IB Math IA examples and exploration topics (AA & AI)
The Math IA is a 12–20 page mathematical exploration worth 20% of your final grade. Criterion helps you find a topic that's mathematically rich and personally engaging — and grades your draft against the official IB Math IA markscheme (AA or AI, SL or HL).
Example exploration topics
- Basketball + projectile motion: Modelling the optimal angle of release for a basketball free throw using projectile motion and calculus.
- Markov chains + Spotify: Using Markov chains to model song transitions in a personal Spotify playlist over 30 days.
- Numerical integration: Comparing the accuracy of the Trapezoidal Rule and Simpson's Rule when approximating the area under a non-elementary function.
- SIR model: Modelling the spread of a rumour through a school using the SIR model and differential equations.
- Pascal's Triangle: Investigating the relationship between dice probability and Pascal's Triangle through binomial expansion.
Criteria scored
- A — Presentation: Coherent, organised and concise structure.
- B — Mathematical Communication: Correct notation, terminology and formulae throughout.
- C — Personal Engagement: Genuine personal input into how you explored the topic.
- D — Reflection: Meaningful reflection on the mathematics and the process.
- E — Use of Mathematics: Math commensurate with the level of the course (SL or HL), used correctly and meaningfully.
Frequently asked questions
- How long is the IB Math IA?
- The Math IA exploration is 12–20 pages (recommended) for AA and AI, both SL and HL. Worth 20% of your final grade.
- How is the Math IA marked?
- Marked out of 20 across five criteria: Presentation (4), Mathematical Communication (4), Personal Engagement (3), Reflection (3), Use of Mathematics (6).
- Does Criterion support both AA and AI?
- Yes. Brainstorming and grading work for both Math AA and AI, at SL and HL.
- Will Criterion write my Math IA?
- No. Criterion never writes or paraphrases.