What score did you achieve in IB Geography?
I achieved a 7/7 in Geography HL.
How did you study for IB Geography? What techniques did you use to study?
My study technique was all about good preparation. I kept a list of case studies linked to each part of the IB Geography guide and learned one significant figure or general detail for each example; that’s all you need for most questions. Revising key definitions using the Trilingual glossary of geography terms for the Diploma Programme was really useful too. Finally, I wrote condensed study notes for each topic based on the IB Geography syllabus so I could easily revise.
Find everything you need to know about IB Geography in our comprehensive review
What is your advice for Geography students for the IA?
The Internal Assessment (IA) is a big part of this subject, so my main advice is to follow the rubric carefully; that’s exactly how they’ll mark it. Getting a peer to read and mark your IA is also very helpful for catching areas you can improve. Finally, make sure it’s a Geography IA and not just a general knowledge report. That means including proper geographical conventions, like BOLTSS maps, diagrams, and spatial data, to show you understand the core geographical concepts you’re dealing with. For example, in resource stewardship, this would look like discussing the food-water-energy nexus and extensive/intensive farming rather than a general statement regarding farming inefficiencies,
What is your advice for Geography students for the end of year exams?
When it comes to exams, I’d suggest using the reading time to plan your whole paper. Quickly scan the questions and identify which will need more time. Answer your favourite topics first in Paper 1. For me, this was urban. Longer responses usually take more time per mark, so plan accordingly. However, make sure you secure the easy marks first by doing well in short answer questions; that’s where you can quickly boost your overall score. Geography HL requires a lot of writing, so it’s also a good idea to practice writing under timed conditions before the exam. In the last month leading up to my exams, I practised writing every day to build up my endurance. One small trick that really helped me was taping a small battery to my pen to add weight; this built up my hand strength over time!
One of the most important things to understand to ace your exams are the command terms. Check out our comprehensive view of the Geography command terms.
Do you have any resources that you would recommend?
There are some great resources available online. I found IB Geography Pods, IB Geography Revision, Savemyexams, and ExceedIB really helpful for extra practice and topic reviews.
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What separates an average student from a good student from a great students in IB Geography?
What separates average from great students in Geography is genuine interest and a deeper understanding. The students who do well tend to want to learn more about the world and its systems. They also plan their IA early so they have enough time to revise and improve it properly. Another big difference is that top students understand the material rather than just memorise it. Keeping up with world current affairs and real-world examples is also important; it really strengthens your extended responses and makes your answers stand out.
How did you balance study with the rest of your life in the IB DP?
Balancing study with everything else in Year 12 is definitely a challenge. I set myself a realistic study schedule and stuck to it, making sure I also had time for exercise, relaxation, and at least eight hours of sleep. Working at the library or at school really helped me focus, especially if I studied alongside friends who were also working hard. Taking breaks together gave me something to look forward to and kept me from burning out.
Some more information about our tutor, Conor
Hi, I’m Conor, and I graduated the IB with an IBAS of 43.75 from Redlands School. Next year, I plan to study Engineering and Commerce at ANU. I received 10% over the grade boundary for a 7 in Maths AIHL (topping my class) and Economics HL and 20% over the grade boundary for a 7 in IB Physics SL. However, I believe my most significant selling point as a tutor is my strong communication skills, which I developed through my position on the Redlands Portfolio Leadership Team as Environment Captain and my three years of experience tutoring as part of a school program. I was also privileged to receive the Year 12 Prize for Leadership. I am energetic and friendly, and I love tutoring. The greatest reward is seeing my students grow and gain confidence. My tutoring style is personalised, positive, and interactive, focusing on building confidence and a deeper understanding of the course material. Throughout Year 12, I found that while working hard is vital to success, working hard in the right places is essential to succeeding in the IB. I aim to help every student reach the results their dedication deserves. Aside from academics, I also enjoy snowboarding, running, soccer and touch footy. Something that I learned through the IB is the value of time doing the things you love and keeping a balanced life (easier said than done, I know)!
If you would like to book a session with Conor, please submit an application today.
