ib history ia example

3 min read 13-12-2024

The Internal Assessment (IA) is a crucial component of the IB History course, contributing significantly to your final grade. This article provides an example of a strong IB History IA, focusing on the Cuban Missile Crisis, illustrating effective research, analysis, and presentation. We'll break down the key elements and demonstrate how to approach your own IA.

Choosing a Topic and Research Question

A successful IA starts with a focused research question. Vague questions lead to weak analyses. For example, "Analyze the Cold War" is far too broad. A more effective question might be: "To what extent did the Cuban Missile Crisis increase tensions between the USA and USSR during the Cold War?" This question is specific, allowing for a focused investigation.

Our example focuses on the impact of the crisis. This allows for a deeper analysis of specific consequences rather than a general overview of the event itself.

Developing a Strong Argument & Thesis Statement

Your IA needs a clear thesis statement – a concise summary of your argument. This guides your entire investigation. For our example, a possible thesis statement could be: "While the Cuban Missile Crisis temporarily heightened tensions between the USA and USSR, leading to brinkmanship, its long-term impact was a period of cautious détente and a subsequent decrease in direct military confrontation." This statement presents a nuanced perspective, acknowledging both short-term escalation and long-term de-escalation.

Note: This is just one possible interpretation; a compelling IA can also argue differently. The key is to have a clear, defensible position.

Structuring Your IA: Evidence and Analysis

The body of your IA should present evidence to support your thesis. This evidence should be analyzed, not just summarized. For our example, you might analyze:

Primary Sources: Declassified government documents, letters from key figures (Kennedy, Khrushchev), eyewitness accounts, speeches from the period. These add depth and authenticity to your argument. Always cite appropriately!
Secondary Sources: Scholarly articles, books on the Cuban Missile Crisis, reputable historical analyses. These provide context and different perspectives.

Analysis is key. Don't just present facts; explain why those facts support your argument. Connect your evidence to your thesis statement. For instance, analyzing Kennedy's speeches can demonstrate his approach to de-escalation, supporting your argument about long-term détente. The analysis of Khrushchev's actions would equally support the argument.

Example Evidence and Analysis

Let's say you found a declassified document revealing a secret communication between Kennedy and Khrushchev. You wouldn't just summarize the communication. Instead, you would analyze the tone, the language used, and the implications of the communication for the overall relationship between the two superpowers. Did it show increased trust or continued suspicion? How did this affect later negotiations?

Using Evidence Effectively: Case Study Approach

Consider using a case study approach to analyze specific aspects of the crisis. For example, you could focus on the role of specific individuals (e.g., Robert McNamara, Anatoly Dobrynin), specific events (e.g., the quarantine of Cuba), or specific negotiations. This provides a detailed and in-depth look at your chosen aspect.

Conclusion and Evaluation

The conclusion should summarize your findings and restate your thesis in light of the evidence presented. It should not introduce new information. A strong conclusion reinforces your argument and emphasizes the significance of your findings. Critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of your sources and methodology. Acknowledge any biases present in your sources. This demonstrates critical thinking.

Presentation and Formatting

Word Count: Adhere strictly to the word limit.
Citation: Use a consistent citation style (e.g., Chicago, MLA). Accurate citation is crucial for academic integrity.
Bibliography: Include a complete bibliography of all sources used.
Clarity and Structure: Use clear headings, subheadings, and transitions to ensure a logical flow.

Sample Structure for an IB History IA on the Cuban Missile Crisis:

I. Introduction * Background on the Cold War and the Cuban Revolution * Research Question: To what extent did the Cuban Missile Crisis increase tensions between the USA and USSR during the Cold War? * Thesis Statement: While the Cuban Missile Crisis temporarily heightened tensions between the USA and USSR, leading to brinkmanship, its long-term impact was a period of cautious détente and a subsequent decrease in direct military confrontation.

II. The Immediate Impact of the Crisis * Brinkmanship and the threat of nuclear war * Analysis of primary source documents showing heightened tensions (e.g., excerpts from Kennedy's speeches)

III. Long-Term Consequences of the Crisis * The establishment of the Hotline * The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) * The lessening of direct military confrontation between the superpowers

IV. Analysis and Evaluation of Sources * Strengths and limitations of primary and secondary sources * Discussion of potential biases in the sources

V. Conclusion * Restatement of thesis in light of findings * Concluding remarks on the long-term impact of the crisis

This detailed example provides a framework for your own IB History IA. Remember, thorough research, clear analysis, and a well-structured presentation are key to success. Good luck!