ib biology ia examples database

2 min read 11-01-2025

Choosing the right Internal Assessment (IA) topic is crucial for success in IB Biology. This guide provides a database of IB Biology IA examples, categorized for clarity, along with insights to help you navigate the process and avoid common pitfalls. Remember, these are examples to spark ideas—your IA should be your original research.

Categorizing Your IA Idea: A Framework for Success

Before diving into examples, consider structuring your brainstorming around these key areas:

Experimental Design: Will your IA involve a controlled experiment, a comparative study, or a modeling exercise?
Biological Focus: Which area of biology interests you most? (e.g., ecology, genetics, physiology, cell biology)
Data Collection Methods: How will you gather data? (e.g., observations, measurements, surveys)
Feasibility: Is your chosen topic realistic to complete within the timeframe and resources available?

IB Biology IA Examples: A Diverse Range of Possibilities

Here are some examples categorized for easier navigation:

Ecology & Environmental Biology:

Investigating the effect of pollution on plant growth: Compare the growth rates of plants exposed to different levels of air or water pollutants. Consider: specifying the pollutant, the plant species, and the measurement parameters (height, biomass, etc.).
Analyzing the biodiversity of a local ecosystem: Compare species richness and diversity in different habitats within a defined area. Consider: using appropriate sampling techniques like quadrat sampling or transect studies.
The impact of human activity on a specific animal population: Examine how a factor like habitat loss or pollution affects the population size or behavior of a chosen animal species. Consider: ethical implications and data acquisition methods.

Cell Biology & Physiology:

Investigating the effect of temperature on enzyme activity: Measure the rate of enzyme activity at different temperatures. Consider: choosing a readily available enzyme like catalase and using a measurable product like oxygen production.
The impact of different light intensities on photosynthesis: Measure the rate of photosynthesis under varying light intensities. Consider: using a water plant like Elodea and measuring oxygen production.
Exploring the effect of exercise on heart rate: Measure heart rate changes before, during, and after exercise. Consider: controlling for variables like age and fitness level.

Genetics & Molecular Biology:

Investigating the inheritance pattern of a specific trait in a plant or animal: Observe the inheritance of a easily observable trait across generations. Consider: using readily available organisms like Drosophila or pea plants.
The effect of a mutagen on mutation rate: Measure the mutation rate in a model organism after exposure to a known mutagen. Consider: the ethical implications and the feasibility of the chosen mutagen.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid:

Overly ambitious projects: Choose a manageable topic that can be completed within the given timeframe and resources.
Poor experimental design: Ensure your experiment is well-controlled, with clear independent and dependent variables.
Insufficient data: Collect sufficient data to support your conclusions. Consider replication and statistical analysis.
Lack of analysis: Go beyond simply presenting data; analyze your findings and draw meaningful conclusions.
Poor presentation: Ensure your IA is well-organized, clearly written, and professionally presented.

Further Research and Resources:

While this provides a starting point, remember to consult the IB Biology Guide and your teacher for specific guidelines and expectations. Thorough research and planning are key to a successful IA. Remember to always prioritize ethical considerations and ensure the safety of all organisms involved in your research. Good luck!