Criterion A

🎯 Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 marks total)

This criterion assesses how clearly focused the research is and how well you have chosen and applied a method appropriate to the subject.

Here’s what the IB rubric says for top marks (6):

“The topic is communicated accurately and effectively.

The research question is clearly stated and focused.

The research is focused and is clearly connected to the topic.

Methodology is clearly explained and is appropriate to the research question and the subject.”

So a strong essay must:

⭐ Clearly state the RQ (preferably in the intro, italicised or bolded)

⭐ Demonstrate why the RQ matters

⭐ Show subject-appropriate method: literary analysis in English, experimental design in Biology, case study in Business, etc.

⭐ Use sources that are relevant and credible

⭐ Keep the entire essay aligned with the RQ (no off-topic tangents)

Subject: Expected Methodology

Biology: Experimental design, hypothesis testing, controlled variables

History: Source analysis, evaluation of historiography, chronological structure

English A: Close textual analysis, literary theory application

Economics: Real-world case studies, application of models, data interpretation

Psychology: Empirical studies, theory integration, ethical reflection

Mathematics: Mathematical modeling, theorem proofs, simulations

Visual Arts: Artwork interpretation, formal analysis, cultural context