InThinking Subject Sites

Subscription websites for IB teachers & their classes

Find out more


Sitemap
Recommendations
Other subjects
Brochure

Disclaimer: InThinking subject sites are neither endorsed by nor connected with the International Baccalaureate Organisation.

4. Paper 1: FAQs

                     

Question 1:

Part a

Can students write the three points in bullet point form?

Always encourage students to write full sentences for their answers; this is particularly important for later questions as note-form responses often don't offer sufficient development.

Question 2:

Do students need, in order to get the 4 points, 1 value and 1 limitation for origin, content and purpose, so in total 6 points need to be made?

Students need to offer valid comments on value and limitations and overall the response must cover O,P&C to attain full marks.

Can students comment on the fact that the source has been translated as part of the limitations of the origin?

Commenting on translation is not considered an evaluation of the origin and purpose; many sources will be in translation and the IB want the students to focus on the other aspects of origin and purpose. The exception is where the provenance states that the translator is in some way involved.

Question 3:

How many points of comparison/contrast are needed?
it is certainly good for students to aim for 6 x links to make sure they get the marks in case some of their links are not valid. 
However, they need to have 'clear and valid points of comparison and contrast' so, as indicated in the Examiners' Report,  students can get full marks by having e.g.  two clear comparisons and two contrasts with good development. (or 1-3/3-1)

Should students compare and contrast the origin of the sources for question 3?

No, they should focus only on the content of the sources in their answers.

Question 4:

Do students have to incorporate evidence from all four sources in their mini-essay?

The mark scheme says: 'While it is expected that there will be coverage of at least two of the sources, candidates are not required to refer to all four sources in their responses' The key thing is to make sure they are 'used effectively to support the analysis'. Having said this it is probably a good idea to get the students to include all 4 if they can - and to practice including all 4 in the lead up to the exam.

What happens if a student answers question 4 without referring to the sources but only uses their own knowledge?

If a student has no reference to the sources but is consistently focused with good relevant own knowledge the answer could achieve around 5 marks.

General:

If the student doesn't finish the question for lack of time, what marks can we give. Is it directly a 0 marks or can we credit something even if its incomplete?

The answer will still be positively marked so any valid points will be credited in line with requirements / markbands

Are students "allowed" to use bullet points?

Although the mark scheme is in bullet points,  students should always write in full sentences. Note-form responses often don't offer sufficient development,

All materials on this website are for the exclusive use of teachers and students at subscribing schools for the period of their subscription. Any unauthorised copying or posting of materials on other websites is an infringement of our copyright and could result in your account being blocked and legal action being taken against you.