This IB Math AA IA Framework on exponential growth and decay
gives you a complete, customizable starting point for your
Internal Assessment — structured enough to give you direction,
broad enough to make it genuinely yours.
WHAT YOU’LL INVESTIGATE:
How accurately does an exponential model of the form f(t) = ae^(bt)
describe the growth or decay of a real-world quantity over time?
You’ll fit the model to real data using logarithmic linearisation,
interpret the growth or decay constant b, compute the half-life
or doubling time, and critically evaluate when and why the model
breaks down.
MATHEMATICAL CONTENT (AA Syllabus Only):
SL: Exponential functions, laws of logarithms, solving
exponential equations, geometric sequences, compound interest
formula FV = PV(1+r)^n
HL Extension: Separable differential equation dP/dt = kP,
analytical solution by separation of variables, logistic model
comparison using partial fractions
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
✓ Clear explanation of the mathematical approach and
investigation structure
✓ SL pathway with full guidance on logarithmic linearisation
and model fitting
✓ HL pathway extending to differential equation derivation
and logistic model comparison
✓ 5 real-world context options:
— Vehicle or asset depreciation
— Bacterial growth or viral spread
— Environmental decay (CO2, radioactive isotopes)
— Technology or social media adoption
— Your own chosen context
✓ Variable selection guide with LaTeX-formatted notation
✓ Data source recommendations (free, globally accessible)
✓ 3 example IA titles using the template formula
✓ 3 realistic limitations written as genuine reflection points
✓ 5-step action plan from idea to finished IA structure
✓ 5 teacher discussion questions for fast topic approval
✓ The Uniqueness Test checklist
✓ Vague vs. unique example descriptions to check your topic
DIFFICULTY: 3 out of 5
Best for students who are comfortable with exponential
functions and logarithms and want a topic with real data,
clear visual outputs, and strong potential for personal
connection.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY:
This framework is a starting point — not a finished IA.
You must personalize it, collect your own data, and write
your own exploration entirely. This product supports your
thinking; it does not replace it.
Delivered instantly as a PDF download.
Price: $5.45
See our full range of
IB Math IA Frameworks.
Mathematical content is aligned with the
IB Mathematics AA syllabus.