Clarification for 2017:
This is the official document from the IB [Subject component upload requirements] where you can find the answers to your questions. Confirmed, you do not have to submit any comments for the written assignment. It is externally assessed.
What is it?
It is an independent research written paper based on the prescribed topics divided into three sections:
This paper should be use as an instrument to know better the target culture and the student's own culture. One of the most important outcomes is to show intercultural understanding. Check out the rubric to familiarize yourself with the requirements.
There is no need to fill out the old cover sheet for the written assignment since 2015. It isn't required by the IBO anymore.
Objectives:
To develop intercultural understanding by reflecting on differences and similarities between cultures
To describe aspects of the target language culture(s)
To compare aspects of the target language culture(s) with similar aspects in the student’s culture(s)
To develop language competence.
Formal requirements:
To develop intercultural understanding by reflecting on differences and similarities between cultures
To describe aspects of the target language culture(s)
To compare aspects of the target language culture(s) with similar aspects in the student’s culture(s)
To develop language competence.
When the students can/must have to work on their written assignment?
The students are not allowed to work on their written assignment during their first year. This is an assignment to be completed on the second year of the course. This doesn't mean the format, requirements are not to be explained and practice in class during the first year of the course.
Format?
Your writing should be of three short written answers set out under three separate headings (obviously in Spanish):
- A - Description: in relation to a Hispanic culture.
- B - Comparison: between Hispanic culture and your own
- C - Reflection: respond to three questions.
- Which aspect of your chosen topic surprised you?
- Why do you think these cultural similarities/differences exist?
- What might a person from the target culture(s) find different about your chosen topic in your culture(s)?
How many sources must I have?
Between 2 and 4 in Spanish (target language) with the possibility of listing more sources in other languages. Consider using different formats for your sources: articles, videos, pamphlets, interviews...
Word count?
Students have to produce an assignment of 200-350 words. Work which falls significantly beneath this word count is unlikely to meet the requirements of the task and will, very probably, receive low marks. If the word limit is exceeded, the assessment will just be based on the first 350 words.
Use of dictionaries and reference material?
This is the only assessment that allows students to use dictionaries and reference material.
Sources, documents & related links:
- ab Initio WA rubric [pdf]
- Language ab Initio Subject Guide [IBO]
- Assessment criteria for the written assignment
- Clarifications for the written assignment [IBO] [En] [Spa]
- To know more about what type of texts can you write for your written assignment click here [Antonio Luna]
- If you are interested in more materials for Spanish ab Initio, click here
- Teaching Spanish B as well? Check our Spanish B page or this post
E-mails are today's representation of the regular post-mail we have had for ages. For some generations that connection is sound and clear but for younger generations, due to changes in communication channels (social networks, phone apps...) the email format is better not to take it for granted. Make sure you go through this format with your students and they understand it. 
