IB past paper analysis

ESS
May 2026 · Paper 1 · TZ2

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  • 5questions
  • 35marks
  • 19question parts
  • 18micro-topics

What this paper tests

Mark distribution

  • Natural Resources37%
  • Ecology20%
  • Water20%
  • Biodiversity and Conservation14%
  • Atmosphere and Climate Change6%
  • Foundations of ESS3%

Hardest areas (by marks)

    Question types

    identify: 26%explain / justify: 26%outline: 21%evaluate: 11%0%
    • identify26%
    • explain / justify26%
    • outline21%
    • evaluate11%

    0% of parts are show / prove.

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    Questions in this paper

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    Where to go next

    Good to know

    Can I download ESS May 2026 TZ2 Paper 1 here?

    No. The paper and its mark scheme belong to the IB and are not reproduced. This page gives the structure of every question (marks, command term, micro-topic, the skill tested), the exam analysis, and practice questions we wrote to test the same skills. Subscribers can also open our summary of how each part's marks are awarded.

    Which topics dominate May 2026 TZ2 Paper 1?

    Natural Resources 37% (typical 12%), Ecology 20% (typical 20%), Water 20% (typical 12%).

    How do I practise this paper without the paper?

    Press "Practise similar" on any question. We open questions matched by micro-topic, command term and mark range with model answers and AI marking, then bring you back here.

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