Internal Assessment structure guide, criteria breakdown, and a curated library of 16 pre-vetted articles (2019–2026) — each with a direct link to the original source.
IB IA Requirements
You must write 3 commentaries, each 650–750 words, each based on a different section of the syllabus (Micro, Macro, Global). Each must use a different economic concept and a different type of diagram.
Choose Your Article
Select a recent news article (within 3 years of submission) from a quality source. It must be about a real market and clearly link to one IB Economics concept. Avoid articles that are too broad or too short.
Identify the Economic Concept
Decide which ONE main concept your IA will focus on (e.g., price ceiling, negative externality, PED). Your diagram and analysis must all relate to this one concept.
Write the Introduction (50–80 words)
Briefly introduce the article, identify the market, and state which economic concept you will analyse. Do not start analysing yet.
Draw and Explain Your Diagram (Criterion A + D)
Draw your diagram (hand-drawn), label it fully, and write 2–3 paragraphs explaining what the diagram shows and how it links to the article.
Apply to the Article (Criterion C)
Use specific data, quotes, and facts from the article to support your diagram. Name the country, market, and time period explicitly.
Evaluate (Criterion E)
Write 2–3 evaluation paragraphs. Consider limitations of your model, short-run vs long-run effects, different stakeholders, and alternative policies. End with a conclusion.
Check Word Count and Criteria
IA must be 650–750 words (excluding diagrams, references, and bibliography). Check each criterion against the mark scheme before submitting.