Social-and-Cultural-Anthropology · IB Diploma Programme
Social and Cultural Anthropology Exam Tips
In Paper 1 comparative questions (such as the 10-mark comparative essay), examiners enforce a strict, non-negotiable rule. If you fail to explicitly identify the four key metadata elements of your comparative ethnography, your score is instantly capped at a maximum of 8 out of 10…
Papers
2
Total marks
85
Time limit
4h 30min
Grade scale
7654321
Additional note
Calculator policy
A calculator is not normally required for this subject.
2
Papers
5
Strategies
6
Mistakes
- In Paper 1 comparative questions (such as the 10-mark comparative essay), examiners enforce a strict, non-negotiable rule. If you fail to explicitly identify the four key metadata elements of your comparative ethnography, your score is instantly capped at a maximum of 8 out of 10 marks. Top scorers use a systematic checklist to secure these easy marks in their opening paragraph: Researcher: The name of the ethnographer.Location: The precise fieldwork location.Group studied: The specific community or group.Context: The timeframe or socio-historical context in which the fieldwork was carried out. Never assume the examiner will infer these details. State them boldly in your introduction to protect your score from the start.
Tips are paraphrased for study purposes from exam structure data and marking patterns. Always verify against your official syllabus and mark scheme.