IB for Tutors: Supporting Students Effectively
Understanding the IB structure
Tutors should know:
- HL vs SL—depth and hours
- IA—coursework, criteria, moderation
- EE—supervision rules, what help is allowed
- TOK—exhibition and essay
- Assessment criteria—what earns marks
Using assessment criteria
IB marks are criterion-based. Tutors should:
- Use subject guides and past papers with mark schemes
- Teach to the criteria, not just content
- Practise command terms (Analyse, Evaluate, etc.)
- Show how levels of response work for extended answers
IA support boundaries
Allowed:
- Explaining concepts and methods
- Helping with structure and planning
- Commenting on drafts (within school policy)
- Teaching skills (e.g. data analysis, writing)
Not allowed:
- Writing or rewriting the student’s work
- Providing answers or solutions for assessed tasks
- Doing the enquiry or experiments for them
Check the Academic Honesty policy. When in doubt, less direct help is safer.
EE support boundaries
Allowed:
- Discussing research question and scope
- Guiding research and structure
- Teaching academic writing and referencing
Not allowed:
- Writing sections for the student
- Doing the research for them
- Bypassing the school supervisor
The supervisor is the main guide; tutors support, not replace, that role.
TOK support
- Clarify concepts and examples
- Practise formulating knowledge questions
- Review structure and argument
- Do not write the exhibition or essay for the student
CAS
Tutors do not usually supervise CAS. You can help students reflect on experiences and link them to learning outcomes if the school permits.
How Tutopiya helps
Tutopiya tutors are trained in IB structure and academic integrity. Explore IB resources or book a free trial.
Source: IB Academic Honesty
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