One of the best ways to help students to prepare for the IA is to do "mock IAs" over the course of the first year. Of course, full IAs would be a lot of work for them and a lot of marking for you - so, it is important to concentrate on smaller chunks.One way I do this is by having them do an analysis portfolio. The portfolio is important for them when it comes time to do their own IA; it becomes their primary resource.