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TOK Essay Grading Rubric

The TOK essay is a required component of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. It is a strict word count – 1600-word essay that requires students to reflect on the nature of knowledge and how we know what we claim to know . The essay is assessed using a specific TOK rubric provided by IBO that evaluates various aspects of the essay.

TOK essay rubric in detail:

The TOK essay rubric consists of eight criteria , each of which is given a score of 0-2 points. The total score for the essay is a maximum of 16 points. The IB criteria are as follows:

• Knowledge question  (0-2 points) : TOK essay must address a knowledge question that is relevant to the specified title . The knowledge question should be clearly stated and should guide the analysis and argument of the essay.
• Understanding of knowledge issues  (0-2 points) : The essay should demonstrate a deep understanding of the knowledge issues related to the knowledge question. This includes an understanding of the different ways in which knowledge can be acquired and the limitations and biases that can affect our understanding of the world.
• Analysis and evaluation  (0-2 points) : Theory of knowledge essay should provide a critical analysis and evaluation of the knowledge question, using appropriate examples and evidence to support the argument. This includes an examination of the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches to knowledge and an evaluation of their relative value.
• Integration of AOKs and WOKs  (0-2 points) : The essay should demonstrate an understanding of the different ways in which knowledge is acquired, including the use of empirical evidence, logical reasoning, and personal experiences. It should also show an understanding of the different Ways of Knowing (WOKs) , such as reason, emotion , perception, and language , and how they relate to the knowledge question.
• Personal engagement  (0-2 points) : TOK essay should demonstrate personal engagement with the knowledge question and show an awareness of the implications of the argument for the student’s own life and the world around them.
• Structure and organization  (0-2 points) : The essay should be well-structured and organized, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. The structure should be logical and coherent, and should support the argument of the essay.
• Presentation  (0-2 points) : Theory of knowledge essay should be presented in a clear and concise manner, with proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation. It should also use appropriate referencing and citation style.
• Creativity and initiative  (0-2 points) : The essay should show creativity and initiative in the approach to the knowledge question and in the use of examples and evidence to support the argument.

What is the passing grade for TOK essay?

To pass the TOK essay, a student must score at least an “E” grade, which corresponds to a minimum of 9 points out of 16. An “E” grade indicates that the essay meets the minimum requirements for a passing grade, but may have some weaknesses in one or more of the criteria.

Students who score higher than an “E” grade will be awarded scores ranging from “D” (10-11 points) to “A” (14-16 points). 

• A  “D” grade  indicates that the essay is of a satisfactory standard, but may have some limitations. 
• A  “C” grade  (12-13 points) indicates that the essay is of a good standard, with only minor weaknesses. 
• A  “B” grade  (14 points) indicates that the essay is of a very good standard, with only minor weaknesses. 
• An  “A” grade  (15-16 points) is the highest possible grade and indicates that the essay is of an excellent standard, with no major weaknesses.

You should note that the TOK essay rubric is highly subjective and the grading may vary depending on the individual assessor. Therefore, it is important for students to carefully consider the criteria and ensure that they meet the requirements as fully as possible to maximize their chances of receiving a passing grade, even if they want to write a TOK essay in a week .

Follow the TOK essay rubric to score well

Overall, the TOK essay rubric evaluates the student’s ability to think critically and reflectively about the nature of knowledge and how we acquire it. 

It is a challenging and rewarding task that requires students to engage with some of the most fundamental questions of human existence. Same thing with following the main 12 TOK concepts , other IB TOK criteria.

In some cases, it’s also important not to miss the moment when is the TOK essay due for submission. So, if you need assistance with your TOK essay, we are always ready to help you. 

Need help with your IB TOK essay ?

Unlock your potential and unleash the brilliance of your TOK essay with the help of our experts at BuyTOKEssay.com! Whether you’re starting from scratch or fine-tuning your existing essay to meet the demands of your supervisor, our team is here to make your dream of a perfect paper a reality. Say goodbye to writer’s block and hello to success with just one click.

Contact our team and we will give you expert assistance with any TOK essays.

Liliana Duman

Liliana Duman has a strong background in teaching English language, having graduated from Hacettepe University’s English Language Teaching Department in 2008. With over two decades of experience in the field, she has a wealth of knowledge and expertise to share with her students. In addition to her bachelor’s degree, Liliana holds a master’s in Teaching Turkish as a Second Language and has previously worked at Başkent and Hacettepe University in Ankara. Currently, she is an EFL instructor at Sakarya University, teaching various skills, including methodology, speaking, reading, writing, and listening. In addition to her teaching, Liliana has also contributed to material development and testing efforts. As well as her work as a teacher, Liliana is an experienced private online ToK essay tutor, providing personal help for both IB ToK students and teachers in all aspects of IB ToK essays and exhibitions. She is dedicated to helping her students succeed and achieve their full potential. In her spare time, Liliana also writes articles for buytokessay.com, sharing her expertise and insights on ToK with a wider audience.

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Prompt #1 – Is replicability necessary in the production of knowledge?

8 thoughts on “tok essay grading rubric”.

Thanks for the read. Maybe you can help to understand, how do I analyze my TOK essay before submission. I know it should follow the provided rubric, but what main points should I consider before submission?

Before you turn in your TOK essay, you should make sure that you have done the following:

1) Answered the question the essay is asking. 2) Organized your ideas in a clear way. 3) Used examples to support your points. 4) Used proper language, spelling and grammar. 5) Included information from reliable sources. 6) Used ideas from the class that you have learned. 7) Thought about other points of view and addressed them. 8) Summarized your main ideas in the end.

It’s also a good idea to have someone else read your essay and give you feedback before you turn it in.

Isn’t the IBO responsible for finally marking your TOK essay?

The International Baccalaureate Organization does not mark the TOK essays themselves. Instead, the essays are assessed by the student’s own teacher (supervisor), who is trained and certified by the IBO to grade the TOK essays.

The teacher uses a specific set of assessment criteria and guidelines provided by the IBO to evaluate the student’s understanding and application of the TOK course material. The teacher then assigns a grade for the essay, which is sent to the IBO for moderation. Moderation is a process where the IBO checks the consistency of grading across different schools and teachers.

Can you explain how I can get an A for my TOK essay in simple words?

If we sum up the article above, to get an A for your TOK essay, you should:

– Understand the essay requirements and choose a good topic. – Use TOK concepts and theories to explore your topic. – Write clearly and logically, with good grammar and punctuation. – Develop a strong argument supported by evidence and examples. – Reflect on your own biases and perspectives, and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your knowledge. – Show creativity and originality in your ideas.

Remember to follow the guidelines and demonstrate a deep understanding of TOK concepts. By doing so, you increase your chances of getting an A for your essay.

After sifting through the labyrinthine explanations on the IBO website, I was relieved to find a clear and concise guide right here. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Hey Peter, we really appreciate your kind words. We will keep posting our future articles, trying to be as transparent as we were here.

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Extended Essay Writers

IB TOK Essay Rubric and Assessment Criteria

Luke MacQuoid

As a seasoned IB writer, I’ve seen my fair share of IB Theory of Knowledge essays. Let me share some insights on the TOK essay rubric that can transform your writing experience from daunting to manageable. In my opinion, knowing this rubric is your golden ticket to excelling in the TOK component of the IB program.

What Is the TOK Essay Rubric?

The TOK essay rubric is not just a scoring guide but a map for intellectual exploration. According to general IB criteria, this rubric assesses your ability to engage critically with different ways of knowing and areas of knowledge. It’s about how well you can intertwine personal reflection with academic rigor.

As I understand it, the rubric primarily evaluates two key areas: your grasp of knowledge questions and your skill in developing a cohesive and coherent argument. The first part, dealing with knowledge questions, is where you demonstrate your understanding of the complexities and nuances of knowledge itself. It’s about probing into what we know and how we know it.

Equally important, as per the rubric, is the organization and clarity of your essay. From my experience, a well-written TOK essay presents ideas logically, making them more persuasive and impactful. Remember, clarity and coherence are your allies in conveying complex thoughts.

The TOK essay rubric also places a significant emphasis on real-life relevance. It’s not enough to theorize; you must connect your ideas to the real world. In my experience, essays that effectively bridge theoretical insights with practical examples tend to score higher.

So, understanding and skillfully applying the TOK essay rubric can be a game-changer. It’s a tool that, when used wisely, can improve your essay from good to great. Remember, this rubric is your guide to expressing your critical and reflective thinking.

Key Components of the TOK Essay Rubric

The rubric for evaluating the TOK essay focuses on several components. Understanding these components is crucial for writing an effective essay. Here are the primary aspects of the TOK essay rubric.

1. Understanding Knowledge Issues

Grasping the essence of knowledge issues is fundamental to your TOK essay. When I approach these essays, I ensure that my understanding of the knowledge issues related to the prescribed title is not just superficial. The discussion should go beyond textbook definitions, drawing deeply from real-life situations and examples. It makes the essay relatable and intellectually engaging.

2. Quality of Analysis of Knowledge Issues

As I know from my years of writing, it’s not enough to simply identify knowledge issues; you must dissect them. That means considering different points of view, understanding the implications, and untangling the complexities. A well-analyzed question demonstrates your ability to think critically and reflect on the nature of knowledge.

3. Organization of Ideas

As per the general IB criteria, the organization of your essay is crucial. In my experience, a well-organized essay begins with an introduction that does more than just outline the main points; it should captivate the reader’s interest. Each paragraph should be a logical progression from the previous one, building your argument step by step. The conclusion is your final opportunity to make an impact. It should not only wrap up your argument but leave a lasting impression on the reader, tying together all your points cohesively and persuasively.

4. Clarity and Precision of Expression

I can’t stress enough the importance of expressing your ideas clearly and precisely. You need to communicate complex thoughts understandably and engagingly. It’s perfectly fine to use specialized terminology, but it’s crucial to explain it clearly, especially considering the diverse audience of the IB community. Your goal should be to make your essay accessible and understandable without oversimplifying the complex concepts inherent in TOK.

5. Supporting Examples

In my essays, I always reinforce my arguments with relevant examples. These can be drawn from personal experiences, which add a unique touch, or from historical events and various areas of knowledge. The key here is relevance and how well these examples illustrate your point.

6. Critical Thinking

In my opinion, the heart of a TOK essay lies in its demonstration of critical thinking skills. It isn’t just about presenting information; it’s about engaging with it. Whenever I write, I make it a point to question underlying assumptions and explore counter-arguments. It’s essential to look at the strengths and limitations of the arguments you present. It shows a depth of understanding and a willingness to engage with complex ideas.

7. Engagement with the Prescribed Title

From my experience, a successful TOK essay maintains a laser focus on the prescribed title . It’s easy to get sidetracked with interesting side discussions, but according to general IB criteria, the essay should directly and thoroughly address the title. It means every argument, every example, and every analysis should be relevant and contribute towards exploring the title. It’s about showing how each piece of your essay contributes to a more extensive understanding of the title’s theme.

8. Adherence to the Word Limit and Formal Requirements

As any seasoned IB writer would tell you, respecting the word limit and formal requirements of the IB is not just a recommendation; it’s a necessity. It includes adhering to the prescribed word count and following the formal guidelines for citations and referencing. From my perspective, these constraints are not just bureaucratic necessities. They challenge you to be concise, to distill your thoughts, and to present your ideas in a clear, direct manner.

9. Personal Engagement and Reflection

Finally, the most compelling TOK essays, in my view, reflect a personal thought. The essay should be more than a scholarly discussion; it should reflect your engagement with the topic. How do the knowledge issues you discuss resonate with your experiences and thoughts? This personal touch doesn’t undermine the academic rigor of your essay; rather, it enriches it, providing a unique perspective and demonstrating a deep, thoughtful engagement with the subject matter.

How to Use TOK Essay Rubric and Write A-Grade Work?

The TOK essay is graded on a scale of A to E, with A representing an excellent performance and E representing an elementary performance. This assessment, combined with the student’s performance in the TOK exhibition, contributes to their overall IB score.

Writing an A-grade TOK essay for the International Baccalaureate curriculum involves a deep understanding of the TOK essay rubric and how to apply it effectively. Here’s a guide based on my extensive experience with IB essays.

Deeply Understand the Rubric

My first and foremost tip is a profound understanding of the TOK essay rubric. This understanding is crucial because each rubric criterion guides your essay’s essential aspects. It’s not just about knowing the criteria but also about understanding how they interconnect and what they mean for the TOK essay’s structure and content.

Select the Right Prescribed Title

Choosing the right prescribed title is more than just picking a topic. It’s about finding a question that resonates with you and where you can demonstrate a strong understanding of the knowledge issues. This choice is crucial because it shapes your essay, from your argument to your chosen examples.

Plan and Structure Your Essay Thoughtfully

As I begin writing, I always emphasize the importance of planning and structuring the essay. It involves creating a basic outline and thinking about how each part of your essay will contribute to a coherent and compelling argument. A well-structured essay guides the reader through your points logically and effectively.

Engage Deeply with Knowledge Issues

Engaging with knowledge issues is at the heart of a TOK essay. It’s about more than just mentioning these issues; it’s about exploring them in depth. It means analyzing them from different perspectives, understanding their implications, and relating them to real-life situations.

Demonstrate Critical Thinking

In your essay, showcasing critical thinking is essential. It involves questioning assumptions, considering various viewpoints, and weighing the strengths and weaknesses of different arguments. Critical thinking elevates your essay from merely describing knowledge issues to an insightful analysis.

Need help with your IB TOK essay?

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Maintain Clarity and Precision in Expression

Clarity and precision in writing are critical. You must express complex ideas understandably and engagingly. Avoid unnecessary jargon; if technical terms are used, ensure they are well-explained.

Use Relevant Examples Effectively

Using relevant examples is a powerful way to strengthen your arguments. These examples should be carefully chosen and well-integrated into your essay. They should illustrate your points and add depth and context to your analysis.

Reflect on Your Personal Perspective

Finally, personal engagement and reflection are what make your TOK essay unique. It is where you show your personal connection to the topic, how you relate the knowledge issues to your own experiences, and what you think about them. This personal touch adds depth and authenticity to your essay.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, understanding and adhering to the TOK essay rubric is essential. It’s a guide that, when followed, can lead to academic success in the IB program. Remember, this rubric is your ally, not your enemy. Also, you can contact our experts from EEW Service if you need help with writing the TOK essay .

Luke MacQuoid has extensive experience teaching English as a foreign language in Japan, having worked with students of all ages for over 12 years. Currently, he is teaching at the tertiary level. Luke holds a BA from the University of Sussex and an MA in TESOL from Lancaster University, both located in England. As well to his work as an IB Examiner and Master Tutor, Luke also enjoys sharing his experiences and insights with others through writing articles for various websites, including extendedessaywriters.com blog

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Guide to the TOK Essay

What’s covered:.

• What is Theory of Knowledge (TOK)?
• What is the Theory of Knowledge Essay?

How is the Theory of Knowledge Essay Scored?

How to structure your theory of knowledge essay.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB/IBDP) is a rigorous and rewarding internationally based educational program that offers courses in numerous studies, from humanities to chemistry. Students take part in a two-year curriculum that includes external examinations, internal assessments, research papers and community service hours. Essentially, students will have to do a bit of everything, especially with IB’s core, which is CAS, TOK, and the extended essay (EE). Understanding how TOK, IB’s flagship class, is assessed with its essay is important to success in the course overall. 

What is Theory Of Knowledge (TOK)?

Theory of Knowledge is IB’s way of introducing a more intuitive way of thinking into classrooms. TOK is at its surface as simple as it sounds: you essentially learn the “what” and “why” of how we learn and understand knowledge. In order to assess students of their skills in TOK, IB uses an essay and a presentation. The essay makes up 67% of your total TOK score, making it the most important task to focus on for getting a high score. 

What is the Theory Of Knowledge Essay?

The TOK essay is a 1600 word essay written about topics usually given to students from their teachers from a list of numerous options. It is an essay that promotes arguments and counterarguments for the topic at hand. Understanding your ways of knowing (WOKs) and areas of knowledge (AOKs) is extremely crucial before you even start choosing a topic to write on, as your essay will revolve around and structure itself based on these two concepts. Being able to demonstrate higher-level thinking and using examples to solidify the points you make in your essay is also important. Additionally, you’ll need to reference every source of information that you use, since that is something examiners look for as well.

As said earlier, 67% of your grade is from the essay, and your overall TOK score receives a letter grade using a calculated score out of thirty. Your essay score and presentation score are each out of ten. The grades for your TOK presentation and essay are determined by sending material to the board of IB, from which they designate a grader/examiner to read your essay and grade based on a rubric that determines the level of knowledge you exhibit in your writing.

The following formula should better explain how to find your TOK grade. 

(presentation score) + (essay score * 2) = overall score out of 30

The grade boundaries out of 30 that determine your letter grade can vary each year so checking in with your school for the most recent ones is the best course of action, but an example set would be like this:

Once you have a letter grade for IB, your extended essay, which is another part of the core, is also included into a larger grading schema to calculate your core score, which is three additional points required to complete and earn the diploma. The following table details this grade further:

Doing well in the core is important to passing IB and getting three points out of the total 45 attainable points. 

There’s a trick that most IB students use in writing the TOK essay, and it boils down to understanding four key components of learning:

• Content : Understanding knowledge issues
• Clarity : Structuring your essay in a legible and clear/easy to read manner
• Creativity : Using your personal ways of thinking and applications of knowledge specific to your understanding of the knowledge issue
• Critical Thinking : Using a counter argument for every argument you have to analyze your own claims constantly 

Dividing your actual essay into three main chunks helps, starting with an introduction. Your introduction should be where you state your knowledge question, the central point of your essay, and you should make use of jargon specific to the concept. As the basis of your essay, the introduction should be where you form claims and counterclaims that either support or challenge the knowledge question through heavy analysis and evaluation. 

The body of the essay follows the introduction, and it is where most of the conceptual analysis of your knowledge question takes place. Every argument and its counterargument should have a dedicated paragraph of its own, and make sure to not jump back and forth too much throughout the essay. to avoid creating messy transitions for the reader and potentially harming your score. Understanding the essay from the reader’s point of view is important, as it will help you better understand how to structure the body of your essay.

A conclusion in the TOK essay is mainly for finding closure among the numerous arguments that have been taking place thus far in the essay. Make sure to summarize but not repeat previous information entirely to refresh the reader. A conclusion should essentially loop back to the beginning of the essay, the knowledge question. The knowledge question’s answer should be the conclusion and the stopping point of the essay, and by now the answer you provide should be backed by paragraphs of supporting claims and counterclaims. If done right, concluding the essay can be how you earn most of your points. 

Start Early

Starting early is an obvious and effective advantage to students. Aside from TOK, let alone the presentation, IB has substantial work that requires focus and allocated time dedicated to it, such as external examinations and the extended essay. These tasks are equally as important as the TOK essay, so starting your outlining, drafting or even just planning early will set you up for success.

Send Your Drafts to Your Teacher

Your TOK teacher is a great resource for drafting essays and making edits to perfect your final product. Making use of time outside of the classroom to catch your teacher for a quick review of your essay could be a bigger advantage than you realize. Making use of an outside perspective is essential to forming a great essay. 

While your final IB grade isn’t as important as you’d think regarding college admissions, understanding how to pass TOK and using the lifelong practices you’ll learn in the class is even more important. TOK creates students who think outside conventional methods, making them excellent candidates in the eyes of college admissions offices. Taking TOK and showing proof of understanding it as well as capability of academic rigor is what colleges are looking for. For more information on how your chances of college admissions might look, use CollegeVine’s admissions calculator !

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IB TOK Exhibition Rubric: Learn About the Assessment Criteria

by  Antony W

January 9, 2024

This guide covers everything you need to know about TOK exhibition rubric. We’ve included everything you need to know about the assessment criteria so that you can have an easy time working on the assignment.

Introduced to the TOK syllabus in 2022, the ToK Exhibition  subject is a replacement for the ToK Presentation. 

The exhibition is an individual project worth 33% of the total grades awarded to the Theory of Knowledge subject.

Although the TOK Exhibition is a relatively new subject, it’s not complicated because the concepts taught in the subject are easy to understand.

Your TOK teacher is the one to moderate the work, so you do have the opportunity to ask as many questions as you can to get the assignment right.

The aim of the Theory of Knowledge Exhibition is to assess your ability to apply ToK concepts  to the real world.

If you can demonstrate your ability to discuss the subject matter that you’ve studied in the classroom, based on evidence, you’re already a step ahead to score good marks for the exhibition.

Once you have looked at exhibition examples and understood the basic requirements of the TOK exhibition, spend some time to understand how your teacher evaluates and marks the work.

You will get the information in the assessment instrument that your teacher will share with you.

TOK Exhibition Rubric Explained

Below is a detailed explanation of the TOK Exhibition rubric:

Scoring a zero means you failed to meet the standards that IB set for the TOK exhibition project.

In other words, either you’ve failed to submit your assignment or it doesn’t reflect the standards set out by other levels in this assessment criteria.

Also, it’s possible to get a zero if your TOK exhibition doesn’t answer one of the topics provided in the IA prompts .  

Rudimentary (1 to 2)

A student who earns rudimentary score has identified the three TOK exhibition objects but failed to explain their real-world context.

Also, you score 1 to 2 marks if you present generic images instead of real-world objects - or images of objects.

IB teachers also award 1 to 2 points to students who link minimally between their IA prompts and the objects.

More often than not, tenuous linking means a student isn’t sure about what they’re trying to communicate.

Rudimentary marks show that a student offered minimal justification for including the three objects in their exhibition.

Also, the commentary isn’t descriptive enough or includes assertions that you haven’t attempted to support.

Basic (3 to 4)

IB students who earn 3 to 4 marks for their exhibition are those who have identified the three objects in their exhibition but failed to state the real-world context of these objects.

They have made link between their selected IA prompt and the objects, but they don’t offer a comprehensive and convincing explanation of the link.

If you score the basic marks, it’s because your justification for including the objects in the commentary is but superficial. And although you’ve given reasons for including the three objects in your work, you’ve not backed them with relevant evidence.

Basic marks is also an indication that your commentary has a series of repetition in the text.

Satisfactory (5-6)

You have successfully identified three objects in the TOK exhibition. However, your objects’ real-world context is vague.

While you’ve explained the link between the IA prompt and the three objects, your explanation doesn’t meet the standards set by the TOK Exhibition assessment criteria because it’s weak.

 In other words, you only include brief explanation for including each object in the exhibition, backing only a few of your points with evidence.

If you score a 7 or an 8, it means you’ve identified the three objects, explained their real-world context, linked the three objects to each other, and explained how each object (or image of objects) relates to your IA prompt.

In addition to justifying the contributions the objects make to the exhibition, you’ve included evidence and reference link to the IA prompt to make your work as comprehensive as you possibly can.

However, your work isn’t suitable for the excellent marks because it lacks clarity and precision in some parts.

Excellent (9-10)

It’s the highest score awarded to TOK learners whose exhibitions identify three objects, their definite real-world contexts, and make clear links between the selected IA prompts and the three objects.

Your exhibition demonstrates strong justification for the specific contribution that individual objects make and provides appropriate evidence for all the   points you’ve made.

Also, your work includes clear references from each object back to your chosen IA prompt.

The TO Exhibition Assessment Cornerstone

The overriding objective of the TOK exhibition is to show how theory of knowledge (TOK) manifests itself in the real world.

To do this, you have to demonstrate four skill sets in your exhibition.

These include the following:

1. Interlinking Ideas

 Your exhibition commentary should explain the links or connections between your chosen objects and the IA prompt.

You also need to make distinct references to the IA prompt

2. Justification for Ideas

Your TOK commentary should feature a bold justification for why you have chosen the objects for your exhibition.

You should do this within the core theme context or one of the optional themes in TOK .

3. Using Evidence

Support all the points you make in your commentary with evidence.

Hinge all opinions and ideas you use on real-life situations and you can even use ideas by top thinkers to support your points or opinions.

4. Identifying the Real-world Context

In TOK exhibition, you have to go beyond identifying the three objects – or images of the objects. You also have to explain their real-world context.

In other words, you have to choose images of objects or real objects as opposed to just generic objects.

Final Thoughts

Page 47 of the TOK subject guide outlines the rubric for the exhibition.

The criteria include information on what you should do to get the highest marks, so you should aim to get a 7 to an 8 if not a 9 to a 10.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

TOK Essay Assessment Criteria

TOK and TOK Essay a Definitive Guide Series: Part 4

TOK and TOK Essay: a Definitive Guide Series Part 4

Welcome to our Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and TOK Essay a Definitive Guide Series! In this series of articles, you will learn everything there is to know about the IB TOK course, TOK exhibition, and writing a compelling TOK essay. So let’s get started!

In order to excel in writing a successful TOK (Theory of Knowledge) essay one needs a clear understanding of the assessment criteria. In this article, we will explore the key aspects that examiners consider when evaluating  TOK essays. Understanding these criteria will enable you to write a well-structured and insightful essay that demonstrates your critical thinking skills. So, let’s delve into the TOK essay assessment criteria and learn how to succeed in this task.

Clear, Coherent, and Critical Exploration

The primary criterion for a TOK essay is whether the student provides a clear, coherent, and critical exploration of the essay title. It is essential to maintain focus on the central question throughout your essay. By continuously relating your arguments and analysis to the essay title, you demonstrate your ability to stay on topic and present a well-developed response.

Emphasize How We Know, Not What We Know

A crucial aspect of the TOK essay is to focus on the process of knowledge acquisition rather than merely presenting factual information. Instead of providing lengthy descriptions  of knowledge, your essay should explore how we acquire, produce, and pass on knowledge within the areas of knowledge. It is crucial to reflect on the methods, biases, limitations, and implications of knowledge within these areas.

Effective Use of Examples

While discussing the process of knowledge acquisition, it is essential to support your arguments with relevant examples. These examples can be drawn from subject lessons or real-life situations. By using examples, you can illustrate your points effectively and provide concrete evidence to support your claims. However, be cautious not to make your essay overly descriptive; instead, maintain a focus on critical analysis.

Coherence and Flow

A well-structured essay is coherent and allows the examiner to follow your line of reasoning. Introduce your ideas clearly and use appropriate connectives and paragraphs to enhance the flow of your writing. Ensure that your arguments are logically connected, allowing the examiner to understand the progression of your thoughts. This coherence and flow contribute to the overall quality of your essay.

Consider Multiple Perspectives

An excellent TOK essay incorporates and analyzes several perspectives on the given topic. It is vital to explore different angles and present a balanced view. Your essay should not offer a one-sided answer but should rather showcase your ability to consider multiple viewpoints. By engaging with various perspectives, you demonstrate your critical thinking skills and make your essay more compelling.

Implications and Significance

Consideration of the implications and significance of your claims is a crucial element of a strong TOK essay. When presenting your arguments or conclusions, analyze the broader implications they have for the quality, reliability, or nature of knowledge within the specific area of knowledge. Reflect on how your ideas connect to knowledge as a whole, exploring the larger implications of your claims.

Answer the Essay Prompt

Addressing the essay prompt directly is of utmost importance. Even if you manage to cover all the necessary elements required for an excellent essay, failure to answer the prompt itself can significantly impact your score. Ensure that you understand the essay question and frame your arguments accordingly. This clarity of purpose will enhance the coherence and relevance of your essay.

Concluding Remarks

Crafting a successful TOK essay requires adherence to the assessment criteria outlined by examiners. By providing a clear, coherent, and critical exploration of the essay title, emphasizing the process of knowledge acquisition, utilizing relevant examples, ensuring coherence and flow, considering multiple perspectives, and reflecting on implications, you can create a compelling essay that showcases your intellectual abilities.

Official Assessment Criteria

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can I use personal experiences as examples in my TOK essay?

Yes, personal experiences can be used as examples in your TOK essay, as long as they are relevant and contribute to the critical exploration of the essay topic.

How many perspectives should I include in my TOK essay?

There is no fixed number of perspectives you should include. The key is to present multiple viewpoints that offer a well-rounded analysis of the topic, ensuring that your essay remains focused and coherent.

Should I include a conclusion in my TOK essay?

Yes, a conclusion is essential to summarize your main points and provide a final reflection on the essay topic. It helps bring your essay to a logical close and reinforces the overall argument.

Can I use rhetorical questions in my TOK essay?

Yes, rhetorical questions can be effective in engaging the reader and encouraging critical thinking. However, use them sparingly and ensure they contribute to the coherence and flow of your essay.

How can I ensure my TOK essay is unique and avoids plagiarism?

To maintain uniqueness and avoid plagiarism, ensure that you express ideas in your own words and properly cite any sources you reference. Take care to provide proper attribution for any quotes, examples, or evidence used in your essay.

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Example essays

As part of theory of knowledge (TOK), each student chooses one essay title from six issued by International Baccalaureate®(IB). 

The titles change in each examination session. 

Upcoming and past questions include: 

• “To what extent are areas of knowledge shaped by their past? Consider with reference to two areas of knowledge.”
•  “'There is no reason why we cannot link facts and theories across disciplines and create a common groundwork of explanation.' To what extent do you agree with this statement?”
• “There is no such thing as a neutral question. Evaluate this statement with reference to two areas of knowledge.”
• “'The task of history is the discovering of the constant and universal principles of human nature.' To what extent are history and one other area of knowledge successful in this task?”

Further guidance on the TOK essay and exhibition can be found in the IB’s Programme Resource Centre (PRC) .

Materials in the PRC are only available to existing IB World Schools. These materials are free.

There are a number of resources on TOK in the IB Store , which are available to everyone.

Find out how to become an IB World School .

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TOK exhibition rubric

TOK Home > Free TOK notes > TOK exhibition > TOK exhibition rubric

The TOK exhibition rubric

After understanding the  basic requirements  of the exhibition, your next step is to grasp how it is evaluated and marked, which is outlined in the ‘assessment instrument’. Your TOK teacher will give you a copy of this, or you can find it online in the 2022 TOK Guide.

Our 3-minute explainer for the TOK exhibition provides an overview of the assessment task, and mentions the rubric. Subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up to date with all our TOK videos.

The TOK exhibition assessment strands

The overall assessment objective of the exhibition is to show how theory of knowledge manifests itself in the real world. In order to do this, the assessment ‘instrument’ looks for four different skills that you are expected to demonstrate in your exhibition.   Make sure you understand what each strand is, and that you are able to explain how you’ve included each one. To find out more about each aspect of the exhibition ( IA prompts ,  objects  and  commentary ), follow the links that take you to the other pages of the TOK exhibition.

1. Interlinking ideas

Your exhibition  commentary  should clearly explain the links between the  objects  you have chosen, and the  IA prompt , and explicit references are made to the selected IA prompt.

2. Justifying ideas

Your exhibition  commentary  should include a strong justification for why your have objects have been chosen for the practice exhibition. This should be done within the context of the  core theme , or one of the  optional themes .

3. Using evidence

All the points you make in your  commentary  should be well-supported by evidence. In other words, all of your ideas and opinions should be supported by real-life situations, or the ideas of key thinkers.

4. Identifying the real-world context

The exhibition clearly identifies three  objects  and their specific real-world context. These means choosing actual objects (or images of objects), rather than generic objects.

TOK exhibition pages

Learn about how the exhibition is marked, and the skills you are expected to demonstrate in order to succeed. Find out more here .

The TOK exhibition prompts

Find out about the IA prompts used to write your exhibition commentary, and tips on choosing the right one. Read more here .

The TOK exhibition objects

Find out what ‘exhibition objects’ are, how to choose effective ones, and linking them to a theme and prompt. Read more here .

The TOK exhibition commentary

Learn about the 950-word exhibition commentary, ways to link it to your IA prompt, and how to set it within a theme. Find out more here .

Putting on the exhibition

Get tips on how to set up a TOK exhibition, talking in public, and showing off your TOK knowledge to a public audience. Find out more here .

More support for the TOK exhibition

Make sure that your TOK teacher has given you access to all the documents and online material that support the exhibition. These include the TOK Subject Guide (for the 2022 syllabus) – where you’ll find the IA prompts, and the exhibition rubric – and the exemplar TOK exhibitions (found in ‘MyIB’, which is accessible to teachers).   Follow the links above to take you to the three different elements of the TOK exhibition; we’ve also created a page giving some tips on how to put on your exhibition if your school is running a public ‘exhibition day’ which you can visit  here . It suggests ways of presenting ideas to an audience.   If your school is a member of theoryofknowledge.net, we have designed a series of lessons on the exhibition, with a three practice exhibition tasks. These will familiarize you with the IA prompts, how to select effective objects, and the assessment rubric. If you are signed into the site, you can access these lessons  here .   You can also find out our thoughts on the TOK exhibition (and the TOK essay) in several webinars that we have delivered. The main one is the TOK Assessment 2022 webinar, but we also consider this form of assessment in our free webinars on the 2022 course. You can see these webinars on  this page  of the site.

FAQs about the exhibition rubric

Who marks the tok exhibition.

The exhibition commentary, and images of the three objects (along with references) is added to an exhibition file. This is marked internally by your TOK teacher, and uploaded to your IB dashboard, to be moderated externally. Your TOK teacher will explain this process in more detail.

Where can I view the complete TOK exhibition rubric?

You can read the whole rubric in the TOK subject guide, on page 47. Your TOK teacher will give you a copy of this.

What makes a TOK exhibition ‘very good’?

The rubric identifies three key characteristics of a very good (ie 9/10 out of 10) exhibition. These are: precise, lucid, convincing. The formative assessment tasks you do for the exhibition will help you understand what these means.

Get real with TOK by subscribing to the newsletter

Step into the real and unpackaged world by subscribing to our unique monthly TOK newsletter. You’ll receive links to great media sources from all over the world that place the TOK themes and areas of knowledge into an authentic context.

You’ll meet great thinkers and ideas, hone your understanding of key TOK concepts, and build up a library of examples for the essay and exhibition. Subscribe HERE !

US IB Theory of Knowledge: TOK Exhibition Rubric

• Knowledge Framework in TOK
• TOK & The Learner Profile Attributes
• The Learner Profile Attributes Quiz
• Areas of Knowledge
• Optional Themes
• Knowledge Questions
• TOK Exhibition
• TOK Exhibition Prompts
• TOK Exhibition Rubric
• Ways of Knowing (Pre 2022)
• Recommended Reading
• RSS News Feeds

The markscheme for the TOK exhibition*

• << Previous: TOK Exhibition Prompts
• Next: Ways of Knowing (Pre 2022) >>
• Last Updated: Sep 23, 2022 1:19 PM
• URL: https://asmadrid.libguides.com/IBtheoryofknowledge

TOK Exhibition Rubric | How to Score Well? 🤩

Table of contents

• Writing Metier

Many students struggle when writing TOK essays . Another quite challenging part of their IB writings is TOK exhibition. They find it very hard to write essays that require them to follow an entirely different structure. They find the easy way out by seeking TOK help online for these essays. Other students decide to write them following the right TOK exhibition rubric.

When it comes to writing TOK exhibitions, they find it even harder. They find it hard to fully comprehend what all it requires. That’s why some of the students decide to ask for professional help, and this is why WritingMetier.com is offering its services to IB students.

Get assistance with your TOK exhibition ✍

If you also fall in the same boat, then you are not alone. They are many who struggle when writing TOK exhibitions. What is most important is that you understand the TOK exhibition marking rubric. Once you know, you can work your way through it in such a way that helps you work easily.

Before we proceed to understanding more about the marking rubric, you need to know a little more about the TOK exhibition. Firstly, you should know that this is a replacement for the TOK presentation . Secondly, it still plays a huge role in the final grading.

If you understand what is required from you in a TOK essay, then you won’t find it as challenging to work on a TOK exhibition. The main idea behind this is to help you apply the TOK concepts you learn to your real life.

TOK exhibition rubric explained

We are sharing a basic TOK exhibition marking scheme, with you, but will stop on each point with our comments. You can simply check this table which can be also found elsewhere or continue reading expert explanations below.

Now, you can understand the TOK exhibition rubric to help you further.

Failed – 0 😥

If you score a zero , that means you failed to meet any of the requirements of the TOK exhibition. It means that your TOK exhibition was below satisfactory. It might also man that you didn’t submit the assignment at all or you didn’t meet any standards. It can also mean that the answer you provided did not answer any of the IA prompts that were given.

Rudimentary- 1 to 2 😶 

This means that while you have identified the three TOK exhibition objects , you haven’t identified the real world context behind these. You might even score 1 or 2 if you present generic images instead of real world objects. The link between the selected prompts and images can also be weak here.

From what the student writes, it might be evident that they have not been able to form their argument well, which is the main reason for the problem. The commentary might also be lacking description in certain areas this way.

Basic- 3 to 4 🙄

Those who have identified three objects but haven’t given the context for those earn 3 to 4 marks. It is important to know the context behind what you are working on. This helps you understand the work much better and also shows the examiner that you know what you are talking about.

You have probably added in the TOK commentary here, but it is only very satisfactory because you haven’t identified what exactly you have done in terms of going deeper into the details. It is a supercritical explanation which is not what was needed from you at this level.

If you score basic marks, it also indicates that there were several repetitions in the work you did. You need to show uniqueness in what you do and every point that you add needs to being in something new.

Satisfactory- 5 to 6 😌

You have identified three relevant objects but you haven’t been able to put them in real world context, which is where the examiner knows that you don’t have things very sorted.

You have even explained the link to the TOK prompt but it isn’t as concrete as what was required from you, eventually making your argument weaker. You have also shown very limited understanding, and haven’t been able to state your ideas very clearly. This is why you get a 5-7 score according to the rubric.

Good- 7 to 8 😁

If you score a 7 or an 8 , then this means that you have identified the objects, made the right connections to the prompt , explained the specific real world context, and have also given the right justifications.

You’ve also added in the right references and have worked towards making all of it as relevant as you could. However, you might have missed clarity and precision in certain areas, which is why you haven’t scored excellent marks.

Excellent- 9 to 10 🤩

Oh yeah! 9-10 points …This is the highest score that you can get on your TOK. You have identified the right real world context , have given the right justifications and have also explained things the right way.

You have added in the references as well and have written an essay that doesn’t lack in any areas . So you have done the best job that you could.

Follow these marking criteria and score well

With ample understanding of TOK exhibition rubric, it can become much easier for you to work on the TOK exhibition . All you need to do is have a clear understanding of what was required from you in this TOK in terms of the highest scoring marks. Then you can work in accordance with that to get what you want.

This way, you can score very high marks, and can also write an essay that fits all of the requirements very well. So here, we can see how understanding the rubric makes things so much easier for you.

Moreover, coupling your deep understanding of the TOK exhibition rubric with a well-thought-out plan can be an incredibly powerful strategy.

Create a roadmap for your TOK exhibition by outlining your key points, connecting them to the relevant Areas of Knowledge and Ways of Knowing , and ensuring that you adhere to the assessment criteria. This will not only streamline your thought process but also enhance the coherence and depth of your exhibition.

Consider seeking feedback from peers or a mentor familiar with the IB program , as they can provide valuable insights to refine your work.

Reflect on the interplay between shared and personal knowledge and think critically about how knowledge is constructed, produced, and contextualized. This critical reflection is instrumental in fostering a deeper understanding and cultivating an inquiry-driven approach to your TOK exhibition.

By integrating these strategies with a solid grasp of the TOK exhibition rubric, you set the stage for a sophisticated and intellectually engaging exhibition that resonates with examiners and leaves a lasting impact.

This holistic approach empowers you to unlock the full potential of your TOK exhibition and excel in one of the most intellectually stimulating components of the IB program.

Free topic suggestions

Vasy kafidoff.

Vasyl Kafidoff is a co-founder and CEO at WritingMetier. He is interested in education and how modern technology makes it more accessible. He wants to bring awareness about new learning possibilities as an educational specialist. When Vasy is not working, he’s found behind a drum kit.

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IB Extended Essay: Assessment Criteria

• Research Questions
• Past Essays
• Notes & Outlines
• Works Cited Page
• In-Text Citations
• Assessment Criteria
• Reflections
• Supervisor Info
• Net Valley Library This link opens in a new window

Score Descriptors for each Criterion:

• A - Focus and Method
• B - Knowledge and Understanding
• C - Critical Thinking
• D - Presentation
• E - Engagement

Printable: Full Rubric  for all subjects

To view details for your SUBJECT, open the correct page below.

• Choose "Interpreting the EE Assessment Criteria" on the sidebar to see how to score well in YOUR subject area

Language & literature (language A)

Language acquisition (language B)

Mathematics

Visual Arts

World Studies

Business Management

Grade Boundaries

What's Expected?

• A: Focus/Method
• B: Knowledge
• C: Critical Thinking
• D: Presentation
• E: Engagement
• A: Focus and Method (6 marks)
• B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 marks)
• C: Critical Thinking (12 marks)
• D: Presentation (4 marks)
• E: Engagement (6 marks)
• Total marks possible: 34 (see grade boundaries below)
• Printable:  Full Rubric
• Printable: A3 size with details
• Printable:  Details for each criterion , via the Oxford guide

Criterion A:  Focus and Method (6 points)

What It Means:   This criterion focuses on the topic, the research question and the methodology. It assesses the explanation of the focus of the research (this includes the topic and the research question), how the research will be undertaken, and how the focus is maintained throughout the essay.

Questions to ask:  

• Does this essay meet the requirements for the subject for which you are registering it?
• Is your research question stated as a question?
• Have you explained how your research question relates to the subject that you selected for the extended essay?
• Have you given an insight into why your area of study is important?
• Is your research question feasible within the scope of the task? Could your research question be “answered” or it is too vague?
• Did you refer to your research question throughout the essay (not only in the introduction and conclusion)?
• Did you explain why you selected your methodology?
• Are there other possible methods that could be used or applied to answer your research question? How might this change the direction of your research?
• If you stated a particular methodology in the introduction of your essay, or specific sources, have you used them?
• Are there any references listed in the bibliography that were not directly cited in the text?

(Source: Susan Trower, via West Sound Academy)

Criterion B:  Knowledge and Understanding (6 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the extent to which the research relates to the subject area/discipline used to explore the research question; or in the case of the world studies extended essay, the issue addressed and the two disciplinary perspectives applied; and additionally, the way in which this knowledge and understanding is demonstrated through the use of appropriate terminology and concepts.

• Have you explained how your research question relates to a specific subject you selected for the extended essay?
• Have you used relevant terminology and concepts throughout your essay as they relate to your particular area of research?
• Is it clear that the sources you are using are relevant and appropriate to your research question?
• Do you have a range of sources, or have you only relied on one particular type, for example internet sources?
• Is there a reason why you might not have a range? Is this justified?

(Source: Oxford EE manual, p. 110)

Criterion C:  Critical Thinking (12 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the extent to which critical thinking skills have been used to analyze and evaluate the research undertaken.

• Have you made links between your results and data collected and your research question?
• If you included data or information that is not directly related to your research question have you explained its importance?
• Are your conclusions supported by your data?
• If you found unexpected information or data have you discussed its importance?
• Have you provided a critical evaluation of the methods you selected?
• Have you considered the reliability of your sources (peer-reviewed journals, internet, and so on)?
• Have you mentioned and evaluated the significance of possible errors that may have occurred in your research?
• Are all your suggestions of errors or improvements relevant?
• Have you evaluated your research question?
• Have you compared your results or findings with any other sources?
• Is there an argument that is clear and easy to follow and directly linked to answering your research question, and which is supported by evidence? Are there other possible methods that could be used or applied to answer your research question? How might this change the direction of your research?

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p. 111)

Handy Links:

• Presentation One Pager  via Catalina Bordoy
• Presentation Checklist
• Sample Title page   (see below - top half of the page)

Criterion D:  Presentation ( 4 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the extent to which the presentation follows the standard format expected for academic writing and the extent to which this aids effective communication.

• Have you read and understood the presentation requirements of the extended essay?
• Have you chosen a font that will be easy for examiners to read on-screen?
• Is your essay double-spaced and size 12 font?
• Are the title and research question mentioned on the cover page?
• Are all pages numbered?
• Have you prepared a correct table of contents?
• Do the page numbers in the table of contents match the page numbers in the text?
• Is your essay subdivided into correct sub-sections, if this is applicable to the subject?
• Are all figures and tables properly numbered and labelled?
• Does your bibliography contain only the sources cited in the text?
• Did you use the same reference system throughout the essay?
• Does the essay have less than 4,000 words?
• Is all the material presented in the appendices relevant and necessary?
• Have you proofread the text for spelling or grammar errors?

Criterion E: Engagement

• Three reflections (best after meeting with your supervisor)
• 500 words TOTAL (100 + 150 + 250?)
• Reflections are done in Managebac on your Reflection space
• See the "Reflections" tab above for prompts to write about

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p.135)

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p.133)

• Sample Reflections
• Full chapter on Reflections from the Oxford Guide

Criterion E:  Engagement (6 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the student’s engagement with their research focus and the research process. It will be applied by the examiner at the end of the assessment of the essay, after considering the student’s RPPF (Reflections on planning and progress form).

• Have you demonstrated your engagement with your research topic and the research process?
• Have you highlighted challenges you faced and how you overcame them?
• Will the examiner get a sense of your intellectual and skills development?
• Will the examiner get a sense of your creativity and intellectual initiative?
• For prompts to deepen your reflections, go  here  and then to the bottom of the page
• Presentation Quick Guide
• << Previous: In-Text Citations
• Next: Reflections >>
• Last Updated: Mar 28, 2024 3:00 PM
• URL: https://sis-cn.libguides.com/ExtendedEssay