How Many Sources Do You Need for a History IA?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) History Internal Assessment (IA) is a crucial component of your final grade. A strong IA requires robust research and a compelling argument supported by historical sources. But how many sources are enough?
The answer isn't a fixed number. It depends on several factors:
- The complexity of your research question: A broad question may require a wider range of sources than a focused one.
- The type of sources: Primary sources, like diaries or government documents, often carry more weight than secondary sources, like textbooks.
- The depth of your analysis: A well-developed analysis needs more than just a superficial overview of your sources.
The IB guidelines don't specify a minimum or maximum number of sources. However, a good rule of thumb is to aim for a minimum of 8 to 10 sources, with a balance between primary and secondary sources. This range allows for a comprehensive exploration of your topic and sufficient evidence to support your argument.
How to Choose the Right Sources for Your IA:
- Start with your research question: What kind of sources will answer your question?
- Look for a variety of sources: This demonstrates breadth and depth in your research.
- Consider different perspectives: Include sources from different countries, time periods, and viewpoints.
- Evaluate the reliability and credibility of your sources: Who wrote the source? When was it written? What is the author's bias?
What Types of Sources Can You Use?
Here are some examples of historical sources you might consider for your IA:
- Primary sources:
- Personal accounts: Diaries, letters, memoirs, oral histories.
- Official documents: Government records, treaties, court proceedings, legislation.
- Visual sources: Photographs, paintings, maps, cartoons.
- Material culture: Objects, artifacts, tools, clothing.
- Secondary sources:
- Books: Academic texts, biographies, monographs.
- Journal articles: Scholarly publications in history journals.
- Websites: Reputable online sources like academic databases and government websites.
- Interviews: Experts in the field, eyewitnesses.
Tips for Using Sources Effectively:
- Don't just summarize: Analyze, interpret, and evaluate your sources to make connections and draw conclusions.
- Use direct quotes sparingly: Only use quotes when they add something unique or insightful to your argument.
- Properly cite your sources: Use footnotes, endnotes, or a bibliography to acknowledge all sources used.
- Keep track of your sources: Create a detailed bibliography and maintain a system for organizing your research.
How to Ensure Your IA is Well-Researched:
- Start your research early: This will give you enough time to find and evaluate sources.
- Consult your history teacher: They can provide guidance and feedback on your research.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help: If you're struggling to find suitable sources, seek help from librarians or other professionals.
Conclusion:
The number of sources you need for your IB History IA is not predetermined. Instead, focus on the quality and relevance of your sources and ensure they contribute meaningfully to your analysis. By choosing a variety of sources and using them effectively, you can write a compelling and well-researched IA that demonstrates your understanding of the historical topic.