tok essay example replicability

IB TOK Essay 10/10 Sample: Is Replicability Necessary?

Is replicability necessary in the production of knowledge discuss with reference to two areas of knowledge..

Throughout time, knowledge has been continually produced, lost, and rediscovered, seemingly implying that a defining feature of knowledge is its nature to be replicated. But is this true for all types of knowledge? In this essay, "replicability" is defined as the ability to copy and reproduce something. "Necessary" is meant by essential, an interdependent relationship between two concepts with no substitutes. "Production of knowledge" is defined as a conclusion made by a knower accepted by the broader community. Hence, the question offers further queries: When is replicability desirable in producing knowledge in the natural sciences and arts? In what circumstances is replicability necessary to produce knowledge in the two areas of knowledge? Without replicability, can new knowledge still be produced?

In the natural sciences, replicability could be seen as desirable in knowledge production when used to validate or disprove knowledge. Knowledge in natural sciences could be seen as being acquired through empirical data made by a standardized method. Scientific knowledge can be disproved if the method is repeated and the results are not replicable. Disproving knowledge could be seen as a form of knowledge production, as a new conclusion is made from falsifying pre-existing knowledge. This follows the logic of Karl Popper's falsification principle, where non-science is separated from science through falsifying ideas (McLeod).

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TOK ESSAY TITLE MAY 2023

Tok essay title 1, is replicability necessary in the production of knowledge discuss with reference to two areas of knowledge..

Title 1 of the May 2023 TOK essay prompt centers around the concept of “replicability” and its role in determining the quality of knowledge. The essay explores the significance of reproducing the same knowledge within a consistent framework, particularly in the natural sciences. While replicability often ensures credibility and the ability to obtain consistent results, it is important to evaluate whether this act of reproduction is necessary for knowledge production.

This prompt also prompts an examination of whether replicability holds the same importance in other areas of knowledge. Additionally, it raises questions about how replicability can be distinguished from plagiarism.

By delving into the realm of the arts, the essay considers the possibility of replicating artwork to create indistinguishable pieces. However, it challenges the notion of whether the knowledge produced by each replicated art piece remains the same.

To excel in the May 2023 TOK essay and achieve a perfect score, it is advisable to start early and seek guidance from TOK experts throughout the essay writing process.

IB Theory of Knowledge Essay: Guidance and Ideas

Charles Whitehouse

The Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course is a fundamental part of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. TOK encourages students to think critically about the nature of knowledge, and to consider the ways in which different areas of knowledge are interrelated. Students should demonstrate their ability to question the assumptions and biases that underlie different forms of knowledge and to recognize the value of different perspectives.

The TOK Essay is an essential component of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. It is a 1600 word essay that is worth 2/3 of the total grade for the TOK course and is assessed externally by IB examiners.

Source: IB TOK Guide .

What is the TOK Essay?

The TOK essay is a challenging and yet rewarding experience for students. The experience should encourage students to think critically about the different ways of knowing and different areas of knowledge specified in class teaching, and to consider the relationships between them. The essay is marked based on the student's ability to demonstrate an understanding of the subject, to use critical thinking skills to evaluate various perspectives, and to apply TOK concepts to real-life scenarios.

Every exam session, the International Baccalaureate (IB) provides six prescribed titles for the essay. Each title will cover a different key concept within the TOK syllabus, and some may specify areas of knowledge to focus on during the essay. The prescribed titles should not be modified in the essay answer.

It's important to note that the TOK essay is not primarily a research paper, but rather an opportunity to reflect and analyze on the knowledge questions at hand. However, it is expected that students will use specific sources in their essay and so students should make sure to cite them properly. The essay should be submitted in a standard 12 font size and be double-spaced. Students will have about 10 hours of teaching time dedicated to the essay, during which they will receive guidance from their teacher on how to approach the prompts and potential avenues to take in their answers.

The essay should be a maximum of 1600 words. This word count does not include references or any maps, charts, diagrams, annotated illustrations or tables.

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What are the questions for the Essay?

These are the essay questions for students who are taking the May 2023 International Baccalaureate assessment. The November 2023 titles will be released in March, 2023.

Topic 1. Is replicability necessary in the production of knowledge? Discuss with reference to two areas of knowledge.

Topic 2. For artists and natural scientists, which is more important: what can be explained or what cannot be explained? Discuss with reference to the arts and the natural sciences.

Topic 3. Does it matter if our acquisition of knowledge happens in "bubbles" where some information and voices are excluded? Discuss with reference to two areas of knowledge.

Topic 4. Do you agree that it is "astonishing that so little knowledge can give us so much power" (Bertrand Russell)? Discuss with reference to the natural sciences and one other area of knowledge.

Topic 5. Are visual representations always helpful in the communication of knowledge? Discuss with reference to the human sciences and mathematics.

Topic 6. To what extent is the knowledge we produce determined by the methodologies we use? Discuss with reference to history and one other area of knowledge.

How much can my teacher help?

Writing a TOK essay is an opportunity for students to showcase their own understanding and analysis of knowledge questions. However, teachers play an important role in guiding and supporting students throughout the process. Teachers are responsible for explaining the requirements of the task, making sure students are familiar with the assessment criteria, answering any questions students may have, monitoring progress, and verifying the authenticity of the student's work.

The IB requires three formal interactions between the student and teacher to be recorded on the TOK Essay Planning and Progress Form (TK/PPF). These interactions are evidence for the authenticity of the student's work and also ensure students are provided with an appropriate level of support during the essay-writing process. The TK/PPF is not considered by examiners when determining the final mark, but it will be submitted to the IB along with the essay.

For students who still face any difficulties should consider consulting IB tutors . An IB tutor provides focused help, making tough subjects easier to understand and excel in. Their guidance boosts confidence and exam scores, helping students achieve their academic goals.

Have a look at our comprehensive set of IB Study Notes and IB Practice Questions , developed by expert IB teachers and examiners!

What are the assessment criteria?

The TOK Essay is marked out of 10 marks. It is marked in response to this question: “Does the student provide a clear, coherent and critical exploration of the essay title?”

An essay which is a 9 or 10 marker will fulfill this criteria: “The discussion has a sustained focus on the title and is linked effectively to areas of knowledge. Arguments are clear, coherent and effectively supported by specific examples. The implications of arguments are considered. There is clear awareness and evaluation of different points of view.” The essay will be: “Insightful, Convincing, Accomplished, and Lucid”.

Use the IB’s TOK Guide for more detail on each of the descriptors for the marking bands.

How can I write a high quality Theory of Knowledge Essay?

1. choosing areas of knowledge to study.

Some essay titles will specify which area of knowledge to focus on in your essay. If the title does not specify the area of knowledge, it is recommended to choose roughly 2 areas of knowledge to structure your argument around. This decision should be guided by both your personal interests and the areas of knowledge which best lend themselves to interesting analysis for the question.

For example, the May 2023 “Is replicability necessary in the production of knowledge?” is likely to lend itself well to an analysis of Natural Sciences, with consideration of the scientific method. This could be fruitfully compared to an area of knowledge that uses a different methodology.

When composing your Theory of Knowledge (TOK) essay, it's important to consider the structure of your argument. One effective approach is to divide your essay into two main sections, each focusing on a specific area of knowledge. Within each section, it's a good idea to present a claim and a counterclaim. This allows you to explore both sides of an issue and to demonstrate your ability to think critically.

It is important to be mindful of how you present your claim and counterclaim. One side of the argument should typically agree with the statement in the question while the other should disagree. This creates a clear and well-defined structure for your essay and makes it easier for the reader to follow your argument.

2. Finding interesting, relevant real life examples

Examples are crucial for making a strong argument in a Theory of Knowledge (TOK) essay. They provide concrete evidence to support your ideas and help to ground your discussion in the real world. Without examples, your essay may lack the necessary depth and nuance.

When selecting examples to use in your essay, it's important to focus on real-life, concrete examples rather than hypothetical ones. TOK is about knowledge in the real world, and using examples that are rooted in reality will help to make your argument more convincing.

Once you have selected your examples, it's crucial to analyze them well. Don't just present an example, but explain why it's a good example and how it supports your argument. Make sure to explain what it shows and how it shows it. Your examiner might have a lot or a little knowledge of the topic, so it's important to make your examples clear and convincing for any reader.

It's also important to avoid using obvious examples. For example, self-driving cars are the go-to example for students analysing technology and ethics. Try to search for examples that are unique and not commonly used by others. By doing so, you'll be able to make a stronger argument and stand out from other students.

3. Write clearly

Writing a Theory of Knowledge (TOK) essay requires an effective writing style. The most important thing to focus on is clarity. The complexity of TOK concepts and the depth of your ideas may tempt you to write in an over-sophisticated and rambling manner. This will detract from the meaning of your strong arguments.

Make sure your writing is easy to understand and that your arguments are well-structured. This can be achieved with simple language and avoiding overly long sentences.

Expert IB TOK tutors also recommend that your essay should flow logically from your introduction, to your body paragraphs, through to your conclusion. This requires your arguments to be well-organized, with examples and evidence presented in a clear and coherent manner. Transitional phrases can be helpful to guide the reader through your argument.

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Written by: Charles Whitehouse

Charles scored 45/45 on the International Baccalaureate and has six years' experience tutoring IB and IGCSE students and advising them with their university applications. He studied a double integrated Masters at Magdalen College Oxford and has worked as a research scientist and strategy consultant.

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May 2023 TOK essay prescribed title #1 – key terms

Published by author on september 21, 2022 september 21, 2022.

Once you get the set of prescribed titles for your cohort, the first step is going through each one and analyzing the key terms.

1. Is replicability necessary in the production of knowledge? Discuss with reference to two areas of knowledge.

“ Is replicability necessary…?” Make sure that your essay clearly answers this question.  Your investigation of different AOKs and different specific examples throughout your answer may lead to multiple answers to the question which is perfectly fine.  Your essay does not have to have one definitive answer to this question – in fact an essay that has only one definitive answer to this question may be simplistic and flawed.

“ Replicability ” – clearly replicability is a critical part of research in the sciences where getting consistent results is important.  A lab experiment, for example, should be able to be run multiple times by multiple people and the results should be consistent.  Replicability has an important role in other areas such as the arts.  There are occasions where different artists need to produce a similar end result (e.g. musicians playing from sheet music). Replicability is not always necessary though, even in the sciences.

“ Necessary ” – in some AOKs and specific examples replicability may be more important than others.  In some situations though it may not be important at all.  With May 2023 prescribed title #1 it may be important to consider a variety of specific examples within an AOK that demonstrate different degrees of necessity.

“ the production of knowledge ” – this is a phrase that shows up quite often in TOK prescribed titles.  Consider what is required to “produce” knowledge in an AOK.  When looking at possible specific examples for this prescribed title make sure you can clearly identify where and how knowledge is being produced.  It is also important to gauge how important replicability is in the production of knowledge.

May 2023 TOK Prescribed Titles #1 and #3 are the only two where students have freedom to choose any two areas of knowledge.

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