November 2020 Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Essay Prescribed Title #1 RLE – news article on homosexuality in animals

Article: “Homosexual Activity Among Animals Stirs Debate.” https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/2004/07/homosexual-animals-debate/ There is strong disagreement between a number of different groups regarding human homosexuality and issues such as gay rights. It is an issue that frequently overlaps with politics as politicians often use the issue to draw support to their cause. Politicians also Read more…

November 2020 Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Essay Prescribed Title #3 RLE – tree and fungi species sharing resources

“[Fungal networks] have recently been discovered by Professor Suzanne Simard and her graduate students to connect the roots of trees and facilitate the sharing of resources in Douglas-fir forests of interior British Columbia, thereby bolstering their resilience against disturbance or stress and facilitating the establishment of new regeneration.” http://www.botanicalgarden.ubc.ca/potd/2010/03/mycorrhizal_networks.php The Read more…

TOK essay structure

Although there is no “right” way to structure a TOK essay, consider the following outline a starting point: Introduction Discussion of key terms in the Prescribed Title (this could be done later in the essay) Knowledge Question / Knowledge Claim Counterclaim Knowledge Question / Knowledge Claim Counterclaim Knowledge Question / Read more…

THE TOK ESSAY PROCESS

Developing a successful TOK essay is important and very challenging. The TOK essay makes up a significant part of the overall mark for TOK. Additionally, the bonus points available can make a important difference in your overall IB results. Every point counts. Apart from marks, the TOK essay process is Read more…

November 2020 Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Essay Prescribed Title #2 RLE – “Wild Health” Ad for Coca Cola (Coke Zero).

Marketing research shows that soft drinks with “diet” in the name are not that popular with male consumers because they associate the word with food / drinks for women. Marketing / advertising RLEs can work with Prescribed Title #2 because they frequently involve someone in product development or marketing departments Read more…

November 2020 Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Essay Prescribed Title #5 RLE – Japan Medical Association

The Japan Medical Association’s Principles of Medical Ethics: “The physician should strive to achieve a lifelong dedication to continuing education, to keep abreast of medical knowledge and technology, and to support its progress and development. The physician should be aware of the dignity and responsibility of his/her occupation and strive Read more…

November 2020 Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Essay Prescribed Title #5 RLE – Archaeologists use lasers to find ruins

Article: Lasers reveal Maya war ruins “ARCHAEOLOGISTS GUIDED BY laser images of a remote region of northern Guatemala have discovered 20-foot-high walls, watchtowers, and other evidence that ancient Maya societies waged large-scale warfare over many years. The finds have upended long-established impressions of a civilization that tamed the jungle and built Read more…

November 2020 Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Essay Prescribed Title #6 – explanation of key words and phrases

Reliable knowledge – Reliable knowledge can be interpreted in a few slightly different ways.  It can mean something along the lines of consistent or trustworthy depending on the context. Reliable knowledge can have wholly different meanings depending on the AOK and RLE.  Think carefully about what it takes for knowledge to be viewed Read more…