Areas of Knowledge (AOK)
Concepts Definitions, Examples & Subject Area
What is the Area of Knowledge?
Richard van de Lagemaat, Theory of Knowledge for the IB Diploma (2014), p 30
“An Area of Knowledge is a specific branch of knowledge—each with its own distinct
methods for gaining and testing knowledge, and its own characteristic objects of study.”
Wu and Reynolds, Unlocking Theory of Knowledge for the IB Diploma (2018), p 42
“Areas of Knowledge are major domains in which knowledge is organized, shared, evaluated
and applied through shared methodologies.”
Key Takeaways
There are 5 Areas of Knowledge in the TOK, they are as follows;
Mathematics - History - The Arts - Natura Sciences - Human Sciences
1. Mathematics
Mathematics involves the use of abstract reasoning to identify patterns, relationships,
and structures. It relies on logical deduction and proof.
RLS Example: The use of mathematical models during the COVID-19 pandemic to
predict infection rates.
Reasoning: This shows how math can be used to make sense of real-world events,
informing public health decisions through exponential growth models and data
analytics.
Connected IB Subjects:
Mathematics: Directly related, as it is the study of the AOK itself.
Business & Economics: Financial modelling, risk analysis.
Environmental Studies: Data trends in climate models.
Physics: Mathematical laws describe natural phenomena.
Digital Societies: Algorithms and data encryption.
2. Natural Sciences
The natural sciences aim to explain natural phenomena through observation,
experimentation, and empirical evidence.
Areas of Knowledge (AOK)
Concepts Definitions, Examples & Subject Area
RLS Example: The development of mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer-BioNTech) against
COVID-19.
Reasoning: Demonstrates how biology and chemistry work together through
scientific methods to solve pressing global issues.
Connected IB Subjects:
o Biology: Understanding cellular and molecular mechanisms.
o Chemistry: Drug formulation and biochemical reactions.
o Physics: Explaining phenomena like energy transfer.
o Environmental Studies: Scientific data in ecology, climate change.
3. Human Sciences
These study human behavior and societies through methodologies including
observation, statistics, and theoretical modelling.
RLS Example: The analysis of consumer behavior in response to advertising during a
global event like the Olympics.
Reasoning: It illustrates how psychology and economics work together to understand
choices and motivations.
Connected IB Subjects:
o Business & Economics: Behavioural economics, market studies.
o Digital Societies: Human-computer interaction, digital media influence.
o Environmental Studies: Human impact on ecosystems.
o Psychology (Group 3 subject): Explores cognition, perception.
4. History
History is the study of past events and their interpretation through the analysis of
evidence, sources, and perspectives.
RLS Example: Debates around the removal of statues tied to colonialism or slavery.
Reasoning: Shows how historical knowledge is constructed, interpreted, and re-
evaluated based on contemporary ethical considerations.
Connected IB Subjects:
o History: Directly aligned.
o Languages: Historical narratives are shaped through literature and speech.
o Environmental Studies: Environmental history (e.g., industrialization).
o Business & Economics: Economic history informs current policies.
Areas of Knowledge (AOK)
Concepts Definitions, Examples & Subject Area
5. The Arts
The arts involve creative expression and interpretation, often exploring emotions,
values, and social critique.
RLS Example: Banksy's politically charged street art addressing war, surveillance,
and consumerism.
Reasoning: Reflects how art can express knowledge about power, society, and
individual perspectives.
Connected IB Subjects:
o Languages: Literature and poetry as artistic forms.
o Digital Societies: Digital art, AI-generated creativity.
o Environmental Studies: Eco-art and environmental activism.
o Business & Economics: Arts marketing and cultural industries.
