Official IB Nature of Science IA criteria

The report does not reach a standard described by the descriptors below.

States a research topic but it is not focused. Lists some background NOS information.

Outlines a research topic but does not fully focus on the NOS aspects. Describes the relevant background NOS information to provide context to the inquiry.

Constructs a relevant and coherent research topic and focuses it on the NOS aspects. Discusses the relevant background NOS information to provide context to the inquiry.

The report does not reach a standard described by the descriptors below.

States the connection to the relevant NOS aspects. Lists a limited range of resources*. Describes an inappropriate methodology**.

Outlines the connection to the relevant NOS aspects. Lists a wide range of different resources*. Describes an appropriate methodology**.

Explains the connection to the relevant NOS aspects. Justifies the appropriate resources*. Justifies the methodology** chosen.

The report does not reach a standard described by the descriptors below.

States the evidence. Lists the results of their investigation.

Outlines the evidence. Describes the results of their investigation and their connection to the NOS aspects.

Analyses the evidence. Discusses the results of their investigation and their connection to the NOS aspects.

The report does not reach a standard described by the descriptors below.

States a conclusion that is not valid or too simplistic. Lists strengths, weaknesses and limitations of resources and/or methodology. States simplistic and superficial modifications and/or further areas for research/investigation.

Demonstrates a conclusion that has limited validity. Describes strengths, weaknesses and limitations of resources and/or methodology. Describes some modifications and further areas for research and/or investigation.

Demonstrates a valid conclusion. Discusses strengths, weaknesses and limitations of resources and/or methodology. Suggests appropriate related modifications and further areas of research and/or investigation.

The report does not reach a standard described by any of the descriptors given below.

The investigation has limited structure and organization. The report makes limited use of appropriate terminology The report is not concise. There is little evidence of personal input and initiative in the designing, implementation or presentation of the investigation.

The report is well structured and coherent. The report makes consistent use of appropriate terminology. The report is concise. There is evidence of personal input and initiative in the designing, implementation or presentation of the investigation.