IB GEOGRAPHY
Internal Assessment
Your geography internal assessment is an important part of your IB examination and contributes 30% towards
the final grade for HL students and 35% towards the final grade for SL students (M2021 assessment).
This booklet is designed to help you to get the best mark possible in your internal assessment.
If you read the IB marking criteria, follow my advice and tick every box, then your internal assessment should
be of a high standard.
Your coursework will be assessed on seven criteria.
Criterion A Fieldwork question and geographic context
3 marks
Criterion B Method(s) of investigation
3 marks
Criterion C Quality and treatment of information collected 6 marks
Criterion D Written analysis
8 marks
Criterion E Conclusion
2 marks
Criterion F Evaluation
3 marks
Total
25 marks
Within each section you should include the following:
Front Page. Good presentation always impresses.
DETAILS (what to include)
COMPLETE
Your name
Your candidate number (you can get this number off Ms.Barker)
The school code
Your research question
Your word count (remember your word count must be less than 2,500 words)
Created by: Josselyn van der Pol (adapted from The Geographer Online))
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A: Fieldwork question and geographic context (0-3 marks) – 300 words
DETAILS (what to include)
Your research question again referred to in your introduction (must be a question!)
COMPLETE
Relate your research question to geographic context, relevant spatial, socio-economic
conditions and other background information
Link your research question to the IB specification - climate change, resources
Explain why it is important to carry out research about sustainability, Food Miles,
ecological footprint and consumer choice
Introduction to study location. Where, size, brief history, functions.
Your hypothesis. I recommend two (max three) hypotheses.
Location map or maps (these must have BOLTSS a title, scale and compass , source and be
referred to in your introduction)
Expected findings. Explain why you expect your hypothesis to be true, refer to research.
This criterion assesses the focus and geographic context of the fieldwork and to what extent the link between
the fieldwork question and the geographic context (that is, material in the syllabus, a relevant syllabus topic or
geographical theory) is made clear. The fieldwork question should be specifically geographical.
Marks
IB Level descriptor: Criterion A
0
The work does not reach the standard described by the descriptors below.
1
The fieldwork question is inappropriate (not a question), or the geographic context or locational map
or relationship to the syllabus is missing.
2
The fieldwork question is adequate with an acceptable attempt made to place it in its geographic
context and relate it to the syllabus. The fieldwork question identifies a specific location allowing for
the collection of primary data and a question that can be addressed within the limits of an internal
assessment. A locational map is presented but it is cluttered with extra information, a copy of an
existing map and/or lack mapping conventions.
3
The fieldwork question is well focused with a detailed, accurate explanation of the geographic
context and is related to the syllabus. The link made to geographical theory allows for the possible
formulation of hypotheses and predictions. One or more good locational map are presented and
follow mapping conventions
What to Include In Section A
AREA OF STUDY (Research question)
Make sure that your research question is stated on the front cover and at the beginning of your introduction,
as a question. Your research question gives your investigation focus. Your hypotheses are related to your
research question and give your investigation greater direction.
Suggested:
To what extent do produce shoppers make sustainable choices in the Kleinmachnow area of Greater Berlin .
Created by: Josselyn van der Pol (adapted from The Geographer Online))
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INTRODUCTION TO STUDY LOCATION (S)
Introduce where Kleinmachnow is and locate it on a map. Describe its location in words.
INTRODUCTION TO Geographical Context
•
•
•
•
•
•
Sustainability
Food Miles
Carbon Footprint
Green House Gases and Global Warming linked to food production and transportation
Links between consumer choice and levels of awareness
Kilometers travelled to the shop
HYPOTHESES
A hypothesis is a prediction or statement that you attempt to prove or disprove through your research. It is
possible to complete an internal assessment without hypotheses but it generally gives you greater direction. A
good number of hypotheses is two or three. This gives you plenty to talk about, but will not exceed your word
limit.
Your hypotheses must be SMART:
Specific
Measurable
Achievable
Realistic
Time-related
Very briefly explain why you expect your hypotheses to be true, make a link to geographic theory. Also, state
why investigating Food Miles is important.
Below are examples of hypothesis that you could choose:
Ø Products have fewer food miles from a certain type of shop (such as an organic, healthy, whole food
shop).
Ø More expensive products have greater food miles.
Ø Middle aged shoppers (aged 25-49) are more likely to look at food miles that older and younger
shoppers.
Ø Higher income groups will choose bio/organic
Ø Consumers of traditional and ethnic foods are less likely to buy local
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Etc.
Created by: Josselyn van der Pol (adapted from The Geographer Online))
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B: Methods of investigation (0-3 marks) – 300 words
DETAILS (what to include)
Introduction to location of data collection points and radius. Include maps to show this.
COMPLETE
Introduction to the information being collected, what methods are being used: name them
Copies of your data collection forms, either imbedded or in your appendix
Explanation of why this information is important and how it will help you prove or disprove
your hypothesis.
Explanation of how information is collected (methodology). You can include photos that
demonstrate data gathering techniques. Explanation of why you chose the particular
techniques e.g. tally charts, systematic sampling methods etc.
List the equipment used.
This criterion assesses the description, justification and appropriateness of the method or methods including
sampling and surveying techniques, primary or secondary data collection as appropriate used to investigate
the question formulated.
Marks
Level descriptor: Criterion B
0
The work does not reach the standard described by the descriptors below.
1
There is only a brief description of the method(s) used for information collection, and the method(s)
are generally inappropriate for the investigation of the fieldwork question.
2
There is an adequate description outlining how the data collected is relevant to the hypotheses. The
method(s), data collection instruments/technologies and sampling/surveying techniques are used
correctly and allow for sufficient data for quantitative and/or qualitative analysis, but it may be
minimal or only one or two variables are collected.
3
The method(s) used for information and data collection are described, explaining clearly and
accurately how the combination of data collected is relevant to the theory, question formulated or
the hypotheses for the internal assessment. They may describe statistical tests if appropriate. The
method(s), data collection instruments/technologies and sampling/surveying techniques are used
correctly, resulting in reliable and good quality primary data supporting a relevant quantitative
and/or qualitative analysis.
What to Include In Section B
You might consider this the easiest section of your IA. All you have to do is describe what data you collected
and how you collected it. Be meticulous and get the full 3 marks.
Methods of Collection
You must describe how individual data was collected i.e. how you measured the Food Miles and surveyed the
shoppers. This description may include technologies employed, sampling techniques, time, location and
circumstances of information collection where relevant. What steps did you follow?
The method(s) used must be justified and must enable a sufficient quality and quantity of primary data to be
produced to allow the fieldwork question to be investigated.
Created by: Josselyn van der Pol (adapted from The Geographer Online))
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Photographs
This is a good section to include photographs of students collecting data. Remember that any photographs
used should be relevant and directly mentioned in the text of your coursework (the examiner does not want
to see a photo of someone eating their lunch!). Remember to annotate and caption each photograph.
Appendix
In your IA you should include examples of the forms that you used to gather data. Instead of putting them in
the main part of your coursework, you may want to include them at the back in a section called the appendix.
Even though the forms are at the back you should refer to them in the main body of your text e.g. your raw
data (appendix – form 1).
C: Quality and treatment of information collected (0-6 marks)
DETAILS (what to include)
A brief introduction explaining why data presentation technique was used and is relevant
COMPLETE
A wide variety of different and relevant data presentation techniques used (graphs (line,
bar, pie, scatter), tables, maps, annotated photographs, etc.)
At least one presentation method that you have manipulated yourself e.g. GIS or hand
drawn map with visual information display or choropleth maps.
What to Include in Section C
Try and use a variety of graphical techniques e.g. pie, line, scatter and bar
Summary tables are often a good way to show results
Make sure all graphs, tables and maps are properly labeled (title, labeled axis, correct units)
Make sure all graphs are relevant to either proving or disproving your hypotheses. They must also be
referred to in the data analysis section or they become irrelevant.
Ø Remember a lot of raw data can go in the appendix. The examiner will not want to read pages and
pages of information. He or she will want to see clearly presented and summarized results.
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Link to examples of data presentation options:
https://geographyfieldwork.com/DataPresentationMappingTechniques.htm
https://geographyfieldwork.com/DataPresentation.htm
This criterion assesses the quality of information and data collected and its suitability for analysis in criterion
D, whether it is appropriate and a sufficient range of techniques have been used for the presentation of
information, and whether the presentation follows accepted conventions (that is, the numbering, labelling,
and annotating of tables, graphs and diagrams).
Created by: Josselyn van der Pol (adapted from The Geographer Online))
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Marks
0
1-2
Level descriptor: Criterion C
The work does not reach the standard described by the descriptors below.
The information and data collected is mostly not relevant, or not sufficient, to address the question or
hypotheses formulated. The information and data have mostly been presented in such a way that is
either not appropriate for what has been collected or does not allow for analysis of the question
formulated. The graphs, tables, diagrams or other illustrations do not follow conventions (labelling,
titles, and so on) or contain frequent errors.
Most of the information and data collected is relevant to the question formulated or the hypotheses,
allowing for partial analysis or answering of the question formulated.
3-4 The information and data have been presented in ways appropriate for the data type. The graphs,
tables, diagrams or other illustrations follow conventions (labelling, titles, and so on), with occasional
errors.
The information and data collected is all directly relevant to the question formulated or the
hypotheses, and is sufficient in quantity and quality to allow for analysis or answering of the question
5-6 formulated. The most appropriate techniques have been used effectively for the presentation of
information and data collected. The graphs, tables, diagrams or other illustrations follow conventions
(labelling, titles, and so on).
IB ADVICE: It is strongly recommended that maps are student-generated, either by being hand drawn or
computer-derived, and they must be made relevant to the study. Maps that are downloaded or photocopied
should be adapted to the student’s own information and this may be achieved effectively by overlays or
annotations. Normal map conventions must be followed.
Created by: Josselyn van der Pol (adapted from The Geographer Online))
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D: Written analysis (0-8marks) – 1,350 words (together with section C)
DETAILS (what to include)
What are your expectations for the data – link this to the theory (why do you expect this)
COMPLETE
Look and describe any trends in your data presentation (positive and negative
correlations). Use figures and refer to graph/tables/maps.
Look for any anomalies in your data presentation. Use figures and refer to graphs / tables /
maps.
Try and use some statistical techniques e.g. Spearman’s rank; don’t forget the simplest
statistical tests: mean, mode and median
Try and explain any trends or anomalies. This is very important, theory might help you
explain trends, but how can the anomalies be explained?
Relate findings back to study question and hypotheses (ALWAYS answer your research
question!)
Example Statistical Methods and Tests:
The Spearman's Rank Correlation Coefficient is used to discover the strength of a link between two sets of
data. An example looks at the strength of the link between the price of a convenience item (a 50cl bottle of
water) and distance from the Contemporary Art Museum in El Raval, Barcelona.
The Spearman's Rank Correlation Coefficient Rs value is a statistical measure of the strength of a link or
relationship between two sets of data. This calculator generates the Rs value, its statistical significance level
based on exact critical probabilty (p) values, scatter graph and conclusion. Spearman's Rank has many
common uses in geography including the analysis of changes in economic, social or environmental variables
over distance along a transect line, or questionnaires with Likert scales.
The standard deviation is a statistic that tells you how tightly data are clustered around the mean. When the
sizes are tightly clustered and the distribution curve is steep, the standard deviation is small. When the sizes
are spread apart and the distribution curve is relatively flat, that tells you that there is a relatively large
standard deviation. A data set with less extreme values has a more reliable mean. The standard deviation is
therefore a good measure of the reliability of the mean value. The Box Plot Constructor calculates the
standard deviation for a data set https://geographyfieldwork.com/BoxPlotCreator.htm .
This criterion assesses the quality of the analysis of the results, referring to:
• links to the question and hypotheses formulated
• geographic context (that is, geographical theory, the syllabus, or the relevant syllabus topic)
• information collected
• statistics used (descriptive techniques—that is, graphs, charts, histograms and so on; as well as
statistical techniques—that is, correlations, regression, and so on)
• illustrative material.
Created by: Josselyn van der Pol (adapted from The Geographer Online))
7
Marks
0
Level descriptor: Criterion D
The work does not reach the standard described by the descriptors below.
The written analysis includes descriptive techniques that are not all appropriate to the data and the
1–2 question formulated. The data or information presented is outlined without explicit link to the
question or hypotheses formulated. Obvious trends and patterns are listed.
The written analysis includes descriptive techniques that are appropriate to the data and the question
formulated. Any statistical techniques used either are not relevant to the question formulated or
3–4 contain errors. The data and information, trends and patterns presented are described and linked
explicitly to the question or hypotheses formulated. The written analysis allows for answering the
question formulated in a descriptive way.
The written analysis includes descriptive and statistical techniques (if appropriate to the question
formulated) that are appropriate to the data and the question formulated. The data and information,
5–6 trends, patterns and statistics are described and linked explicitly to the question or hypotheses
formulated. Outliers and anomalies in the data, if present, are listed. The written analysis allows for
answering the question formulated, although there are gaps in the supporting evidence.
The written analysis includes descriptive and statistical techniques (with confidence levels if
appropriate) that are appropriate to the data and the question formulated. The trends, patterns and
statistics found, including outliers and anomalies if present, are explained and linked to the question
7–8
formulated, hypotheses, geographical theory, the fieldwork location and methods used. The written
analysis allows for answering the question formulated, with no or only minor gaps in the supporting
evidence.
What to Include In Section D
This is the section where you describe and explain your results. It may be done as a separate section, or
incorporated into your data presentation section. This section is extremely important because it is where you
prove or disprove your hypotheses.
Things to Remember
Ø When describing graphs and maps clearly refer to which graph/map you are talking about i.e. Graph 1
shows that……….
Ø When describing graphs or maps you must use figures and units. e.g. Fig1. shows that there were 87
shoppers that choose locality first.
Ø When describing graphs, tables and maps make sure that you relate them back to your hypotheses.
Ø If you don’t prove or disprove your hypotheses then your IA work is irrelevant. Remember it does not
matter whether your analysis proves or disproves your hypotheses. It also does not matter if your
findings are inconclusive as long as you clearly state this in your analysis.
Ø You must explain your results. If there are anomalies (things that don’t fit the trend) or results that
don’t match your predictions try and explain why.
Ø Relate your analysis back to Geographical context and theory.
Ø Try and manipulate your data using a statistical technique. Looking at means, modes and medians is
very basic so try and incorporate a spearman’s correlation or another statistical test.
E: Conclusion (0-2 marks) – 200 words
Created by: Josselyn van der Pol (adapted from The Geographer Online))
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DETAILS (what to include)
Link your findings (data analysis) to your research question and hypothesis by summarizing
results. (Did you prove or disprove your hypotheses).
COMPLETE
Link your finding back to geographic theory
Remember to refer back to your research question
State what you have learnt
This criterion assesses the ability of the student to summarize the findings of the fieldwork investigation and
draw a supported conclusion.
Marks
Level descriptor: Criterion E
0
The work does not reach the standard described by the descriptors below.
1
A conclusion to the fieldwork question is formulated, which is partially supported by the analysis.
2
There is a clear conclusion to the fieldwork question, which is supported by the analysis.
What to Include In Section E
In this section you summarise your findings.
Ø A simple summary of what you have found
Ø Have your hypotheses been proven or disproven – simply state this. It is acceptable for the conclusion
to state that your findings do not match your preliminary judgment or prediction.
Ø Include some basic figures to support your summary
Ø Make sure you relate back to the research question and theory
Ø Explain what you have learnt, how do shopper choices differ when thinking about Food Miles?
Created by: Josselyn van der Pol (adapted from The Geographer Online))
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F: Evaluation (0-3 marks) – 300 words
DETAILS (what to include)
How could you develop your IA in the future i.e. extra data, different hypotheses – be
specific and make plausible suggestions
COMPLETE
Were there any problems with your techniques
Other factors that might affect the validity of the data – personal bias, unpredicted
external circumstances
Were there any limitations e.g. time, available data.
This criterion assesses the student’s ability to review the investigative methodology, by weighing up the
strengths and/or weaknesses of the chosen method, and suggest improvements.
Marks
Level descriptor: Criterion F
0
The work does not reach the standard described by the descriptors below.
1
Strengths and/or weaknesses of the data collection methods and suggestions for improvement are
listed, but these are mostly superficial, not appropriate, or not relevant to the study.
2
Strengths and/or weaknesses of the data collection methods and suggestions for improvement are
outlined, and these are mostly appropriate and relevant to the study.
3
The most appropriate and relevant strengths and/or weaknesses are explained regarding the data
collection methods, the formulation of the fieldwork research question, the presentation of
data/information and the choice of location. Suggestions for improvement are outlined and the
potential impact of these improvements is explained.
What to Include In Section F
Ø State what went well
Ø Say what you might do differently in the future e.g. look at more locations ?, include/exclude different
shops, carry out survey in a different way? use more precise data collection on the same day?
coordinate data counts better? better or more accurate instruments (such as??)
Ø Say how your IA investigation could be extended in the future, could you collect some secondary data
or compare to different locations
Ø Say how successful your methods of data collection and sampling were. Would you change them in the
future – was there a part of the research that was weak? Why? Could you change it?
Created by: Josselyn van der Pol (adapted from The Geographer Online))
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IA FORMAT for Organization and Presentation
The fieldwork written report must meet the following five formal requirements of organization and
presentation.
•
•
•
•
•
The work is concise and within the 2,500 word limit.
Overall presentation is neat and well structured.
Pages are numbered.
References used for background information follow standard conventions. (Guidance on referencing is
given in the earlier section on secondary information.)
All illustrative material is numbered, is fully integrated into the body of the report and is not relegated
to an appendix.
Length of the IA Coursework
The maximum length of your IA is 2500 words for HL and SL. The following are not included in the word
count.
• Title page
• Acknowledgments
• Contents page
• Titles and subtitles
• References
• Footnotes—up to a maximum of 15 words each
• Map legends and/or keys
• Labels—of 10 words or less
• Tables—of statistical or numerical data, or categories, classes or group names
• Calculations
• Appendices—containing only raw data and/or calculations
All the main text is included in the word count, including the research question, analysis, conclusion and
evaluation, as well as all annotations over 10 words and any footnotes over 15 words.
Where work is over the limit, examiners are advised to stop reading and students are likely to lose marks for
the missing criteria, such as E and F.
You are advised to use the following guidelines to format your report, which will ensure that the reports fulfil
the requirements of the criteria.
Report section
Criterion
Marks allocated Suggested word limit within
out of 25
2,500 words
Fieldwork question and geographic context
A
3
300
Method(s) of investigation
B
3
300
C and D
6+8
1,350
Conclusion
E
2
200
Evaluation
F
3
300
Quality and treatment of information collected
and written analysis (integrated)
Formal requirements
Total
Created by: Josselyn van der Pol (adapted from The Geographer Online))
n/a
25
2,450
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Extra Sections
•
•
•
•
•
Front cover (put your IA title, your name, candidate number, school number, word count and possibly
a photo)
Contents page (a list of all the pages in your IA with the correct page numbers)
Acknowledgement page: Chance to thank your peers, interviewees, parents, etc.
Bibliography (a list off all the books and websites that you have used to help you in your coursework.
They should be written in an MLA format and in ALPHABETICAL order)
Appendix (this is where you put any forms that you have referred to in your coursework e.g. a copy of
the questionnaire or traffic count pro-forma).
IB ADVICE: A very limited use of appendices is acceptable and, if appendices are used, these should contain
only examples of materials that have been used or are representative of the material used, such as a data
sheet or a translation of a questionnaire. It should not include all materials used, for example, every survey or
questionnaire completed. Further, it should not include secondary information.
Created by: Josselyn van der Pol (adapted from The Geographer Online))
12