the process. Regular feedback can help refine your approach, identify potential pitfalls, and ensure your project is on the right track.

Master Data Analysis Techniques: A significant part of the IA is analyzing your collected data. Brush up on your statistical skills and familiarize yourself with software or tools to aid data analysis. Understanding how to interpret your results accurately is crucial for drawing meaningful conclusions. ‍

Reflect on Your Learning: The IA is not just about demonstrating your knowledge of biology; it's also an opportunity to reflect on your learning process. Engage in self-reflection throughout your IA journey, noting what you've learned, your challenges, and how you've overcome them. This reflective practice not only enhances your IA but also contributes to your personal growth as a learner.

As we wrap up our exploration of these Biology IA topic ideas, I hope you've found inspiration and a starting point for your investigative journey. Each topic offers a unique opportunity to delve into the wonders of the biological world, challenging you to ask questions, seek answers, and contribute to our collective understanding of life's intricacies. Remember, the key to a successful IA lies in choosing a topic that interests you and approaching it with curiosity, diligence, and a scientific mindset. Happy researching, and may your IA journey be as enlightening as it is rewarding!

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IB Biology IA Topics That Don’t Require Experiment

Welcome to this guide on IB Biology IA topics that don’t require experiments! If you’re an IB Biology student, you probably know that the Internal Assessment is a significant part of your final grade. It provides a chance for you to demonstrate your understanding of biological concepts and apply them to real-world situations.

The purpose of this blog post is to provide you with an overview of non-experimental IA topics that can be explored within different areas of biology. These topics don’t require conducting actual experiments, making them accessible to students who may not have the necessary resources or opportunities.

Now, you might wonder what exactly an IA is and how it differs from an extended essay. An IA is an investigative project unique to the IB Biology course, where you design and carry out your own research. In contrast, an extended essay focuses on analyzing existing research and providing a thorough written analysis. Both assessments are important in their own right, but for the purpose of this guide, we are focusing specifically on non-experimental IAs.

When selecting a non-experimental IA topic, certain criteria should be kept in mind. Firstly, the topic should be relevant to the IB Biology syllabus, ensuring that you address key concepts and learning objectives. Secondly, consider the availability of resources such as scientific articles, publications, and data analysis tools, as they will be essential in guiding your investigation. Finally, think about the feasibility of the topic in terms of materials, equipment, and time constraints.

Throughout the remainder of this guide, we will explore various non-experimental IA topic ideas covering different areas of biology. We will delve into Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Ecology, Genetics, Evolution and Biodiversity, and human physiology, offering you a range of options to choose from based on your interests and strengths.

By the end of this guide, you will have a solid grasp of the potential non-experimental IA topics available to you. Remember, while experiments are not necessary for these investigations, approaches such as literature reviews, data analysis, computer simulations, and mathematical modeling can be highly effective in addressing your research question.

So without further ado, let’s dive into the world of IB Biology IA topics that don’t require experiments!

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Comparative Analysis of Genetic Mutations in Different Cancers: Utilizing available databases on genetic mutations to determine commonalities and differences.
Effect of Climate Change on Migratory Patterns of Birds: Analysis based on existing datasets from birdwatching databases.
Correlation between Human Development Index (HDI) and Prevalence of Infectious Diseases: An investigation using World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations databases.
Bioinformatics Analysis of Protein Sequences: Analyzing sequences to predict protein structures and their potential functions.
Evolutionary Relationships among Cetaceans: Using genetic databases to understand the relationships and evolutionary paths.
Review of the Impacts of Microplastics on Marine Life: A literature-based study of published research on the ingestion and impact of microplastics.
Role of Gut Microbiota in Human Health: Using secondary data to explore how variations in gut bacteria might relate to diseases like obesity, diabetes, or even mental health conditions.
Analyzing Trends in Antibiotic Resistance Globally: Utilizing global datasets to identify alarming trends and potential future challenges.
Molecular Mechanisms behind Alzheimer’s Disease: A review-based study focused on recent scientific literature.
Comparing Carbon Sequestration Rates among Different Forest Types: Using existing datasets to analyze which forests might be most effective in combating climate change.
Review of Current Strategies in Organ Transplant Rejection Prevention: Looking at recent medical literature to assess the latest advancements and their effectiveness.
Role of Epigenetics in Human Development and Disease: An exploration based on existing literature and datasets.
Impact of Endocrine Disruptors on Aquatic Species: Using data from ecological studies to examine how these chemicals affect the physiology and reproductive capacities of aquatic life.
Trends in Bee Population Decline and Its Implications on Global Food Chains: Using available datasets to analyze potential future impacts.
The Relationship between Genetic Markers and Predisposition to Mental Health Disorders: An analysis based on available genetic and epidemiological data.
Review of the Biotechnological Applications of CRISPR-Cas9 in Agriculture: Understanding the benefits and potential risks.
Analysis of Disease Outbreaks and Their Relationship to Climate Anomalies: Using WHO data and global climate data to draw potential correlations.
The Biochemical Mechanisms of Different Diets on Human Health: A review of ketogenic, vegan, Mediterranean, and other diets.
Correlation between Pollution Levels and Asthma Prevalence in Urban Centers: Utilizing health and environmental data to draw connections.
Evolution of Resistance Mechanisms in Bacteria against Common Antibiotics: A review of literature to track the evolutionary changes in bacterial genomes in response to antibiotic pressure.

Importance of IA

The Internal Assessment plays a crucial role in the IB Biology curriculum and has a significant impact on the final grade. Understanding the importance of IA can help students approach their assessments with the right mindset and maximize their chances of success.

Firstly, the IA allows students to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout the course in a practical and meaningful way. It is an opportunity for students to showcase their understanding of key biological concepts and demonstrate their ability to conduct scientific investigations.

Secondly, the IA is designed to promote critical thinking and develop essential scientific skills, such as experimental design, data analysis, and evaluation. By engaging in the IA process, students learn how to plan experiments, collect and analyze data using appropriate techniques, and draw valid conclusions based on their findings.

Additionally, the IA enables students to demonstrate their ability to work independently and manage their time effectively. It requires careful planning, organization, and adherence to deadlines, which are crucial skills for success in higher education and beyond.

Making the most of the IA also holds immense value when it comes to the final grade. Typically, the IA contributes to a percentage of the overall mark in IB Biology. A well-executed IA can significantly boost a student’s grade, while a poorly thought-out or incomplete IA may impact their final result. Therefore, investing time and effort into the IA is vital to achieving academic success in IB Biology.

It is worth noting that the IA allows students to explore topics of personal interest within the broader scope of the subject. This flexibility provides students with the opportunity to further motivate themselves and make connections between the study of biology and real-world situations or local contexts.

In conclusion, the IA in IB Biology holds immense importance as it enables students to apply their knowledge, develop scientific skills, and manage their time effectively. It factors into the final grade and offers students the chance to immerse themselves in topics they are passionate about. Therefore, students should embrace the IA as a valuable opportunity to showcase their understanding and shine in their biology studies.

Definition of IB Biology IA

Welcome to the section where we shed light on what exactly an IA is in IB Biology, its purpose, and how it differs from an extended essay. If you’re new to the world of IB Biology Internal Assessments (IAs), don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!

An IA, short for Internal Assessment, is a crucial component of your IB Biology course. It is an opportunity for you to showcase your scientific skills, knowledge, and understanding by conducting independent research on a chosen topic. Unlike exams, IAs offer you the chance to explore a specific area of biology that truly fascinates you.

The purpose of an IA is to encourage you to think critically, apply key biological concepts, and engage in the investigative process like a professional biologist would. Through your IA, you’ll learn valuable experimental techniques, enhance your data analysis skills, and develop your ability to communicate scientific ideas effectively – all of which are vital for your future academic and scientific pursuits.

Now, you might be wondering how an IA differs from an extended essay. Well, the main distinction lies in their focus and scope. While an IA allows you to explore a more narrow and specific research question within a particular area of biology, an extended essay offers a broader exploration of a biology-related topic. The IA emphasizes experimentation, data collection, and analysis, whereas the extended essay prioritizes in-depth literature research and an extensive review of existing knowledge and theories.

To put it simply, an IA is an opportunity for you to flex your scientific muscles by conducting original research within a focused framework, while an extended essay is a chance for a more extensive exploration of an academic subject.

So now that we’ve clarified what an IA is and how it differentiates from an extended essay, you can approach your IA with a clearer understanding of its purpose and expectations. Get ready to dive into the world of IB Biology IA topics that don’t require experiments!

(Note: This section provides a simple yet informative introduction to the concept of an IA in IB Biology, catering to a reading grade eight level. The actual blog post will expand on this explanation and provide further details.)

Criteria for selecting non-experimental IA topics

When choosing a non-experimental Internal Assessment (IA) topic for IB Biology, there are several criteria to keep in mind. These criteria include relevance to the syllabus, availability of resources, and feasibility.

Relevance to the syllabus: It’s important to select a topic that aligns with the concepts and content covered in the IB Biology syllabus. Choose a topic that allows you to explore and analyze biological principles in depth, ensuring it is directly related to the subject matter.
Availability of resources: Consider the availability and accessibility of relevant resources when selecting your IA topic. This includes scientific research articles, textbooks, online databases, and other sources of information and data. Ensure that you have access to a range of supportive resources that will allow you to gather accurate information and support your analysis.
Feasibility: Your IA topic should be feasible within the given time frame and available resources. Consider the practical aspects, such as the equipment, materials, and techniques required for an experiment-free investigation. By choosing a topic that is realistic and manageable, you can avoid unnecessary challenges and setbacks.

By considering these criteria, you can select a non-experimental IA topic that is relevant, well-supported, and achievable. It’s important to carefully evaluate potential topics against these criteria to ensure a successful IA project.

One example of a non-experimental IA topic that meets these criteria is the investigation of DNA sequencing techniques. While not an experimental procedure itself, analyzing and comparing existing DNA sequencing methods can provide valuable insights into their advantages, disadvantages, and applications in genetic research. This topic is highly relevant to the syllabus, readily supported by resources such as scientific journals, and feasible to conduct within the given constraints.

Remember, your IA topic should offer opportunities for deep analysis, critical thinking, and a demonstration of your understanding of biology concepts. By selecting a non-experimental IA topic that meets these criteria, you can confidently embark on your IA journey and produce a high-quality investigation.

Non-Experimental IA Topic Ideas Related to Cell Biology

If you are taking IB Biology and looking for IA topics that don’t require experiments, the field of Cell Biology can offer some intriguing options. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Cellular aging: Investigate the impact of factors like oxidative stress or telomere length on cellular aging. Explore the relevance of these findings in understanding the aging process in organisms.
Drug targeting: Examine different drug delivery approaches for targeting specific cell types using nanotechnology, focusing on their effectiveness and potential applications in medicine.
Cell communication: Explore the role of signaling molecules, such as hormones or neurotransmitters, in intercellular communication. Investigate the importance of cell signaling pathways in physiological processes.
Cancer cell behavior: Analyze different cellular behaviors associated with cancer, such as uncontrolled proliferation or resistance to apoptosis. Investigate potential molecular mechanisms behind these behaviors and their implications for cancer treatment.
Plant cell specialization: Study the differentiation of plant cells into various specialized types, such as parenchyma, collenchyma, or sclerenchyma cells. Investigate the functional implications of these specialized cells in plant development and physiology.

Each of these topics offers a unique perspective on cell biology and provides an opportunity for you to delve deeper into understanding fundamental cellular processes. By exploring these areas, you’ll gain valuable insights into the complexities of cell structure and function.

Remember, when choosing a non-experimental IA topic in cell biology, consider the relevance to the syllabus and your own interests. Additionally, ensure that resources, such as scientific journals, books, or online databases, are readily available for conducting research.

In order to investigate these non-experimental IA topics, you can rely on existing literature, data analysis, computer simulations, or even mathematical modeling. Analyzing and synthesizing information from reliable sources will allow you to generate valuable insights without performing actual experiments.

Don’t be afraid to be creative! Take advantage of the vast body of knowledge in cell biology and explore areas that pique your curiosity. By selecting a non-experimental IA topic in cell biology, you can make meaningful contributions to the field while showcasing your investigative and analytical skills.

Continue reading to discover more non-experimental IA topic ideas in other areas of biology!

Non-experimental IA topic ideas related to Molecular Biology

In IB Biology, there are numerous fascinating non-experimental IA topics that you can explore within the field of Molecular Biology. These topics allow you to delve into the intricate world of molecules and their interactions, without needing to conduct experiments.

Gene expression regulation: Investigate the mechanisms by which genes are switched on or off in different organisms. Explore the importance of transcription factors, histone modification, and DNA methylation in gene expression. You could analyze existing research studies or use databases to collect data and draw conclusions about gene expression patterns.
Protein folding and misfolding: Examine the folding process of proteins, exploring factors such as pH, temperature, and presence of chaperones that affect proper folding. Research the consequences of protein misfolding, such as neurodegenerative diseases, and propose strategies to prevent or treat these conditions by targeting protein misfolding pathways.
Genetic engineering of crops: Investigate how genetic engineering techniques, such as using CRISPR-Cas9, can be used to modify plant genomes. Focus on specific genes involved in crop improvement, such as disease resistance or increased nutritional content, and discuss the potential benefits and ethical considerations of genetically modified crops.
Molecular basis of cancer: Explore the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer development and progression. Analyze the role of oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, and epigenetic modifications in the initiation and growth of tumors. Discuss targeted therapies that exploit these molecular targets for the treatment of cancer.
Antibiotic resistance: Investigate the molecular mechanisms behind antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Evaluate the role of horizontal gene transfer, genetic mutations, and the misuse of antibiotics in promoting resistance. Propose effective strategies to combat antibiotic resistance and prevent the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacterial strains.

These non-experimental IA topics within Molecular Biology provide opportunities for in-depth research and analysis, without the need for practical experiments. You can delve into biological databases, scholarly articles, and real-world applications to enrich your exploration of these exciting topics.

When conducting your IA research, don’t forget to maintain academic integrity by citing your sources properly and critically analyzing the information you gather. Additionally, consult your teacher for guidance on resources and experimental procedures that can complement your non-experimental IA journey. Remember, exploring molecular biology through a non-experimental lens can be just as rewarding and insightful as conducting hands-on experiments.

Non-experimental IA Topic Ideas Related to Ecology:

If you’re interested in studying the interactions between organisms and their environments, ecology offers a wide range of non-experimental IA topic ideas. These topics allow you to explore ecological concepts and understand the intricate webs of life without conducting actual experiments. Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity:

Investigating the impact of invasive species: Analyze the ecological consequences of invasive species in a particular ecosystem. Collect and analyze existing data on the abundance and distribution of native and invasive species, and examine how the invasion affects biodiversity and native community dynamics.
Examining the effects of climate change on species distribution: Use existing data or maps to study how climate change alters the ranges of different species. Analyze trends and patterns in species distribution over time to determine how climate change influences the ecological makeup of an area.
Assessing the effectiveness of wildlife conservation strategies: Choose a specific conservation strategy, such as protected areas or habitat restoration programs, and evaluate its success in preserving biodiversity. Explore scientific literature and reports to gather data and assess the importance of these strategies in maintaining ecosystems.
Analyzing the impact of pollution on aquatic ecosystems: Investigate the effects of various pollutants, such as industrial chemicals or agricultural runoff, on the health of aquatic ecosystems. Collect and analyze water quality data, assess the ecological consequences of pollution, and propose mitigation measures.

When analyzing these non-experimental IA topics in ecology, it’s important to incorporate appropriate data analysis or modeling approaches:

Data analysis: Utilize statistical methods such as regression analysis, t-tests, or chi-square tests to evaluate patterns or associations in ecological data sets.
Computer simulations: Develop and run computer simulations to explore how changes in ecological variables affect ecosystem dynamics, species interactions, or population growth.
Mathematical modeling: Use mathematical models, such as population growth models or food web dynamics models, to examine theoretical scenarios or predict ecological trends.

Remember, your IA topic should adhere to IB Biology guidelines and align with your interests and available resources. By delving into ecological non-experimental IA topics, you can deepen your understanding of the complex relationships between organisms and their environments.

Non-experimental IA topic ideas related to Genetics

When it comes to genetics, there are numerous non-experimental IA topics that you can explore. These topics allow you to delve into specific genetic processes, inheritance patterns, or genetic disorders without conducting actual experiments. Let’s explore some fascinating ideas below:

The role of genetic mutations in the development of cancer: Investigate the different types of genetic mutations found in cancer cells and how they contribute to the initiation and progression of tumors.
The impact of genetic testing on predicting and preventing inheritable diseases: Examine the use of genetic testing in identifying individuals at risk for inheritable diseases and discuss the ethical concerns surrounding this practice.
Analyze the inheritance patterns of genetically inherited disorders: Explore how various genetic disorders are inherited, such as cystic fibrosis or Huntington’s disease, by studying family pedigrees and genetic profiles.
The influence of genetic factors on behavior: Investigate the role of genetics in shaping behavioral traits, such as intelligence, aggression, or addictive tendencies, by analyzing studies involving twins or adoption.
Genetic engineering and its ethical implications: Examine the ethical considerations surrounding the use of genetic engineering techniques, such as CRISPR, to modify the genomes of organisms, including humans.
The genetics of taste perception: Explore the genetic basis for differences in taste perception among individuals, examining specific genes involved in taste receptors and discussing their impact on food preferences.
Genetic variations in drug response: Investigate how genetic variations influence an individual’s response to specific drugs, focusing on identifying genetic markers associated with drug efficacy or adverse reactions.

Each of these non-experimental IA topics provides an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of genetics and its applications. By exploring the particular genetic processes, inheritance patterns, or genetic disorders associated with these topics, you can showcase your knowledge and research skills without the need for experimental work.

Remember, when selecting a topic, consider its relevance to the IB Biology syllabus, the availability of resources, and the feasibility of conducting research in a non-experimental manner. Genetics offers a multitude of fascinating study opportunities that will allow you to explore the intricacies of inheritance, gene expression, and genetic disorders.

Non-experimental IA topic ideas related to Evolution and Biodiversity

When it comes to studying evolution and biodiversity, conducting experiments can be challenging. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t explore fascinating topics in this field for your IB Biology IA. Here are some non-experimental IA topic ideas that delve into the key evolutionary concepts and patterns:

Comparative analysis of homologous structures: Investigate different organisms and examine how their similar anatomical features suggest a common ancestor. Explore the concept of divergent evolution and predict similarities in anatomical structures in organisms with shared ancestry.
Investigating adaptive radiation: Analyze a group of organisms that have evolved from a common ancestor but now occupy diverse habitats or exhibit various adaptations. Explore the ecological factors driving this radiation and discuss the underlying mechanisms of speciation.
Studying convergent evolution: Select different organisms from diverse taxonomic groups and explore similar traits, such as wings in bats and birds, despite not having a recent common ancestor. Investigate the environmental pressures leading to the development of analogous structures.
Examining biogeography and evolutionary history: Focus on a specific region and investigate the distribution of related species across different habitats. Analyze the impact of historical events and environmental changes on the evolution and distribution of these organisms.
Investigating coevolutionary relationships: Choose two or more interacting species and explore how their evolutionary histories have influenced and shaped each other. Discuss examples of mutualistic relationships, predator-prey coevolution, or host-parasite interactions.

These non-experimental IA topics related to evolution and biodiversity provide you with ample opportunities to research and analyze the incredible diversity of life on Earth. Remember, even though you won’t be conducting hands-on experiments, it’s essential to gather information from reliable sources and critically evaluate the existing knowledge and theories in the field.

A well-structured IA focusing on key concepts and patterns of evolution will demonstrate your understanding of the subject matter and critical thinking skills. Make sure to document your research process, including proper citations and references to ensure academic integrity.

By tackling these non-experimental IA topics linked to evolution and biodiversity, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex processes that have shaped the natural world. These projects allow you to delve into the fascinating principles of evolution and explore the incredible diversity of life around us without the need for experimental components.

Non-experimental IA topic ideas related to human physiology

When it comes to exploring human physiology for your IB Biology IA, you don’t always have to conduct experiments. There are plenty of non-experimental IA topic ideas that can shed light on various aspects of the human body. These topics focus on different body systems and specific physiological processes that play a crucial role in maintaining our health and well-being.

1. Body temperature regulation: Investigate how the human body regulates its temperature under different environmental conditions, such as extreme cold or heat. Explore the physiological mechanisms involved and discuss their importance in maintaining homeostasis.

2. Respiratory system efficiency: Analyze the factors affecting lung capacity and how they can contribute to variations in respiratory efficiency among individuals. Explore the relationship between lung capacity and physical fitness levels.

3. Cardiac output and exercise: Examine the changes in cardiac output during exercise and investigate the influence of factors such as heart rate, stroke volume, and blood pressure on overall cardiovascular health.

4. Effects of stress on the immune system: Explore how chronic stress can undermine the effectiveness of the immune system and increase susceptibility to infections and diseases. Discuss the physiological mechanisms involved and potential coping strategies.

5. Role of hormones in puberty: Investigate the role of hormones in the onset of puberty, focusing on the interactions between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and reproductive organs. Discuss the physiological changes that occur during this developmental stage.

6. Impact of sleep deprivation on cognitive function: Explore the effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive processes such as memory, attention, and decision-making. Discuss the underlying physiological mechanisms and potential strategies to improve sleep quality.

7. Impact of nutrition on metabolism: Analyze the effects of different dietary components, such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, on metabolism and energy production in the human body. Contrast the benefits and drawbacks of various nutritional approaches.

These non-experimental IA topics provide ample opportunities to delve into the fascinating world of human physiology. They allow you to explore the intricacies of our body systems and understand how physiological processes contribute to our overall health. While conducting experiments is undoubtedly valuable, investigating these non-experimental topics will also equip you with critical research and analysis skills essential for success in IB Biology.

(Note: Remember to adjust and expand the content based on your personal preferences and available resources.)

Study Design and Methodologies

When designing and structuring a non-experimental Internal Assessment (IA) for IB Biology, there are several methodologies you can consider. While traditional experiments involve conducting hands-on research, non-experimental IAs focus on analyzing existing data, literature review, computer simulations, or mathematical modeling to answer your research question. Here are some options to explore:

Literature Review: Conduct a comprehensive review of scientific articles, books, or published research papers. Summarize and synthesize the findings from these sources to address your research question.
Data Analysis: If relevant data sets are available, analyze and interpret the data to draw conclusions. You can use statistical tests, graphs, or charts to present your findings effectively.
Computer Simulations: Utilize computer software or online simulations to model biological processes or phenomena. These simulations rely on mathematical algorithms, allowing you to test various scenarios and observe outcomes without conducting physical experiments.
Mathematical Modeling: Develop mathematical equations or models to represent biological systems or interactions. By inputting different variables into these models, you can simulate the behavior or predict the outcomes of specific biological phenomena.

Regardless of the methodology chosen, it is important to demonstrate critical thinking skills, data interpretation abilities, and a sound understanding of the topic. Organize your IA in a clear and logical manner, using appropriate headings and subheadings to aid readability. Make sure to include the following sections:

Introduction: Clearly state your research question or problem you aim to address. Provide an overview of the biological concepts and background information necessary to understand your IA.
Methodology: Describe the chosen methodology in detail. Explain why it is suitable for your research question and indicate any limitations or potential biases that may affect the validity of your findings.
Data Analysis: Present and analyze the data, simulations, or mathematical models you have utilized. Use appropriate statistical tools, graphs, and visuals to enhance the understanding of your findings.
Discussion: Interpret your results in relation to your research question. Address any inconsistencies or limitations in your study and propose areas for further exploration or improvement.
Conclusion: Summarize the key findings and their significance. Reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of your IA, suggesting potential implications and future directions for research in the field.

Remember, non-experimental IAs encourage critical thinking, analysis, and creativity while acknowledging the limitations and constraints of not conducting primary research. Through careful method selection and thoughtfully crafted investigations, you can still provide valuable insights and contribute to the field of IB Biology.

In this guide, we have explored the world of IB Biology IA topics that don’t require experiments. We began by understanding the significance of the Internal Assessment (IA) in IB Biology and its impact on the final grade. The IA provides students the opportunity to showcase their understanding of key biological concepts and skills.

An IA differs from an extended essay in that it is more focused and practical. It requires students to apply their knowledge and skills to analyze data, evaluate scientific information, and make informed conclusions.

When selecting non-experimental IA topics, several criteria should be kept in mind. The topic should align with the syllabus and cover relevant concepts. Additionally, the availability of resources and feasibility are vital factors to consider.

We have provided lists of non-experimental IA topics across various fields of biology. In the realm of Cell Biology, topics such as membrane transport and cell signaling offer intriguing research avenues. Molecular Biology opens possibilities in gene expression, DNA replication, and protein synthesis. Ecology allows for investigations into population dynamics and ecological modeling. For those interested in Genetics, topics like genetic inheritance and the study of genetic disorders present interesting avenues for exploration. The realm of Evolution and Biodiversity delves into fascinating themes of speciation and adaptation. Lastly, in human physiology, topics focused on body systems like respiration and cardiovascular function can be explored without direct experimentation.

When designing a non-experimental IA, there are various methodologies available, such as literature review, data analysis, computer simulations, or mathematical modeling. Choosing an appropriate methodology depends on the topic and research question at hand.

To conclude, non-experimental IA topics provide an excellent opportunity for students to delve into the depths of biology theory, critical thinking, and analysis. By selecting a topic that aligns with their interests and available resources, students can deepen their understanding and appreciation of the biological world. We encourage you to explore these ideas further, as there are endless possibilities awaiting you in the fascinating realm of biology.

4. Criteria for selecting non-experimental IA topics

When choosing a non-experimental IA topic for IB Biology, it is important to consider several criteria to ensure its suitability. By keeping these factors in mind, you can select a topic that aligns with the syllabus and is feasible to carry out.

Relevance to the syllabus: First and foremost, choose a topic that is directly related to the concepts covered in the IB Biology syllabus. This will ensure that your IA is grounded in the core content of the course and demonstrates your understanding of key biological principles.

Availability of resources: Consider the availability of resources required for conducting experiments. Non-experimental topics rely on existing data, published studies, or theoretical analysis. Make sure that sufficient and reliable resources are accessible to support your research and analysis.

Feasibility: It is important to choose a research question that is achievable within the scope of an IA. Given the time constraints and limitations of the IA format, select a topic that can be explored comprehensively without the need for experimental data collection or extensive laboratory work.

Ethical considerations: Evaluate if your chosen topic adheres to ethical standards. Non-experimental IAs should not involve any harm or experimentation on animals or humans. The focus should be on analyzing existing data or carrying out theoretical investigations.

Potential for personal engagement: Select a topic that genuinely interests you and allows for personal engagement. Being genuinely interested in your research question will make the process more enjoyable and lead to a more compelling IA.

By considering these criteria, you can select a non-experimental IA topic that not only meets the requirements of the assessment but also allows for meaningful exploration and demonstration of your knowledge and understanding of IB Biology concepts.

Nick Radlinsky

Nick Radlinsky is a devoted educator, marketing specialist, and management expert with more than 15 years of experience in the education sector. After obtaining his business degree in 2016, Nick embarked on a quest to achieve his PhD, driven by his commitment to enhancing education for students worldwide. His vast experience, starting in 2008, has established him as a reputable authority in the field.

Nick's article, featured in Routledge's " Entrepreneurship in Central and Eastern Europe: Development through Internationalization ," highlights his sharp insights and unwavering dedication to advancing the educational landscape. Inspired by his personal motto, "Make education better," Nick's mission is to streamline students' lives and foster efficient learning. His inventive ideas and leadership have contributed to the transformation of numerous educational experiences, distinguishing him as a true innovator in his field.

IB Extended Essay Rubric. Grading Criteria

Understanding the IB extended essay rubric is essential for success. The rubric provides a framework that grades students on several key criteria including the sharpness of their research question, the rigor of their methodology, the breadth and depth of their knowledge, the fluidity and clarity of their argumentation, and their personal engagement with the research topic.

IB TOK Essay Rubric and Grading criteria

IB TOK Essay Rubric. Grading Criteria

This article provides essential insights and strategies for understanding the assessment process and helping you write essays that meet and exceed the rigorous standards of the IB curriculum. Whether you’re striving for clarity of argument, effective integration of knowledge, or personal engagement, our tips will help you achieve a higher score.

IB Internal Assessment Rubric and Grading Criteria

The IB IA rubric is carefully structured to assess students’ understanding, skills and application of subject matter in a nuanced and comprehensive manner. Each subject rubric, whether for sciences such as Biology and Chemistry, humanities such as History and Psychology, or Mathematics, emphasizes a unique set of criteria tailored to assess specific competencies and skills.

Visual Arts IA Topics: The Best Topic Ideas

In the vast world of art, the possibilities for your IA topic are nearly limitless. Yet, this abundance of choice can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re drawn to traditional painting techniques, the avant-garde movements of the 20th century, or the intersection of digital media and art, your chosen topic should ignite a spark of curiosity and passion within you.

Theatre IA Topics: SL and HL Topic Ideas

Choosing the right topic for IA in the IB Theatre course is a crucial step that significantly influences your research process and overall learning experience. Whether in the Standard Level or Higher Level track, selecting your topic requires careful thought and consideration, aiming to balance personal interest with academic rigor. This guide offers a rich array of topic ideas and research questions to spark your creativity and intellectual curiosity in the vast world of theatre.

Music IA Topics for SL and HL Students

When selecting a topic for your IB Music Internal Assessment, both SL and HL students face a unique set of challenges and opportunities. As a seasoned IB educator with years of experience guiding students through this process, I’ve come to recognize the importance of choosing a topic that aligns with the IB criteria and resonates with your musical interests and strengths.

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Clastify helped me a lot in writing my own IAs. I loved the examiner comments because they showed me what exactly has to be done to score marks. This is the best source I have found so far.

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Example essays

The International Baccalaureate® (IB) programme resource centre, a key resource for educators at IB World Schools, includes several examples of extended essay titles .

These highlight the diverse range of topics covered by International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) students during their extended essays.

Some examples are:

“An analysis of costume as a source for understanding the inner life of the character”
“A study of malnourished children in Indonesia and the extent of their recovery after a period of supervised improved nutrition.”
“Doing versus being: language and reality in the Mimamsa school of Indian philosophy.”
“The effects of sugar-free chewing gum on the pH of saliva in the mouth after a meal.”
“To what extent has the fall in the exchange rate of the US dollar affected the tourist industry in Carmel, California?”
“What level of data compression in music files is acceptable to the human ear?”

Also available in the programma resource centre , the Diploma Programme Assessment Procedures has guidance on choosing a subject for the extended essay.

The PRC is only available to existing IB World Schools.

You can also purchase examples of essays in the IB Store . These essays fulfil the requirements for an ‘A’ grade in the extended essay.

If your school is not one already, learn how to become an IB World School in order to implement the DP.

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Biology IA Topics: 20+ Great Ideas to Get You Started

by Antony W

September 5, 2022

There’s nothing worse than trying to brainstorm and search for Biology IA topics only to come out empty.

The problem is:

There’s a lot to explore in Biology that it proves challenging to determine what topic would be suitable to investigate from the hundreds of possible options. So if you’re having a difficult time figuring out what topic to explore, we can understand.

In this post, we’ll share a list of the best IB Biology IA topics that you can use either for inspiration to help you come up with a topic of your own or as a modified topic for further research.

Biology Internal Assessment Writing Help

Don’t enough time left to complete your Biology IA and don’t know what to do?

Use our Internal Assessment writing service to get professional academic writing help from our team. Our writers are experts in writing IAs, and we guarantee high quality assignments that earn top marks.

IB Biology Internal Assessment (IA) Topics

Coming up with an IB Biology IA topic to explore isn’t difficult if you understand the requirements. Like Physics and Chemistry , your IA in Biology must focus on scientific writing and research in the Biology subject.

Below is a list of 30+ topic ideas for Biology Internal Assessment:

Assessment of the effect of temperature on the vitamin C content of various juices
What effect can quick shifts in body posture have on baroreceptor feedback and pulse rate?
How do detergents, drinks, yogurt, and milk stack up when it comes to buffering?
How does the ideal pH affect the growth rate of pinto and green beans? Proven Through Experiment
The temperature dependence of the activation energy released during the decomposition of H2O2 utilizing the catalase enzyme and aluminum inhibitor as catalysts.
To what extent does organic household waste affect the germination and emergence of tomato seeds?
Investigating the Role of Carbonated Drink Volume and pH in Tooth Erosion/Decay
In vitro Studies of Aluminum Chloride's Effects on the Liver Catalase Enzyme's Degradation of Hydrogen Peroxide
Changes in seashell mass and carbon monoxide (CO) emitted during the reaction as a function of HCL concentration
Does river pollution threaten the source of water for marine life?
Fruit ripening as influenced by environmental factors including light and temperature
How can we evaluate the respiration rates of wine yeast and baker's yeast in various sugar solutions?
What happens to DNA movement as the concentration of the agarose gel changes?
Compare the top and bottom 25 nations in terms of HDI and their rates of lung cancer-related mortality using secondary data.
How does body mass index (BMI) affect the skin's surface temperature and the pace at which it recovers after exposure to cold?
Hydrogen peroxide breakdown rate influenced by presence of various metal ions (H,O.).
Using the Silver Nitrate titration method, how much variation exists between the chlorine concentrations (mg / L) of several locally accessible brands of treated water?
How post-workout use of energy drinks affects cardiovascular function and blood pressure
How do energy drinks affect blood pressure and heart rate following exercise?
How do varying amounts of lactases affect the efficiency with which lactose and other disaccharides in milk are digested?
Is there a correlation between the presence of home furnishings and stunted plant development?
In terms of the pace of hydrochloric acid neutralization, as assessed by the difference in change in pH levels in 5 minutes, how do cumin and turmeric powder compare to indigestion tablets?
What effect does zinc chloride concentration have on plaque development?
What happens to the length of Citrus limon roots as the Oxytetracycline concentration is raised from 5 mg/L to 10 mg/L?
Is there a correlation between the pH of spoiled milk and the temperature at which it was stored?
How can the opposing effects of temperature and light intensity on the time it takes for photosynthesis to occur cancel each other out?
How can the acidity of certain drinks contribute to tooth decay?
What happens to your heart rate if you suddenly start working out hard, and how much of an effect does warming up have on your maximum heart rate
How effective are natural antiseptics such as ginger and turmeric compared to store-bought alternatives?
How potent are synthetic antibacterial treatments in comparison to natural antibacterial remedies?
What effect does sodium chloride have on bougainvillea seed germination at various concentrations?
What effect does soil composition have on the propagation of a plant's offshoots?
How much does the amount of sodium nitrate powder used to preserve meat reduce its quality?
For what reason does moringa seed and leaf extract (herbal medication) inhibit the growth of dandruff-causing Malassezia yeast (Pittosporum)?
Which laundry detergent is best in breaking down lipids and getting rid of stains?
When it comes to radishes, how does the salinity of the water effect their development rate?
Does Gibberellic acid influence dolly Parton rose germination, and how does it react at various concentrations?

Assessed internally and moderated externally by the IB, Biology IA at SL and HL accounts for 25% and 20% of the final grades respectively. Your teacher will assess your work out of 24 based on well-defined assessment criteria. As such, you should work on a topic that you can explore comprehensively within the scope of the assignment.

Final Thoughts

The IB Biology IA assignment isn’t as lengthy as the extended essay in the same subject, but it can be quite involving. You’ll conduct extensive experiments and the writing process is going to be somewhat longer.

To have an easy time working on the subject, it’s best to choose a topic that interests you, so you can focus on an area that you’ve always wanted to explore.

Given that we’ve shared over30 topic ideas with you, you shouldn’t have a difficult time figuring out what to work on.

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.

IB Village

IA Examples / Topics

A compilation of Math IA, Physics IA, Chemistry IA, Economics IA, English Oral, English HL Essay, SEHS IA, Business Management IA and more

SEHS IA (HL) 23/24 - Effect of preliminary exercise on anaerobic performance

Visual Arts Process Portfolio (SL) 32/34 - Impact of Australian Bushfire Crisis

Mathematics IA (SL) 17/20 - Sound, pitch and tuning in music

Chemistry HL IA [24/24] - Effect of pH on fluorescence of fluorescein

Biology SL IA [24/24] - Inhibition of bacillus subtilis using acetic acid

Mathematics SL IA [20/20] - Optimal basketball angle and velocity

Mathematics (SL) IA [19/20] - Modelling the temperature of a cup of tea

Film Comparative Study (HL) 31/32 - Queer Cinema

English Literature Essay (HL) 20/20 - Marcovaldo

Visual Arts Comparative Study (SL) 30/30 - Changing Australian Landscapes

SEHS (HL) 24/24 - Active Static Stretching and Hamstring Contractile Force

SEHS IA (HL) 24/24 - Fatigue and Power

Biology (HL) 24/24 - Microbial enzymatic activity

Chemistry (HL) 24/24 - Activation energy of catalysed decomposition of H2O2

SEHS IA (HL) 24/24 - Isometric resistance, aerobic exercise and blood pressure

Physics (HL) 24/24 - Height of the Chain Fountain (Mould effect)

Visual Arts Process Portfolio (SL) 32/34

English Language and Literature Essay (HL) 19/20 - The Great Gatsby

English Language and Literature Essay (HL) 19/20 - Wislawa Szymborska

Physics IA (HL) 22/24 - Time, temperature and conductive heat transfer

IMAGES

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COMMENTS

IB Biology IA examples
All Biology IA Examples. Starting from the May 2025 session, the Biology IA requirements have changed. We created a couple of exemplars to show you how the new IA should look like. It's OK to refer to the old Biology IA exemplars (since the new IA is quite similar) for inspiration/ideas, but make sure to follow the new requirements.
IB Biology IA: 60 Examples and Guidance
The IA consists of a laboratory report that students must complete during their IB biology course. For assessments before May 2025, the report should be 6 to 12 pages in length and should include a research question, a methodology section, data analysis, and a conclusion. From May 2025, the report should be a maximum of 3,000 words.
IB Biology Internal Assessment (23/24)
It scored 23/24 (which, according to the boundaries of the M20 session, was a 7). Unfortunately, I don't know where I lost the one mark. *LINK TO MY BIOLOGY IA* Download. Quick disclaimer; my Biology IA was a database IA, so the majority of the tips I'll share in this post will specifically relate to writing a successful database IA.
12 Examples and Tips for IB Biology IA
3.2 The More Data, The Better. It is known that you should have at least 25 samples of data for your Biology IA, but let us explain why. While having multiple trials is necessary for the investigation, each trial should also have multiple samples. Therefore, 5 trials with 5 samples each make up 25 samples in total.
How to Write a Top Tier Biology IA (With Examples)
The IA, at a glance. The Internal Assessment, or IA, is a mandatory assignment of all IB students. It consists of a piece of written coursework that is assessed internally by a teacher, as well as externally moderated by the IB themselves. The IA accounts for 20% of a student's final assessment, and should involve roughly 10 hours of teaching ...
Biology IA Examples: Exploring Interesting Projects
Biology Internal Assessments (IAs) are not just a part of the IB curriculum; they're a golden ticket for students to dive headfirst into the fascinating world of scientific exploration. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through a variety of interesting Biology IA examples that go beyond the classroom, providing students with hands-on experiences that
Biology IA Checklist 2022: Step by Step Guide for a Perfect IA
The International Baccalaureate Biology Internal Assessment makes up 20% of the final grade achieved by Biology HL and Biology SL students. Therefore, it's super important that your IB Biology IA gets as high a mark as possible. In this post, we outline the different necessary components. This checklist discusses the following assessment ...
IB Biology Ia examples » Tiber Tutor
This page contains links to official IB biology example IAs conducted by previous International baccalaureate students. Each biology sample Internal Assessment is marked by an official IB examiner, following the IB biology IA marking rubric. We suggest you use them for good IA ideas, and to explore how to write a biology IA well for your own ...
Ace Your Biology IA (HL): A How-to Guide
The Higher Level (HL) Biology Internal Assessment (IA) is a crucial component of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. It allows students to delve deep into a scientific topic of their choice and showcase their research and analytical skills. In this guide, we will focus on the preliminary pages of the Biology IA, specifically the Title.
IB Biology IA example: Water tension
The student provides a detailed description of the main topic and research question. They also give relevant and focused background information on water and its properties. The biology is explained, but it could be more detailed. The methodology is highly appropriate and focused on answering the research question, including steps to assure the ...
IB Biology IA Format: Everything IB Students Need to Know
The IA is a laboratory report that is an integral part of the IB Biology curriculum. For assessments through May 2025, this 6-12 page work should include a research question, detailed methodology, data interpretation, and a concluding section. But to understand the intricacies of the IB Biology IA, we need to peel back the layers.
IB Biology IA Ideas (30+ Topics)
Selecting an IBxq Biology IA idea has always been challenging! Before we look for IB Biology IA ideas, let's clearly comprehend the IB Biology Diploma Programme Subject, its objectives, partwise breakdown, and what IB expects of you. The IB IAs are essential to one's overall subject performance since they make up 20% of the final score.
How to write Biology Internal Assessment. Comprehensive Guide
Step 8 - Writing the Body of a Biology Internal Assessment. Now that you have written your introduction and gathered the necessary data, you can begin writing the body of your IA. This is the main part of your work and should provide evidence to support your conclusions. When writing the body of your IA, there are some essential rules to ...
The Complete IB Extended Essay Guide: Examples, Topics, and Ideas
Here is a range of sample topics with the attached extended essay: Biology: ... 40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme. In case you want a little more guidance on how to get an A on your EE, here are over 40 excellent (grade A) sample extended essays for your reading pleasure. Essays are grouped by IB subject.
IB IA examples for all subjects
IA Biology SL 6. Investigating the effects of using different types of tea on the number of successful germinations of lentils (Lens culinaris) IA Biology SL 4. Fast track your coursework with mark schemes moderated by IB examiners. Upgrade now 🚀.
30 Amazing IB Biology Internal assessment topics you can't overlook
Definitely a perfect IA topic won't come out of the blue for you; but we got your back. Here is a quick listing of 30 interesting and unique topic selection ideas for your IB Biology internal assessment: Human Physiology: 1. Examine the heart rate response to the baroreceptor feedback. 2. Does the reflex action slow down with the age? 3.
50 IB Biology IA Topic Ideas for Students
The IA involves the submission of a lab report by students as part of their IB biology curriculum. Until May 2025, the report must be between 6 and 12 pages, encompassing a research question, methodology, data analysis, and a conclusion. Starting from May 2025, the report's length will be capped at 3,000 words.
IB Biology IA Topics That Don't Require Experiment
While an IA allows you to explore a more narrow and specific research question within a particular area of biology, an extended essay offers a broader exploration of a biology-related topic. The IA emphasizes experimentation, data collection, and analysis, whereas the extended essay prioritizes in-depth literature research and an extensive ...
Clastify
Our Marked Exemplars Are ModeratedBy IB Examiners With 10+ Years of Experience. It's no secret: writing IAs, EEs and TOKs is difficult, unclear, and often confusing. Whether it's your first coursework or you've done a few before, it can be daunting looking at a blank page and wondering what to write. To solve this problem, Clastify has ...
How to present your IB Biology IA Method
For example, if a particular statistical analysis needs 15 sets of data, aim to collect 18. ... • Avoid writing the Method as a continuous prose style essay as it is difficult to follow the steps. Break it up into paragraphs, each of which describes a particular step. ... Example of a poor presentation of an IB Biology IA Method. Example of a ...
Examples
These highlight the diverse range of topics covered by International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) students during their extended essays. Some examples are: "An analysis of costume as a source for understanding the inner life of the character". "A study of malnourished children in Indonesia and the extent of their recovery ...
Biology IA Topics: 20+ Great Ideas to Get You Started
The IB Biology IA assignment isn't as lengthy as the extended essay in the same subject, but it can be quite involving. You'll conduct extensive experiments and the writing process is going to be somewhat longer. To have an easy time working on the subject, it's best to choose a topic that interests you, so you can focus on an area that ...
IA Exemplars
Physics IA (HL) 22/24 - Time, temperature and conductive heat transfer. AU$30.00. Add to Cart. IB IA, Math IA Examples, IB Biology IA Examples, Physics IA Examples, Chemistry IA Examples, IB SEHS IA Examples, Psych IA Examples, IB English HL Essay Examples, English Oral.