IB Biology IA Timeline

IB Biology IA Timeline
Project: Investigating the Inheritance Patterns of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Block 1: Review IA Guidelines

● Read the IB Biology IA guide.
● Review the rubric and understand the criteria (personal engagement, exploration, analysis, etc.).
● Look at sample IAs (focus on geneticsrelated topics).
● Note key points relevant to your project (e.g., what makes a successful IA).

Block 2: Refine Research Question

● Review the original research question.
● Adjust the question to make it more specific if needed (e.g., focus on ALS inheritance and its
variations).
● Ensure the question is testable and linked to Punnett squares and probability.
● Finalize the objective (understanding ALS inheritance patterns using genetic modeling).

Block 3: Conduct Background Research

● Search for articles and studies on ALS inheritance (focus on familial vs. unknown origin cases).
● Read up on how genetic mutations lead to ALS.
● Collect at least 35 key references for your IA.
● Take notes on relevant points for your introduction and analysis.

Block 4: Study Familial ALS Genetics

● Research whether ALS is recessive or dominant in different familial cases.
● Understand the mutations linked to ALS (e.g., SOD1, C9orf72).
● Find studies that explain how these mutations are inherited.
● Note down the inheritance patterns for use in Punnett squares.

Block 5: Research Punnett Squares and Inheritance Patterns

● Review how Punnett squares work (dominant vs. recessive traits).
● Identify how you will model ALS inheritance using Punnett squares.
● Determine how to represent heterozygous and homozygous ALS carriers in the crosses.
● Outline the crosses you plan to model (e.g., ALS carrier x unaffected, two ALS carriers, etc.).

Block 6: Design Punnett Square Scenarios

● Plan the cross scenarios:
● ALS heterozygous x unaffected individual.
 ● ALS heterozygous x ALS heterozygous.
● ALS heterozygous x carrier for a different ALS mutation.
● Ensure each cross has a clear rationale (why these crosses are important to study).
● Organize the scenarios for easy modeling in the next step.

Block 7: Prepare Data Organization

● Create tables for recording Punnett square results.
● Create templates for calculating probabilities of inheritance (based on cross scenarios).
● Ensure there are spaces for all potential offspring combinations (dominant, recessive, carrier).
● Label tables and graphs to make data presentation clear.

Block 8: Create Punnett Squares for First Cross

● Model the first genetic cross (ALS heterozygous x unaffected).
● Fill in the Punnett square with the possible genotypes.
● Calculate the probabilities of each genotype.
● Record the results in your data tables.

Block 9: Create Punnett Squares for Remaining Crosses

● Model the second genetic cross (ALS heterozygous x ALS heterozygous).
● Model the third cross (ALS heterozygous x carrier for a different mutation).
● Calculate the genotype probabilities for each cross.
● Record all results in your data tables.

Block 10: Calculate Probabilities and Identify Trends

● Calculate the overall probability of offspring inheriting ALS in each cross.
● Analyze whether the results show any unexpected trends or align with expectations.
● Identify connections between your results and classical Mendelian inheritance patterns.
● Note any deviations from Mendelian patterns and their implications.

Block 11: Analyze Punnett Square Results

● Review the probabilities for each cross.
● Compare the results to Mendelian inheritance (dominant vs. recessive).
● Identify patterns in the inheritance of ALS mutations.
● Write down key points for inclusion in the analysis section of the IA.

Block 12: Conduct Further Research

● Look up additional studies to support your analysis.
● Ensure your findings are in line with existing research on ALS inheritance.
 ● Find explanations for any deviations from classical inheritance patterns.
● Gather enough evidence to support your analysis and conclusion.

Block 13: Write the Introduction

● Write about ALS, its symptoms, and the personal connection to your IA.
● Introduce the research question and hypothesis (ALS inheritance patterns).
● Explain the relevance of studying ALS inheritance using Punnett squares.
● Include background information from your research on ALS genetics.

Block 14: Write the Methodology

● Describe how you designed your Punnett square crosses.
● Explain the rationale for choosing certain crosses (e.g., ALS heterozygous x unaffected).
● Outline the variables: independent (parent genotypes), dependent (offspring genotype
probabilities), controlled (methodology).
● Ensure clarity so that the procedure is reproducible.

Block 15: Write the Data Collection and Analysis Sections

● Present your data (Punnett squares, tables, graphs).
● Explain what the data shows in terms of inheritance probabilities.
● Analyze how the results align with Mendelian inheritance patterns.
● Discuss any unexpected findings or anomalies.

Block 16: Write Conclusion and Evaluation

● Summarize your key findings regarding ALS inheritance patterns.
● State whether your hypothesis was supported or not.
● Evaluate the limitations of your study (e.g., Punnett square assumptions).
● Suggest improvements and possible future research (e.g., further study of ALS inheritance patterns).
● Finalize the IA by proofreading for clarity and coherence.
IB Design Technology IA Timeline
 IB Design Technology IA Timeline
Project: Cabinet Caddy Spice Rack

Block 1: Review IA Guidelines

● Read the IB Design Technology IA guide.
● Review the assessment criteria (analysis, conceptual design, detailed design, testing, and evaluation).
● Look at sample IAs focusing on design projects and storage solutions.
● Note key points relevant to your project (e.g., what makes a successful design).

Block 2: Define the Problem

● Writing Task: Write a problem statement (200 words) identifying the specific issue of disorganized
spice storage and its impact on cooking efficiency.
● Provide evidence supporting the significance of this problem.

Block 3: Develop a Detailed Brief

● Define the design goal: Create a functional, accessible spice rack for standard kitchen cabinets.
● Identify the target user (e.g., home cooks).
● Outline the context and constraints (e.g., cabinet dimensions, accessibility).
● Create a persona for the target user.
● Writing Task: Write a detailed brief (150 words) summarizing the design goal, user, context, and
constraints.

Block 4: Conduct Background Research

● Research existing spice rack designs and their effectiveness.
● Analyze materials suitable for spice racks (e.g., wood, metal).
● Investigate sliding mechanisms and their functionalities.
● Collect 35 key references for the design specifications and user needs.

Block 5: Develop Design Specifications

● Create a list of measurable design requirements (e.g., dimensions, capacity, weight).
● Justify each requirement with relevant research.
● Writing Task: Write the design specification (800 words), detailing the requirements and
justifications.

Block 6: Ideation and Concept Development

● Brainstorm and sketch a range of original and innovative spice rack concepts.
● Select the most promising ideas for further development.
● Explore configurations (e.g., tiered, pullout, rotating) in sketches.
Block 7: Concept Modeling
● Create models or prototypes of selected concepts (e.g., 3D models, sketches).
● Test the validity of concepts through modeling and gather feedback.
● Analyze outcomes to inform the design development process.
● Writing Task: Document findings from concept modeling (2 pages).

Block 8: Justify Final Idea

● Validate the chosen design against the design specifications.
● Present the final design with supporting justification.
● Writing Task: Write a justification for the final idea (300 words).

Block 9: Justify Materials and Components

● Choose appropriate materials (e.g., wood, metal) and components (e.g., sliding mechanisms).
● Justify choices based on requirements and constraints.
● Writing Task: Write the justification for materials and components (400 words).

Block 10: Develop a Design Proposal

● Create detailed technical drawings for the spice rack, including dimensions and assembly
instructions.
● Include a bill of materials listing all components and materials needed.
● Prepare assembly drawings to guide construction.
● Writing Task: Write a design proposal (no extended writing, 9 pages max, including drawings).

Block 11: Produce a Manufacturing Plan

● Outline the manufacturing process for creating the spice rack.
● Specify equipment needed, scheduling, quality control measures, and risk assessment.
● Writing Task: Write the manufacturing plan (no extended writing, 2 pages max).

Block 12: Justify Testing Strategy

● Determine key parameters to measure success (e.g., functionality, user access).
● Select appropriate testing methods (e.g., usability tests, load tests).
● Writing Task: Write the testing strategy justification (200 words).

Block 13: Evaluate the Prototype

● Assess the prototype against the established design specifications.
● Document testing and evaluation outcomes (e.g., user feedback, performance metrics).
● Writing Task: Write the evaluation of the prototype (700 words).
Block 14: Identify Improvements
● Suggest improvements based on evaluation findings (e.g., design adjustments, material changes).
● Demonstrate how these improvements enhance the overall design and user experience.
● Writing Task: Write about identified improvements (250 words).

Block 15: Prepare for the Final Presentation

● Create a presentation to showcase the project, including the design process and final product.
● Include visual aids (photos of the prototype, sketches, and design specifications).
● Writing Task: Compile presentation notes summarizing key points.

Block 16: Write the Evaluation Report

● Summarize key findings regarding the spice rack design and its effectiveness.
● Reflect on the project, evaluating the design process, limitations, and outcomes.
● Suggest potential future research or developments based on the findings.
● Writing Task: Write the final evaluation report, incorporating all sections (proofread for clarity and
coherence).
Extended Essay Timeline
 Extended Essay Timeline
Project: [Your Extended Essay Title]
Block 1: Write the Introduction
● Task: Write the introduction (300500 words).
● Clearly state your research question and thesis statement.
● Outline the structure of your essay.

Block 2: Write Body Paragraph 1

● Task: Write the first body paragraph (8001,200 words).
● Develop your first main argument.
● Provide evidence from primary and secondary sources.
● Ensure smooth transitions to the next paragraph.

Block 3: Write Body Paragraph 2

● Task: Write the second body paragraph (8001,200 words).
● Focus on the second main argument.
● Include supporting evidence and analysis.

Block 4: Write Body Paragraph 3

● Task: Write the third body paragraph (8001,200 words).
● Continue to build your argument with evidence.
● Analyze how the evidence supports your thesis.

Block 5: Write Body Paragraph 4

● Task: Write the fourth body paragraph (8001,200 words).
● Address the fourth main argument.
● Ensure the paragraph flows logically from the previous one.

Block 6: Write Body Paragraph 5

● Task: Write the fifth body paragraph (8001,200 words).
● Focus on the final argument.
● Summarize key points and prepare for the conclusion.

Block 7: Write the Conclusion

● Task: Write the conclusion (300500 words).
● Summarize your main points and restate your thesis.
● Offer final thoughts or implications of your research.
Block 8: Compile the Bibliography
● Task: Create the bibliography.
● List all sources used in your research, formatted according to the required citation style.

Block 9: Review and Revise Part 1

● Task: Review and edit the introduction and first two body paragraphs.
● Focus on clarity, coherence, and analysis of evidence.

Block 10: Review and Revise Part 2

● Task: Continue reviewing and editing the remaining body paragraphs and conclusion.
● Ensure all arguments are well supported and transitions are smooth.

Block 11: Final Proofreading

● Task: Conduct a final proofread of the entire essay.
● Check for grammar, style, and adherence to word count.

Block 12: Prepare Appendices (if necessary)

● Task: Compile any supplementary materials for the appendices.
● Include relevant data, maps, or interview transcripts.

Block 13: Prepare for Submission

● Task: Prepare the final document for submission.
● Ensure all sections are complete and formatted correctly.
● Submit the final version by the deadline.
TOK Essay Timeline
 TOK Essay Timeline
Project: Is our most revered knowledge more fragile than we assume it to be? Discuss with
reference to the arts and one other area of knowledge.

Block 1: Review TOK Essay Guidelines

● Read the TOK essay guide.
● Review the assessment criteria (understanding knowledge issues, organization, and clarity).
● Look at sample TOK essays, particularly those discussing the arts and another area of knowledge.
● Note key points relevant to your essay (e.g., effective use of knowledge questions).

Block 2: Analyze the Prescribed Title

● Break down the title to understand its components (e.g., "most revered knowledge," "fragile," "arts,"
and "another area of knowledge").
● Consider different interpretations and implications of the question.
● Writing Task: Write a brief analysis (150 words) summarizing your initial thoughts on the title.

Block 3: Identify Areas of Knowledge

● Choose the second area of knowledge to compare with the arts (e.g., natural sciences, history,
ethics).
● Research how knowledge in both areas can be seen as fragile.
● Writing Task: Write a justification (200 words) for your choice of the second area of knowledge.

Block 4: Conduct Background Research

● Explore the concept of fragility in knowledge within the arts.
● Look for examples where revered knowledge has been challenged or changed (e.g., art
interpretations, critical theories).
● Research how the fragility of knowledge is perceived in your chosen second area (e.g., scientific
theories, historical narratives).
● Gather at least 35 key references for your essay.

Block 5: Outline the Essay Structure

● Create a detailed outline for your essay, including key points for the introduction, body paragraphs,
and conclusion.
● Plan how to balance discussions of the arts and the second area of knowledge.
● Writing Task: Write an outline summary (200 words) explaining the structure of your essay.

Block 6: Write the Introduction

 ● Write the introduction (200300 words).
● Clearly state your thesis regarding the fragility of revered knowledge.
● Provide context for your discussion and introduce the areas of knowledge you will explore.

Block 7: Write Body Paragraph 1 (The Arts)

● Write the first body paragraph (300500 words).
● Discuss how knowledge in the arts can be considered fragile, providing specific examples (e.g.,
changing interpretations of artworks).
● Analyze how this fragility affects the perception of revered knowledge in the arts.

Block 8: Write Body Paragraph 2 (Second Area of Knowledge)

● Write the second body paragraph (300500 words).
● Explore how knowledge in your chosen second area can also be seen as fragile.
● Include examples that illustrate this fragility (e.g., shifts in scientific consensus, reinterpretation of
historical events).

Block 9: Write Body Paragraph 3 (Comparative Analysis)

● Write the third body paragraph (300500 words).
● Compare and contrast the fragility of knowledge in the arts with that in the second area of
knowledge.
● Discuss how societal changes impact the reverence and fragility of knowledge across both domains.

Block 10: Write Body Paragraph 4 (Counterarguments)

● Write the fourth body paragraph (300500 words).
● Address potential counterarguments that suggest revered knowledge is more robust than fragile.
● Analyze these counterarguments and their implications for your overall thesis.

Block 11: Write the Conclusion

● Write the conclusion (200300 words).
● Summarize your main arguments and restate the significance of your thesis.
● Reflect on the broader implications of understanding knowledge as fragile.

Block 12: Review and Revise Part 1

● Review and edit the introduction and first two body paragraphs.
● Focus on clarity, coherence, and depth of analysis.

Block 13: Review and Revise Part 2

● Continue reviewing and editing the remaining body paragraphs and conclusion.
 ● Ensure all arguments are wellsupported and transitions are smooth.

Block 14: Final Proofreading

● Conduct a final proofread of the entire essay.
● Check for grammar, style, and adherence to word count.

Block 15: Prepare for Submission

● Ensure all sections are complete and formatted correctly.
● Submit the final version by the deadline.

Block 16: Write Reflection on the Process

● Reflect on the learning process throughout the essay.
● Writing Task: Write a brief reflection (150 words) on your experience and what you learned.

Block 17: Gather Feedback

● Share your essay with a peer or teacher for feedback.
● Consider suggestions for improvement before finalizing your work.
Math IA Timeline
 Math IA Timeline
Project: How likely are different minorities and ages to be adopted in Ohio?

Block 1: Review IA Guidelines

● Read the IB Math IA guide and familiarize yourself with the assessment criteria (Presentation,
Mathematical Communication, Personal Engagement, Reflection, and Use of Mathematics).
● Look at sample IAs that focus on statistical analysis and demographic studies.
● Note key points relevant to your project.

Block 2: Refine Research Question

● Finalize the research question based on your topic.
● Ensure it is clear, focused, and allows for statistical analysis of adoption trends in Ohio.
● Write a brief explanation (100 words) justifying your choice of topic.

Block 3: Gather Data Sources

● Identify and compile reliable sources for adoption data (e.g., Ohio’s Department of Job and Family
Services).
● Search for academic journals, reports, and government databases covering adoption trends over the
last 10 years.
● Document at least 5 credible sources.

Block 4: Collect Data

● Collect data on the number of children adopted in Ohio broken down by age, race, and gender.
● Organize the data in a spreadsheet for easier analysis.

Block 5: Analyze Data

● Begin statistical analysis of the collected data.
● Calculate adoption rates and probabilities for different demographic groups.
● Use appropriate statistical methods to support your findings.

Block 6: Visualize Data

● Create visual representations of your data using graphs (e.g., bar graphs, pie charts).
● Ensure graphs clearly illustrate trends and are labeled correctly.

Block 7: Draft Introduction

● Write the introduction section of your IA, including your research question, personal engagement,
and an overview of your methodology (200 words).
● Present the aims of the exploration and outline what will be discussed.
Block 8: Draft Methodology
● Write the methodology section detailing how you collected and analyzed your data (300 words).
● Include descriptions of the statistical methods and techniques used.

Block 9: Discuss Results

● Summarize your findings based on the data analysis (300 words).
● Highlight key trends and patterns in adoption rates among different demographic groups.

Block 10: Draw Conclusions

● Write the conclusion summarizing your main findings and their implications for understanding
adoption in Ohio (200 words).
● Reflect on what these trends suggest about societal attitudes toward adoption.

Block 11: Reflect on Limitations

● Discuss potential limitations of your study (200 words), such as data availability and privacy
concerns.
● Mention how these limitations could affect the interpretation of your results.

Block 12: Critical Reflection

● Write about the social issues raised by your findings, particularly regarding race and age in adoption
(250 words).
● Discuss what you learned about biases in the adoption system and how they could be addressed.

Block 13: Review and Revise

● Review your entire IA for coherence and clarity.
● Ensure that each section links logically to the others and that there are no unnecessary calculations
or descriptions.

Block 14: Prepare Appendices

● Include any supplementary material (e.g., raw data tables or additional graphs) in the appendices.
● Ensure that appendices are relevant and not overly extensive.

Block 15: Final Proofread

● Proofread your IA for grammar, spelling, and mathematical accuracy.
● Check that your mathematical communication is clear and consistent throughout.

Block 16: Compile Bibliography

 ● Create a bibliography listing all sources used in your research.
● Ensure you follow the required citation style (e.g., APA, MLA).

Block 17: Submit IA

● Finalize your document and submit your Math IA before the deadline.
● Ensure all requirements are met and that your exploration is wellpresented.
IB Latin IA Timeline
 IB Latin IA Timeline
Research Question: How does Ovid’s portrayal of family relationships in mythology compare to that of
Virgil?

Block 1: Review IA Guidelines

● Read the IB Latin IA guide and familiarize yourself with the assessment criteria.
● Look at sample IAs to understand expectations regarding structure and analysis.
● Note key points relevant to your topic.

Block 2: Refine Research Question

● Finalize your research question to ensure clarity and focus.
● Write a brief justification (100 words) explaining the significance of your question in the context of
Ovid and Virgil.

Block 3: Gather Primary Sources

● Collect primary sources for analysis:
● Ovid’s Metamorphoses (Phaëthon and Niobe)
● Virgil’s Aeneid
● Ensure you have access to translations and critical analyses of these texts.

Block 4: Contextual Research

● Conduct background research on the portrayal of family relationships in mythology, focusing on
ancient poetry.
● Explore scholarly articles and interpretations that discuss Ovid and Virgil.
● Compile at least 5 relevant sources.

Block 5: Analyze Primary Source 1 (Phaëthon)

● Write a detailed analysis (300 words) of Ovid’s portrayal of Phaëthon and Helios, focusing on
themes of paternal pride and ambition.
● Identify key quotes and passages that illustrate these themes.

Block 6: Connect to Virgil (Phaëthon)

● Compare Ovid’s portrayal of Phaëthon with Virgil’s depiction of father-son relationships in the
Aeneid.
● Write a comparative analysis (300 words) highlighting similarities and differences.

Block 7: Analyze Primary Source 2 (Niobe)

 ● Write a detailed analysis (300 words) of Niobe’s story in Metamorphoses, focusing on themes of
maternal pride and consequences.
● Include relevant quotes and discuss Ovid’s narrative techniques.

Block 8: Connect to Virgil (Niobe)

● Compare Niobe’s characterization with paternal figures in the Aeneid.
● Write a comparative analysis (300 words) discussing themes of hubris and the role of the gods in
familial relationships.

Block 9: Analyze Primary Source 3 (Aeneas and Anchises)

● Write a detailed analysis (300 words) of the relationship between Aeneas and Anchises in the
Aeneid, emphasizing themes of duty and reverence.
● Discuss the portrayal of paternal relationships and the concept of loyalty.

Block 10: Overall Comparative Analysis

● Write an overall comparative analysis (400 words) of Ovid’s family dynamics versus those of Virgil.
● Discuss how Ovid complicates family relationships compared to the more straightforward
depictions in Virgil’s work.

Block 11: Draft Introduction

● Write the introduction section of your IA, including your research question, context, and aims (200
words).
● Clearly state the significance of your exploration.

Block 12: Draft Conclusion

● Write the conclusion summarizing your main findings and reflections on the implications of family
dynamics in mythology (200 words).
● Highlight the transformation of these portrayals across the two poets.

Block 13: Reflect on Limitations

● Discuss potential limitations in your study (200 words), such as the scope of analysis and textual
interpretations.
● Consider how these limitations may impact your findings.

Block 14: Revise and Edit

● Review the entire IA for coherence, organization, and clarity.
● Check for consistency in terminology and analysis throughout the document.
Block 15: Finalize References
● Compile a bibliography of all sources used, following the required citation format.
● Ensure all primary and secondary sources are properly cited.

Block 16: Proofread

● Conduct a thorough proofread of your IA, checking for grammatical errors, clarity, and overall
flow.
● Ensure that all sections are well-connected and that your arguments are clearly articulated.

Block 17: Prepare for Submission

● Prepare your final document for submission.
● Make sure it meets all formatting and structural requirements outlined by the IB.