TOK Assessment Unpacked: Strategies for the Essay and Exhibition
Description
This one-day deep-dive strengthens teacher understanding of Theory of Knowledge (TOK) assessment, focusing on the TOK exhibition and the TOK essay. Participants will explore the purpose, structure, and assessment expectations of both tasks.
Through discussion, analysis of examples, and collaborative activities, participants will develop strategies to guide students in selecting effective exhibition objects, crafting clear commentaries, and developing focused, well-structured TOK essays. The event will also consider practical ways to scaffold these assessments throughout the course while maintaining the inquiry-driven nature of TOK.
By the end of the session, participants will have a clearer understanding of assessment criteria, practical approaches for supporting students, and strategies for aligning teaching, feedback, and assessment within the TOK course.
Learning outcomes
- Understand the purpose and structure of the TOK exhibition and TOK essay as core assessment components.
- Interpret the TOK assessment criteria and apply them when reviewing student work.
- Identify characteristics of effective TOK exhibitions, including appropriate object selection and clear links to prompts.
- Recognize the features of strong TOK essays, including focused arguments and effective use of examples.
- Develop strategies to support students in planning and preparing for both assessments.
- Align classroom activities and feedback with the expectations of TOK assessment.
Target Audience
IBDP TOK teachers, Heads of TOK, IB coordinators
Meet Our Trainer:
Course Includes
- Course Certificate
After completing an undergraduate degree in Philosophy, Alex trained as a teacher and initially worked in London. Alex moved to a school to lead Philosophy, Religious Studies and TOK for one of the largest IB DP cohorts in the Europe, Africa and Middle East region. He has a range of roles with the IB including, workshop leading, site visiting, curriculum review team member and is highly experienced in assessment. He is currently the Deputy Head of an International School in Italy.