As an IBDP Chemistry examiner with nearly 15 years of experience marking Internal Assessments (IAs), I have observed that many students struggle with writing a strong conclusion evaluation. It is essential to understand that this section accounts for a quarter of your final IA grade. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to ensure that you achieve full marks in this critical criteria.

Step 1: Summarize the key findings Start by succinctly summarizing the main results of your investigation. Be clear and concise, focusing on the most significant findings that directly relate to your research question. Use numerical data or specific observations to support your statements.

Step 2: Relate findings to the research question Explain how your key findings relate to the research question. Be sure to discuss any patterns, trends, or relationships observed in your data. This may include a discussion of the effect of independent variables on dependent variables, or any correlations found.

Step 3: Address uncertainties and errors Discuss the uncertainties and errors that could have impacted your results. These may include instrumental errors, human errors, or uncertainties in measurements. Quantify these uncertainties when possible and explain how they might have affected the outcomes of your investigation.

Step 4: Assess the validity of your conclusions Discuss the validity of your conclusions by considering alternative explanations for the observed results. Address any limitations in your experimental design and methodology that could have influenced the outcomes. This may include a lack of control variables, a small sample size, or other factors that could limit the generalizability of your findings.

Step 5: Evaluate the reliability of your investigation Consider the reliability of your investigation by discussing the consistency and reproducibility of your results. Mention any steps taken to ensure the reliability of your data, such as repeating experiments or using multiple trials. If applicable, discuss any inconsistencies found in your results and suggest possible reasons for these discrepancies.

Step 6: Suggest improvements and further research Propose improvements to your investigation that could address the limitations, errors, or uncertainties identified. These improvements might include changes to the experimental design, equipment, or methodology. Additionally, suggest areas for further research that could build upon your findings or explore related questions.

Step 7: Review the evaluation criteria Review the IBDP Chemistry IA evaluation criteria for the conclusion section, ensuring that you have addressed each point. The criteria may include:

• Adequately stating a conclusion supported by the data
• Discussing the validity and reliability of the conclusion
• Considering possible improvements and extensions to the investigation

Step 8: Edit and revise your conclusion evaluation Proofread your conclusion evaluation, ensuring that it is clear, concise, and well-organized. Ask a peer or teacher to review it for clarity and feedback, and revise as necessary to strengthen your argument.

The Chemistry Internal Assessment (IA) in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a crucial component of the course, contributing 20% of your final grade. One important aspect of the IA is the conclusion evaluation, which assesses your ability to effectively draw conclusions, justify them, and evaluate the investigation’s reliability and validity.

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