history ia research question examples

IB History IA: 60 Examples and Guidance

Charles Whitehouse

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme program offers a variety of assessments for students, including Internal Assessments (IAs), which are pieces of coursework marked by students’ teachers. The History Internal Assessment (IA) is an essential component of the course and accounts for 20% of the final grade for Higher Level students and 25% for Standard Level students - although it is the same task for both levels.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the IB History IA, including the structure, assessment criteria, and some tips for success.

What is the History IA?

The History IA is a historical investigation into a subject of the student’s choosing. History tutors suggest that it should be a maximum of 2,200 words, split between 3 separate sections.

Section 1 (suggested 500 words) - 6 marks In this section, you will critically analyse two key sources that are relevant to your research question. You must:

• Clearly state the research question you have chosen to investigate, phrased as a question.
• Provide a brief explanation of the nature of the two sources you have selected for detailed analysis, including how they are relevant to your investigation.
• Analyze the two sources in detail, considering their origins, purpose, and content. You should evaluate the value and limitations of the sources in relation to your research question.

Section 2 (suggested: 1,300 words) - 15 marks

In this section, you will conduct the actual investigation into your research question. The internal assessment task allows for a wide variety of historical investigations , such as:

• a historical topic or theme using written sources or a variety of sources
• a historical topic based on fieldwork, for example, a museum, archeological site, battlefields, places of worship such as mosques or churches, historical buildings
• a historical problem using documents (this could include newspapers)
• a local history study
• a historical study based on oral interviews
• a historical investigation based on interpreting a novel, film or work of art
• a historical investigation of cultural issues.

The investigation should be well-organised and clearly focused on the research question. While there is no specific format required, it should include critical analysis and a conclusion drawn from the analysis. You should use a variety of evidence to support your argument, including primary and secondary sources .

Section 3 (suggested: 400 words) - 4 marks In this section, you will reflect on the methods you used and challenges you faced during your investigation. You should relate your reflection specifically to your investigation and your experience as a historian, and then think more widely about how knowledge is produced in the discipline of history.

The IB suggests following these questions to inspire your reflection:

• What methods used by historians did you use in your investigation?
• What did your investigation highlight to you about the limitations of those methods?
• What are the challenges facing the historian? How do they differ from the challenges facing a scientist or a mathematician?
• What challenges in particular does archive-based history present?
• How can the reliability of sources be evaluated?
• What is the difference between bias and selection?
• What constitutes a historical event?
• Who decides which events are historically significant?
• Is it possible to describe historical events in an unbiased way?
• What is the role of the historian?
• Should terms such as “atrocity” be used when writing about history, or should value judgments be avoided?
• If it is difficult to establish proof in history, does that mean that all versions are equally acceptable?

Even A-Level tutors who specialise in A-Level History recognise the value of the History IA, appreciating its benefits and say that it should be a part of the A-Level curriculum as well to promote better learning.

Have a look at our comprehensive set of IB History Study Notes , IB History Past Papers and IB History Questions , developed by expert IB teachers and examiners!

What should I write my IA about?

It is important to note that formulating an appropriate research question is a crucial aspect of this section, which is why many students get the help of an IB History tutor to help witht the subject or even an IB English tutor to improve their essay writing skills. The six key concepts of the history course (causation, consequence, continuity, change, significance, and perspectives) can be a useful starting point for developing your research question.

Your IA can focus on something you’ve learnt about in class or develop a personal historical interest. It is best to choose a topic that you are familiar with and that you can easily access sources about.

Here are over 60 examples of potential questions and investigations compiled by IB tutors which could inspire your History IA, depending on the historical topics which you are familiar with and interested in:

1 - How justified was appeasement as a policy in the 1930s? 2 - How influential was nationalism in Germany before 1848? 3 - How decisive was Bismarck’s role in German unification? 4 - How far did the financial crisis of 1789 cause the French Revolution? 5 - How successful was the League of Nations in the 1920s? 6 - How far was the League of Nations a humanitarian success? 7 - Were technological developments the most important factor in determining the outcome of WW2? 8 - To what extent did the legal rights of women improve in Britain, 1860-1900? 9 - How central was education to Nazi Germany? 10 - To what extent can Nixon’s Vietnamization policy be considered a success? 11 - How important was the Yalta conference to the start of the Cold War? 12 - Investigating the impact of the Industrial Revolution on working-class living conditions in a specific country. 13 - How did the Cold War shape foreign policy decisions in a specific country? 14 - Can the impact of the American Civil War on slavery and race relations be analyzed using primary sources? 15 - Investigating the social and economic impacts of colonialism on a specific region or country. 16 - How did World War I shape the geopolitical landscape of Europe in the 20th century? 17 - Can the impact of the Vietnam War on American society be analyzed using popular culture as primary sources? 18 - Investigating the impact of the Russian Revolution on the formation of the Soviet Union. 19 - How did the Women's Suffrage Movement impact political participation and representation in a specific country? 20 - Can the impact of the Civil Rights Movement on race relations in America be analyzed using primary sources? 21 - Investigating the impact of the Great Depression on political and economic policies in a specific country. 22 - How did the Renaissance shape art, literature, and intellectual thought in Europe? 23 - Can the impact of the Holocaust on Jewish communities and survivors be analyzed using primary sources? 24 - Investigating the social and cultural impacts of the Harlem Renaissance on African American communities. 25 - How did the Space Race shape scientific exploration and international relations during the Cold War? 26 - Can the impact of the Chinese Cultural Revolution on Chinese society and politics be analyzed using primary sources? 27 - Investigating the impact of the French Revolution on European politics and society in the 19th century. 28 - How did the Arab-Israeli conflict shape Middle Eastern politics and international relations? 29 - Can the impact of the Cuban Missile Crisis on US foreign policy and Cold War tensions be analyzed using primary sources? 30 - Investigating the impact of the Protestant Reformation on religious and political institutions in Europe. 31 - How did the Civil Rights Movement impact political and social changes in a specific country? 32 - Can the impact of the Spanish Inquisition on Spanish society and politics be analyzed using primary sources? 33 - Investigating the social and political impacts of the British Empire on colonized countries and regions. 34 - How did the Enlightenment shape intellectual thought and political institutions in Europe? 35 - Can the impact of the Indian Independence Movement on Indian society and politics be analyzed using primary sources? 36 - Investigating the impact of the Transatlantic Slave Trade on African communities and diaspora. 37 - How did the American Revolution shape American politics and identity in the 19th and 20th centuries? 38 - Can the impact of the Rwandan Genocide on Rwandan society and politics be analyzed using primary sources? 39 - Investigating the social and cultural impacts of the Civil Rights Movement on African American communities in a specific country. 40 - How did the rise of Nazism and Fascism shape European politics and international relations before World War II? 41 - Can the impact of the Haitian Revolution on Caribbean society and politics be analyzed using primary sources? 42 - Analyzing the causes and consequences of the American Civil Rights Movement. 43 - Investigating the impact of colonization on the culture and society of indigenous peoples. 44 - Examining the role of women in the suffrage movement and the fight for equal rights. 45 - Analyzing the causes and effects of the Cuban Revolution on Cuban society and politics. 46 - Investigating the impact of the Renaissance on art, science, and humanism. 47 - Examining the role of nationalism in the unification of Italy and Germany in the 19th century. 48 - Analyzing the causes and effects of the Industrial Revolution on society and the economy. 49 - Investigating the impact of the French Revolution on the rise of democracy and liberalism. 50 - Examining the role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War II. 51 - Analyzing the causes and effects of the Cold War on global politics and international relations. 52 - Investigating the impact of imperialism on the economy and society of colonial powers and colonies. 53 - Analyzing the causes and effects of the Black Death on medieval Europe. 54 - Investigating the impact of the Enlightenment on political thought and revolution. 55 - Examining the role of human rights activism in the struggle for social justice and equality. 56 - Analyzing the causes and effects of the Mexican Revolution on Mexican society and politics. 57 - Investigating the impact of the Mongol Empire on Eurasian trade and cultural exchange. 58 - Examining the role of slavery in the development of the Atlantic economy and global trade. 59 - Analyzing the causes and effects of the Russian Revolution on Russian society and politics. 60 - Investigating the impact of the Transatlantic Slave Trade on African societies and cultures. 61 - Examining the role of protest and civil disobedience in social and political change. 62 - Analyzing the causes and effects of the Protestant Reformation on European society and religion. 63 - Investigating the impact of the Silk Road on trade and cultural exchange in Eurasia. 64 - Examining the role of ideology in the rise of totalitarian regimes in the 20th century. 65 - Analyzing the causes and effects of the Spanish-American War on Spanish and American society and politics. 66 - Investigating the impact of the Crusades on European and Middle Eastern societies and cultures. 67 - Examining the role of technology in warfare and military strategy throughout history. 68 - Analyzing the causes and effects of the Partition of India on South Asian society and politics. 69 - Investigating the impact of the Age of Exploration on global trade and cultural exchange. 70 - Examining the role of revolutions in the development of modern nation-states and democracy.

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What are the assessment criteria?

Before starting the IA, you should remind yourself of the marking criteria from the IB. Paying close attention to hitting each criterion will allow you to maximise your score.

Criterion A: Identification and evaluation of sources (6 marks)

To score highly, the student should:

• Clearly state their research question
• Identify and select relevant sources
• Clearly explain how the sources relate to the research question
• Perform a thorough analysis and evaluation of the two sources
• Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the sources in relation to the research question, specifically considering the sources' origins, purpose, and content

Criterion B: Investigation (15 marks) The investigation should:

• Be clear, coherent and effectively organized
• Contain well-developed critical analysis that is focused clearly on the stated question
• Use evidence from a range of sources effectively to support the argument
• Evaluate different perspective
• Argue to a reasoned conclusion that is consistent with the evidence and arguments provided

Criterion C: Reflection (4 marks)

The reflection should:

• Be clearly focused on what the investigation highlighted to the student about the methods used by the historian
• Demonstrate clear awareness of challenges facing the historian and/or limitations of the methods used by the historian
• Clearly connect the reflection to the rest of the investigation

What sources should I use for Section 1?

You could use primary or secondary sources for Section 1. Primary sources provide a first-hand account of an event or time period. Secondary sources are interpretations and analyses based on primary sources.

The important things to consider are that the sources directly relate to your research question and give you interesting things to analyse for their values and limitations. For example, it may be useful to choose a primary source from someone who had a vested interest in depicting a certain version of a historical event. You should then reference the sources you choose for Section 1 in your Section 2 investigation. Once you have chosen your sources, you need to explicitly analyse the values and limitations of each source, for each of: origin, purpose, and content. This can be effectively structured in two paragraphs from each source: one for values and one for limitations.

How is the IA graded?

It is graded by the student’s teacher, who is trained and certified by the International Baccalaureate organization. The report is then sent to a moderator, who will check that the report adheres to the IB guidelines and that the grade awarded is appropriate.

Source: IB History HL Subject Brief

In conclusion, to do well in the IB History Internal Assessment (IA), it is essential to develop a strong research question that is focused on a historical issue or problem. Selecting appropriate and relevant sources, conducting a thorough analysis, writing a clear and well-structured conclusion, and providing a reflective statement on the research process are all critical components of a high-scoring IA. Additionally, it is important to follow the guidelines and formatting instructions, review, edit and proofread the IA multiple times, and seek feedback from your school teacher or tutor. By using resources like IB History Q&A Revision Notes , students can enhance their preparation. By following these guidelines and approaches, students can ensure that their IA is well-researched, well-written, and effectively communicates their understanding of the historical issue or problem.

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Written by: Charles Whitehouse

Charles scored 45/45 on the International Baccalaureate and has six years' experience tutoring IB and IGCSE students and advising them with their university applications. He studied a double integrated Masters at Magdalen College Oxford and has worked as a research scientist and strategy consultant.

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Unleashing Your Potential: Choosing a History IA Topic

Greetings, future historians! As intrepid explorers of the human experience, we aim to excavate the past, retracing the footprints of those who shaped the course of history. Selecting a gripping and insightful history Internal Assessment (IA), topic is your initial stride into this riveting voyage.

Table of content

The Importance of History Learning

Embracing the study of history bestows us with a profound and nuanced grasp of bygone eras, enabling us to comprehend the intricate tapestry of the present and foresee potential future trajectories. It refines our capacity to debate effectively, probe critically, and acknowledge the spectrum of human experiences and perspectives.

History is more than a chronology of events; it’s a saga of humanity, a chronicle of victories and defeats, dreams and disillusionments. It provides the prism through which we interpret societal infrastructures and cultural ethos. History instills in us the values of empathy, justice, and tenacity.

Venturing into the History IA Topic

Choosing your history IA topic is a fusion of excitement and challenge. It should enthrall you, be of a manageable scope, and allow an intricate exploration of primary and secondary sources. A compelling IA topic not only piques your interest but also sets the stage for the research journey that lies ahead.

Here are 73 potential history IA topic examples, each presenting a unique dive into historical events and perspectives:

• The Domino Effect: Reassessing the Cuban Missile Crisis on East-West Diplomacy
• Post-WWI Surge of Nationalism in India: An In-Depth Study
• Unsung Heroines: An Examination of Women’s Role in the American Civil Rights Movement
• China’s Cultural Revolution: Probing Its Causes and Consequences
• The Ripple Effects of the French Revolution: A Case Study of the Haitian Revolution
• The American Dream: An Analysis of the Great Migration
• The Holocaust: Dissecting the Psychology of the Perpetrators
• Evaluating the Suffragette Movement: Progress or Provocation?
• Winston Churchill’s Iron Curtain Speech: A Tipping Point in the Cold War
• Decoding the Emancipation Proclamation: A Beacon of Hope or a Political Stratagem?
• The Bubonic Plague: An Examination of Its Social and Economic Impact on Europe
• The Battle of Waterloo: A Turning Point in European History
• The Viking Age: Assessing Its Impact on Medieval Europe
• The Korean War: Analyzing American Involvement and Its Implications
• The Fall of the Berlin Wall: Its Symbolic and Political Significance
• The Spanish Inquisition: A Deep Dive into Its Causes and Outcomes
• Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire: A Comprehensive Analysis
• The Bolshevik Revolution: Scrutinizing Its Causes and Effects
• The Armenian Genocide: Unraveling the Truth Behind the Tragedy
• Colonialism and Its Impact on Indigenous Cultures: A Case Study of Australia
• The Role of Propaganda in World War I
• Mahatma Gandhi’s Non-Violent Resistance: An Examination of Its Efficacy
• The Partition of India and Pakistan: A Study of Its Causes and Aftermath
• The Irish Potato Famine: Assessing British Policies and Their Impact
• Japanese Internment During WWII: A Dark Chapter in American History
• The Zulu War: Examining Its Impact on South African History
• The Crusades: A Critical Analysis of Their Impact on East-West Relations
• Slavery in Ancient Greece: An Examination of Its Socio-Economic Role
• The French Revolution: Scrutinizing the Role of the Philosophes
• Napoleon Bonaparte: Hero or Tyrant?
• The Impact of the Gutenberg Press on the Protestant Reformation
• The Golden Age of Piracy: Myth Versus Reality
• Industrial Revolution: Its Impact on Society and the Economy
• The Great Depression: Analyzing Its Global Impact
• Apartheid in South Africa: Its Causes and Effects
• The Tet Offensive: Its Impact on the Vietnam War
• The Age of Exploration: Examining Its Impact on Indigenous Societies
• The Russian Revolution: Scrutinizing Its Causes and Consequences
• The Reformation: Assessing Its Impact on European Society
• The Trail of Tears: A Dark Chapter in Native American History
• The Scramble for Africa: Evaluating Its Impact on the African Continent
• The Suez Crisis: Assessing Its Impact on the Middle East
• The Salem Witch Trials: Analyzing Its Social and Cultural Impact
• The Opium Wars: Their Impact on Sino-British Relations
• The Age of Enlightenment: Its Impact on the Modern World
• The Bay of Pigs Invasion: An Analysis of Its Failure
• The Hundred Years’ War: A Study of Its Causes and Outcomes
• The American Civil War: Evaluating Its Impact on Race Relations
• The Cultural Impact of the Harlem Renaissance
• The Fall of the Ottoman Empire: A Comprehensive Analysis
• The Space Race: Its Impact on US-Soviet Relations
• The Reign of Queen Elizabeth I: A Golden Age?
• The Cuban Revolution: Evaluating Its Impact on Cuba’s Economy
• The Yalta Conference: Its Impact on Post-WWII Europe
• The Mexican-American War: Assessing Its Causes and Consequences
• The Punic Wars: An Examination of Their Impact on Rome and Carthage
• The Mau Mau Uprising: A Study of Its Impact on Kenya’s Independence
• The Influence of the Renaissance on Modern European Art
• The Rape of Nanking: A Critical Analysis
• The Formation of NATO: Its Impact on Global Politics
• The Black Death: Its Impact on Medieval Europe
• The Stonewall Riots: Evaluating Its Role in the LGBTQ+ Movement
• The Meiji Restoration: Its Impact on Japan’s Modernization
• The Conquest of the Aztec Empire: A Study of Its Causes and Consequences
• The Mongol Conquests: Assessing Their Impact on Eurasia
• The Tiananmen Square Massacre: Its Impact on China’s Politics
• The Formation of Israel: Evaluating Its Impact on Middle Eastern Politics
• The Reign of Terror: An Analysis of Its Causes and Effects
• The Troubles in Northern Ireland: A Comprehensive Study
• The Conquest of the Inca Empire: Its Impact on Peru
• The Iranian Revolution: Evaluating Its Impact on Iran’s Politics
• The War of 1812: Assessing Its Impact on American-Canadian Relations
• The Unification of Italy: Its Impact on Modern Italian Society

These topics provide a vast scope to explore various periods, events, and themes. Remember, the goal is not to recount history but to interpret it, shedding light on its complexity and relativity.

Developing Your Research

Upon selecting your history IA topic, you set sail on the sea of research. This expedition comprises three crucial waypoints:

Primary and Secondary Sources: Leverage these to reinforce your propositions. Primary sources offer unmediated accounts, while secondary sources present scholarly critique and interpretation.

Historiographical Analysis: Comprehending and analyzing the perspectives of other historians adds depth to your examination.

Research Question: Crafting a lucid, precise research question is critical. It acts as your compass, guiding your investigation and helping to retain focus.

Crafting Your IA

The efficacy of your IA lies not only in the substance but also in the presentation. A compelling structure and engaging prose are paramount. Remember to frame short and punchy sentences, employ an active voice, and ensure a logical narrative arc.

Consider these steps:

Introduction: This should adeptly introduce your topic and research question.

Investigation: This section should present your research, balancing source analysis and historical context.

Reflection: Reflect on your chosen methodologies, discussing their virtues and limitations.

Embarking on your history in IA is akin to undertaking a thrilling time-traveling escapade. This quest doesn’t merely introduce you to an event or a period; it instills invaluable investigation, argumentation, analysis, and presentation skills. These are competencies that extend beyond academia, enriching your future endeavors.

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Use These Tested Methods and Strategies to Excel in Your IB History IA .

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25 History IA Topic Ideas!

Are you about to start your History internal assessment? We know the struggle. One of the most difficult parts about the task is finding a good History IA topic because it feels like you can just write about anything. The IB breaks it down into 7 main different types of topics that you can choose, though.

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• a historical topic or theme using written sources or a variety of sources
• a historical topic based on fieldwork, for example, a museum, archeological site, battlefields, places of worship such as mosques or churches, historic buildings
• a historical problem using documents (this could include newspapers)
• a local history study
• a historical study based on oral interviews
• a historical investigation based on interpreting a novel, film or work of art
• a historical investigation of cultural issues.

If this doesn’t spark any ideas, check out the list below that the IB publishes about how to go about finding your History IA Topic! Try going through this 12-point checklist.

• Start by identifying a general area of interest.
• Narrow it down to a specific question or area of investigation.
• Choose a working title that may be changed or refined at a later stage.
• Make sure sufficient resources can be obtained for the planned investigation. (See: The Research Process)
• Read widely around the area of study and note down resources used.
• Review the research question and refine it if necessary.
• Take notes from resources, gathering evidence and diverse opinions.
• Ensure accurate use of referencing.
• Sort evidence thematically or chronologically.
• Choose two suitable sources to evaluate in section 1.
• Review your analysis. Check for differing viewpoints where appropriate.
• Write the investigation, according to IB guidelines.

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Still struggling? Well, this is what you came for… a list of 25 great History IA Topic ideas that have scored well in the past!

NOTE: These topics are purely meant as inspiration and are not to be chosen blindly. Even though many of these topics led to high scores for some of our graduates in the past, it is important that you listen to the advice of your subject teacher before choosing any topic!

• Look at the impact of Marxism or nationalism in Europe after the 1850s. 
• Assess the role of Piedmont-Sardinia in the Italian unification between 1850 and 1861. 
• Assess the pros and cons of the Napoleon III domestic policies, and how they succeeded or failed. 
• Analyse Richard Attenborough’s esteemed film Gandhi
• How did the roles of Lenin and Trotsky differ in the development of the USSR between 1918 and 1924. 
• Look at the impact of the EU in the after 1950s. Narrow it down to a specific decade, country, or relationship between specific countries. 
• Why did communist countries in Eastern Europe fall in the late 1980s?
• Is the art of George Grosz useful to the historian of Weimar Germany? 
• Look at the construction of a holy site such as a church or temple and how that affected the town it was located in.
• How did Chinese communists use Chinese opera as propaganda, or to promote specific ideologies, during the Cultural Revolution?
• Investigate the guild system in Norwich and how it affected the development of the city.
• How did the New Deal’s Farm Security Administration use pictures as propaganda to further its programmes? 
• To what extent is Portuguese exploration inspired by the work of Henry the Navigator?
• Look at the early 19th century in Austria and how it was a period of dramatic change.
• To what extent can Nixon’s Vietnamization policy be considered a success?
• Did collective security become a victim of economic problems in the inter-war years?
• Examine David Low’s political cartoons. Did they properly show the general opinion of the public in Britain in the lead-up to WWII? Why or why not?
• Choose a film like The Charge of the Light Brigade or its corresponding book and analyze the stances taken in that artform.
• How did the Amadeus film portray the illness and death of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart?
• Was Hitler’s “euthanasia” policy distinctively Nazi? 
• Examine the role of the Berlin Wall during the Cold War. Was it purely built to limit the freedom of East Germany or did it have a secondary purpose?
• Examine the crossing of Luding Bridge in 1935 and the impact it had at the time.
• Deep-dive into the Rwandan Genocide. Analyze the causes, underlying tensions, or the build-up of the country post-genocide.
• Look at the Boston Massacre in 1776 and what the reasons were for the event.
• Look at a town that was bombed during WWII (Guernica, Dresden, or other) and explore the reasons behind the bombing as well as the impact on the citizens at the time, and the continued effect of it today.

There you have it! 25 topics that we think could form the foundation of a pretty good History IA. Remember that in order to get into the top marks of the IA you’ll have to take these topics, scrutinize them, make them your own, and consider if you think you can write a good paper on them. Although a good topic makes a big difference, the bulk of your score will naturally come from your research and writing, not just choosing an interesting topic! 

5 Tips on How to Simplify Your IA

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Master Your IB History Internal Assessment: Expert Tips and Tools for Success

Stuff that happened in the past shouldn't be that daunting, right? However, the IB History Internal Assessment can feel overwhelming at the outset. Especially because it makes up a substantial portion of your grade.

But don't look at the History IA as a challenge to overcome. Instead, consider it an adventure you get to embark on as you dive into a subject you love in a personal and engaging way. Not only does it teach you essential skills like organization and time management, but it challenges you to think, analyze, and find something that links you to the past.

We know that the History IA is a lot, but in this guide, we'll give you insider tips and expert tricks to master your History IA without the stress.

The History IA: Bringing History to Life

The International Baccalaureate History Internal Assessment (IA) is a 2,200-word historical investigation. It counts for 20% of your final grade if you're a Higher Level student and 25% if you're Standard Level. It is the opportunity to explore an area of history you find fascinating or have a personal connection with.

Broken into three sections, the History IA has clear guidelines to help you excel.

• Focuses on the identification and evaluation of your sources
• You have to critically analyze two key sources
• Includes your research question
• The investigation portion of the assessment
• Includes a variety of sources and evidence
• You should answer your research question in this section
• Opportunity for you to reflect on your methods, challenges, and struggles encountered by other historians

The History IA allows you to personalize your learning and get you thinking like a historian. The IB History Diploma Program focuses on the political, economic, social, and cultural spheres, offering plenty of variation in topic choices.

The skills you learn completing an History IA can also help you navigate ToK hurdles and IA’s in other subjects like Math .

Your Topic is Everything

The topic you choose for your History IA is vitally important. You want a topic that you genuinely find exciting but also one with plenty of quality evidence.

The history course covers six key concepts to help you choose a topic.

• Consequence
• Significance
• Perspective

Remember, this is a historical investigation, so the event you are investigating can't have happened in the last ten years.

Most History IA's fall into one of three categories:

• An investigation of a historical theme, person, or event
• An investigation based on fieldwork or a historic building/site
• An investigation of a local history

Your research question should be researchable, focused, and engaging. The History IA is an academic piece of writing that should be unbiased and offer a thorough analysis. A clear research topic can keep you on the right track.

Pro Topic Tip : Consider choosing a topic based on a local place you are familiar with or have easy access to. Local history offers you a wider variety of sources, particularly primary source options. You will also have access to museums and historical sites. Choosing a local topic will help you narrow the scope of your investigation. Remember, you only have 1300 words to answer your research question .

Research, Analyze, Cite, Repeat

Answering your research question is all about, you guessed it, research. Your evidence should be clear and relevant and lead you to an evidence-based conclusion that responds to your research question.

Using primary and secondary sources is the best way to comprehensively cover your topic and gather evidence for your argument.

Primary Sources

• Original documents and artifacts from a period or place
• Firsthand perspectives and accounts

Secondary Sources

• Analyses of primary sources by industry experts

There are four key factors to consider when looking at sources.

• Origins . Where did the source come from?
• Purpose . Why was the source created?
• Content . What information does the source contain?
• Limitations . Is there anything that makes you question the validity of the source?

Pro Research Tip : Cite as you go. Use sticky notes to link ideas and keep track of valuable insights. Use different colored highlighters to emphasize evidence so it is easy to cite and add to your bibliography. You don't want to plagiarize because you failed to cite evidence correctly .

Strict Structure: One Less Thing to Think About

The structure of the History Internal Assessment is clearly explained in the guidelines and marking criteria. Don't look at this as restrictive. Instead, see the strict structure as the blessing it is. Understanding how to layout and format your assessment means you have one less thing to think about. The guidelines help keep you focused, which is vital if you want clarity and connection throughout your History IA.

Your introduction should explain the purpose and scope of your investigation. Then, you should use a series of investigative paragraphs that include your methodology, analysis, and conclusion. Headings and subheadings help you create a coherent argument that is easy to follow.

How to Structure IA

Section 1 should include your thesis question, and it's crucial that you pose it as a question and not a statement. Many students lose marks because of this mistake.

The more detailed your research question, the more clear and organized your argument will be.

Section 2  should explain why you chose the two key sources, including their strengths, weaknesses, and purpose. A detailed explanation is a simple way to score higher.

Section 3  can include some background and context, but it should focus on your research question.

Don't be generic in Section 3. Reflect on things like what you learned, the limitations of your investigation, and the struggles other historians encountered. But don't describe why you're interested in the topic you chose.

Section 4 is not a conclusion (that should be included in Section 2.)

Your paragraphs should have a topic sentence and connect to each other and your research question.

The List of Tips form Our IB Writers

Structuring your History IA correctly and nailing the research portion are two ways to improve your score. But there are a few insider tips that can help you submit a History IA that not only scores well but that you are proud of.

1. Break It Down

2,200 words isn't so bad, right? No, it's not a crazy word count, but that doesn't mean it isn't a daunting project. In fact, the word count can be an issue because you have to be clear and concise and get your point across in Section 2, which is only 1,300 words.

The best way to tackle your History IA is to break it into manageable chunks. Check the criteria because it gives you a detailed breakdown of what your investigation should look like and how it is scored. Armed with that information, you can create a framework with milestones and deadlines to keep you organized and on track.

2. Refine Your Research Question

Start with a broad topic and then ask yourself what interests you most. Can you narrow it down to a place, person, date, or event?

Avoid questions with yes or no answers because that leaves little room for investigation. Make a list of keywords related to your topic that will make searching for information easier.

3. Analyze, Don't Describe

Students often lose marks because they describe their sources rather than analyzing them with a critical eye.

Think about how the source contributes to the historical event you're investigating. 

Compare and contrast to uncover trends, patterns, and differences. 

Be transparent about the source's limitations.

4. Self-Editing

Editing, revising, and proofreading are seriously underrated skills when it comes to polishing your History IA.

Here are some easy self-editing tips to help you catch those pesky mistakes and tighten up your arguments.

• Take a break for a day or two before reading through your finished assessment.
• Read aloud.
• Check for clarity and cohesion by assessing if your writing has a logical flow and obvious connections.
• Double-check your citations.
• Check that each paragraph has a clear focus that contributes to answering your research question.

The History Internal Assessment can be challenging if you're unprepared, but that is why we've put together this guide. There is a roadmap for success, and we want to offer the guidance and support you need to excel.

The investigation is a chance to explore an area you're genuinely interested in and flex your sleuthing chops as you find sources and analyze evidence to uncover the secrets of the past. With the correct information, you can confidently tackle your History IA, but if you need some inspiration, we're here to help .

Last edit at Nov 05 2023

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7 Tips for Choosing a Successful IB History IA Topic and Question

Economics, History & Theory of Knowledge

May 17th, 2017 Last updated: February 16th, 2023

Choosing the right History topic and question for YOU can make the difference between success and failure. Below are 7 steps to help you choose an appropriate topic and question.

Tips for picking an IB History IA title

1. keep it personal.

Ensure the topic you are choosing actually interests you. This will help ensure you want to carry out research and write it in the first place.

Need help with your History IB? Meet our IB Tutors here

2. Make it local

Try to find a topic that is either local to your current location or somewhere that you have lived or your family is from.  This helps prevent it from becoming too ‘big’ to deal with. It may also have the added advantage of you gathering primary sources yourself and using museums and historical sites within easy reach.

3. Less is more

Keep your question/scope narrow, direct and specific and not too broad, you only have 1300 words to answer it in. Consider just a decade rather than a century, an individual rather whole population, a city rather than a country.

4. Check your resources

Is there information available – both primary and secondary? Can you make your own interviews of eyewitnesses to create an primary source? Can you visit the site? Try to ensure there is not too much information as this can be overwhelming.

5. Try to be original

Don’t cover a question that is textbook material. Really think about a new angle or question that is not likely to have been covered many times before.

6. Keep it simple

Don’t overwhelm yourselves by trying to create a complicated question to try and impress. Ensure your question is clear and to the point.

7. Get it checked

Ask your History teacher or tutor to check the question is appropriate and manageable before you start writing it up. It can be very disappointing to put all that effort in to find that the question/focus or even topic needs to be altered.

Example IA titles for IB History

Here are some examples of my past students’ IA questions that achieved a Level 6 or 7.

Each question was planned and reviewed before full research and writing up began. Each student discussed the progress and challenges they faced with me on a regular basis to ensure the IA was successful.

To what extent was Friedrich Hennemann to blame for the bankruptcy of the Vulkan Werft situated in Bremen?

Why was this question successful?

This student was a family friend of Hennemann and he also lived in Bremen making it a very interesting research question. He was able to draw on local and national newspapers and film and even attempted to interview the man in question. He was driven by his own personal and local interest, making this one of the most original IAs I have supervised.

To what extent did Sophie Scholl get pressured into resistance work?

Rather than looking at the broader category of Youth Resistance groups, this student concentrated on the role of Sophie Scholl during the 1930s and 1940s. She was particularly interested as she was a young female of similar age herself, and why and how Sophie became involved in such an important resistance group. The student was living in Germany at the time too.

Analyse the experience of Native Canadian children in residential school from 1870 – 1990

This student had a personal interest in her own Native Canada which drove her to visit Canada to further research and write her IA. The topic is not widely resourced so making it manageable across a century.

To what extent was Palmyra important for the Roman Empire?

This student from Syria had a vested interest in this city especially as at the current time it was being destroyed as she wrote. She was able to research sources in both English and Arabic.

To what extent did Israel achieve its aims in the Invasion of Lebanon in 1982?

This student from the Lebanon was interested in this topic for personal reasons and kept her question only focused on the aims being achieved not the complete invasion within one year.

How did Ballroom Dance spread and develop between the Americas and Europe by 1968?

Although this question covers a wide period of time and across two continents; it is very narrow in focus and of very personal interest to the student writing it. There were not too many resources available making it manageable for an IA.

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IB History: Internal Assessment

Assignment information.

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• IA Markband Rubric - History

Key Concepts for IB DP - History

Ib history ia - getting started.

• Build a Research Question for History

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There are two types of source evaluation:

Should I use this source?

• Is it reliable?
• Does it meet my needs?

Now that I've decided to use this source:

• What case can I make for its values and limitations based on its origin,   purpose,  and content ?

Coming Up With A Good IA Question

Identification and Evaluation of Sources

Choosing a topic

1)  Select a topic :

What is your broad topic?  For Example: Stalin

2)  Narrow your topic:

Pick two or more areas you are considering focusing on.   When considering an area of focus, make sure that it lends itself to an argument; that there are two sides or opposing points of view.  For example:

a)  Stalin and Collectivisation

Pros:  benefit to the economy, more efficient production, increase food supply

Cons:  lack of personal incentive, no individual identity, many farmers killed

b)  Stalin and Purges

Pros:  Solidify Control, Party discipline to move forward

Cons: Violation of human rights, freedom of speech, no opposition results in no brainstorming

IB History Command Terms

Analyse =  Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure.

Compare = Give an account of the similarities between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.

Compare and contrast = Give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.

Contrast = Give an account of the differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.

Discuss = Offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments, factors or hypotheses. Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

Evaluate = Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations.

Examine = Consider an argument or concept in a way that uncovers the assumptions and interrelationships of the issue.

To what extent = Consider the merits or otherwise of an argument or concept. Opinions and conclusions should be presented clearly and supported with appropriate evidence and sound argument.

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25 IB History IA Topic Ideas

Written By our IB ++ Tutor  Owain J.

Are you looking for fresh History Internal Assessment (IA) Topic Ideas? Here are 25 ideas brought to you by one of our expert tutors!

The History IA, although daunting at first, gives you many opportunities. Choosing an IA topic can be a struggle. This post has been written to help those who are unable to select a topic for their History IA. Here are 25 ideas to help get you started. Please make sure you discuss any proposals with your teacher before researching and writing your IA:

1. Pandemics in history; the current Covid pandemic is not the first deadly illness to have struck the globe. Investigating the causes and impact of the Black Death in the 14th century or the flu pandemic after WWI could be a good option for your IA.

2. Black and minority history in the USA; the protests in 2020 about the treatment of some communities in the United States by the police is nothing new. America has a diverse racial history well worthy of investigation.

3. LGBTQ rights; pride marches are a common sight in many cities of the world in June. What have been the experiences of LGBTQ people in history?

4. Cuba; recently, Miguel Diaz-Canel became the first Cuban leader since the 1950s without the surname Castro. Why did the Castros stay in power so long if Cuba still doesn’t have free elections?

5. Israel/Palestine; you may have seen this in the news in recent times. Why not investigate the historical root of the problem?

6. Climate change; is probably the biggest global challenge today. How has humankind damaged the environment in previous ages?

7. Refugees; recent cases in places like Myanmar have highlighted the plight of refugees. How did people become refugees in the past? How were they treated?

8. Voting rights; recent years have seen a rise in attempts to make voting more difficult. How have people fought for their right to vote in the past?

9. Cold War; why did the USA and the USSR hate each other so much? Was the experience of the Cold War the same for everyone around the world? Why did it end?

10. Nuclear weapons; how close has the world come to a nuclear war? The Cuban Missile Crisis and the Able Archer Crisis saw the world closer to nuclear war than we might like to admit.

11. Nazi Germany; why did the Nazi regime come to power? How did the regime affect women, children, minorities like the disabled, homosexuals, or even Germany’s small black population?

12. Technology: technology plays a huge role in a global society. But how has it been used in the past, for example in wars? The role of new technology in WWI and WWII are two possible examples.

13. Sport: sports have been used for a variety of political reasons in the past, very worthy of a historical investigation.

14. American/French Revolutions; two very important events in the 18th century, that provided some of the inspiration for modern human rights today.

15. The end of Apartheid; an event that saw the end of minority white rule in South Africa and launched Nelson Mandela to be a global figure. Why did it happen? What was the impact on South Africa?

16. WWII; there are endless possibilities with this one. This was a global war, so you could look at the war in a specific region or its impact outside of the military sphere.

17. Empires; unfortunately, empires have been a huge feature of history from Rome, the Mongols and the British. How did the imperialists benefit from the empire? What impact did the empire have on the local population? Why did it end?

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IB History IA Sections: A Guide for IB Diploma Students

by  Antony W

June 6, 2024

Your IA is worth 20% (HL) or 25% (SL) of your total grade. It is in your best advantage to devote considerable effort on the History IA, since it is an excellent assignment.

Some may even argue that you should prioritize your IA above your EE because the IA has a greater impact on your ultimate grade.

Your IB History IA has just 2200 words. Your investigation’s primary body (Section 2) is barely 1300 words long. The second section is a normal academic research essay.

Due to the length of Section 2, it is imperative that you select a specific, well-defined, and controversial issue. Your query must be sharp. Anything too wide or unclear will result in an ambiguous IA.

Key Takeaways

• Include your query and a clear explanation of why you picked two relevant sources in Section 1.
• Section 2 of your research essay comprises your conclusion. Keep in mind that this needs extensive citations and references.
• Section 3 is a reflection on what this process has taught you about the difficulties historians face.
• You must include a bibliography with an appropriate structure.

History IA Sections Explained

The following is a brief explanation of the three sections of IB History IA:

In Section 1: Identification and Evaluation of Sources

IB requires you to:

• Clearly state an appropriate research question
• Identify and select appropriate relevant sources
• Explain why the sources are relevant to the investigation
• Analyze and evaluate two sources with explicit reference to their origins, purposes, and contents.

A surprising proportion of students failed to specify the research subject as a question on the title page or inside Section A, and they often lose significant points as a result.

Several study questions are either too broad or do not foster an analytical approach to the issue, but rather a narrative account of the occurrences.

The six fundamental ideas for History (causation, consequence, continuity, change, relevance, and viewpoints) might assist you in developing research questions that avoid a narrative approach and in developing a more critical outlook on themes.

To get the highest marks (5-6 points) in Section 1 of your IB History IA, you must articulate the significance of two sources to their inquiry. It’s unfortunate that only a few students meet this criterion.

Many students tend to submit their research topic in history and then evaluate two sources without providing an explanation for their selection.

Despite the fact that evaluating sources is a common hurdle, there is definitely opportunity for improvement in this regard.

You should utilize the origins, purpose, and substance of each source as supporting evidence to evaluate the sources’ strengths and weaknesses as historical sources for the investigated issue.

In the past assessments, many candidates cited these factors, but just briefly addressed the values and restrictions at the conclusion. Some also made a poor selection of sources, claiming that one source provided inadequate information on the issue. You shouldn’t make similar mistakes.

Not every source considered in this section is explicitly recognized. Although you may refer to “Source A” or “Source 1” in their evaluation, you must include the full information of each source inside the Section. You can do this by using a header for each evaluation, giving full details in footnotes, or including the whole title, author, and publication date when explaining the sources of each source.

Section 2: Investigation

In this section, IB expects you to:  

• Demonstrate a clear, coherent, and effective organization of your investigation.
• Provide a well-developed critical analysis clearly focused on the research question.
• Provide evidence from a wide variety of sources to support the arguments.
• Evaluate perspectives.  
• Reach a logical and consistent conclusion.

Integration of evidence and analysis into a single piece is a new and effective feature.

You have to submit work that is typically straightforward and well organized. Remember that if the study topics lacked clarity, your studies will come out ambiguous and superficial.

Also, you should not just provide enough context on the overall issue without focusing on the specific study question. Doing so does not allow for the development of critical analysis or the examination of other perspectives, hence the result of low grades.

The usefulness of using sources as evidence in investigation is highly variable. It is crucial for to comprehend that you must utilize the variety of sources contained in this area effectively to bolster the offered arguments.

While some candidates make effective use of several sources that provided diverse viewpoints on their inquiry, others tend to summarize the two sources reviewed in Section 1 and cited a few other sources.

Note that the integration of information from sources and analysis should be explicit, and sources utilized must support the claims.

Despite the fact that many students present a coherent conclusion in this section, several students tend to present their conclusion in Section 3.

Section 3: Reflection

This part is intended to provide you with an opportunity to reflect on what your inquiry revealed about the methodologies employed by historians and the issues they face.

You are required to focus on three primary areas:

• What you learned about the techniques employed by historians
• The limitations of such approaches and the issues historians confront
• The relationship between the inquiry and the reflection

Some students tend to misunderstand this section’s criteria and they treat it as a conclusion. This can and will have a detrimental influence on their Section 2 (lack of conclusion) and Section 3 (inadequate introduction).

Other applicants addressed their own experiences by, for instance, describing why they were interested in the issues or noting that the inquiry helped them become more organized.

Such concerns are irrelevant to the methods employed by historians and the issues they encounter. Hence, they should not be included in this section.

Some candidates explicitly focused on what the inquiry revealed to them about the methodology and problems of historians’ work and made specific links between the section and the remainder of the research.

Final Thoughts

We hope that this guide helps you to work on the different sections of the History IA without having to second-guess your progress.

About the author 

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