Internal Assessment
Providing an original solution for a client
Worth 30% for Standard Level, 20% for Higher Level . Broken down into 7 criterion which are awarded grades to total 30 marks. Internal assessment is an integral part of the course and is compulsory for both SL and HL students. It enables students to demonstrate the application of their skills and knowledge, and to pursue their personal interests, without the time limitations and other constraints that are associated with written examinations. The internal assessment should, as far as possible, be woven into normal classroom teaching over a period of time (30 hours class time recommended) and not be a short intensive activity in the course or after the course has been taught.
The internal assessment requirements at SL and at HL are the same. However, it contributes to a different percentage of the overall mark. Students are required to produce a project that consists of a cover page, the product (IT solution) and documentation (2000 words max). The focus of the ITGS project is on providing an original IT solution for a client. Marked by the teacher, and then externally moderated.
A - Initial Investigation
Initial investigation of the problem - 200-250 words of extended writing
Initial Consultation with the client - A written record of an interview either as a summary or transcript, a sound file, a video or an exchange of emails that may be supported by a questionnaire, providing evidence of the initial consultation with client. (doesnt affect word count)
B - Analysis
Requirements Specification - not counted towards word count. The specific performance criteria within the requirements specification will be used in Criterion F to evaluate the effectiveness of the product.
Justification of proposed solution - Extended writing of around 250-350 words.
C - Project Schedule
Project schedule form. May be presented in the form of a table. The project schedule must include the following.
D - Product Design
Product design form. Includes scanned sketches, lists or concise statements, table for assets and techniques and for test plan.
There are four significant components to the product design.
E - Product Development
The student must demonstrate the techniques, with screenshots, that were used to develop the IT solution identified in Criterion B for the client identified in Criterion A and explain why they have been used.
An ITGS product is defined as one that includes at least three appropriate advanced techniques. The list of appropriate techniques (Guidance on the appropriateness and complexity of the IT solution) can be viewed here.
F - PRODUCT EVALUATION AND FUTURE PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
The student must evaluate the effectiveness of the finished product, based on feedback from the client.
This must include direct references to the specific performance criteria identified in the requirements specification as part of Criterion B. The student must recommend proposals for future improvements of the product.
G - Required Elements
This criterion assesses the extent to which the four formal requirements are met.
