Mastering Your IB Geography IA: Word Count Requirements and Fieldwork Analysis
Introduction
The IB Geography Internal Assessment (IA) is your opportunity to conduct independent geographical investigation through fieldwork and data analysis. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the word count requirements, structure your investigation effectively, and develop strong analytical skills that demonstrate geographical thinking.
Your Geography IA should be a thorough investigation spanning up to 2,500 words. The key to success lies in demonstrating geographical skills through systematic fieldwork, data analysis, and understanding of spatial relationships and processes.
Understanding the IA Structure
The Geography IA follows a structured format that demonstrates your ability to conduct geographical inquiry through systematic investigation and critical analysis.
Introduction and Research Question (Approximately 400 words)
Establish the foundation for your geographical investigation:
Clear, focused research question with geographical significance
Contextual background of your study area
Theoretical framework and geographical concepts
Justification for location and topic selection
Connection to geographical themes and processes
Methodology (Approximately 600 words)
Detail your fieldwork approach and data collection methods:
Sampling strategy and site selection justification
Primary data collection techniques and tools
Secondary data sources and their relevance
Risk assessment and safety considerations
Limitations and potential sources of error
Data recording and organization methods
Data Presentation and Analysis (Approximately 800 words)
Present and analyze your findings with geographical insight:
Clear presentation of primary and secondary data
Appropriate use of maps, graphs, and statistical analysis
Identification of patterns, trends, and spatial relationships
Application of geographical concepts and theories
Analysis of anomalies or unexpected findings
Conclusion and Evaluation (Approximately 500 words)
Synthesize findings and critically evaluate your investigation:
Clear answer to your research question
Evaluation of methodology and data quality
Discussion of limitations and their impact
Geographical significance of findings
Suggestions for further investigation
References and Appendices (Approximately 200 words)
Include properly formatted sources and supporting materials.
Use CiteCount to track your word count while maintaining focus on geographical analysis and fieldwork insights!
Fieldwork Techniques and Methods
Primary Data Collection
Choose appropriate methods for your investigation:
Spearman's rank correlation for non-parametric data
Visual Representation
Present data effectively using geographical tools:
Maps with appropriate scales and symbols
Graphs and charts with clear labeling
Photographs with analytical annotation
Field sketches and diagrams
Using CiteCount for Your Geography IA
CiteCount is essential for managing your 2,500-word limit effectively. Our tool excludes citations, data tables, and map annotations from your count, helping you focus on geographical analysis and interpretation while ensuring you don't exceed the word limit.
Regular monitoring helps maintain appropriate balance between methodology, analysis, and evaluation sections.
Important Reminder!
Remember to exclude the following from your word count:
Title page and contents
Acknowledgments
Maps and diagrams
Photographs and field sketches
Data tables and raw data
Statistical calculations
Appendices
References and bibliography
In-text citations
Risk assessment forms
Utilize CiteCount for precise word counting that automatically excludes citations and data tables, ensuring your focus remains on quality geographical analysis and interpretation.