

IB DP Science IA Methodology Planning Document
This 9-page structured planning worksheet guides students to design rigorous, safe, and reproducible methodology before starting any experimental work. It directly supports Criterion A: Research Design, helping students turn ideas into clear, actionable investigation plans.
What This Document Includes
A complete 13-part methodology planning system with tables, checklists, and guided prompts in an editable format. A built-in teacher approval section ensures designs are reviewed before lab work begins.
Methodology Planning Coverage
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Variables Planning
Define independent, dependent, and control variables with justification, measurement methods, and precision. -
Equipment & Materials
List apparatus, chemicals, quantities, and specifications. Includes availability checks. -
Detailed Methodology
Step-by-step setup, procedure, data collection methods, and trial consistency planning. -
Safety & Risk Assessment
Hazard identification, GHS references, control measures, PPE checklist, and emergency procedures. -
Data Analysis Plan
Strategy for interpreting results, evaluating the hypothesis, and considering limitations and improvements. -
Uncertainty & Error Planning
Identify random and systematic errors, with strategies to improve precision and reproducibility. -
Data Collection Planning
Determine number of data points, trial structure, and includes raw/processed data table templates. -
Data Processing Plan
Required calculations, formula documentation, graphing approach, and statistical test planning. -
Time Management
Time estimates, scheduling, and deadline tracking. -
Contingency Planning
Potential problems, backup solutions, and alternative approaches. -
Reproducibility Check
Self-assessment checklist to confirm the method can be replicated by others. -
Teacher Approval Section
Review checklist, feedback space, and final approval sign-off. -
Student Reflection
Post-planning strengths review, concerns, and next steps.
Ideal For
• IB Science teachers requiring structured IA planning
• Students needing support to build detailed procedures
• Schools prioritizing safety and compliance
• Teachers aiming to identify design flaws early
• Complex investigations requiring thorough preparation
Why It Works
This document converts vague ideas into clear, structured experimental plans. Students demonstrate high-level planning expected for top Criterion A marks while reducing errors, safety issues, and redesigns during experimentation.
Part of a larger IA support bundle, this resource is used after research question approval and before any practical work begins. It serves as the investigation blueprint and must be teacher-approved prior to experimentation.
Key Benefit: Students who complete this thoroughly rarely face major experimental setbacks because risks, variables, and procedures have already been carefully planned.
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