DESIGN-TECHNOLOGY · IB Diploma Programme
Design technology Exam Tips
In IB Design Technology, command words are not suggestions; they are exact grading rubrics. One of the most common places students drop easy marks is in 2-mark Outline questions. Many candidates write a single, accurate sentence that identifies a factor and stop there, earning on…
Papers
2
Total marks
80
Time limit
2h 15min
Grade scale
Additional note
Calculator policy
A graphic display calculator (GDC) from the IB-approved list is required for most Mathematics and Sciences papers and must be set to examination mode. Note that some papers do not permit a calculator (for example Mathematics Paper 1 and the multiple-choice Sciences Paper 1).
2
Papers
5
Strategies
6
Mistakes
- In IB Design Technology, command words are not suggestions; they are exact grading rubrics. One of the most common places students drop easy marks is in 2-mark Outline questions. Many candidates write a single, accurate sentence that identifies a factor and stop there, earning only 1 out of 2 marks. To secure full marks, you must use the ID + Dev (Identify + Develop) formula. Your first sentence must state a clear, syllabus-aligned point. Your second sentence must explicitly develop this point by explaining its cause, mechanism, or direct consequence. For example, if asked to outline how a product meets Datschefski's cyclic principle, don't just state that it is recyclable. First, identify that the product uses 100% recyclable or biological materials designed for a closed continuous loop. Second, develop this by explaining that this prevents components from entering landfills and allows them to be reprocessed back into the production cycle, thereby minimizing environmental throughput.
Tips are paraphrased for study purposes from exam structure data and marking patterns. Always verify against your official syllabus and mark scheme.