Starting Year 9 in MYP: Complete First-Year Survival Guide
Everything you need to know before starting Year 9 in IB MYP. From understanding assessment criteria to managing your workload, this guide will help you thrive in your first year.
Real Advice from MYP Students
This guide is based on real experiences from students who completed the MYP program. We've compiled insights from the r/IBO community and MYP graduates to give you practical, tested advice.
Quick Navigation
Starting Year 9 in the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) is both exciting and daunting. You're entering a program that's fundamentally different from most traditional curricula—one that emphasizes skills over memorization, concepts over facts, and critical thinking over rote learning.
The good news? With the right approach from day one, you can not only survive but thrive in MYP. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to start strong and build habits that will serve you through Year 10 and beyond.
💡 The #1 Piece of Advice from MYP Graduates:
"Know the criteria inside and out. Everything in MYP revolves around the assessment criteria. If you understand them, everything else falls into place."
Understanding the MYP Structure
What Makes MYP Different?
Unlike traditional education systems that focus primarily on content knowledge, MYP is built around:
- 1Concept-Based Learning
You'll learn through "key concepts" (big ideas like systems, change, relationships) rather than just facts.
- 2Skills-Based Assessment
You're assessed on what you can do (analyze, evaluate, create) not just what you can recall.
- 3Interdisciplinary Learning (IDU)
Subjects connect through Interdisciplinary Units that blend multiple subject areas.
- 4ATL Skills Development
Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills like research, self-management, and communication are explicitly taught.
Your Year 9 Subject Groups
In MYP, you'll typically study eight subject groups:
📚 Language & Literature
Your primary language (usually English)
🌍 Language Acquisition
A second/foreign language
👥 Individuals & Societies
History, Geography, Economics
🧪 Sciences
Biology, Chemistry, Physics (integrated or separate)
📐 Mathematics
MYP Mathematics (various pathways)
🎨 Arts
Visual Arts, Music, Drama
💪 Physical & Health Education
PE, Health, Wellness
💻 Design
Product Design, Digital Design
Good to Know:
Each subject uses the same overall structure (Criteria A-D), but what those criteria assess varies by subject. For example, Criterion C means "Communication" in Sciences but "Thinking Creatively" in Arts.
The Criteria System: The Foundation of Everything
⚠️ Most Important Section in This Guide
If you only read one section of this guide, make it this one. Understanding the criteria is THE key to success in MYP. Every assessment, every task, every grade you receive is based on these four criteria.
What Are Assessment Criteria?
In MYP, every subject assesses you using four criteria (A, B, C, and D). Each criterion has a maximum of 8 points, for a total of 32 points. Your final grade (1-7) is calculated from these points using IB's boundary system.
The MYP Criteria Framework (Sciences Example)
Knowing & Understanding
What you know about scientific concepts
- • Explain scientific facts
- • Use scientific terminology
- • Apply knowledge to solve problems
Inquiring & Designing
Planning scientific investigations
- • Formulate research questions
- • Develop hypotheses
- • Design experiments with variables
Processing & Evaluating
Working with data and results
- • Present data in tables/graphs
- • Interpret results and patterns
- • Evaluate experimental validity
Reflecting on Impacts
Science in the real world
- • Explain real-world applications
- • Discuss implications of science
- • Evaluate ethical considerations
Pro Tip from Reddit: "Criteria B and C in Sciences are 'easy scoring' criteria. Focus on mastering these first—they make up 50% of your grade and you can reliably get full marks with practice!"
How Criteria Differ Across Subjects
While all subjects use A, B, C, D, what they assess varies:
| Subject | Criterion A | Criterion B | Criterion C | Criterion D |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sciences | Knowing | Inquiring | Processing | Reflecting |
| Mathematics | Knowing | Patterns | Communicating | Applying |
| I&S (History/Geo) | Knowing | Investigating | Communicating | Thinking Critically |
| Language & Lit | Analyzing | Organizing | Producing Text | Using Language |
Action Step:
First week of school: Ask each teacher for a copy of the criteria for their subject. Print them out or save them digitally. Review them before EVERY assignment. This is non-negotiable if you want to do well.
Understanding Achievement Levels (0-8 Scale)
Each criterion is scored out of 8 using achievement level descriptors:
Basic understanding, minimal detail
Satisfactory understanding, some detail
Good understanding, detailed work
Thorough understanding, sophisticated work
Subject-Specific Study Strategies
Different subjects require different approaches. Here's what MYP graduates wish they'd known from day one:
🧪Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
Key Strategy: Master Criteria B & C First
✓ Criterion B (Designing Experiments):
- Practice writing testable research questions (must have independent & dependent variables)
- Always state a clear hypothesis before starting
- Identify and explain: Independent, Dependent, and Controlled variables
- Write detailed methods that others can follow exactly
✓ Criterion C (Processing Data):
- Learn to make professional data tables (with units, titles, proper columns)
- Master graph creation (choose appropriate graph type, label axes, include units)
- Practice describing trends and patterns in data
- Learn to evaluate the validity of your results
💡 "Focus on B and C because they're formulaic—follow the structure and you'll easily get 16/16 points, which is already 50% of your grade!" — MYP Graduate
Additional Sciences Tips:
- ✓Learn the experimental cycle thoroughly—it's the backbone of all science investigations
- ✓For Criterion D, always learn real-world applications as you study topics
- ✓Don't memorize every fact—eAssessments test skills more than content
- ✓Practice criteria-based questions for each topic (not just textbook questions)
🌍Individuals & Societies (History/Geography)
Key Strategy: Concepts Are EVERYTHING
Unlike other subjects, in I&S the key concepts and related concepts are crucial for eAssessments. Questions are designed around these concepts, not just content.
Common I&S Concepts:
Change
Transformation over time
Systems
Interconnected parts
Causality
Cause and effect
Perspective
Different viewpoints
Conflict
Disagreement/tension
Identity
Who people are
Example Question: "Outline a change brought by a significant individual to a system."
Notice how the question explicitly uses concept words. Your answer must connect content knowledge with these concepts!
I&S Study Approach:
- ✓As you study each unit, identify which concepts it connects to
- ✓Make concept maps linking events/topics to key concepts
- ✓Note the global context for each unit—these appear in questions too
- ✓Practice answering past questions using concept language
📐Mathematics
Key Strategy: Practice Criteria-Based Questions
MYP Math questions are structured differently from traditional math textbooks. They test your ability to apply math in unfamiliar contexts.
Essential Resources:
- →Get the MYP Mathematics textbook (by Haese or Oxford)—questions are criteria-based
- →Practice Criterion B (Patterns) heavily—identifying and generalizing patterns
- →Criterion D (Real-world applications) needs context—read the question carefully
📚Language & Literature
Key Strategy: Master Literary Analysis Structure
Criterion A: Analyzing texts—learn to identify themes, literary devices, author's purpose
Criterion B: Organizing your writing—clear thesis, logical paragraphs, smooth transitions
Criterion C: Producing creative/analytical texts—follow the task format precisely
Criterion D: Language use—vocabulary, grammar, style appropriate to task
Mastering Command Terms: The Language of MYP
⚠️ Critical Warning from MYP Students:
"Know command terms really well because if you 'outline' instead of 'explain' in your response, you'll lose marks even if your content is correct!"
Command terms are specific verbs that tell you exactly what to do in an assignment or exam question. They're not suggestions—they're precise instructions.
Essential Command Terms You'll See Often:
Define
BasicGive the exact meaning of a word or term.
Example: "Define photosynthesis" → Brief, precise definition only.
Describe
BasicGive a detailed account of characteristics or features.
Example: "Describe the water cycle" → List the stages with some detail, no explanation of why.
Outline
MediumGive a brief account or summary. Main points only, minimal detail.
Example: "Outline the causes of WWI" → List main causes briefly (1-2 sentences each).
Explain
MediumGive detailed account including reasons or causes. Include "because" reasoning.
Example: "Explain how vaccination works" → Describe the process AND explain why each step happens.
Analyze
AdvancedBreak down into parts and examine relationships between them.
Example: "Analyze the effects of climate change" → Identify effects, explain connections, examine patterns.
Evaluate
AdvancedMake a judgment based on evidence. Consider strengths/weaknesses.
Example: "Evaluate the success of..." → Present evidence for both sides, then make a supported judgment.
Justify
AdvancedGive valid reasons or evidence to support a claim or conclusion.
Example: "Justify your choice of method" → Explain why your method is appropriate with specific reasons.
Download Resource:
Print out the official IB Command Terms document and keep it in your binder. Review it before every assignment:IB Command Terms PDF
Time Management & Organization for Year 9
MYP workload is significantly heavier than most previous curricula. You'll need strong organizational systems from day one.
Weekly Planning System
- 📅Every Sunday, review what's due the following week
- 📝Write assignments in a planner (digital or paper)
- 🎯Break large assignments into daily mini-tasks
- ⏰Set calendar reminders 3 days before deadlines
File Organization
- 📁One binder/folder per subject (physical or digital)
- 📄Keep criteria sheets at the front of each binder
- 🔖Label sections: Notes, Assignments, Assessments, Rubrics
- 💾Back up digital work to cloud storage weekly
Typical Year 9 Weekly Homework Load:
📚 Reading/Research:
2-3 hours per week across subjects
✍️ Written Assignments:
1-2 essays or reports per week
🔬 Science Labs:
Lab reports every 2-3 weeks
📐 Math Problem Sets:
Weekly practice worksheets
Total: Expect 10-15 hours of homework per week (2-3 hours per school night plus weekends)
Smart Study Habits for MYP:
Use Pomodoro technique—short focused bursts are more effective than marathon sessions
Retention drops dramatically after one day—quick review cements learning
Test yourself rather than re-reading—flashcards, practice questions, teaching others
Organize notes by criterion (A, B, C, D) not just by topic
Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid in Year 9
Learn from students who went before you. Here are the most common pitfalls:
❌1. Spending too much time memorizing content
Why it's wrong: MYP eAssessments test skills more than detailed content knowledge.
Do instead: Focus on understanding concepts and practicing criteria-based questions. Learn content in context, not in isolation.
❌2. Ignoring the criteria when doing assignments
Why it's wrong: Even perfect work gets low marks if it doesn't address the criteria.
Do instead: Read the rubric BEFORE starting. Check off each criterion descriptor as you complete that part of your work.
❌3. Not asking questions when confused
Why it's wrong: MYP builds on itself—gaps in understanding compound quickly.
Do instead: Ask teachers during class or email them same-day. Form study groups to clarify confusing topics together.
❌4. Leaving assignments until the last minute
Why it's wrong: MYP assignments are complex—they need revision time to meet higher criteria levels.
Do instead: Start assignments the day they're assigned, even if just planning. Finish drafts 2-3 days early for revision.
❌5. Skipping IDU (Interdisciplinary Unit) classes
Why it's wrong: IDU is graded and teaches crucial synthesis skills for DP and university.
Do instead: Treat IDU as seriously as any other subject. The skills you learn (connecting disciplines) are what universities value most.
❌6. Not understanding command terms
Why it's wrong: Using the wrong response type (describing when you should explain) loses marks automatically.
Do instead: Learn the difference between define, describe, outline, explain, analyze, evaluate, and justify. Print the command terms guide.
❌7. Neglecting Criterion C and D in sciences
Why it's wrong: These criteria together make up 50% of your science grade and are straightforward to score well on.
Do instead: Master data table and graph formatting early. Always think about real-world applications as you learn topics.
❌8. Forgetting about concepts in I&S subjects
Why it's wrong: I&S eAssessment questions explicitly test your ability to connect content with concepts.
Do instead: As you learn each topic in history/geography, identify which key concepts it relates to. Make concept connection maps.
❌9. Poor time management with the personal project (Year 10)
Why it's wrong: While the formal project is Year 10, you should start thinking about topics in Year 9.
Do instead: Keep a running list of interests and potential project topics. Choose something genuinely interesting—you'll work on it for ~11 months.
❌10. Not using teacher feedback
Why it's wrong: Teachers provide detailed feedback specifically so you can improve on the next assessment.
Do instead: Read ALL feedback within 24 hours. Make a "feedback action list" noting what to improve next time. Review before similar assignments.
Your First Month Checklist
Take these concrete actions in your first 4 weeks to set yourself up for success:
First Month Action Plan
Week 1: Collect All Criteria Documents
Ask every teacher for their subject's assessment criteria (A, B, C, D). Print or save digitally. Review them.
Week 1: Print Command Terms Reference
Download and print the IB command terms document. Keep it in the front of your main binder.
Week 1-2: Set Up Organization System
Create folders/binders for each subject. Set up a weekly planner (Google Calendar, physical planner, or app). Add all assignment deadlines.
Week 2: Understand Grading Boundaries
Ask teachers how the 32-point total converts to final grades (1-7). Understand what level you need to reach your target grade.
Week 2-3: Find Study Resources
Get the MYP textbook for each subject (especially Math). Join online MYP communities (Reddit r/IBO, Discord servers). Bookmark helpful websites.
Week 3: Form Study Groups
Identify 2-3 motivated classmates for each subject. Exchange contact info. Plan to meet weekly or before major assessments.
Week 4: Practice Criteria-Based Questions
Complete at least one criteria-based question for Sciences (B & C) and Math (B & D). Get comfortable with the format before formal assessments.
Week 4: Schedule Weekly Review Time
Block out Sunday afternoons (or equivalent) for weekly planning and review. This becomes your non-negotiable study routine.
Ongoing: Attend ALL IDU Classes
Don't skip or tune out during IDU—it's graded and teaches crucial interdisciplinary thinking skills.
Ongoing: Keep a "Personal Project Ideas" List
Start a running note of potential personal project topics. Add to it whenever you discover a new interest or challenge.
You've Got This! 🎓
Starting Year 9 in MYP is a big transition, but thousands of students have successfully navigated it before you. The key is understanding the system (criteria, command terms, concepts) and building strong habits early.
Remember: MYP is designed to develop skills that will serve you beyond school—critical thinking, research, communication, and self-management. Embrace the challenge, ask questions early, and don't be afraid to make mistakes as you learn.
Golden Rule of MYP Success:
"Know the criteria, understand the command terms, focus on skills over memorization, and start everything early."
Need Help Understanding Your Criteria?
Criteria Guru provides instant, detailed feedback on your MYP assignments across all subjects and criteria. Get expert analysis in seconds, not days.
Related Articles
How to Plan Your MYP Science Project Report
Complete guide to structuring your science investigation according to Criteria A-D
Complete Guide to IB MYP Criteria A-D
Deep dive into what markers really look for in each criterion across all subjects
Found this guide helpful? Share it with other Year 9 students!