Internal Assessment (IA)
Master the IB Psychology Internal Assessment with guidance on research design, ethics, and analysis.
What is the Internal Assessment?
The Internal Assessment is an independent research project where you design and conduct a psychological study. It accounts for a significant portion of your final IB Psychology grade and demonstrates your ability to apply psychological concepts to real-world research.
Your IA should investigate a psychological question using appropriate research methods, analyze your findings critically, and connect your results to psychological theories.
IA Components
Introduction
Criterion A · 6 marks
Set the foundation for your research project with a clear research question and literature review.
Research Methodology
Criterion B · 6 marks
Design an appropriate research methodology that follows IB guidelines and ethical standards.
Data Collection
Criterion C · 6 marks
Collect data systematically and ethically from your participants.
Discussion
Criterion D · 6 marks
Analyze findings, interpret results, and connect them back to psychological theories.
Brainstorm Topics
Looking for inspiration? Here are some psychology topics that work well for Internal Assessments:
Memory and learning strategies in students
Social media impact on self-esteem
Sleep deprivation effects on academic performance
Stress management techniques in adolescents
Conformity in peer pressure situations
Cognitive biases in decision-making
Attachment styles and relationship quality
Motivation factors in academic achievement
Sample Writing
Sample IA Structure
Learn from well-structured Internal Assessments that demonstrate best practices in research design, analysis, and presentation.
Writing Tips
Get guidance on how to write each section of your IA, including common mistakes to avoid and strategies for maximizing marks.
Ready to start your IA?
Explore sample IAs, research methodologies, and get feedback on your study design.