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How To Write A ToK Essay - Updated 2023

Ace your ToK Essay with our expert tips & tricks! Get the latest and greatest techniques on "How To Write A ToK Essay" and impress the IB examiners.📝💡

How To Write A ToK Essay - Updated 2023

Table of content

  • Introduction

Purpose Of ToK

Assessment of tok, the game plan, execution of the gameplan, planning for tok essay, structure of tok essay, conclusions, bibliography.

Introduce your topic accurately and state your thesis statement for the essay carefully.  A thesis statement is like a teaser to your entire essay wherein you define your key terms and introduce your interpretation of the question. Make sure that you do not reword the prescribed title in your thesis. Instead, it needs to, as the word says, INTRODUCE your readers to what your essay is about. A strong introduction allows the reader to deduce what knowledge question(s) you are trying to answer.

So, in a nutshell

  • Write interesting things about the given TOK essay title .
  • Define key terms
  • Narrow in on the particularly interesting aspect
  • State your thesis statement . This will be your short answer to your given title if you don't know how to write a killer thesis statement check out this blog from SparkNotes .
  • State your Roadmap. This will help the readers in understanding the direction of your essay.

How to write a TOK Essay? 

To answer that, you must familiarise yourself with what a TOK Essay is about.

Before you start reading this article,  Amanda  has some excellent TOK tips for you!

Theory of Knowledge is one of the most meta subjects that IB offers. Despite its complexity, TOK helps in providing a base for holistic learning and allows students to have a multidisciplinary experience. 

To understand TOK is to understand the essence of IB, a task that most people consider unattainable.

But not for you! 

Thank your lucky stars who made you land on Nail IB. How exactly will Nail IB help you? 

Well, nailing International Baccalaureate is something we will discuss later. 

Let's focus on cracking your TOK essay, shall we?

TOK demonstrates how students  can apply their knowledge  with  greater awareness  and  credibility .

Big words, huh? 

Now that we know that we cannot just slide through the Theory of Knowledge, let's understand how we can conquer this battle all guns blazing.

ToK essay’s primary objective is to answer the  why  behind our studies. 

It makes one aware of the real-life implications of their subjects. The students gain greater awareness of their personal and ideological assumptions and appreciate the diversity of different perspectives. It helps the students find their unique perception, a prerequisite for excelling in the IB TOK essays.

Before we dive into our gameplan, let’s overview the rules of the game.

There are two assessment tasks in the TOK: an essay and a presentation . While a presentation encourages students to explore a real-life situation through the lens of TOK, an essay is written on the basis of the various questions provided by the International Baccalaureate Organisation.

  • The presentation is to assess a student’s ability to apply TOK thinking to a real-life situation whereas IB TOK essay is more conceptual.
  • The essay is externally assessed by IB and must be on any one of the prescribed TOK essay titles issued by the IB for each examination session.
  • Word limit of a TOK essay is 1600 words ( excludes extended notes, footnotes, bibliography).

Now that we have unleashed the game, let’s move ahead towards the gameplan of acing both, your presentation and your essay.

One of the fundamental tasks of TOK is to examine different areas of knowledge and find out their similarities and differences.

The TOK essay requires the students to investigate two Areas of Knowledge (AOK)  and two Ways of Knowing   (WOK) . AOKs and WOKs are investigated via questions such as:

  • How do we know what we know? (WOK)
  • What counts as evidence for X? (AOK)
  • How do we judge which is the best model of Y? (WOK)
  • What does theory Z mean in the real world? (AOK + WOK)

The aforementioned are  Knowledge Questions  which help combine the Areas of Knowledge and the Ways of Knowing that they are using. This eliminates the superficial way of learning and makes an individual sensitive to the nature of the information.   Our acquisition of Knowledge can be broadly divided into Shared Knowledge and Personal Knowledge.

Shared knowledge: What WE know It is the product of more than one individual. Although individuals contribute to it, shared knowledge does not solely depend upon the contributions of a particular individual—there are possibilities for others to check and amend individual contributions and add to the body of knowledge that already exists.

Personal knowledge: What I know It is essentially dependent on the experiences of a particular individual. Also known as procedural knowledge, it is gained through experience, practice and personal involvement and is intimately bound up with the particular local circumstances of the individual such as biography, interests, values, and so on.

The best hack to ace TOK essay is to develop a habit of making connections between the construction of knowledge, its acquisition and its relevance in the real world. 

After that one needs to develop an interest in understanding the difference between diversity and cultural perspectives and personal assumptions.

One also needs to critically reflect on their own beliefs and assumptions, leading to more thoughtful, responsible and purposeful lives.

Yes, this is what you signed up for. It may sound a little intimidating but once you get the hang of it you will be able to see the matrix and understand this beautiful world a little better.

Understand that to provide the best version of your writing, it will take you more than one or two drafts. First and foremost, you need to pick your essay topic diligently. Try to choose an essay topic that best interests you. The topic should also allow you to explore the Areas of Knowledge towards which you are naturally inclined. Here are a few sample questions:

a) 'Ways of knowing are a check on our instinctive judgments.' To what extend do you agree with this statement?

b) With reference to two areas of knowledge discuss the way in which shared knowledge can shape their personal knowledge.

c) How can we know if knowledge is produced more through 'Passive Observation' or 'Active-Experiment' within the Human and Natural-sciences under a Mathematical-Perspective?

d) "The whole point of knowledge is to produce both meaning and purpose in our personal lives". Assess the validity of this statement.

Great things take time. It took me more than a couple of weeks to finalize this TOK essay guide. It is completely okay if the first few drafts may not look pleasing or award-winning to you. You will require sharpening your perspective towards the topic each time you polish your draft. Your writing journey from a dull draft to a masterpiece will be a whole process that you will have to be patient with. Have faith in yourself and proceed stepwise.

You need to consider the opinions of others who have devoted hours of research and a lifetime of dedicated studying the topic that surrounds your writing. Unravelling the realms of your mind palace is so Sherlock but let’s not deny the fact that at times, Watson is the one whose expertise helps Sherlock through pretty difficult times. I mean even Batman needs a Robin. In support of my awesome sauce examples, the point I am trying to make is that  finding support for our claims and counterclaims through research is a good thing .

Use real-life examples to support your claims and counterclaims. These examples need to be documented researched examples like studies, experiments, articles, presentations by well-known people, etc. Examples that stem from your diploma subjects are highly encouraged, but those will need to be supported by research as well.   

It is suggested that you choose a title, stick to it, tackle it and not be afraid. Do not change your mind unless there is a good reason. Also, try choosing Areas of knowledge that you truly enjoy. You know slaying a known devil is much easier than an unknown one. Allot a TIMELINE to your essay. Start with creating an outline of your essay. This will help you to track your progress and accomplish your goals

You can use tools like  Trello  to organize your ideas and plan your TOK essay.

Areas of Knowledge (AOKs): TOK distinguishes between eight areas of knowledge. They are mathematics, the natural sciences, the human sciences, the arts, history, ethics, religious knowledge systems, and indigenous knowledge systems. It is suggested that students study and explore six of these eight.

Ways of knowing (WOKs): TOK identifies eight specific WOKs- language, sense perception, emotion, reason, imagination, faith, intuition, and memory. It is suggested that studying four of these eight in-depth would be appropriate. WOKs underlie the methodology of the areas of knowledge and provide a basis for personal knowledge.

Moving ahead, let us discuss the structure of your TOK essay.

Your essay will consist of 4 broad segregations

Before breaking down further on the pillars, keep the following in mind

  • Please note what the TOK essay title is asking you. (Read it a couple of times. We highly recommend that you brainstorm ideas with your TOK coordinator)
  • Make sure you understand the command term and the question it is asking.
  • What kind of knowledge is being elicited?
  • When choosing your areas of knowledge (AoK) and ways of knowing (WoK) make sure that you are able to draw contrasts and comparisons, that is, you are able to find evidence that supports as well as challenges your claims.
  • Identify key terms in your TOK essay title. Make sure you define them. Your essay will gravitate around them. Key terms/words in your titles are your essay anchors. Your response should be built around them.
  • Your writing skills come in handy while you work on your IB TOK essay. Like any other essay make sure you have proper thesis statements and topic sentences to guide the evaluator through your work.
  • Respect the TOK essay title. Rephrasing the topic is not encouraged . Your main job is to address the title.

The body can be mainly divided into 3 segments.

Body (1st Segment)

  • AoK Claim:  Here you investigate your first Area of Knowledge and draw parallels between your AoK and the question. This is done by stating your claim. Claims can be general in nature and need not reference a particular area of knowledge. They help you shape your essay and investigate the question further. 
  • Evidence: Example of a real-life situation, describe thoroughly and accurately, which supports your stated claim. (AoK)
  • Counter-Claim: State your counter-claim: like claims, those can be general and need not reference a particular area of knowledge. Counterclaim helps you show the other side the coin and gives your essay a holistic nature. 
  • Evidence: A referenced real-life situation/example. Describe thoroughly and accurately, show how this supports your counterclaim (AoK ).
  • Don’t forget to weave in your WoKs:  You need to take into account the source of your knowledge. Here you can also investigate if your nature of acquiring the knowledge has, in any way, affected it. It is good practice to question if your knowledge would be different had it been acquired through a different source/method
  • Mini-conclusion: Here you analyze your examples in reference to your claims and counterclaims. You must connect to your thesis statement and the prescribed title. How does your proposed argument, in this particular part of the body, connect to the prescribed title and the knowledge questions you are trying to answer?

Body (2): Follow the above process for your second AOK.

  • Use this part of your essay to compare and contrast your varying AoKs. You need to connect them to your thesis and your prescribed title clearly showing how your arguments respond to the PT.

Your conclusion section will make your essay come together. It is the glue that will make your essay stick together. Herein, you need to

  • Reiterate your thesis (initial response).
  • Use your mini conclusions to write a final conclusion.
  • Tell the reader what the significance is for knowing what we know in this particular PT.
  • Discuss implications as well.
  • Offer another perspective, how will the perspective of a different person affect the claims/counterclaims you make in the essay?
  • Don’t forget to make the end strong.

We recommend all the ib students use the  citation machine  (It's FREE) to organize or generate a bibliography for your TOK essay. Please go through this extensive guide provided by the IB before you start working on your citations.

If you are still struggling heaps with your TOK essay feel free to subscribe to our tok notes bundles or get access to more than 500+ IBDP notes and past papers here .

Nail IB is your virtual companion that helps you hustle through your diploma and provide you with the right resources at the right time. To know more about acing IB, click  here .

I hope this article will become the foundation for figuring out how to write a TOK Essay.

Remember to have faith in yourself.

I hope you NAIL your TOK essay!

Quoting the great Napolean Hill

"Whatever the mind of a man can conceive and believe, it can achieve."

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examples for tok essay

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 !

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

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How to Write a TOK Essay

Last Updated: December 28, 2023

This article was co-authored by Stephanie Wong Ken, MFA . Stephanie Wong Ken is a writer based in Canada. Stephanie's writing has appeared in Joyland, Catapult, Pithead Chapel, Cosmonaut's Avenue, and other publications. She holds an MFA in Fiction and Creative Writing from Portland State University. This article has been viewed 251,141 times.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Theory of Knowledge essay is a 1200–1600 word essay on prescribed topics or titles created by the IB. As the name suggests, your Theory of Knowledge (TOK) essay should focus on knowledge issues (what is knowledge? why and how do we know things?) and link to other areas of knowledge as well. About two-thirds of your final TOK grade is determined by your score on your TOK essay.

Choosing Your Essay Title

Step 1 Understand the structure of a TOK essay.

  • Mathematics
  • Natural sciences
  • Human sciences
  • Religious knowledge systems
  • Indigenous knowledge systems

Step 2 Ask your teacher for the prescribed titles for the TOK essay.

  • “Compare the roles played by reason and imagination in at least two Areas of Knowledge.”
  • “When mathematicians, historians and scientists say that they have explained something, are they using the word ‘explain’ in the same way?”

Step 3 Select a title carefully.

  • Do you understand the keywords or concepts in the title? You may not be clear on what a title is asking you to do. Go through the title and highlight any words or concepts you are unsure about. Some titles will use keywords from TOK courses, such as “belief”, “knowledge” “truth”. You may want to check back on your class notes and consider what these words mean in the context of the title.
  • Do you have a strong interest in the title? The title should play to your interests and you should feel you can write about the title with care and diligence. For example, if you are skilled or interested in the arts, you may choose a title like “Compare the roles played by reason and imagination in at least two Areas of Knowledge” and pick the arts as one area of knowledge. Keep in mind, however, you should balance your passion for the title with an objective perspective.
  • Do you have something relevant to say about the title? It’s important that you relate the question to the ideas you have covered in your TOK course, as well as the topics you have studied in class, and your own personal experiences or thoughts. The essay should have an objective tone, but you will still need to inject it with personality, passion, and clarity.

Step 4 Put the title in your own words.

  • For example, in a title like: “When mathematicians, historians and scientists say that they have explained something, are they using the word ‘explain’ in the same way?”, you may rephrase it into two sentences. The title refers to three AOK: mathematics, history, and science. It is then asking you to compare and contrast the way these three AOK use explanation as a way of knowing about a topic or issue.
  • By breaking down the title into short sentences, you now have a clearer picture of what the title is asking you to do and how you might go about answering the title sufficiently.

Structuring the Essay

Step 1 Note the assessment criteria.

  • Understanding the knowledge issues: your essay must be focused on the knowledge issues, link and compare at least two knowledge issues, show relevancy between at least two knowledge issues, and demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the knowledge issues.
  • Knower’s perspective: your essay must demonstrate independent thinking, self-awareness, at least two different perspectives, and several supporting examples.
  • Analysis of the knowledge issues: your essay must show insight and depth, justify your main points, present arguments and counter-arguments, and explore any assumptions and implications of your topic.
  • Organization of ideas: your essay must be well structured, explain key concepts, be factually accurate, and cite references where applicable.

Step 2 Read the essay instructions.

  • You may also be asked “to what extent” or “in what way” a statement is justified. You will then need to present for and against arguments for the statement.
  • If you are asked a direct question, your essay should address to what extent or in what ways you are for and against an argument or position.

Step 3 Brainstorm ideas around the essay title.

  • Start by doing a general, open brainstorm. Write down everything that comes to mind when you think about the title without passing judgement on any of the ideas, or stopping to read over your brainstorm.
  • After five minutes of brainstorming, read over your notes. Identify ideas that relate to each other or that contradict each other. If you are evaluating or assessing a claim in the essay title, create a for column and an against column. Group your brainstorming ideas into either column. Create a third column for grey area ideas, or ambiguities, and place ideas in that column.
  • Note any examples of the ideas that you wrote down. For example, you may be addressing a title like: “When mathematicians, historians and scientists say that they have explained something, are they using the word ‘explain’ in the same way?” You may create a brainstorm for each area of knowledge (mathematics, history, science) in relation to the idea of explaining something. You may then use examples of “something” that can be explained in each AOK: a mathematical equation, a historical moment in a battle or a trial, and a scientific theory.

Step 4 Identify the knowledge issue in the essay title.

  • You should also identify the areas of knowledge you will be discussing in your essay. For example, for a title like: “Compare the roles played by reason and imagination in at least two Areas of Knowledge” you may choose two AOK: the arts and science. You may then compare and contrast the function of “reason” and “imagination” in the arts and in science.

Step 5 Create an outline.

  • Paragraph 1: Introduction. You would provide an explanation and interpretation of the title and identify the key terms in the title. You would also state your thesis and explain or identify a knowledge issue related to the title.
  • Paragraph 2: First Area of Knowledge. For example, the arts. Discuss how the arts answers the title and provide supporting examples. You should also note any counter-arguments against the title or any limitations of the supporting examples.
  • Paragraph 3: Second Area of Knowledge. For example, mathematics. Note how mathematics answers the title and provide supporting examples. You should also note any counter-arguments against the title or any limitations of the supporting examples.
  • Paragraph 4: Third Area of Knowledge (if applicable)
  • Paragraph 5: Conclusion. Summarize your main ideas and restate your thesis. Conclude by answering the title fully, taking into account the counter arguments and limitations of the areas of knowledge.
  • You may also decide to structure your essay based on a main argument and a main counter-argument. Your outline may contain four paragraphs total:
  • Paragraph 1: Introduction and explanation of the knowledge issue.
  • Paragraph 2: Main argument, with justification and one to two supporting examples.
  • Paragraph 3: Main counter-argument, with justification and one to two supporting examples.
  • Paragraph 4: Conclusion.

Step 6 Create a thesis...

  • Some students find it useful to draft their thesis statement once they have finished writing a first draft of the essay. By this point, you will likely have a better sense of the main arguments in the essay and be able to write a clear, concise thesis statement.
  • For example, you may need to create a thesis statement for this title: “Compare the roles played by reason and imagination in at least two Areas of Knowledge.” You have chosen two AOK: the arts and mathematics. Consider how reason and imagination function in the arts and in mathematics, as well as the different ways they function in each AOK. Your thesis may be: “Through reason and imagination play an important role in both mathematics and the arts, the imaginative thoughts of mathematicians must be provable, while the imaginative thoughts of artists need only be reasonable.” [5] X Research source

Writing the Essay

Step 1 Use your essay outline as a guide.

  • You may want to also refer back to your brainstorming notes to identify the supporting examples for your two areas of knowledge, or your main argument and your main counter-argument.

Step 2 Avoid using dictionary definitions in your essay.

  • For example, you may be discussing the use of reason and imagination in the arts. Rather than discuss a familiar artist, like Picasso, or a familiar example of imaginative thinking, like the Sistine Chapel, use supporting examples that feel original and insightful. Though the essay should be objective in nature, it should also feel reflective and personal. Using a supporting example that you feel passionate about, like Pollack’s kinetic movement paintings, or Rodin’s sculptures, will show you have taken the time to explore unique examples.

Step 3 Cite all external sources using MLA style citations.

  • Reference surprising or little known claims, but not well known facts or commonly held opinions. For example: “The sun is the center of the solar system” is a well known fact you will not need to cite. But “Rodin was a traditionally-schooled artist and had a craftsman-like approach to his work” will require a citation as it is maybe a little known fact.
  • Reference any sentences or sections where you are closely following someone else’s train of thought or argument, even in your own words.
  • Reference exact quotes, and use quotation marks.
  • Be consistent with your citations and the way you reference certain sources.

Step 4 Read your essay out loud.

  • As you read your essay out loud, make sure there are no vague or abstract sentences or terms. You want to ensure you use your 1600 word count in a clear and concise way. Every word will count in your TOK essay.
  • Confirm you have addressed knowledge issues in your essay. Your essay should answer the question “How do you know?” and assess the strengths and weaknesses of knowledge claims in at least two areas of knowledge. You should also use arguments and counter-arguments to support your thesis statement, as well as strong supporting examples.

Step 5 Correct any spelling or grammatical errors.

Community Q&A

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Write an Essay

  • ↑ http://www.dirk-solies.de/TOK/how%20to%20write%20a%20ToK%20essay%20cambridge.pdf
  • ↑ http://www.toktalk.net/2009/11/20/starting-and-planning-the-tok-essay/

About This Article

Stephanie Wong Ken, MFA

To write a TOK essay that compares several areas of knowledge, start with an introductory paragraph that explains your title and states your thesis. Then, write 2-3 main body paragraphs, discussing in each a single area of knowledge and how it relates to your title. Try to provide supporting examples in each case, and address any potential counter-arguments, as well. Finally, end your essay with a conclusion that summarizes your main ideas and restates your thesis. When you’re done, check to be sure that you’re within the 1,200-1,600 word limit for the essay. To learn from our English reviewer how to choose an essay title and create your thesis statement, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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IB TOK Essay Structure in Detail

Theory of Knowledge is an interdisciplinary field of study that focuses on understanding the different ways of knowing and how our knowledge is acquired, developed and used. It involves exploring the connections between different disciplines, such as the sciences, humanities, mathematics, and the arts, and recognizing the complexities of real-world problems and issues. Through TOK, students are able to gain a deeper understanding of the world around them, as well as develop their critical thinking skills.

TOK helps people understand the links between different disciplines, allowing them to see a broader perspective on the world. By equipping students with the tools to think critically, TOK prepares them for meaningful dialogue about complex issues. Additionally, it serves as a valuable way for students to assess and evaluate their own knowledge and beliefs, as well as question and challenge the knowledge of others. In essence, TOK encourages exploration of the different ways of knowing and understanding the world.

For teachers, understanding the importance of TOK can help to create more effective learning environments. By introducing and discussing different theories and perspectives, teachers can provoke deeper exploration and thought, which can help to ground students’ understanding and open up new sources of knowledge. Moreover, introducing TOK in the classroom can develop students’ ability to think critically, allowing them to form logical arguments and see the connection between different areas of knowledge.

To sum up, Theory of Knowledge is an interdisciplinary field of study that encourages exploration of the different ways of knowing and understanding the world. It provides students with the skills to think critically and examine the complexities of real-world issues. Additionally, it is a useful tool for teachers to help develop students’ abilities to think critically and explore different perspectives. Now, let’s take a closer look at the TOK essay structure.

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IB TOK Essay Structure in Detail

Outline of the TOK Essay Structure

The International Baccalaureate Theory of Knowledge essay is a 750 to 1600 word requirement on the student’s knowledge of the world, and how they analyze and evaluate it. The TOK essay structure is designed to help students express their ideas in an organized, concise and effective way.

The TOK essay has a distinct structure that should be followed throughout the paper. The basic structure includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each of these parts should be a separate section within the outline and should include specific points.

The introduction should clearly define the topic and provide an overview of the essay’s purpose. It should also introduce the three Are of Knowledge (AOKs) that are relevant to this essay and describe how they will be connected in the essay.

Following the introduction, each body paragraph should contain an argument, evidence to support it and then a conclusion that ties back to the main argument. Body paragraphs should cover each AOK mentioned in the introduction, with the arguments relating to each AOK. In addition, body paragraphs should state how each AOK is related to each other.

Finally, the conclusion should summarize all of the arguments made in the body of the essay and suggest ways to further explore the topics presented. This should be done with a focus on how these areas of knowledge intersect to create a more holistic understanding of the world.

By following this structure, students can ensure that their TOK essay is well organized and effectively communicates their ideas. Additionally, it will help students stay on track with the essay’s requirements and ensure that their essay meets the grading criteria.

Overview of the Grading Criteria for TOK Essays

The Theory of Knowledge (TOK) essay is one of the most important components in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, and it carries a significant chunk of the overall score. Writing a compelling TOK essay requires much more than simply understanding the topics and reading about them. If you’re hoping to get an excellent grade, it’s crucial to understand how your work will be assessed.

Knowledge Questions and their Relevance

The key part of any TOK essay is the knowledge questions – these need to be answered directly with a clear focus and relevance to the question. A well-structured essay will address the question from various points of view and as far as possible. It should also provide appropriate examples and evidence for your points, any counterclaims or alternative viewpoints and your own knowledge experiences.

Organization and Structure

The essay should be logically organized and structured with clearly defined sections. Every section needs to have a purpose and its own independent set of arguments. It should also include citations and sources where appropriate, as well as personal knowledge experiences. The overall essay should be written in an academic style, consistent with the rest of the TOK curriculum.

Reasoning and Argumentation

Make sure you use complex reasoning to develop a strong argument that supports your main point in the essay. To do this effectively, you’ll need to reference other sources, research documents and your own personal experiences. Your essay should also discuss the validity and reliability of the sources used, and whether they are relevant to the particular knowledge issue being discussed.

Grammar and Language

Finally, the essay should be written using a formal language, grammar and punctuation. When writing the essay, it’s important to keep in mind that TOK is designed to be studied from an international perspective. Grammatical accuracy, clarity and consistency in language will help to make sure your points come across effectively, and allow you to get the best score.

Understanding the grading criteria that are used to assess TOK essays is crucial if you want to earn a high grade. Make sure you pay close attention to each of the criteria discussed here and ensure your essay covers them all. This will help you get the most out of your TOK essay and ensure you reach the grade you deserve.

Step-by-step Guide to Writing a TOK Essay

Writing a Theory of Knowledge essay can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By breaking the essay writing process down into small, manageable steps, you can make it easier and less stressful. This step-by-step guide shows how to use the Areas of Knowledge (AOKs) to write an effective TOK essay.

Step One: Brainstorm

The best way to start your TOK essay is to brainstorm ideas. Take some time to think about your experiences and create a list of potential topics that could be developed into an essay. Don’t worry if the ideas don’t relate directly to the question – this is just for brainstorming purposes.

Step Two: Research

Once you have an idea of what kind of essay you are going to write, it is time to do some research. Look into the different AOKs and try to pinpoint which ones are relevant to your topic. This should give you a basic knowledge of the topic and the various perspectives that need to be considered in the essay.

Step Three: Outline

Now that you have researched the topic, it is time to create an outline. Make sure to include the main points you want to cover in the essay, as well as any counterarguments that may be presented. Also, include any evidence or examples that will support your argument. The outline should be as detailed as possible to ensure that you stay on track when writing the essay.

Step Four: Writing

Now that you have completed your research and created an outline, it’s time to start writing. Remember to remain focused on your main argument and use evidence from your research to support your claims. Be sure to explain how each AOK applies to the essay, and how they interact with each other. Consider how the different perspectives can be combined to form a complex argument.

Step Five: Proofreading and Editing

Once you have completed the essay, it is important to proofread and edit. Check for grammar and spelling mistakes, and make sure your argument is well structured and logically consistent. Also, make sure to address any counterarguments that you outlined in the essay. Finally, consider adding any new information or ideas that you discovered during the writing process.

By following these steps and using the AOKs as a guide, you can be sure to craft a high-quality TOK essay that meets the assessment criteria. With the right amount of effort and dedication, you can succeed in writing an effective TOK essay.

Using Personal Knowledge Experiences in TOK Essays

The International Baccalaureate or IB TOK essay is an important component of the student’s diploma. When selecting a TOK essay topic and writing a response, it is essential to include personal knowledge experiences.

A student’s individual experiences are just as important as the facts and theories presented in an essay. Personal knowledge experiences help to bring life to the paper and make it stand out from the rest. For example, if you are writing about the concept of truth and objectivity, your personal experience may help to provide insight into how different perspectives could be interpreted.

When using personal knowledge experiences in your TOK essay , it is important to consider how these experiences could contribute positively to your argument. Ask yourself questions like ‘how has this experience informed my viewpoint?’. By reflecting on your experiences, you can demonstrate your understanding of the TOK essay question and explain why your view is important.

In addition to reflecting on relevant prior experiences, you should also think about any current research or experiences you can draw upon. If there is an opportunity to conduct interviews or visit a local museum, these activities can be used to support your argument.

It is important to remember that the personal knowledge experiences you choose should not take away from the overall structure of the paper. These experiences should be used to reinforce the points you have made and to supplement your argument. Make sure to check your essay for any grammatical errors or typos and ensure that your points are backed up by logical reasoning.

Ultimately, using personal knowledge experiences in your TOK essay can help to differentiate it from other papers. It is a great way to demonstrate your understanding of the subject and your ability to present evidence to support your views.

Tips on Thinking Critically for TOK Essays

Writing a successful Theory of Knowledge (TOK) essay requires the ability to think critically and develop strong arguments. Critical thinking can be difficult and complex, so here are some tips to help:

  • Gather evidence: Any successful argument needs evidence and facts to back it up. Research your topic thoroughly and make sure you have solid evidence to support your argument.
  • Analyze evidence: Consider the source of the evidence and evaluate it objectively. Does this information support or contradict your argument?
  • Be creative: Think outside the box when constructing your argument. Analyze different perspectives and viewpoints to gain a deeper understanding of your topic.
  • Think logically: Once you have gathered all your evidence, it’s time to build an argument. Structure your argument in a logical way, leading from one point to another.
  • Question assumptions: It is important to be open-minded and question any assumptions you may have about the topic. Reflect and challenge ideas to create an argument with diverse points of view.
  • Anticipate counterclaims: Not all readers will agree with your argument, so be prepared to address objections or counterarguments. Showing how you thoughtfully considered the other perspective demonstrates critical thinking skills.

By following these tips, you will be able to submit a high quality TOK essay with a carefully crafted argument. Remember that clear and logical thinking is essential for a successful essay.

Creating a TOK Essay Outline

Creating an outline for a Theory of Knowledge essay can be challenging, but it will help you make sure your essay is structured clearly and logically. An outline allows you to break down your essay into sections that are easy to understand and follow. This helps to ensure that your essay takes a clear path from the introduction to the conclusion.

When creating your TOK essay outline, there are a few key steps you should take to ensure you are producing an effective outline. The first step is to brainstorm what topics and ideas you want to include in your essay. Once you have identified the topics you want to include in your essay, it is important to determine how they fit together and how you want to present them. This helps you to come up with a basic structure for your essay.

Once you have a structure in place, you should move on to developing more specific subtopics. These topics will form the basis of the main body of your essay, and help you to further develop each point you’re making. This is a crucial step in creating a TOK essay outline, as it helps to ensure that all of your ideas are clearly expressed and logically organized.

The final step in creating your TOK essay outline is to develop an effective thesis statement. This statement will serve as the main focus of your essay, and should encapsulate the main point that you are trying to make. Once you have developed a thesis statement, you will be able to start putting together the outline of your essay in a logical and organized manner.

Creating a TOK essay outline is a great way to ensure your essay is well-structured and logically organized. Following the steps outlined above will help you create an effective outline that ensures your essay is organized in a clear, logical manner.

Using Language Effectively to Support Claims in a TOK Essay

Using language effectively is an important part of crafting a quality Theory of Knowledge (TOK) essay. To ensure that your essays are thought-provoking and well-structured, you should use language to support claims and strengthen arguments.

Recapping Your Key Ideas

When writing a TOK essay, it is important to restate your key points throughout the text. This helps to remind the reader of the main argument and highlights the evidence used to support it. Using simple language to effectively explain the idea again ensures that your ideas are not lost within the essay.

Using Strong Vocabulary

To make sure that your essay stands out, it’s a good idea to use strong vocabulary and varied sentence structures. This can help to emphasize a point and add detail to your essay. However, it is important to be aware of using too much “big” words; using language that is too complex can confuse your reader and obscure the point you are trying to make.

Making Connections

Connecting ideas together is another key element when writing an effective TOK essay. Using language to make connections between concepts, personal knowledge experiences and evidence can help show how each point supports the overall argument.

Making Assumptions Explicit

It is important to remember that the reader may not necessarily be familiar with the same knowledge as you. Making assumptions explicit means that you explain the source of your idea or opinion and why you believe it is valid. This also allows you to explore different perspectives on the topic.

Summarizing Your Argument

In conclusion, you should use language effectively in your TOK essay to ensure that your arguments are clear and concise. Repeating the main points, using strong vocabulary and connecting ideas together will make your argument more compelling. Additionally, making assumptions explicit and summarizing your argument at the end of the essay will help the reader understand and appreciate your unique viewpoint on the topic.

Introduction to TOK Essay Assessment Criteria

Writing a Theory of Knowledge (TOK) essay can be a challenging task for students. It requires careful thought, research, and organization – not only of the facts and arguments but also of the assessment criteria.

In TOK essays, students are assessed on their ability to think analytically and critically. The International Baccalaureate (IB) has developed a set of criteria that are used to evaluate each TOK essay. It’s important for students to have a good understanding of each of these criteria so they know what to focus on when writing their essay.

The Criteria

The TOK essay assessment criteria are split into two categories: C & P (communicate and present) and A & R (argument and reason).

  • Communication and Presentation (C&P): This criterion evaluates a student’s ability to communicate their ideas effectively and demonstrate a clear understanding of the topic. Points awarded for this criteria are based on how well the essay is structured, use of evidence, clarity of language, and strength of argument.
  • Argument and Reasoning (A&R): This criterion assesses a student’s ability to apply logic and rational thinking to their essay. Points awarded for this criterion depend on the student’s capacity to use evidence to support their argument, make well-thought-out conclusions, and reference counterclaims (where relevant).

Advice For Meeting These Criteria

When writing your TOK essay, it is important to follow the criteria carefully and make sure that you address all of the points. Here are some tips to help you do this:

  • Read the question correctly and make sure you understand what it is asking. Analyze the keywords and think about how you can use them in your essay.
  • Research relevant AOKs (Areas of Knowledge) and create an outline to plan your essay. Make sure all of your arguments are supported by logical reasoning, evidence, and examples.
  • If relevant, think of counterclaims and provide effective refutations to them.
  • Write your essay using clear language and organizing your thoughts in a way that is easy to read and understand.
  • Proofread your essay several times and make sure there are no spelling or grammar mistakes.
  • Write a strong conclusion that ties together all of your arguments and summarizes your main points.

By following these steps, you should be able to create an essay that meets the TOK essay assessment criteria and earns you the grade you deserve!

The Role of Counterclaims in a TOK Essay

When attempting to answer a TOK essay question, it is essential that you consider various counterarguments and opposing viewpoints. These counterclaims can help in developing a TOK essay that is well-reasoned, logical and backed up with evidence. Looking at counterclaims can also help to create a balanced argument and give your TOK essay added depth.

Including counterclaims in your TOK essay can help you to assess the strengths and weaknesses of an argument. Through considering opposing points of view, you can develop ideas that are less biased and more convincing. For example, if you are discussing the impact of technology on modern life, perhaps you could argue that technology has had both positive and negative implications for society. This can add an interesting layer to your essay and make it stand out from the crowd.

When introducing counterclaims into your TOK essay, it is important to make sure that your arguments remain impartial. Rather than simply stating that one point of view is wrong, it is better to present both sides of the argument and discuss their merits or drawbacks. It is also a good idea to use evidence or personal experiences to back up your argument.

When addressing counterclaims, be sure to include any opposing opinions on the topic, as well as potential solutions should a conflict arise. For example, if you are discussing a particular ethical dilemma, it is important to present both sides of the argument and explore any potential solutions or proposed compromises.

All in all, considering counterclaims and their potential implications is a vital part of constructing an effective TOK essay. Through engaging with opposing viewpoints and exploring possible solutions, you can produce an argument that is thought-provoking, balanced and convincing.

Summary of key points for crafting a high-scoring TOK essay

To craft a high-scoring Theory of Knowledge essay that is structurally sound, there are a few key points to consider. To begin with, it is important to have an in-depth understanding of the TOK essay structure, as well as its grading criteria. Once you understand the structure and criteria for a TOK essay, you must ensure that your essay includes the appropriate Areas of Knowledge. You should use personal knowledge experiences to answer TOK essay questions and make sure that you think critically when forming arguments.

It is also necessary to form a clear TOK essay outline, as this allows the essay to be structured properly. This means that, when writing the actual essay, it is important to use language effectively to support claims and arguments and also to include counterclaims. Finally, it is essential to meet the TOK assessment criteria set out by the instructor, as these criteria will be used to determine your grade.

In summary, to craft a high-scoring TOK essay that is structurally sound, it is important to understand the TOK essay structure, the grading criteria, and how to use the AOKs within the essay structure. Additionally, using personal knowledge experiences, thinking critically and creating a clear outline can help to ensure that the essay is written correctly. Furthermore, the essay should use correct language, include counterclaims, and meet all assessment criteria.

Nick Radlinsky

Nick Radlinsky

Nick Radlinsky is a devoted educator, marketing specialist, and management expert with more than 15 years of experience in the education sector. After obtaining his business degree in 2016, Nick embarked on a quest to achieve his PhD, driven by his commitment to enhancing education for students worldwide. His vast experience, starting in 2008, has established him as a reputable authority in the field.

Nick's article, featured in Routledge's " Entrepreneurship in Central and Eastern Europe: Development through Internationalization ," highlights his sharp insights and unwavering dedication to advancing the educational landscape. Inspired by his personal motto, "Make education better," Nick's mission is to streamline students' lives and foster efficient learning. His inventive ideas and leadership have contributed to the transformation of numerous educational experiences, distinguishing him as a true innovator in his field.

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How To Write a ToK Essay IBDP – Step-By-Step Guide

  • Created on October 3, 2019
  • Blog , IBDP , Learning Tips

Let’s learn how to write a ToK Essay with Tutopiya. The IB ToK Essay contributes to the overall score of a student’s IB Diploma. The award of points for the IB ToK Essay is in conjunction with the extended essay. A maximum of three points is awarded according to a student’s combined performance in both the TOK and Extended Essay. 

Tutopiya will help and guide our IB Diploma students on the following:

  • How to Start a ToK Essay
  • Cover the ToK Essay Structure
  • How to Write a ToK Essay Conclusion
  • Analysis of a ToK Essay Example 

Choosing Your Essay Title 

Before you can dive into structuring or writing your essay, you will need to spend time to decide on a topic you wish to write on. For the IB ToK Essay, you are required to compare and contrast different ways of knowing through perception, language, reason, emotion with different areas of knowledge (AOK). 

1 – Selecting your prescribed title and knowledge question

Before you hastily decide on a title you wish to write, take some time to read each title carefully on the list and brainstorm ideas. 

Tip #1: Brainstorming

Get some initial ideas you have of each and every title/ question down on paper. Ask yourself some simple questions when brainstorming for each title. 

Am I confident to write an essay about this? Is the question asking what I am thinking? Do I understand the keywords or concepts in the title?

You may not be clear on what the title is asking you to do. Go through the title and highlight any keywords and concepts you are unsure about or may have missed out. 

Do you have a strong interest in the title? We recommend that you should at least be interested since you will be spending time and effort on researching this topic, pick something you are willing to research more about!

Can you relate anything to the title? Though the IB Tok Essay should be as objective as possible, you can always inject the essay with personality and character.

You can always do so by adding in ideas or topics you have learned or studied in class or even personal experiences. 

Tip #2: Understanding the question in your own words

The titles of these essay questions can sometimes be long and difficult to grasp when you first read them so before you write the IB ToK Essay, consider paraphrasing the question in your own words.

You may struggle to understand the keywords and concepts in the title, you may even be unsure about the perspective, comparison and contrast of the title. 

To help our IB students, we recommend breaking down the question/ title by first, understanding the keywords in the title. Then, put the title together and understand what they are asking. 

This way, you will be able to understand the title more in-depth than before and able to answer the title sufficiently. 

Structuring your Essay

1 – knowing the assessment criteria .

Overall Assessment 

2 – Theory of Knowledge Essay 

The rubrics require students to be able to understand the knowledge questions and their quality of analysis of knowledge questions. View the TOK Essay Mark Scheme here .

You will have to choose two Areas of Knowledge (AOK) to explore.

There are 8 different Areas of Knowledge are as follows:

  • Mathematics
  • Natural Sciences
  • Humane Sciences
  • Religious knowledge systems 
  • Indigenous knowledge systems 

You can also use Ways of Knowledge (WOK) in your essay and the are as follows:

  • Sense Perception
  • Reason 
  • Imagination

Analysis of a Sample Essay 

Question: “Doubt is the key to knowledge (Persian Proverb). To what extent is this true in two areas of knowledge?

Important Keywords in the Title 

“To what extent” 

When keywords like this appear, note that you need to present 2 different perspectives to the question, a for and against argument in your essay. 

Paragraph 1: Introduction 

You would provide an explanation and interpretation of the title and identify the key terms in the title. You would also need to state your thesis and explain or identify the areas of knowledge you will be exploring in your essay.

1 – Start the essay by saying something relatable or interesting

By doing that, you can capture the reader’s attention and make them want to read more by evoking a sense of curiosity to find out more about your essay. 

2 – Your Thesis/ Stand

You can also state your thesis (that is different from mainstream ideas – to capture the reader’s attention). You can make the decision to be a for or against stand in your essay. If you decided 

In your own words , give an interpretation of the title and show that you are able to identify the key terms of the question.

“The problem with doubt as the key to knowledge is that doubt isn’t a way of knowing. Doubt is an emotion we feel that motivates us to seek knowledge.” 

3 – Outline of the paragraph

Give the readers an idea of what you will be going through in your body paragraphs , a sentence that gives the readers a preview. Let the readers know which AOKs you will be exploring, making it easier for the examiner to know what to look for. 

“However this motivation can manifest itself differently in contrasting areas of knowledge like Mathematics and Religion.” 

Your introduction should not be too long, use around 150 to 200 words for your first paragraph would be sufficient. 

Paragraph 2: First Area of Knowledge. 

1 – begin your paragraph with a claim or topic sentence.

This helps you to outline your argument about the title. 

“Mathematics is an area of knowledge that is only concerned with reason.” 

2 – Explain and Elaborate

Now, give explain and elaborate on your topic sentence/ claim. 

“In a right-angled triangle a²+b²=c² and that’s it. There are no alternative answers or personal interpretations. An answer to a mathematical problem is either right or wrong. This is because the main way of knowing in math is reason and evidence is required for a mathematical statement to be true or false.” 

3 – Give an example with an explanation

This helps you to further elaborate and explore your topic sentence or claim.

The example you give should be personal, specific, precise and real.

This way you can make your claim believable and relatable in some sense. This also helps to evoke a sense of authenticity in your essay. 

“When we first learned about negative numbers in math class it made no sense to me. How could a bigger number have a lower value than a smaller one? It was illogical and it contradicted all the math I had learned before that day….. Either the previous mathematical information was wrong or the new information about negative numbers were wrong. But he explained the concept of a number line with a central point 0 and that they were both right.”

4 – Linking back

Remember to link back to your claim and the question after you are done exploring this example. 

“My doubt led to understanding and was the key to my knowledge.”

Paragraph 3: Counter

1 – state your counterclaim.

This paragraph would focus on counterclaim . You are supposed to discuss 2 different perspectives to your claim, a for and against. You are to argue against your claim above this paragraph.

“On the other hand, doubt in mathematics can be detrimental to education.”

2 – Give an Example and Explanation

Add in an example and explanation to support your counterclaim. 

“For example, after I do a question from the International Baccalaureate mathematics textbook I always look at the back in order to check if my answers are correct because it has answers in the back. If I do not have the book and I am in class then I ask my mathematics teacher for the correct answer. I do this when I am uncertain of my answer to a question and my doubt allows me to gain knowledge i.e. whether my answer is wrong or right. My doubt also helps me to assess how much of the mathematical concept I have understood by marking myself. However, this can be detrimental to progress because I started to become dependent on the answers at the back of the book or my mathematics teacher. Every time I do a question I feel like I have to verify my answer with an authoritative source which I have now come to understand leaves no room for exploration or the development of my own methods.”

3 – Linking back

Link back to your prescribed title and your claim of this paragraph. 

“My doubt caused a loss of confidence in my mathematical abilities and dependence on authoritative sources.”

Now, follow this format and carry on writing for the next two body paragraphs, exploring on another Area of Knowledge, in this case, this student will have to write one more AOK on Religion and a counterclaim for it. 

Aim to write a maximum of 600 words for each Area of Knowledge (Paragraph 2 and 3, Paragraph 4 and 5). 

Paragraph 4: Second Area of Knowledge

  • Topic Sentence
  • Example + Explanation 

Paragraph 5: Counterclaim 

  • Topic Sentence (Counterclaim)
  • Example + Explanation
  • Link to prescribed title and your initial claim of this Area of Knowledge 

Finally, write your ToK Essay conclusion in one paragraph totalling 200 to 250 words .

Paragraph 6: Your conclusion

Explain the different insights you have gained or have come out of this essay. 

“As illustrated by the example of dependence on authoritative sources in mathematics doubt can be detrimental and cause a loss of confidence. Similarly, doubting conjectures has also proven to be unfruitful. However, within mathematics individual doubt can lead to the acquisition of knowledge.” 

Implications and significance

Tell the readers why it is important to know that and how does it matter that they understand this when you write your IB ToK Essay.

Perspectives and Extension

If you can, try to input a very different perspective on your conclusion. Perhaps recognizing a different way of approaching the question, which could have resulted in different insights. 

You can mention the limitations of your essay saying there are one or two unresolved questions that this essay has revealed. It’s about showing the readers that the conversation is not over yet. And that, there is more to the question and more rooms that you can explore. 

“Furthermore, in areas like religion where we do not yet have the tools to prove it one way or the other simply doubting something by itself is a step towards acquiring knowledge because by suggesting that certain view is not absolute it makes room for new knowledge.”

A Quick Tip for writing a ToK Essay

Tip: try not to use dictionary definitions in your essay.

You want to show the examiners that you are writing a reflective essay, not a textbook definition heavy essay. Don’t rely too much on dictionary definitions to prove your argument or support a counterclaim. This will demonstrate that you did not engage with the topic and bypassed complexities around the topic. 

Instead of using standard answers or cliche examples, you can try to use your own personal experiences to make it original and insightful for your readers. Though the essay should be objective, your essay should still have a personality and character. 

Try Getting Expert’s Help

Tutopiya is a 1-1 Live Online Tutoring for all students aged 8 to 18 years old. Tutopiya offers the IB Diploma Program curriculum to all students, visit our IB curriculum page to find out more about the subjects we teach here. We also have a blog full of useful IB resources for our students, why not read another sample essay for IB TOK ?

Interested to try our online learning with our expert IB tutors? We provide FREE 60 minutes trial lesson to all new students. You can sign up or simply fill up a trial form application here to begin learning with Tutopiya! Come learn how to write a ToK essay with Tutopiya today!

I am currently a full-time student studying at a local university in Singapore while freelancing as a writer. I enjoy writing and sharing useful education-related tips with my fellow studying peers. During my leisure time, I enjoy doing creative arts and volunteering work. I am passionate about sharing my experience as a student! ☺

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Tok Essay samples

Tok essay samples.

Here are a few examples of TOK essay samples from the previous batch. The assessment rubrics have changed though from TOK 2022 .

TOK Essay sample 1

“Areas of knowledge are most useful in combination with each other.” Discuss the claims with reference to two areas of knowledge.

The construction of knowledge remains decontextualized if it remains unwoven through the threads of areas of knowledge (AOK). The combination of AOKs assists in the connotation that it may bring for a better understanding of a concept. Analyzing the concepts and interpreting them in the desired manner requires certain presumptions and subsequent validation. Knowingly or unknowingly, they overlap to be useful.

Whether or not AOKs are ‘most useful’ in combination remains questionable because their unique identities make them worthy independently.

‘Most useful’ illustrates optimum utilization. For example, Mathematics is a study of abstract patterns, and it is often believed that if something cannot be expressed using Mathematics, it has no practical value. Very little or maybe no combination of another AOK could make Math more useful. Math in itself is a standard of certainty and the science of rigorous proof, based on formal systems.

Therefore, one might say that it is used to know the world around us even if studied in isolation instead of a combination. However, there may be various degrees of value addition that an AOK may bring in combination with another.

For instance, Leonardo Da Vinci, a creative genius, used mathematical archetypes very often. M.C. Escher’s puzzle-like work involved shapes, forms, and cemeteries as a contemporary artist to display his creative passion. [1] The work of artists like Antoni Gaudí, Frank Lloyd Wright, and master, Michelangelo, are primary examples of the magic of math and art combined.

While this opinion is relatively valid for Mathematics, it is pragmatic to view other AOKs to understand their use, especially in combination.

Arts and religion are two distinct sets of practices and presentations that narrate experiences. While religion projects spiritual experience, art envisages human existence and constitutive factors that comfort religion, very often but not always. Art can be referred to as the representation of imagination using creativity and technical skills by humans in a diverse range of activities that appreciate beauty and evoke emotive aesthetics. [2] Similarly, religion is the way to deal with ultimate concerns that express relationships with the almighty. Religion, in a broader sense, is the appeal of the community to uplift the spiritual mind. [3]

It is difficult to imagine religion without art because it complements and transforms global cultures and religious values into a tangible record that demonstrates the path of salvation. What we now call art, once depicted religious themes or were religious objects. [4]

The combination of art and religion has been the founding principle to be used together, as they reciprocate each other through a common thread of faith and emotions. The divine connection of humans with the Supreme power is aesthetically reflected and displayed through this duo.

Looking through the history of religion in the west, the use and selection of images for traditions and cultural propaganda have always been professed. Also, in Hinduism, the image of Deity is a symbol of creative aspect, intuitively linguistic for its followers. [5]

The art showcases the attitude which supports the fundamentals of the belief about the respective daemon to be glorified and interpreted. Jewish artists paint humans to even depict prophets, including Moses, however, such artwork is usually not found inside synagogues where the focus is on worshipping God. Additionally, Roman catholic churches also feature decorative elements as a reminder of faith and fulfill the purpose of transpiring it. [6]

The cognitive function of art plays a major role in building faith. Faith usually faces evidentialist challenges and art supports it with conclusive opinions so that there is no burden of proof left. Art not only strengthens the belief by providing evidence but also embeds faith that goes beyond the evidence.

Similarly, the use of the written text of Holy books in artworks is religiously authoritative in western culture and helps in understanding religion better. The work of 80’s artists demonstrates signs and symbols from Christianity or Judaism. [7] It is believed that silence is the language to communicate with God. Many people across the globe are intimately involved in understanding religion through the use of language.

Retiree Anne Evans decided to learn Hebrew as a way to connect with her Jewish heritage after the death of her parents. She feels overwhelmed to recite Passover prayers in the same language which not only her parents but also many Jews from Russia to Afghanistan speak for thousands of years.

Language not only makes religion intellectual but also elevates social heritage meaningful through the transmission of prayers and worship. In fact, learning a language can possibly help to prevent dangerous misinterpretation of holy books. [8]

On the other hand, some might consider arts and religion not as ‘most useful’ in combination because art is recognized as an artist’s experience that empowers their imagination. It is mostly objective while sometimes subjective too. This is because the creative vision is personal knowledge, and connecting art with religion may sometimes involve mutually unagreeable perceptions due to shared opinions.

Religion is very seldom complemented in art. Art has been the source of religious controversies leading to the destruction of ‘art objects’ including the death of its supporters. [9] To state an example, the Taliban destroyed ancient statues in Afghanistan of rich pre-Islamic past due to conflicting ideologies and different use of art. [10]

Art has not proliferated within the likes of producers and consumers of modern artists. Many contemporary artists work today without deep-diving into the religious subject. However, Ana Maria Pacheco often picks religious subjects, including beheading the Baptist, to demonstrate a biblical story that critically dissects political examples of ‘truth to power. She used religion to draw people’s attention by referring it back to the violence generated by ‘colonialism’ and African slavery.

Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia’s status changed from a byzantine Christian cathedral for nine hundred years was stripped off to a mosque, in the 13th century, by religious and political leaders. The artwork demonstrated with Christian icons and luminous did not go well with Islamic ideology as huge black panels embedded with prophet Mohammad and many Muslim caliphs in Arabic calligraphy were installed. [11]

This raises the intolerance that certain religions have towards art and cannot satisfy the cultural appetite for enthusiasts of religious art. Furthermore, Islam prohibits the depiction of Muhammad to discourage any attempts to worship the prophet instead of God. [12]

Generally, there are no human figures in mosques, and the ottomans were not comfortable praying beneath the images of Jesus and Mary. It appeared inappropriate in mosques and was covered with sheets. The artwork created iconophobia in the premodern Islamic world.

Interestingly, faith can be seen through divine sense theory as it gives knowledge in a similar way as sense perception does. Typically, our divine sense enables us to sense the presence of God, as if we sense it as a tangible object. This argument supports and explains that belief through the divine sense acts as a base to be claimed as staunch.

Hence, art and religion, in the wake of modernism are often seen as strangers. [13]

Unfortunately, the conflict between different religious faiths conceals the beauty and the message that artwork reflects, independent of any religion, belief, and emotional commitment. By the end of the 18th century, the influence of religion was diminishing in art, and later, many artists received less attention who focused their artwork on religious themes, including Chagall, Rouault, and Matisse. [14]

Therefore, the combination may not always be considered as ‘most useful’.

The complicated relationship between religion and art needs periodic reassessment as the alteration in the cultures and surroundings largely influences it. While we cannot readjust political and economic influence over art and religion, it is pragmatic to separate the connection between the two sometimes.

The use of images, sculptures, and statues has enabled the belief within many followers. Such physical elements play a strong role in support of religion as it strengthens the connection between the two (follower and almighty). It is often witnessed that artists engage with people of a different faith because they have overlapping interests and concerns.

Sometimes when religion loses its vocabulary and fails to resonate with shared forms of beliefs within the society, art is used to start a conversation. Art helps us to know religion better through the use of language that deeply encompasses religious ideologies. Many across the globe profess that the knowledge of the traditional language is like knowing a religious language. The written text of holy books in artworks also makes the work of religion easy.

Contradictorily, the duo does not complement each other thoroughly. The reflections of change in art and its status have been very often demanded by religion. Faith in such scenarios is portrayed as divinity rather than being dependent on art and related resources.

The spirit of art has little to offer in the absence of the heartland of religion. However, religion offers itself as a spiritual theme to make art well and alive. It would be difficult to convey if art and religion are ‘most useful’ in combination with each other because religion is often used as an obstacle to avoid lessons that may have made belief much stronger.

Conversely, the combination of religion and art cannot be deemed as ‘least useful’ because it is noticed that religion has very little to offer, explain and justify its practices in the absence of art. The usefulness depends on different situations such as culture, time, the stance of the followers, historical relevance, heritage, and above all tolerance within the religion.

Tok Essay Sample 2

Within areas of knowledge, how can we differentiate between change and progress? Answer with reference to two areas of knowledge.

Progress in a concept of improvement from a less to a more desirable situation [15] .  We all interpret progress differently. For example, our desire to have knowledge may force us to make decisions that can help us progress. However, some may question and claim that attaining knowledge is not making progress rather confusing us using methods through which knowledge is attained. Therefore, the journey of progress must attain and fulfill the destination which is known as change.

Progress is a subset of change as change involves becoming something which is radically different. For progress, there must always be a change however change could be regress.

For example, I am reminded of Theory of knowledge essay titles that are released every year. The titles are changed to assist students to develop an epistemological framework however the knowledge which students get after exploring those essay titles is the progression of epistemology level. Sometimes change acts as a catalyst to seek progress.

The differentiation between change and progress is visible to varying degrees in different areas of knowledge. Natural science is supposedly considered progressive with its standardized clear criteria that identify enhancements [16] . However, it has been witnessed that scientific beliefs change over time and how far they can be differentiated with the progress in natural science remains a questionable argument.

However, in human science clouds of doubt erupt as humans continue to live on this planet and gradually try to explore and learn about their own self-proclaimed habits. The untestable claims in human science convey different realms both change and progress as we try to make more sense out of different branches of human science.

The change and progress seem similar and overlapping however this essay envisage and manifests the role of ways of knowing that can best dissect the extent to which they are different. Therefore, to answer the title, the knowledge question, ‘Can explanations and justifications change over a period?’ needs to be explored.

Human science is vividly studied through emotions however emotions are typical feelings that we naturally consult when we make decisions. In the field of management, various motivation theories have been devised using emotions as a fundamental element and source of knowledge.

Across all hierarchies, jobs, positions held, and the nature of work, the most common thing is the everyday work events that ignite emotions and motivation. James Watson and Francis Crick, while attempting to build a DNA model described how making progress in meaningful work elevates emotions and motivation [17] .

Their progress ruled their reactions. The sense of progress is creatively productive and motivating in the long run. In fact, ‘A Surprise for Managers’, survey by Harvard Business Review has linked ‘Progress’ as one of the principles to make managers understand where to focus their efforts [18] . The progress mimics both, the physical expression of the mood and the external body language demonstrated through emotions.

Alternatively, change in human science, with respect to motivation can be attributed to the change which an individual seeks and that is what drives him or her. Change here is a destination which a motivator manifest. The self-determination theory proposes a continuum.

This explains the targeted outcome which is tangible and measurable. These motivation qualities are reflections of behavioral persistence from worse to better. The outcomes can be seen in the change in wellbeing and personal satisfaction [19] .

Note that, in both examples mentioned above, change is something that can only be imagined whereas progress is what you experience every day. Also, both situations contribute immensely in underpinning the personal emotional (happiness, sadness, anger, etc.) and secondary emotions (social emotions).

Primary emotions in motivation can be ascribed to joy and smile when a colleague may praise your work and commitment while secondary emotions could be a presupposition of a degree of self-awareness.

On the other hand, consider the invention of the Philip curve in economics. The static relationship between the inflation and unemployment rate did not change. There have been questionable arguments about the validity of the economic model. The dynamics of the major factors such as wage rate, labor market, bargaining power has changed over a period [20] .

What is worthy of note is the way of knowing used in explaining both the situation in human science, business management, and economics. While emotions matter in describing or assessing the motivation aspect, the reasons are used and implied, mostly, to correlate an economic theory between the two variables.

One might say that the Philips curve is progress of economic as a discipline however the change in its conceptual framework is clearly visible. In fact, many claim that is has died [21] .

In the US, the unemployment rate has been low however it has not benefitted workers in negotiating higher pay [22] . The determinants of the economic model have completely changed in the last many years. The knowledge conveyed earlier cannot be considered reliable and needs explanation and justifications.

Philips applied inductive reasoning that moves from particular to general. The inverse relationship between inflation and unemployment was termed as short-run after generalization from observed to unobserved. When inflation and unemployment both sustained in the UK after 1969, the long-run Philips curve was coined.

Inductive reasoning typically formulates laws in natural science however reliability of it in human science calls for immediate evidence. This is because well-established generalization can change too as we are dealing with uncontrollable variables of human behavior.

Despite the possession of the best characteristics of a good generalization including numbers, variety, and subject area, the mysteries of human science keep the change as a constant thing.

The explanations and justifications in human science are unscientific and therefore they cannot be precisely measured nor objectively observed. The differentiation between change and progress in human sciences is based on predictions and the laws of numbers. Both are progressive and changeable.

[1] https://theartofeducation.edu/2019/01/15/6-ways-to-connect-math-and-art-in-the-elementary-classroom/#:~:text=The%20work%20of%20artists%20like,using%20mathematical%20and%20creative%20skills

[2] https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-arthistory/chapter/what-is-art/

[3] https://www.britannica.com/topic/religion

[4] http://web.sbu.edu/theology/bychkov/art%20religion%20intro.pdf

[5] https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-arthistory/chapter/hindu-art/

[6] https://www.thespectrum.com/story/life/2016/03/26/religious-art-connects-people-god/82277344/

[7] https://www.nytimes.com/1985/04/07/arts/religion-makes-an-impact-as-a-theme-in-today-s-art.html

[8] https://www.theguardian.com/education/2014/nov/10/language-learning-for-religious-reasons

[9] http://web.sbu.edu/theology/bychkov/art%20religion%20intro.pdf

[10] https://www.irishtimes.com/news/taliban-soldiers-demolish-ancient-buddha-statues-1.376336

[11] https://berkleycenter.georgetown.edu/responses/hagia-sophia-s-status-change-threatens-cultural-rights

[12] https://www.thespectrum.com/story/life/2016/03/26/religious-art-connects-people-god/82277344/

[13] https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20140602-does-modern-art-hate-religion

[14] https://www.nytimes.com/1985/04/07/arts/religion-makes-an-impact-as-a-theme-in-today-s-art.html

[15] Progress and knowledge (kmworld.com)

[16] https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/scientific-progress/

[17] https://hbr.org/2011/05/the-power-of-small-wins

[18] https://spinify.com/blog/the-motivating-power-of-progress/

[19] https://journals.lww.com/acsm-healthfitness/fulltext/2009/01000/the_role_of_motivation_in_behavior_change__how_do.6.aspx

[20] https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2015/10/does-the-phillips-curve-need-updating/

[21] https://equitablegrowth.org/the-death-of-the-phillips-curve-is-the-time-to-lift-up-new-economic-indicators/

[22] https://equitablegrowth.org/the-death-of-the-phillips-curve-is-the-time-to-lift-up-new-economic-indicators/

If you like what you read, you might consider reading Tok essay

  • Areas of Knowledge
  • Human Sciences
  • Knowledge and Language
  • Knowledge and Technology
  • Knowledge and the Knower
  • Knowledge Framework
  • Knowledge Questions
  • Mathematics
  • Natural Sciences
  • Optional Themes
  • The Core Theme
  • TOK Concepts
  • TOK Exhibition

TOK exhibition Sample 1

Alexey Popov February 21, 2021 Assessment , TOK Exhibition

examples for tok essay

In this post you will find the first one of our TOK exhibition samples: the written commentary itself as well as a video that gives a step-by-step explanation of the full creation process.

TOK exhibition Sample 1 uses the following approach:

  • Choose the IA prompt
  • Think about one aspect in relation to it
  • Find an object supporting it
  • Link the object to the prompt
  • Depending on how it was linked, choose where to look for the other two objects

The IA prompt that was selected is “Bias is inevitable in the production of knowledge”. The three objects are:

  • the Big K (the prototype kilogram)
  • Casio FX-83GT PLUS calculator
  • Brendan Cole’s article “‘Little Red Riding Hood’ Banned from School over Sexism Concerns” (2019)

Why we are doing this

examples for tok essay

ThemEd’s TOK textbook for the new syllabus

We at Themantic Education think that the best way to support students in making their TOK exhibition is to demonstrate some specific examples – not only the final product, but the full thinking process that went into it. This way students will understand not only where they need to go, but also how to get there.

For this reason we have created several sample TOK exhibitions each using a slightly diff erent approach to selecting the objects.

Each of our sample exhibitions includes the fully written TOK exhibition commentary and a YouTube video that gives a step-by-step explanation of how the exhibition was created. Together they will help your students understand the process thor oughly.

Don’t forget to check out our other TOK exhibition samples! See Thematic Education’s IB TOK playlist on YouTube

(And buy our textbook , it’s awesome and different from all other textbooks)

EXPLAINER VIDEO: The process of creation

WRITTEN COMMENTARY: Is bias inevitable in the production of knowledge?

I will define bias as a systematic deviation. “Systematic” is what makes bias different from an error or a mistake. If we measure something 100 times, we will get slightly different readings each time – this is random error. However, if all our measurements are systematically slanted in one direction – this is bias.  

If we want to show that bias is inevitable in the production of knowledge, we should find examples of knowledge that, by common sense, is most definitely not biased . Then we should try to find elements of bias in this believed-to-be-unbiased knowledge. If we do succeed in finding such elements, we must agree that bias is inevitable. 

This is the Big K, the prototype kilogram. It is a block of platinum-iridium alloy that has been housed at the International Bureau of Weights and Measures in France since 1889. Back then scientists agreed to define a kilogram as the mass equivalent to the mass of this object. All 1 kg weights existing in the world today are copies of copies of copies of copies of this boulder. Scientists have taken great efforts to ensure that the mass of this prototype kilogram does not change. However, despite all precautions, it changed. Since 1889 it has become approximately 50 micrograms lighter – that is the weight of an eyelash (Resnick, 2019).  

This object links to the idea of bias because, since the prototype has become lighter, we are systematically overestimating how much a kilogram is. It is a case of systematic deviation (which, by my definition, is bias). The object also illustrates the idea of inevitability of bias: the Big K has lost some mass due to natural fluctuations of matter, physical laws that are beyond human control. 

This object was included in the exhibition because it demonstrates the idea that even the most precise scientific measurements are done against a standard, but standards themselves may change, and when they do, our new measurements become biased. I tried to find an example of something that is believed to be unbiased, and then I found an element of bias in it.

What are some other examples of knowledge that are typically believed to be free of bias? Mathematical knowledge has this kind of aura around it, especially when it is aided by technology. When we use a calculator, there is no reason to believe that the result of our calculation is biased. So it may seem.

examples for tok essay

This object links to the concept of bias because it is a case of systematic deviation from the truth. It is only this particular model, and this particular problem, that produces a biased result. This object also exemplifies the idea of inevitability of bias. The reason for this error is that pi is infinite, but the calculator’s memory is not. Therefore there is some truncation involved at some point somewhere. It is inevitable because technology cannot have infinite power.

This object has been included in the exhibition because it shows that even in something as certain as mathematics there could be systematic mistakes (biases). Unless we create technology that is infinitely powerful, we cannot recreate the infinite accuracy that is intrinsic in mathematics. Once again, I found something that is widely believed to be unbiased, and then I found an element of bias in it. 

For my third object I am using Brendan Cole’s online article “‘Little Red Riding Hood’ Banned from School over Sexism Concerns” (2019) – this is a screenshot of the article. 

The context behind this is that creating this exhibition has made me think about my own biases. I might have absorbed some cultural biases at an early age. 

As described in the article, a school in Spain has withdrawn from its library 200 classic children’s books including Sleeping Beauty and Little Red Riding Hood, after analyzing them and concluding that they were “toxic” in how they depicted sexist stereotypes. For example, in Sleeping Beauty the man who kisses a sleeping woman without her consent is presented as a hero. No wonder some parents have made the choice to not expose their children to tales like that (Cole, 2019). 

This object exemplifies the idea of bias because it shows how gender bias manifests in units of culture. It also conveys the idea of inevitability because we absorb these units of culture at a very young age when our critical thinking abilities are limited, so the biases may gradually become part of our personality on a deep level without us being aware of it. 

This object has been included in the exhibition because it highlights another reason why bias is inevitable. While my first object (the Big K) shows that bias may be created by fluctuations of physical matter that are beyond our control and my second object shows that bias may be a result of ever imperfect technology, the third object highlights the idea that bias may be a result of cultural transmission at a young age. All three factors are very difficult or even impossible to avoid, which does indeed make bias inevitable. 

Word count: 936 words

References:

Cole, B. (2019, November 4). ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ Banned From School Over Sexism Concerns. Newsweek . Retrieved from: https://www.newsweek.com/little-red-riding-hood-banned-school-over-sexism-concerns-1393134  

Parker, M. [Stand-Up Maths]. (2020, July 17). Why do calculators get this wrong? (We don’t know!) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LKy3lrkTRA

Resnick, B. (2019, May 20). The new kilogram just debuted. It’s a massive achievement. Vox . Retrieved from: https://www.vox.com/science-and-health/2019/5/17/18627757/kilogram-redefined-world-metrology-day-explained

Alexey Popov

Alexey Popov is a teacher of IB Psychology and Theory of Knowledge. He is an IB author, examiner and workshop leader. He also authored Oxford IB Psychology books. He currently lives in Hong Kong.

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IB TOK Exhibition examples

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TOK essay PPF

TOK Home > Free TOK notes > TOK essay guidance > TOK essay PPF

examples for tok essay

Uploading your essay & PPF

Completing and uploading your Presentation Planning Form (PPF) means that you’ve done the hard part of writing your essay, and are nearly at the end of the process.

Check out our short video explainer for the TOK essay; you can find more explainers about other aspects of the course in our TOK explainer playlist .

Writing your TOK essay PPF

The three PPF comments are a record of what you discussed during the three . Your comments will not be assessed directly, but they should be taken seriously! They provide evidence that you have spent time and effort on your essay, and approached it in a systematic, planned way.   We strongly recommend that you write your PPF comments as soon as you have had your interactions with your teacher. This will mean that it will be fresh in your mind, and much easier to records – rather than having to remember what you talked about several months down the line. We also recommend using a platform like  ManageBac  to record your thoughts – this will make your life a lot easier.   Bullet points are perfectly acceptable for your PPF – indeed, this is a clearer way of recording the different points you covered in the interactions than writing full paragraphs. Try to get close to the word limit – it’s 689 characters for each interaction.

TOK essay pages

examples for tok essay

The TOK essay rubric

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

examples for tok essay

Choosing your TOK essay title

Find out how to evaluate the six prescribed essay titles, and decide on which one will work best for you. Read more here .

examples for tok essay

The three TOK essay interactions

Learn about the three interactions with your TOK teacher, and what you should be discussing in each one. Read more here .

examples for tok essay

Writing your TOK essay

Gain a few tips on how to structure your TOK essay, how to articulate your ideas, and ways to justify your claims. Read more here .

Find out about how to fill in the essay PPF, and why this is an important indication of your engagement with TOK. Read more here .

More support for the TOK essay

Make sure that your TOK teacher has given you access to all the documents and online material that support the essay. These include the TOK Subject Guide, the TOK essay rubric, and exemplar TOK essays (found in ‘MyIB’, which is accessible to teachers).   Make sure you go through our other pages on writing the TOK essay. You’ll find help on understanding what the is looking for, that works for you, what each of the should focus on, how to an effective TOK essay, and how to fill in your .   If your school is a  member  of theoryofknowledge.net, we have designed a series of lessons on the essay, with two formative assessment tasks. These will familiarize you with the essay rubric, knowledge questions, real-life situations, how to deal with perspectives and implications, and structuring an essay. If you are signed into the site, you can access these lessons  here .   You can also find out our thoughts on the TOK essay (and the TOK exhibition) 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 TOK essay PPF

Is my ppf marked.

No, but it is a mandatory part of the TOK essay task. Writing a thorough PPF gives a great impression about your essay, and shows that you have followed the right process in planning, structuring, and writing it.

How do I submit my PPF?

You should add your comments to the official TK/PPF form, and upload it with your TOK essay. This is all done on the IB dashboard, which is quite user-friendly. Ask your TOK teacher or DP coordinator to help you if you’re not sure.

examples for tok essay

How to write a TOK essay: webinar

This 80-minute webinar video and presentation gives you a clear, engaging, step-by-step guide to the task, helping you to understand the assessment rubric, choose the right PT, and produce an essay that hits all the assessment targets.

The video is supported by a presentation, and a Q&A debrief answering some of the most common questions asked about writing a TOK essay. Purchase your ticket here .

examples for tok essay

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 !

ToKToday

ToK Essay: Balancing Real World Examples and Theory of Knowledge Analysis

Daniel Trump

  • August 29, 2023
  • Student Support , ToK Essay

I recently reconnected with a friend after a significant amount of time. When he asked about my current endeavors, I shared about the launch of my website and YouTube channel, focusing on Theory of Knowledge (ToK) support. His cheeky response – “Too much RLS not enough ToK?” – inspired this blog post, a critical issue we often encounter when reviewing ToK essays.

The Dilemma of Too Much RLS and Not Enough ToK

RLS stands for Real Life Situation. It refers to real-world contexts or examples, providing the practical side to your ToK essay. ToK, on the other hand, represents the Theory of Knowledge content, which includes the discussion of knowledge acquisition, knowledge construction, methodology, scope, perspectives, and other related concepts.

A drawing of a student writing "I know that I know that I need to write more about knowledge."

In this article, the third of a four-part series on writing ToK essays, we tackle the recurring issue that plagues most ToK essays—too much emphasis on RLS and inadequate focus on ToK content. This imbalance is prevalent in around 80% of ToK drafts that I’ve reviewed, and approximately half of all the ToK essays I evaluated as an examiner were also guilty of this imbalance.

The first criterion in the ToK Essay assessment rubric requires a sustained focus on the essay title. Essays leaning more towards the RLS than ToK content often lack this necessary focus.

Striking the Right Balance Between RLS and ToK Content

You may be wondering how much ToK content should be included relative to RLS content. Although there is no definitive answer—it varies depending on the essay title, knowledge argument, RLS used, writing style, and other factors—there are certain tests we can apply to gauge what RLS content to include and what to exclude.

For each sentence of RLS content, ask yourself these questions:

  • Does this sentence contribute to the knowledge argument I’m making?
  • Does the sentence confirm or evidence the knowledge argument I am making?
  • Is this sentence directly linked to the essay title?

Applying these tests usually results in a rough balance of 80% ToK content and 20% RLS content. There might be exceptions, but generally, the RLS content shouldn’t significantly exceed this guideline.

Applying the Balance: A ToK Essay Example

To better understand this concept, let’s analyse two responses to the knowledge claim: “ Not everything can be explained by AoK The Natural Sciences because scientific explanations are a product of that which is known, and not everything is yet known. “

Let’s look at an excerpt Student A’s essay: The Duck Billed Platypus was first encountered by Europeans in Australia in 1798. The second Governor of New South Wales sent a sketch and pelt to the Natural History Museum in London ( collection founded in the 1750s by Sir Hans Sloane in Bloomsbury London). The biological and natural scientists at the museum were perplexed by the Platypus as it has a beak like a bird, lays eggs like a bird or reptile, feeds milk to its young like a mammal, has fur like a mammal, has venom like a reptile, In his 1802 book, An Account of the English Colony in New South Wales, Colonel David Collins wrote ‘the most extraordinary circumstance observed in its structure was, it having instead of the mouth of an animal, the upper and lower mandibles of a duck.’ Scientists thought the Duck billed Platypus was a hoax as they couldn’t classify it. This shows that not everything can be explained by AoK The Natural Sciences. Student A

Now let’s look at Student B’s Essay:

The claim that scientific knowledge can’t explain everything because scientific explanations are a response to pre-existing knowledge can be illustrated looking at the case of the Duck Billed Platypus. When the platypus was first encountered by Europeans in 1798 its phenotypical characteristics (e.g. it has a bill, lays eggs, produces milk, has venom) prevented it from fitting neatly into any single taxonomic class. The classification system at that time had been developed based on all animals that had been encountered up until that point (pre-existing knowledge). Upon encountering an animal that did not fit the classification system scientists had to create a new order (called Monotremata) that could account for the combination of characteristics of the Platypus. This demonstrates that pre-existing scientific knowledge may not be able to explain everything. However the scientific method enables the scientific framework to adapt to new knowledge, and for that new knowledge to be incorporated into the body of scientific knowledge. Student B

Student A’s essay focuses heavily on the story of the platypus discovery, while Student B’s response emphasizes the limitations of pre-existing scientific knowledge, using the platypus as a reference point.

Student A’s approach falls into the “ too much RLS, not enough ToK ” pitfall. While it provides a captivating narrative, it fails to highlight the knowledge argument or directly answer the essay title. On the contrary, Student B’s essay maintains a stronger balance between RLS and ToK content, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the ToK framework while providing relevant real-world context.

The Takeaway

Ensuring the right balance between RLS and ToK content is pivotal to writing a compelling ToK essay. It allows for a more precise exploration of knowledge issues, steering clear of the all-too-common mistake of overusing real-world examples at the expense of substantial ToK analysis.

ToK Essay Help e-book

For more insights into avoiding common mistakes in ToK essays, check out the blogpost, “ The 3 Most Frequent Mistakes on the ToK Essay “. And for extensive guidance, consider my popular e-book, “How to Write The ToK Essay in 6 Easy Steps” .

Stay tuned for the final post in this series, “How to Get an A in The ToK Essay”, and remember to maintain a fine balance in your essays for a more impactful ToK exploration.

Stay Toktastic, my friends!

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To Kill a Mockingbird Persuasive

This essay about “To Kill a Mockingbird” examines Harper Lee’s timeless masterpiece, highlighting its exploration of themes such as racial injustice, moral integrity, and societal resilience. Through Atticus Finch’s principled defense and Scout’s perspective, the text into the complexities of prejudice and the enduring quest for justice. It underscores the novel’s relevance in today’s world, urging readers to confront systemic oppression and work towards a more equitable future.

How it works

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In a heart, to “kill mockingbird” link one accuses an act racial injustice and corrosions things systematic discrimination hot.

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IMAGES

  1. Tok Essay Example sample, Bookwormlab

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  2. Tok Essay Outline Template

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  3. IB ToK Essay Titles and Topics_ May 2018

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  4. TOK ESSAY INSTRUCTIONS

    examples for tok essay

  5. TOK Annotated Essay

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  6. PPT

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VIDEO

  1. What makes some ToK Essays easier than others ?

  2. ToK Essay 6 May 24: Recent Evidence #shorts #tok #tokessay #ibtok

  3. Ranting about the TOK Essay

  4. TOK May 2024 Essay Title 6

  5. TOK May 2024 Essay Title 1

  6. TOK November 2023 Essay Title 3

COMMENTS

  1. IB TOK Essay examples

    High scoring IB Theory of Knowledge Essay examples. See what past students did and make your TOK Essay perfect by learning from examiner commented examples! ... You can always look through our example Theory of Knowledge coursework below for inspiration. All TOK Essay Examples. Filter. Filter exemplars. IB College. Category. Subject. Type a ...

  2. PDF Sample TOK Essays with Comments and Scores

    and judge TOK essays, and why I understand that the scores awarded were justified. This docu ent cannot be considered to be authoritative in terms of IB standards or judgments. m. You may distribute this document freely, but do not remove this disclaimer. If you use only . sample essay 2, include this disclaimer. Meadowbrook HS Richmond, VA 23234

  3. Example essays

    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.

  4. How To Write A ToK Essay

    Introduce your topic accurately and state your thesis statement for the essay carefully. A thesis statement is like a teaser to your entire essay wherein you define your key terms and introduce your interpretation of the question. Make sure that you do not reword the prescribed title in your thesis. Instead, it needs to, as the word says ...

  5. Planning and structuring the TOK essay

    Check out our three-minute explainer video on the TOK essay here.The video goes over the basics of the TOK essay, such as how it's assessed, the word count and other practical details, terms such as 'perspectives' and 'implications', and the role of real-world examples in justifying claims and arguments.

  6. TOK Essay essentials

    Guide students through this page of TOK Essay essentials before plunging into the planning and writing process using the TOK Essay strategy. ... The Mona Lisa as an art example in a TOK essay is a cliche. Duchamp's 1919 Dadaist version L.H.O.O.Q. is not. The title is an obscene pun in French: Elle a chaud au cul.

  7. Guide to the TOK Essay

    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 ...

  8. How to Structure a Theory of Knowledge Essay

    Paragraph 1. - Say one or two interesting things about the prescribed title question. This shows us, right away that you know what the question is asking. - Define one or two of the key terms in the title. Get definitions for all of the main words in your title. You don't need to include all of them in your essay, but it's useful to see how ...

  9. TOK Essay strategy

    CLASS ACTIVITY V: Using the TOK Framework to refine your essay planning. So far we have unpacked the specific language in the prompt, revisited the sub-domains of the five Areas of Knowledge, and acknowledged the importance of justifying your knowledge claims with non-generic, real-world examples.

  10. How to Write a TOK Essay: 15 Steps (with Pictures)

    Download Article. 1. Use your essay outline as a guide. Focus on expanding each section of your outline, keeping in mind the 1200-1600 word limit for the essay. Your introduction and your conclusion should be the shortest paragraphs in your essay, and the body paragraphs should be the longer sections of your essay.

  11. IB TOK Essay Structure in Detail

    A well-structured TOK essay should be composed of four parts: an introduction, the body, a conclusion and a bibliography. In the introduction, you should define TOK and explain how it forms part of the IB curriculum. The body should include arguments and justifications with evidence from multiple AOKs.

  12. Theory of knowledge

    Learn more about theory of knowledge. You can also find examples of TOK essay titles and read about how the IB sets deadlines for TOK. You may also be interested in the other components of the DP core: creativity, activity, service (CAS) and the extended essay. Learn more about TOK in a DP workshop for teachers.

  13. Mastering ToK Essay Structure: A Comprehensive Guide

    Real World Examples: Illustrate your knowledge arguments with real-world examples, which may also include evaluation points. ... For a more detailed exploration, refer to my e-book, "How to Write the ToK Essay in 6 Easy Steps" linked here. Common ToK Essay Structure. A widely used structure, found in about 75-80% of ToK Essays, looks like ...

  14. TOK essay guidance

    10 TOK essay starting points. 1 The TOK essay is an individual task. 2 It represents two thirds of the overall mark for TOK. 3 It is externally marked. 4 You choose your title from a list of six prescribed titles, which change every exam session. 5 The word count for the essay is 1600 words.

  15. How To Write a ToK Essay IBDP

    A maximum of three points is awarded according to a student's combined performance in both the TOK and Extended Essay. Tutopiya will help and guide our IB Diploma students on the following: Learn how to write a IB ToK Essay with our step-by-step guide. The guide helps you with the ToK Essay Structure as well as a ToK Essay Analysis Example.

  16. TOK Examples To Include In Your TOK Essay

    By incorporating my own TOK example into the essay, I am able to add a personal flair into my essay and craft a real-life situation which nobody else will ever have. Type 2: Examples Taken from Academic Websites . These are the common types of examples you see your peers or other students writing. They are often Googled, lifted, and paraphrased ...

  17. Tok Essay samples

    Here are a few examples of TOK essay samples from the previous batch. The assessment rubrics have changed though from TOK 2022. TOK Essay sample 1. "Areas of knowledge are most useful in combination with each other.". Discuss the claims with reference to two areas of knowledge. The construction of knowledge remains decontextualized if it ...

  18. TOK exhibition Sample 1

    TOK exhibition Sample 1 uses the following approach: Choose the IA prompt. Think about one aspect in relation to it. Find an object supporting it. Link the object to the prompt. Depending on how it was linked, choose where to look for the other two objects. The IA prompt that was selected is "Bias is inevitable in the production of knowledge".

  19. IB TOK Exhibition examples

    High scoring IB Theory of Knowledge Exhibition examples. See what past students did and make your TOK Exhibition perfect by learning from examiner commented examples! Exemplars. Review. ... Theory of Knowledge : TOK Exhibition Written Commentary. 'Can new knowledge change established values or beliefs .

  20. Writing & uploading the TOK essay

    Check out our three-minute explainer video on the TOK essay here. The video goes over the basics of the TOK essay, such as how it's assessed, the word count and other practical details, terms such as 'perspectives' and 'implications', and the role of real-world examples in justifying claims and arguments. You'll find more videos on ...

  21. TOK essay PPF

    Uploading your essay & PPF. Completing and uploading your Presentation Planning Form (PPF) means that you've done the hard part of writing your essay, and are nearly at the end of the process. Check out our short video explainer for the TOK essay; you can find more explainers about other aspects of the course in our TOK explainer playlist.

  22. ToK Essay: Balancing Real World Examples and Theory of Knowledge

    Ensuring the right balance between RLS and ToK content is pivotal to writing a compelling ToK essay. It allows for a more precise exploration of knowledge issues, steering clear of the all-too-common mistake of overusing real-world examples at the expense of substantial ToK analysis. For more insights into avoiding common mistakes in ToK essays ...

  23. Examples to Avoid in ToK Essays

    Bloodletting as an example of an obsolete practice in medical science. 7. The value of the Enigma code and the work of Alan Turing. 8. Alchemy as the necessary precursor to modern chemistry. 9. Pablo Picasso and Guernica. 10. Vincent van Gogh and Starry Night.

  24. To Kill A Mockingbird Persuasive

    Essay Example: Winy opus magnum defence harp, to "kill mockingbird," is a masterpiece, that outstrips time and literary place, weaves a tapestry themes and characters, that ring deeply with readers through insuperable generations profonds. Place despite basis American midday dans-chargé. Writing Service;