TOK Exhibition: Complete Framework
The TOK Exhibition is an internal assessment worth one-third of your TOK grade. You create an exhibition of three objects connected to one TOK theme, accompanied by a commentary.
Exhibition Requirements
One TOK Prompt
Choose from 35 provided prompts or create your own. Your exhibition explores this prompt through objects.
Three Objects
Select three objects that have a specific real-world context. Must be different from each other.
950-Word Commentary
Write a commentary explaining how each object links to the TOK prompt, with a maximum of 950 words.
Assessment Criteria
| Criterion | Marks | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Internal Assessment (IA) | 3 marks | Teacher-assessed based on exhibition |
| Exhibition Text | 6 marks | Accuracy of commentary, use of evidence |
Success Tips
Object Selection
- Choose objects that are genuinely linked to your TOK theme
- Objects should have specific real-world context
- Avoid generic objects without personal connection
- Consider how objects can prompt interesting TOK discussions
Commentary Writing
- Make clear connections between objects and TOK concepts
- Balance exploration of different perspectives
- Use specific examples from your own experience
- Demonstrate deep critical thinking, not description
Presentation
- Practice your 10-minute presentation multiple times
- Be prepared for examiner questions during your oral defense
- Show genuine engagement with your objects
- Demonstrate how your understanding evolved during the process
💡 Oral Defense Tips
During your 10-minute oral defense, examiners will ask questions about your exhibition. Be prepared to discuss:
- • Why you chose these specific objects
- • How your understanding of the TOK prompt evolved
- • Alternative interpretations or perspectives you considered
- • How your personal context influenced your exhibition
📚 Example TOK Prompts
• What counts as knowledge in the arts?
• How can we know that current knowledge is an improvement upon past knowledge?
• Does some knowledge belong only to particular communities of knowers?
• What constraints are there on the pursuit of knowledge?