IB Math AA IA example: Optimising given parameters with the aim of creating a model of an ideal triple axel jump in figure skating

Incorrect

Criterion A: The topic of the Internal assessment is stated clearly and explained in the introduction

Comment: The topic of the Internal assessment ("Optimising given parameters with the aim of creating a model of an ideal triple axel jump in figure skating") is stated on the title page. However, the title is vague and after reading it, the reader still doesn't know what the essay will be about. What was meant by "optimizing given parameters" - what parameters particularly? It is supposed to be clearly stated.

Correct

Criterion A: The introduction includes a general description of the student's approach to the topic and what area of the math curriculum the exploration focuses on

Comment: The introduction includes a general description of the student's approach to the topic and the math used: kinematics, trigonometry, and calculus

Incorrect

Criterion A: The conclusion is a summary of the outcomes and a response to the aim of the exploration stated in the introduction

Comment: The equation should be provided

Incorrect

Criterion A: The conclusion is a summary of the outcomes and a response to the aim of the exploration stated in the introduction

Comment: The student should refer to the specific values obtained in the IA

Correct

Criterion A: The consequent parts of the work are linked logically - one is the follow-up of the other

Comment: The use of linking words and phrases, such as "From the calculations it can be deducted that" and "After establishing all of the constant", makes the text cohesive.

Correct

Criterion A: The consequent parts of the work are linked logically - one is the follow-up of the other

Comment: The use of linking words and phrases, such as "From the calculations it can be deducted that" and "After establishing all of the constant", makes the text cohesive.

Correct

Criterion A: The use of technology, when applied, is clearly indicated and explained

Comment: The student indicates the use of GeoGebra both above the graph and in the label of Figure 3.

Incorrect

Criterion A: If analytical software is used, its purpose is described and the link to it is provided

Comment: The purpose of using GeoGebra is not described and the citation of the software is missing

Correct

Criterion A: The exploration is 12-20 pages long (excluding the bibliography and appendices)

Comment: The exploration is 17 pages long (plus a bibliography)

Incorrect

Criterion A: There are no unnecessary or repetitive calculations/graphs/descriptions

Comment: This historical background is not relevant to the aim of the exploration.

Correct

Criterion B: Key terms/variables are defined and explained when first introduced

Comment: The general formulas of sine, quadratic, and upper-ha;f of circle functions are presented in Table 1.

Correct

Criterion B: The main concepts are described in the introduction

Comment: The student introduced the physics concept necessary for the understanding of the triple axel jump (a subject of this mathematical investigation) as highlighted

Correct

Criterion B: The main concepts are described in the introduction

Comment: The student introduced the physics concept necessary for the understanding of the triple axel jump (a subject of this mathematical investigation) as highlighted

Incorrect

Criterion B: Additional terms are defined in detail in appropriate places (dependent on the development of the exploration)

Comment: It should be clarified what is a, t, d, and c

Incorrect

Criterion B: All mathematical calculations are explained and any data presentation is described

Comment: The functions should be labeled, so it is clear which function (green, red, blue) is which type (sine, quadratic, semi-circle)