Format: 1h15 (20% HL, 30% SL); Source-based, 4 compulsory structured questions on the core topics. Total = 25 marks.

Marks per question:
Q1 = 3 marks (AO1) knowledge/understanding.
Q2 = 4 marks (AO2) application/analysis.
Q3 = 6 marks (AO3) compare/contrast two sources with own knowledge.
Q4 = 12 marks (AO3) evaluate sources + synthesize with own knowledge.

Format: 1h 45mins (30% HL, 40% SL) Extended-response paper on the three thematic studies. Two sections; you answer one essay from each. Total = 30 marks.

The guide specifies that Section A contains questions from each thematic study and Section B contains integrating questions; you choose one from A and one from B. (The number of options can vary by session; the guide does not fix a count.)

Build a clear argument using concepts + cases; Section B expects connections across themes and core.

Format: 1h30 (30%): Stimulus-based paper on the HL extension (global political challenges); you draw on your researched case studies. Total = 28 marks.

Question structure & marks:
Q1 = 3 marks (AO2) analyse the stimulus.
Q2a = 4 marks (AO2) analyse an identified political issue.
Q2b = 6 marks (AO3) recommend a course of action.
Q3 = 15 marks (AO3) synthesize & evaluate across your case studies.

What it is: 35 hours (20%), SL 25 hours (30%): Investigate a political issue through research and active engagement, then submit a written report (methodology, links to course content, analysis, stakeholder perspectives; HL also includes a recommendation).

Marks: 30 marks HL, 24 marks SL (internally assessed, externally moderated).