Written by Manmohini Tiwari
The summer after IBDP1 is a golden opportunity that most miss out on. You’re halfway through one of the most rigorous academic programs in the world, and while rest is important, this break can also be a strategic stepping stone toward IBDP2 success. With looming Internal Assessments (IAs), the Extended Essay (EE), and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) deadlines, now is the time to set yourself up for a more manageable, less stressful final year.
Here’s a guide to help you balance rest, reflection, and preparation during your summer break based on my journey!
1. Rest and Recharge – But Intentionally
Before anything else: breathe. IBDP1 is intense, and it’s normal to feel exhausted. Sleep well, reconnect with hobbies, travel if possible, and spend time with friends and family. You’ll return to your studies with a clearer mind and better focus.
Pro tip: Even during rest, be mindful of what inspires or intrigues you—it might feed into your EE or TOK ideas later!
2. Finalize or Refine Your Extended Essay (EE) Research Question
Your EE is one of the most time-consuming components of the IBDP. If you haven’t finalized your topic or question, do it early in the summer. If you already have your RQ, start reading deeply and outlining your argument.
- Organize your notes in a digital or physical folder.
- Draft a rough structure or even start writing your introduction.
- Set small weekly goals for progress.
- Example: If your EE is in History, gather primary and secondary sources and identify key historiographical debates. If it’s in Biology, consider planning your experiment or data collection process.
3. Begin or Continue Working on Your IAs
If your school allows or encourages early IA progress, take advantage of the extra time. Summer is especially great for subjects with practical components like the sciences or Geography.
- Create timelines for each IA.
- If needed, begin preliminary data collection or research.
- Don’t aim for perfection—just make a start.
Tip: For science IAs, make sure your experiments are feasible, safe, and follow ethical guidelines.
4. Brush Up on Content You Struggled With
Identify subjects or topics where you felt less confident in IBDP1.
- Watch videos (Khan Academy, Revision Village, etc.).
- Review your notes and complete a few practice questions.
- Make flashcards or mind maps to solidify core concepts (use a color coding technique!)
Focus on foundations—getting clear on these will help you excel in the more complex content of IBDP2.
5. Read Widely for TOK
Theory of Knowledge benefits immensely from broad, reflective reading. Explore articles, books, podcasts, and documentaries that challenge your thinking.
- Look into current global issues, ethics, and knowledge systems.
- Start noting real-life situations (RLS) that could feed into your TOK essay or exhibition.
Suggested reading: “The Art of Thinking Clearly” by Rolf Dobelli or “The Demon-Haunted World” by Carl Sagan.
6. Continue CAS – But Make it Meaningful
Don’t let CAS become a checklist. Use the summer to pursue something you genuinely care about.
- Volunteer, learn a new skill, start a blog or YouTube channel, take part in a community project.
Reflect as you go—keep records of your goals, activities, and learning outcomes.
Example: If you love art and spreading awareness for mental health, organize an online art exhibition to raise awareness for youth wellbeing. Or it can even be learning a new sport!
7. Plan for Balance in Year 2
Use this summer to evaluate your strengths, weaknesses, and time-management habits.
- Start a planner or digital calendar system that works for you.
- Practice setting boundaries with distractions (especially social media).
- Consider what habits you want to strengthen for IBDP2—such as weekly goal-setting or journaling.
Self-awareness now = less overwhelming feelings later.
conclusion: A Summer to Launch From, Not Escape Into
Think of it as building a runway—one where each small effort helps you lift off confidently into your final year. You don’t need to do everything perfectly, but you do need to show up with intention.
Enjoy your summer—and make it count.
Best wishes
Manmohini
