IB Math IA FAQ — Your Most Common Questions Answered
The IB Math Internal Assessment generates a lot of questions — from students, parents, and even teachers who are new to marking it. This FAQ covers the most common concerns, with honest, practical answers based on years of tutoring experience in Dubai.
General Questions
How long should my IB Math IA be?
The IB recommends 12–20 pages. Longer is not better — examiners read everything but award marks only for what meets the criteria. A focused 14-page exploration with excellent reflection often outscores a 20-page one full of irrelevant calculations.
How much is the IA worth?
The IA counts for 20% of your final IB Math grade (both AA and AI, both SL and HL). It is internally assessed by your teacher and externally moderated by an IB examiner.
Can I work with my teacher on the IA?
Your teacher can give feedback on one draft before you submit. You may discuss your topic and approach with them. However, the exploration must be your own work — your teacher cannot write sections for you or correct errors in your calculations.
Can I get a tutor to help with my IA?
Yes. A tutor can help you understand the criteria, choose a topic, develop your mathematical approach, review your structure, and provide feedback on your written analysis — just as a teacher would. A tutor cannot write the IA for you.
Topic and Planning Questions
When should I start my IA?
Ideally in the first semester of Year 2 (Grade 12). Students who leave it to the second semester almost always run out of time to revise properly, and a rushed IA is visible to examiners.
Can I do an IA on a topic we haven’t covered in class yet?
Yes, as long as you understand the mathematics and use it correctly. Many strong IAs draw on topics that the student researched independently — this often helps with Criterion C (Personal Engagement).
What if my topic has been done before?
Examiners assess your exploration, not the originality of the topic category. Even a common topic area can score well if your specific question, your data, and your analysis are your own. That said, highly overused topics (Fibonacci, golden ratio) make it harder to demonstrate personal engagement.
Marking and Submission Questions
Who marks my IA?
Your teacher marks it first using the IB’s five criteria (A–E). The IB then externally moderates a sample from your school to ensure consistency. If the moderation finds your teacher has been systematically too generous or strict, all marks in the sample are adjusted.
What happens if I plagiarise?
Plagiarism in the IA is treated as academic misconduct and can result in a grade of N (no grade) for the entire subject, which may affect your IB diploma. Always cite sources and ensure your analysis is your own.
Can I use technology (GDC, software) in my IA?
Yes — and you should. Technology is expected in an IB Math IA. However, you must explain what the technology does and why you used it. Pasting output from Desmos or Excel without interpretation gains no marks.
Still Have Questions? Ask an Expert.
Mr. Ahmad has supported IB Math students through their IAs for years, helping them navigate everything from topic selection to final submission. If you have a question this FAQ doesn’t answer, or you want personalised guidance, get in touch today.
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