IB past paper analysis
ESS
May 2026 · Paper 2 · TZ2
See what this paper tests, focus on the skills that carry the marks, and practise matched Exam Vault questions with AI marking.
- 6questions
- 80marks
- 29question parts
- 21micro-topics
Mark distribution
- Human Population and Urban Systems30%
- Ecology23%
- Land14%
- Natural Resources13%
- Atmosphere and Climate Change11%
- Biodiversity and Conservation10%
Hardest areas (by marks)
- 1.Managing urban air pollution9 marks
- 2.Impacts on natural systems9 marks
- 3.Impacts of urban air pollution7 marks
Question types
- explain / justify31%
- write down / state21%
- identify14%
- outline14%
0% of parts are show / prove.
Questions in this paper
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Explore topic pages
Every micro-topic in this paper, with its exam pattern and practice.
Browse ESS topicsPredicted questions
The likely question types in the next sitting, from the same data.
Predicted Paper 2Good to know
Can I download ESS May 2026 TZ2 Paper 2 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 2?
Human Population and Urban Systems 30% (typical 10%), Ecology 23% (typical 19%), Land 14% (typical 8%).
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.