Many IB Maths AA HL students search for IA examples hoping to find a perfect template to copy. While copying is never the answer, reviewing strong examples is one of the best ways to understand what examiners expect.

At Mathzem, we review dozens of AA HL Internal Assessments every year. The difference between a 12/20 and an 18/20 IA is rarely effort, it’s structure, mathematical depth, and clarity.

This guide breaks down what high-scoring IB Maths AA HL IA examples have in common and how you can apply those features to your own work.

What Examiners Look for in a Top-Scoring IA

Before reviewing examples, understand the assessment criteria. High-scoring IAs demonstrate:

• Clear mathematical focus
• Appropriate HL-level mathematics
• Logical exploration
• Correct notation
• Effective use of diagrams and graphs
• Personal engagement
• Reflection and interpretation

Strong examples meet every criterion, not just one or two.

Structure of a High-Scoring AA HL IA

Most strong IA examples follow a clear structure:

1. Introduction

• Clear context
• Well-defined research question
• Explanation of relevance

2. Mathematical Exploration

• Step-by-step development
• HL-level mathematics
• Logical flow
• Correct notation

3. Analysis and Interpretation

• Explanation of results
• Discussion of implications
• Interpretation in context

4. Reflection and Evaluation

• Limitations
• Improvements
• Critical thinking

5. Conclusion

• Clear summary
• Final insights

Clarity and organisation are essential.

Example 1: Differential Equations IA

Topic Type

Modelling population growth using differential equations.

Why This Scores Highly

• Uses HL calculus naturally
• Clear assumptions
• Logical derivation
• Graphical interpretation
• Reflection on model limitations

What Examiners Like

• Mathematical reasoning
• Correct notation
• Strong conclusions

This type of IA consistently scores 16–20 marks when executed well.

Example 2: Optimisation IA

Topic Type

Optimising the dimensions of a container to minimise material cost.

Why This Scores Highly

• Clear calculus application
• Visual diagrams
• Logical optimisation steps
• Real-world relevance

Common Strength

Clear explanation of why a solution is optimal — not just calculation.

Example 3: Functions and Modelling IA

Topic Type

Comparing models to fit real-world data.

Why This Scores Highly

• Multiple functions tested
• Comparison of accuracy
• Interpretation of parameters
• Reflection on model choice

This shows mathematical maturity and insight.

Example 4: Vectors and Geometry IA

Topic Type

Analysing motion in two or three dimensions using vectors.

Why This Scores Highly

• Strong diagrams
• Clear vector notation
• Logical reasoning
• Application of HL concepts

This topic works especially well for visually-oriented students.

What Weak IA Examples Do Wrong

Common issues seen in low-scoring IAs:

• Too much description, not enough maths
• SL-level mathematics only
• Poor structure
• Unclear working
• Minimal reflection
• Over-reliance on technology
• Incorrect notation

Learning from weak examples is just as important.

How to Use IA Examples Properly

IA examples should be used to:

• Understand structure
• Learn how to explain mathematics
• Improve clarity
• See how reflection is written

They should not be copied or replicated.

Use examples as guides, not templates.

How Mathzem Helps Students Achieve High IA Scores

At Mathzem, we support students through every stage of the IA process:

• Topic selection
• Research question refinement
• HL-level mathematical development
• Structuring explorations
• Improving communication and notation
• Strengthening reflection

Our students consistently produce IAs that score in the top bands.

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https://mathzem.com/membership-pricing/

FAQs About IB Maths AA HL IA Examples

Q1: Can I copy an IA example?

No. This risks plagiarism and score penalties.

Q2: How many IA examples should I review?

2–4 strong examples are sufficient.

Q3: Do high-scoring IAs always use calculus?

Not always, but most AA HL IAs include calculus or advanced reasoning.

Q4: Can I change my IA topic later?

Yes, early changes are better than sticking with a weak topic.

Q5: Can tutoring help with IA quality?

Yes, expert guidance improves structure, depth, and clarity.

Conclusion

Reviewing IB Maths AA HL IA examples helps you understand what success looks like — but your own IA must be original, well-structured, and mathematically sound.

Strong IAs are built on good topic choices, clear reasoning, and thoughtful reflection.

If you want expert support to produce a high-scoring IA, Mathzem is here to help.

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https://mathzem.com/membership-pricing/