TOK Essay criteria and checklist

Are you looking for tips on how to improve your TOK Essay? You are in the right place! Below you will find Clastify's guide on how to best meet the IB markscheme. Make sure to use our checklist to improve your chances of receiving a good grade! 

TOK Essay Criteria and Checklist

You can receive a total of 10 points for the Theory of Knowledge Essay, which is worth 2/3 of your TOK grade. Criterion A below is the only criterion that is used to evaluate the TOK essay.

Criterion A: Does the student provide a clear, coherent, and critical exploration of the essay title? - 10 points
 

For a maximum of points:

• The title must be chosen from one of the prescribed titles. 

• The student begins by introducing the title and clarifying key terms relevant to the investigation, as shown in this exemplar. 

• Throughout the entire body, the essay maintains focus on the title and makes strong connections to the Areas of Knowledge. 

• The student thoroughly examines two Areas of Knowledge. Different viewpoints are presented and assessed with clarity - see this essay for reference. 

• The essay is critical and argumentative. 

• The arguments are logical and well-supported with concrete examples. Their implications are considered - this work can serve as a good example. 

• There are elements of evaluation throughout the essay. 

• The essay has a logical structure consisting of the introduction, main body (analysing 2 AOKs), and conclusion, as this exemplar. 

• The research is insightful and convincing. 

• There are in-text citations and the external sources are properly acknowledged - check out this essay to get a glimpse of the matter. 

• The work fits within the word limit.