Grade descriptors

Grading by component

The exams are criterion-based rather than being norm referenced. In theory (although it is very unlikely to happen in practice!) all students could achieve the top grade of 7. The level of performance that each student must be able to demonstrate in order to achieve a particular grade is set out clearly in the Group 4 Grade Descriptors.   Based on these descriptors the senior examining team at the Grade Award Meeting determines the minimum mark that a student needs to achieve for each of the four components (IA, and Papers 1, 2 and 3). Of course very few students will meet all the characteristics listed for a particular grade. What the examiners do is to try to place the students in the grade that most accurately matches their performance. Once the boundaries are set for all the four components the marks are then aggregated to provide the minimum overall percentage that students require for their overall IB grades 1 - 7.

 

The grade descriptors were actually formalised in 1999. Before that they were simply vague descriptions such as excellent, very good, good etc. It was the biologists who first used more detailed descriptors. Their informal grade descriptor for Grade 1 used to be simply ‘breathing’.

The current Grade Descriptors (which are the same for all Group 4 subjects) for Grade 7 and Grade 4 are given below. The complete descriptors for all seven grades can be obtained from the resources section on My IB.  These were last updated in September 2021.

Grade 7 Excellent performance

Displays comprehensive subject knowledge and a thorough command of concepts and principles. Selects and applies relevant information, concepts and principles in a wide variety of contexts. Analyses and evaluates quantitative and qualitative data thoroughly. Constructs detailed explanations of complex phenomena and makes appropriate predictions. Evidences great proficiency in solving problems, including those that are challenging or unfamiliar. Communicates logically and concisely using appropriate terminology and conventions. Shows insight or originality. Approaches investigations in an ethical manner, paying full attention to environmental impact and safety where applicable. Investigations demonstrate insight and independence to design and complete innovative practical work with highly competent investigative and analytical techniques, and with innovative and effective conclusions to resolve authentic problems.

Grade 4 Satisfactory performance

Displays reasonable subject knowledge (though possibly with some gaps) and shows adequate understanding of most basic concepts and principles, but with limited ability to apply them. Demonstrates some analysis or evaluation of quantitative or qualitative data. Solves some basic or routine problems but shows limited ability to solve challenging or unfamiliar problems. Communicates adequately, although responses may lack clarity and include some repetitive or irrelevant material.

Generally approaches investigations in an ethical manner, with some attention to environmental impact and safety where applicable. Investigations demonstrate an ability to complete fairly routine practical work with some appropriate investigative and analytical techniques, and with some conclusions relevant to the problem under study.

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