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TOK (Theory Of Knowledge) is a crucial part of the IB course you need to do to pass. So no pass? no diploma for you! But no worries, I’ve got your back! In this blog, I’ll tell you some tips I learnt writing my own commentaries.
Firstly, let’s break down what a TOK commentary is.
– You need to write 950 words in total
– 3 Commentaries, so about 300 ish words, each!
– You must pick an object that related to the prescribed title
– Must be a real life object, and no, theory is not an object!
It’s your chance to dissect a knowledge question while throwing in a real-life situation or example. Basically, it’s your moment to flex those critical thinking muscles :3
What are the AOKs?
- History
- Human Sciences (Psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, cultural studies, communication studies, linguistics, social work, law, and gender studies)
- Mathematics
- Natural Sciences (Physics, chemistry, biology, earth science (geosciences), astronomy, environmental science, ecology, neuroscience, materials science)
How to start?
- Get Friendly with the Prescribed titles: First things first, get cozy with that knowledge question. Break it down, spot the key terms, and make friends with the core of the question. This sets the vibe for a commentary that’s on point.
- Set the Scene with Real-Life Scenarios: Spice up your commentary by dropping it into a real-life scenario. This not only adds flavor but also gives your readers a front-row seat to the action.
- Mix Up Those Perspectives: TOK is all about different perspectives. Throw some shade at various viewpoints – how would different areas of knowledge or ways of knowing see things?
- Speak TOK-ish: Sprinkle some TOK lingo into your commentary. Show off your TOK vocab – you know, words like “ways of knowing,” “areas of knowledge,” and all that. (vocab list at the bottom)
- Share Some Personal Experience: Don’t be shy, share some of yours. Connect the knowledge question to your own life experiences. Make it personal and let your unique flavor shine through.
- Go Deep, but Keep It Wide: Find that sweet spot between going deep and keeping it wide. Dive into ideas, but also make sure you cover different perspectives. It’s all about that balance!
- Keep It Snappy and Smooth: Remember, commentaries have a word limit. Be chill but clear, and make sure your arguments flow like a well-curated playlist. Markers don likes a messy mix.
- Give It a Once-Over: Take a breath, take a moment to go over your commentary. Smooth out any rough edges, toss out the unnecessary stuff, and make it shine. A polished commentary is like a fresh fit – it shows you put in the effort.
Format of a Commentary:
Title: (Write your title down)
Picture of the object, with citations, and a short description
Paragraph 1
– Describe the real-life event or problem that is being looked at.
– Make the knowledge question (KQ) easy to understand and short.
– Give an outline of the important arguments or points that will be looked at.
Paragraph 2
– Find the knowledge claims that are made in the real-life scenario and explain them.
– Add counterarguments or different points of view that are linked to the KQ
– Start to make a link between the situation in real life and the chosen areas of information or ways of knowing.
– Apply Theory of Knowledge (TOK) ideas that are useful to real-life situations.
* Use clear language to talk about ideas like ways of knowing, areas of knowledge, or TOK terms.
* Show that you understand how these ideas fit into the study of the knowledge question.
Paragraph 3
– Talk about your own experiences or give examples that are related to the real-life issue.
– Link your own findings to a bigger picture analysis of the knowledge question.
– Show how your personal information and points of view help you understand the KQ.
– Look at any biases or beliefs that are present in the real world.
* Think about how cultural, historical, or contextual factors have affected the points of view that are being given.
* Think about how these biases and assumptions affect your understanding of the KQ as a whole.
Paragraph 4
– Round up your points! Answer the question
Rubrics:
Here are some learning materials that might help you:
Conclusion: So, there you have it, the lowdown on mastering your commentaries. It might seem like a wild ride, but with these tips, you’re gonna slay it. Dive into those knowledge questions, let your thoughts flow, and enjoy the ride. You got this, baby girl! 💫
Check out other blogs in the site!
– https://prodatblog.org/business-management-experience/
– https://prodatblog.org/101-to-ess-environmental-systems-and-societies/
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