At a glance
- Exhibition
- Three objects, one prompt, max 950 words, internally assessed
- Essay
- Max 1,600 words, one of six prescribed titles, externally assessed
- Weighting
- Exhibition one third, essay two thirds
- Grades
- A to E
- Core points
- Up to 3 with the Extended Essay
How TOK is assessed
| Component | What the student produces | Marked by | Share of TOK grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| TOK exhibition | Three objects (or images of objects) and a commentary of up to 950 words linking them to one of 35 IA prompts | Teacher, moderated by the IB | About one third |
| TOK essay | Essay of up to 1,600 words on one of six prescribed titles for the session | IB examiners | About two thirds |
The exhibition is usually completed in DP1 and the essay in DP2. Each is marked out of 10.
What TOK actually involves
The course is organised around a core theme (knowledge and the knower), optional themes (two from knowledge and technology, knowledge and language, knowledge and politics, knowledge and religion, and knowledge and indigenous societies) and five areas of knowledge: history, the human sciences, the natural sciences, mathematics and the arts. A knowledge framework of scope, perspectives, methods and tools, and ethics helps students compare them.
Students often find TOK confusing because it is not about facts. The essay asks them to argue a position on a knowledge question, using real examples from areas of knowledge, and to consider counterclaims and implications. A student who writes a general opinion piece, or a science report, misses the point.
Why TOK matters for the 45 points
| Element | Points available |
|---|---|
| Six subjects, graded 1 to 7 | Up to 42 |
| TOK and Extended Essay together (grades A to E) | Up to 3 |
| Maximum Diploma score | 45 |
Two A grades give the full 3 points. An E in TOK or in the Extended Essay is a failing condition, whatever the subject scores.
Where TOK marks are lost
- Ignoring the exact wording of the title or prompt. The best essays unpack key terms before arguing.
- Examples that are generic or invented. Specific, real examples from areas of knowledge (a scientific discovery, a historical debate, a mathematical proof) are what examiners reward.
- No counterclaims. A one-sided essay cannot reach the top band.
- Exhibition objects that are interesting but loosely connected to the prompt. Each object needs a specific, justified link.
- Running out of time. The essay deadline falls in DP2 alongside subject IAs and the Extended Essay.
How one-to-one TOK lessons work
TOK lessons are discussions with structure. A tutor who teaches TOK takes a prescribed title, helps the student unpack it, then tests claims and counterclaims with real examples drawn from the student's own subjects. The student plans on the shared whiteboard and writes sections between lessons for feedback.
For the exhibition, the tutor helps the student choose a prompt and objects with strong, specific links. The tutor gives feedback on drafts within IB limits; the exhibition and essay must be the student's own work, and the IB checks for authenticity.
Common questions
Can my child fail the Diploma because of TOK?
Yes. A grade E in TOK (or in the Extended Essay) is a failing condition, regardless of subject scores. Most students who engage with the course and meet deadlines are well clear of it.
When are the TOK essay titles released?
The IB releases six prescribed titles for each exam session, and schools pass them to students. Schools set their own internal deadlines, usually in DP2.
How many points can TOK earn?
TOK and the Extended Essay together earn up to 3 points on a matrix of the two grades. Two A grades earn all 3.
Is a tutor allowed to help with TOK?
Yes, with discussion, feedback and planning, as with any subject. The essay and exhibition must be the student's own work.
How much do TOK lessons cost with LiveTutor?
$15 a lesson, the same rate for every subject and level, on a weekly plan of 1 to 5 lessons billed monthly. Lessons are 60 minutes, one to one and online, and the first lesson is a free trial.
Sources
Dates and figures on this page come from these official and published sources. Always confirm deadlines on the official page before acting on them.