The TOK exhibition is centered around one IA prompt, explored through three specific objects that exemplify the chosen prompt. Each object requires a written commentary of approximately 315 words, where students explain how the object connects to the prompt and illustrates key TOK concepts. The exhibition does not require an overall introduction or conclusion. Instead, the focus is on clear, concise analysis of each object in isolation, while maintaining a consistent connection to the chosen prompt throughout.
a. Background
Introduce the object and identify its specific real-world context.
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What is it? Where is it from?
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Explain your personal connection with the object.
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Keep the paragraph shorter than 100 words.
Prompt:
“Why do we seek knowledge?”
Object 1. Korean Documentary Series Whales and I
Quality of Writing
Example
Initial Writing
“SBS, known for its high-quality nature documentaries, showcased its stronger commitment to environmental storytelling through the documentary series Whales and I in 2023 that explores the lives of whales, shedding light on their behavior, communication, and threats they face due to human activity and environmental changes. With close collaboration with marine biologists and environmental organizations, the series was filmed in ultra-high-definition 8K, delivering breathtaking visuals of underwater landscapes and the majestic movements of whales, often referred to as the “guardians of the ocean.”
Improved Writing
“The Korean documentary series Whales and I, first aired in 2023 on SBS, explores the lives of whales, shedding light on their behavior, communication, and threats they face due to human activity and environmental changes. Filmed in ultra-high-definition 8K, the visually stunning series offers a rare glimpse into the underwater world, underscoring the importance of marine conservation. Upon watching this, I was personally captivated by the portrayal of intelligence and social bonds among whales and it inspired me to seek more knowledge about these creatures to better appreciate and protect our shared planet.”
b. Link
Explain how the object answers the prompt with ToK concepts.
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Use key words directly from the prompt to demonstrate connection to the prompt.
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Focus on 1-2 relevant TOK concepts (e.g., perspective, evidence, authority, power, certainty, bias) and analyze how the object reflects those concepts in relation to the IA prompt.
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Potential sentence starters:
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“This object relates to the prompt because…”
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“This object is particularly interesting for the exhibition because…”
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“This object provides insight into…”
Prompt: “Why do we seek knowledge?”
Quality of Writing | Example |
Initial Writing | “This object is particularly valuable for this exhibition because it offers a deep dive into the lives of whales ranging from their behaviors to the challenges they face in the ocean. Whales and I presents whales from a variety of angles, encapsulating the beauty of these creatures and their complex social interactions. By highlighting the struggles whales face due to human interference, the series creates a sense of urgency to protect them and their environment. This knowledge brings the ocean’s mysteries to life, leaving viewers with a greater understanding of these majestic animals. Therefore, it is important that we consciously seek knowledge of the world we inhabit together with other valuable life” |
Improved Writing | “This object is particularly valuable for this exhibition because it demonstrates how seeking knowledge from multiple perspectives enhances our understanding of the natural world. Whales and I explores the lives of whales through scientific, ecological, and ethical lenses, showing their intrinsic and ecological value while emphasizing the urgency of marine conservation. By revealing how human activities harm these creatures, the series highlights our responsibility to mitigate environmental damage and protect vulnerable species. Seeking knowledge about whales’ behaviors and habitats not only deepens our appreciation of their role in ecosystems but also fosters accountability for our impact. This knowledge empowers individuals to value conservation efforts and take informed actions to preserve the delicate balance of marine life.” |
c. Justification/Implication
Justify why this is the best object that can provide a unique insight to the prompt.
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Broaden the scope to show that your exploration of the chosen prompt has clear, meaningful connections to knowledge and the world.
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Link back to the core theme (knowledge and the knower) and/or optional themes (knowledge and technology/politics/language/religion/indigenous societies).
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Potential sentence starters:
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“This object enriches my exhibition because…”
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“This object is pivotal in demonstrating…”
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“Unlike the other examples in this exhibition, this object demonstrates…”
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“This is an especially strong example of (insight into the prompt) because…”
Prompt: “Why do we seek knowledge?”
Quality of Writing | Example |
Initial Writing | “This object provides valuable insight into a world often overlooked, showing how the act of seeking knowledge allows us to better understand whale behavior and its environment. More specifically, the use of 8K technology in the documentary Whales and I plays a crucial role in revealing details of whale life that were once inaccessible, showcasing the importance of technological advancements in expanding our understanding. Through such high-resolution filming, we gain access to a more intricate view of whales, offering a deeper appreciation for these creatures and their habitats. Ultimately, documentaries like this remind us of the significant role our curiosity of the unknown plays in our pursuit of knowledge as it explains how humans seek knowledge to connect with and appreciate the natural world.” |
Improved Writing | “While this object provides valuable insight into a world often overlooked, it also raises important questions about the relationship between knowledge and technology. Using 8K technology to capture the lives of whales in incredible detail reveals aspects of whale life that were once inaccessible. However, the act of filming itself can disrupt the very ecosystem it seeks to preserve. The presence of human-made technology in these delicate environments may alter whale behavior, introducing stress and disturbance. This irony challenges the notion that seeking knowledge makes us more responsible advocates for the world around us. It reminds us that the pursuit of knowledge, especially in the context of wildlife conservation, must be carefully balanced with respect for the creatures being studied and their habitats.” |