Global Politics IA Criteria and Checklist [2026 updated]

For a maximum of 8 points, the student’s IA:  

• Provides a predominantly analytical report that avoids being overly descriptive. 

• Demonstrates a thorough understanding of relevant course content and applies it effectively to the political issue. 

• Offers a clear and well-structured analysis of the political issue, addressing its key components and implications. 

• Effectively synthesizes different perspectives from stakeholders and sources, integrating them into a coherent and comprehensive analysis of the issue. 

• Shows critical thinking by making connections between the political issue and broader political theories or concepts.

Click here for a strong example. 

Criterion D: Evaluation and reflection (6 points)

To satisfy this criterion, students must demonstrate their ability to critically reflect on their research and engagement process. Students should show self-awareness by considering their biases regarding the issue. Additionally, they should discuss the things that they have learned thanks to the investigation. 
 

For a maximum of 6 points, the IA: 

• Clearly explains their personal position or biases toward the political issue, demonstrating self-awareness. 

• Critically evaluates the research and engagement activities, discussing their strengths, limitations, and relevance. 

• Reflects thoroughly on their learning experience, explaining how the engagement project has enhanced their understanding of the political issue. 

• Demonstrates critical thinking by assessing the effectiveness and impact of the research and engagement process.

You can refer to this IA. 

Criterion E: Communication (3 points)

This criterion assesses how clearly and effectively the student communicates their findings and ideas in the report. The information should be presented in a coherent way, making it easy for the reader to follow. 

For a maximum of 3 points, IA:

• Effectively communicates all the presented information and points, ensuring clarity and coherence. 

• Is well-organized, with a logical structure that supports the reader's understanding of the document. 

• Presents ideas and arguments in a clear and concise manner, making it easy for the reader to follow the flow of the report.

You can refer to this sample.

Criterion F: Recommendation (HL only) (6 points)

This criterion is relevant only to those pursuing Global Politics at Higher Level. This criterion looks at the student's ability to offer a thoughtful and practical recommendation in the final section of their IA. The student should present a clear and achievable solution or course of action. They should also consider any potential implications or challenges related to the recommendation.

For a maximum of 6 points, the student’s IA:  

• Provides an effective recommendation that directly addresses the political issue described in the report. 

• Identifies and clearly explains any possible implications or challenges related to the recommendation. 

• Demonstrates critical thinking by assessing the feasibility and potential impact of the recommendation on the political issue. 

• Shows a deep understanding of the issue by recognizing the complexities involved in implementing the recommendation.

Make sure to check out this example. 

We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of IA, EE and TOK exemplars available at Clastify and other guides available on our blog. For professional and reliable feedback on your internal assessment, consider utilizing our Review service. We're here to assist you every step of the way!