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The Complete IB Extended Essay Guide: Examples, Topics, and Ideas

International Baccalaureate (IB)

IB students around the globe fear writing the Extended Essay, but it doesn't have to be a source of stress! In this article, I'll get you excited about writing your Extended Essay and provide you with the resources you need to get an A on it.

If you're reading this article, I'm going to assume you're an IB student getting ready to write your Extended Essay. If you're looking at this as a potential future IB student, I recommend reading our introductory IB articles first, including our guide to what the IB program is and our full coverage of the IB curriculum .

IB Extended Essay: Why Should You Trust My Advice?

I myself am a recipient of an IB Diploma, and I happened to receive an A on my IB Extended Essay. Don't believe me? The proof is in the IBO pudding:

If you're confused by what this report means, EE is short for Extended Essay , and English A1 is the subject that my Extended Essay topic coordinated with. In layman's terms, my IB Diploma was graded in May 2010, I wrote my Extended Essay in the English A1 category, and I received an A grade on it.

What Is the Extended Essay in the IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Extended Essay, or EE , is a mini-thesis you write under the supervision of an IB advisor (an IB teacher at your school), which counts toward your IB Diploma (learn more about the major IB Diploma requirements in our guide) . I will explain exactly how the EE affects your Diploma later in this article.

For the Extended Essay, you will choose a research question as a topic, conduct the research independently, then write an essay on your findings . The essay itself is a long one—although there's a cap of 4,000 words, most successful essays get very close to this limit.

Keep in mind that the IB requires this essay to be a "formal piece of academic writing," meaning you'll have to do outside research and cite additional sources.

The IB Extended Essay must include the following:

• A title page
• Contents page
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References and bibliography

Additionally, your research topic must fall into one of the six approved DP categories , or IB subject groups, which are as follows:

• Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
• Group 2: Language Acquisition
• Group 3: Individuals and Societies
• Group 4: Sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics
• Group 6: The Arts

Once you figure out your category and have identified a potential research topic, it's time to pick your advisor, who is normally an IB teacher at your school (though you can also find one online ). This person will help direct your research, and they'll conduct the reflection sessions you'll have to do as part of your Extended Essay.

As of 2018, the IB requires a "reflection process" as part of your EE supervision process. To fulfill this requirement, you have to meet at least three times with your supervisor in what the IB calls "reflection sessions." These meetings are not only mandatory but are also part of the formal assessment of the EE and your research methods.

According to the IB, the purpose of these meetings is to "provide an opportunity for students to reflect on their engagement with the research process." Basically, these meetings give your supervisor the opportunity to offer feedback, push you to think differently, and encourage you to evaluate your research process.

The final reflection session is called the viva voce, and it's a short 10- to 15-minute interview between you and your advisor. This happens at the very end of the EE process, and it's designed to help your advisor write their report, which factors into your EE grade.

Here are the topics covered in your viva voce :

• A check on plagiarism and malpractice
• Your reflection on your project's successes and difficulties
• Your reflection on what you've learned during the EE process

Your completed Extended Essay, along with your supervisor's report, will then be sent to the IB to be graded. We'll cover the assessment criteria in just a moment.

We'll help you learn how to have those "lightbulb" moments...even on test day!  

What Should You Write About in Your IB Extended Essay?

You can technically write about anything, so long as it falls within one of the approved categories listed above.

It's best to choose a topic that matches one of the IB courses , (such as Theatre, Film, Spanish, French, Math, Biology, etc.), which shouldn't be difficult because there are so many class subjects.

Here is a range of sample topics with the attached extended essay:

• Biology: The Effect of Age and Gender on the Photoreceptor Cells in the Human Retina
• Chemistry: How Does Reflux Time Affect the Yield and Purity of Ethyl Aminobenzoate (Benzocaine), and How Effective is Recrystallisation as a Purification Technique for This Compound?
• English: An Exploration of Jane Austen's Use of the Outdoors in Emma
• Geography: The Effect of Location on the Educational Attainment of Indigenous Secondary Students in Queensland, Australia
• Math: Alhazen's Billiard Problem
• Visual Arts: Can Luc Tuymans Be Classified as a Political Painter?

You can see from how varied the topics are that you have a lot of freedom when it comes to picking a topic . So how do you pick when the options are limitless?

How to Write a Stellar IB Extended Essay: 6 Essential Tips

Below are six key tips to keep in mind as you work on your Extended Essay for the IB DP. Follow these and you're sure to get an A!

#1: Write About Something You Enjoy

You can't expect to write a compelling essay if you're not a fan of the topic on which you're writing. For example, I just love British theatre and ended up writing my Extended Essay on a revolution in post-WWII British theatre. (Yes, I'm definitely a #TheatreNerd.)

I really encourage anyone who pursues an IB Diploma to take the Extended Essay seriously. I was fortunate enough to receive a full-tuition merit scholarship to USC's School of Dramatic Arts program. In my interview for the scholarship, I spoke passionately about my Extended Essay; thus, I genuinely think my Extended Essay helped me get my scholarship.

But how do you find a topic you're passionate about? Start by thinking about which classes you enjoy the most and why . Do you like math classes because you like to solve problems? Or do you enjoy English because you like to analyze literary texts?

Keep in mind that there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing your Extended Essay topic. You're not more likely to get high marks because you're writing about science, just like you're not doomed to failure because you've chosen to tackle the social sciences. The quality of what you produce—not the field you choose to research within—will determine your grade.

Once you've figured out your category, you should brainstorm more specific topics by putting pen to paper . What was your favorite chapter you learned in that class? Was it astrophysics or mechanics? What did you like about that specific chapter? Is there something you want to learn more about? I recommend spending a few hours on this type of brainstorming.

One last note: if you're truly stumped on what to research, pick a topic that will help you in your future major or career . That way you can use your Extended Essay as a talking point in your college essays (and it will prepare you for your studies to come too!).

#2: Select a Topic That Is Neither Too Broad nor Too Narrow

There's a fine line between broad and narrow. You need to write about something specific, but not so specific that you can't write 4,000 words on it.

You can't write about WWII because that would be a book's worth of material. You also don't want to write about what type of soup prisoners of war received behind enemy lines, because you probably won’t be able to come up with 4,000 words of material about it. However, you could possibly write about how the conditions in German POW camps—and the rations provided—were directly affected by the Nazis' successes and failures on the front, including the use of captured factories and prison labor in Eastern Europe to increase production. WWII military history might be a little overdone, but you get my point.

If you're really stuck trying to pinpoint a not-too-broad-or-too-narrow topic, I suggest trying to brainstorm a topic that uses a comparison. Once you begin looking through the list of sample essays below, you'll notice that many use comparisons to formulate their main arguments.

I also used a comparison in my EE, contrasting Harold Pinter's Party Time with John Osborne's Look Back in Anger in order to show a transition in British theatre. Topics with comparisons of two to three plays, books, and so on tend to be the sweet spot. You can analyze each item and then compare them with one another after doing some in-depth analysis of each individually. The ways these items compare and contrast will end up forming the thesis of your essay!

When choosing a comparative topic, the key is that the comparison should be significant. I compared two plays to illustrate the transition in British theatre, but you could compare the ways different regional dialects affect people's job prospects or how different temperatures may or may not affect the mating patterns of lightning bugs. The point here is that comparisons not only help you limit your topic, but they also help you build your argument.

Comparisons are not the only way to get a grade-A EE, though. If after brainstorming, you pick a non-comparison-based topic and are still unsure whether your topic is too broad or narrow, spend about 30 minutes doing some basic research and see how much material is out there.

If there are more than 1,000 books, articles, or documentaries out there on that exact topic, it may be too broad. But if there are only two books that have any connection to your topic, it may be too narrow. If you're still unsure, ask your advisor—it's what they're there for! Speaking of advisors...

Don't get stuck with a narrow topic!

#3: Choose an Advisor Who Is Familiar With Your Topic

If you're not certain of who you would like to be your advisor, create a list of your top three choices. Next, write down the pros and cons of each possibility (I know this sounds tedious, but it really helps!).

For example, Mr. Green is my favorite teacher and we get along really well, but he teaches English. For my EE, I want to conduct an experiment that compares the efficiency of American electric cars with foreign electric cars.

I had Ms. White a year ago. She teaches physics and enjoyed having me in her class. Unlike Mr. Green, Ms. White could help me design my experiment.

Based on my topic and what I need from my advisor, Ms. White would be a better fit for me than would Mr. Green (even though I like him a lot).

The moral of my story is this: do not just ask your favorite teacher to be your advisor . They might be a hindrance to you if they teach another subject. For example, I would not recommend asking your biology teacher to guide you in writing an English literature-based EE.

There can, of course, be exceptions to this rule. If you have a teacher who's passionate and knowledgeable about your topic (as my English teacher was about my theatre topic), you could ask that instructor. Consider all your options before you do this. There was no theatre teacher at my high school, so I couldn't find a theatre-specific advisor, but I chose the next best thing.

Before you approach a teacher to serve as your advisor, check with your high school to see what requirements they have for this process. Some IB high schools require your IB Extended Essay advisor to sign an Agreement Form , for instance.

Make sure that you ask your IB coordinator whether there is any required paperwork to fill out. If your school needs a specific form signed, bring it with you when you ask your teacher to be your EE advisor.

#4: Pick an Advisor Who Will Push You to Be Your Best

Some teachers might just take on students because they have to and aren't very passionate about reading drafts, only giving you minimal feedback. Choose a teacher who will take the time to read several drafts of your essay and give you extensive notes. I would not have gotten my A without being pushed to make my Extended Essay draft better.

Ask a teacher that you have experience with through class or an extracurricular activity. Do not ask a teacher that you have absolutely no connection to. If a teacher already knows you, that means they already know your strengths and weaknesses, so they know what to look for, where you need to improve, and how to encourage your best work.

Also, don't forget that your supervisor's assessment is part of your overall EE score . If you're meeting with someone who pushes you to do better—and you actually take their advice—they'll have more impressive things to say about you than a supervisor who doesn't know you well and isn't heavily involved in your research process.

Be aware that the IB only allows advisors to make suggestions and give constructive criticism. Your teacher cannot actually help you write your EE. The IB recommends that the supervisor spends approximately two to three hours in total with the candidate discussing the EE.

#5: Make Sure Your Essay Has a Clear Structure and Flow

The IB likes structure. Your EE needs a clear introduction (which should be one to two double-spaced pages), research question/focus (i.e., what you're investigating), a body, and a conclusion (about one double-spaced page). An essay with unclear organization will be graded poorly.

The body of your EE should make up the bulk of the essay. It should be about eight to 18 pages long (again, depending on your topic). Your body can be split into multiple parts. For example, if you were doing a comparison, you might have one third of your body as Novel A Analysis, another third as Novel B Analysis, and the final third as your comparison of Novels A and B.

If you're conducting an experiment or analyzing data, such as in this EE , your EE body should have a clear structure that aligns with the scientific method ; you should state the research question, discuss your method, present the data, analyze the data, explain any uncertainties, and draw a conclusion and/or evaluate the success of the experiment.

#6: Start Writing Sooner Rather Than Later!

You will not be able to crank out a 4,000-word essay in just a week and get an A on it. You'll be reading many, many articles (and, depending on your topic, possibly books and plays as well!). As such, it's imperative that you start your research as soon as possible.

Each school has a slightly different deadline for the Extended Essay. Some schools want them as soon as November of your senior year; others will take them as late as February. Your school will tell you what your deadline is. If they haven't mentioned it by February of your junior year, ask your IB coordinator about it.

Some high schools will provide you with a timeline of when you need to come up with a topic, when you need to meet with your advisor, and when certain drafts are due. Not all schools do this. Ask your IB coordinator if you are unsure whether you are on a specific timeline.

Below is my recommended EE timeline. While it's earlier than most schools, it'll save you a ton of heartache (trust me, I remember how hard this process was!):

• January/February of Junior Year: Come up with your final research topic (or at least your top three options).
• February of Junior Year: Approach a teacher about being your EE advisor. If they decline, keep asking others until you find one. See my notes above on how to pick an EE advisor.
• April/May of Junior Year: Submit an outline of your EE and a bibliography of potential research sources (I recommend at least seven to 10) to your EE advisor. Meet with your EE advisor to discuss your outline.
• Summer Between Junior and Senior Year: Complete your first full draft over the summer between your junior and senior year. I know, I know—no one wants to work during the summer, but trust me—this will save you so much stress come fall when you are busy with college applications and other internal assessments for your IB classes. You will want to have this first full draft done because you will want to complete a couple of draft cycles as you likely won't be able to get everything you want to say into 4,000 articulate words on the first attempt. Try to get this first draft into the best possible shape so you don't have to work on too many revisions during the school year on top of your homework, college applications, and extracurriculars.
• August/September of Senior Year: Turn in your first draft of your EE to your advisor and receive feedback. Work on incorporating their feedback into your essay. If they have a lot of suggestions for improvement, ask if they will read one more draft before the final draft.
• September/October of Senior Year: Submit the second draft of your EE to your advisor (if necessary) and look at their feedback. Work on creating the best possible final draft.
• November-February of Senior Year: Schedule your viva voce. Submit two copies of your final draft to your school to be sent off to the IB. You likely will not get your grade until after you graduate.

Remember that in the middle of these milestones, you'll need to schedule two other reflection sessions with your advisor . (Your teachers will actually take notes on these sessions on a form like this one , which then gets submitted to the IB.)

I recommend doing them when you get feedback on your drafts, but these meetings will ultimately be up to your supervisor. Just don't forget to do them!

The early bird DOES get the worm!

How Is the IB Extended Essay Graded?

Extended Essays are graded by examiners appointed by the IB on a scale of 0 to 34 . You'll be graded on five criteria, each with its own set of points. You can learn more about how EE scoring works by reading the IB guide to extended essays .

• Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum)
• Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum)
• Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum)
• Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum)
• Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum)

How well you do on each of these criteria will determine the final letter grade you get for your EE. You must earn at least a D to be eligible to receive your IB Diploma.

Although each criterion has a point value, the IB explicitly states that graders are not converting point totals into grades; instead, they're using qualitative grade descriptors to determine the final grade of your Extended Essay . Grade descriptors are on pages 102-103 of this document .

Here's a rough estimate of how these different point values translate to letter grades based on previous scoring methods for the EE. This is just an estimate —you should read and understand the grade descriptors so you know exactly what the scorers are looking for.

Here is the breakdown of EE scores (from the May 2021 bulletin):

How Does the Extended Essay Grade Affect Your IB Diploma?

The Extended Essay grade is combined with your TOK (Theory of Knowledge) grade to determine how many points you get toward your IB Diploma.

To learn about Theory of Knowledge or how many points you need to receive an IB Diploma, read our complete guide to the IB program and our guide to the IB Diploma requirements .

This diagram shows how the two scores are combined to determine how many points you receive for your IB diploma (3 being the most, 0 being the least). In order to get your IB Diploma, you have to earn 24 points across both categories (the TOK and EE). The highest score anyone can earn is 45 points.

Let's say you get an A on your EE and a B on TOK. You will get 3 points toward your Diploma. As of 2014, a student who scores an E on either the extended essay or TOK essay will not be eligible to receive an IB Diploma .

Prior to the class of 2010, a Diploma candidate could receive a failing grade in either the Extended Essay or Theory of Knowledge and still be awarded a Diploma, but this is no longer true.

Figuring out how you're assessed can be a little tricky. Luckily, the IB breaks everything down here in this document . (The assessment information begins on page 219.)

40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme

In case you want a little more guidance on how to get an A on your EE, here are over 40 excellent (grade A) sample extended essays for your reading pleasure. Essays are grouped by IB subject.

• Business Management 1
• Chemistry 1
• Chemistry 2
• Chemistry 3
• Chemistry 4
• Chemistry 5
• Chemistry 6
• Chemistry 7
• Computer Science 1
• Economics 1
• Design Technology 1
• Design Technology 2
• Environmental Systems and Societies 1
• Geography 1
• Geography 2
• Geography 3
• Geography 4
• Geography 5
• Geography 6
• Literature and Performance 1
• Mathematics 1
• Mathematics 2
• Mathematics 3
• Mathematics 4
• Mathematics 5
• Philosophy 1
• Philosophy 2
• Philosophy 3
• Philosophy 4
• Philosophy 5
• Psychology 1
• Psychology 2
• Psychology 3
• Psychology 4
• Psychology 5
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 1
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 2
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 3
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 1
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 2
• Visual Arts 1
• Visual Arts 2
• Visual Arts 3
• Visual Arts 4
• Visual Arts 5
• World Religion 1
• World Religion 2
• World Religion 3

What's Next?

Trying to figure out what extracurriculars you should do? Learn more about participating in the Science Olympiad , starting a club , doing volunteer work , and joining Student Government .

Studying for the SAT? Check out our expert study guide to the SAT . Taking the SAT in a month or so? Learn how to cram effectively for this important test .

Not sure where you want to go to college? Read our guide to finding your target school . Also, determine your target SAT score or target ACT score .

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Extended Essay (IB): Choosing a subject and topic

• The Inquiry Process
• EE Seminar 1
• EE Seminar 2
• IT Workshop 1
• EE Investigation Days
• EE Writing Days
• Choosing a subject and topic
• Developing a line of inquiry
• Finding and selecting sources
• Working with ideas
• Expressing your ideas
• Using ManageBac
• Supervisor resources
• Who can help?

For your EE you have the freedom to focus on almost any topic and you will write your own question to answer.  However, your topic must fit into a single DP subject (unless you choose to write an interdisciplinary essay, such as a World Studies EE that covers a topic “of contemporary global significance” and is likely to encompass two subject areas).

Given the academic challenge and level expected of an EE, you are strongly advised to choose a subject that you are currently studying, preferably at Higher Level.

Introduction to the Extended Essay

What is the Extended Essay?

• Compulsory element of the core, along with TOK and CAS
• Inquiry-based research project resulting in an essay of up to 4,000 words
• Topic of your choice, but must be based in a DP subject * and meet subject-specific requirements
• You are strongly encouraged to do your essay in one of your HL subjects

*It is possible, under certain circumstances, to combine two subjects and do a World Studies essay but we do not currently recommend this.

What do I need to do?

This guide is just to get your thinking started.

You are going to be spending nine months on your Extended Essay - it is very important to choose a topic that actually interests you, or it is going to be a very long nine months...

Good preparation is much more effective for finding inspiration than last minute panic!

CALVIN AND HOBBES © Watterson. Reprinted with permission of ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION.  All rights reserved.

How do I choose a subject?

• Think about your interests outside the classroom then check whether they might fit into any IB subject areas.
• Think about your IB subjects, particularly your HL subjects. Which would (and wouldn't) you enjoy exploring in more depth?
• Make a list of the topics (for one or more different subject areas) that you have enjoyed in that subject area and a list of topics you haven’t covered but wish you had. You might want to chat to your teachers or have a look in your textbooks.
• Think about any career aspirations you might have, or any ideas for further study, and they could point you in a direction.

Now have a look at the Subject Group Overviews , below, to see what an EE in that group might involve. It is worth comparing a couple of different subject groups.

Subject Group Overviews

• Group 1: Studies in language and literature
• Group 2: Language acquisition (incl. Classical Languages)
• Group 3: Individuals and societies
• Group 4: Experimental sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics
• Group 6: The Arts
• Interdisciplinary essays

• Category 1 Studies of one or more literary works originally written in the language in which the essay is presented.
• Category 2 Studies of a literary work or works originally written in the language of the essay compared with one or more literary works originally written in another language. (The work originally written in another language may be studied in translation.)
• Category 3 Studies in language based on one or more texts originally produced in the language in which the essay is presented.

Students and teachers must indicate at the point of upload which category of essay they are submitting."

From: IBO (2020) Extended Essay: Studies in language and literature

Students working on a language acquisition EE must demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the language, culture and society or literature studied. This understanding must be shown in the form of:

• an analysis of a cultural context or a specific text OR
• an analysis of trends in the culture studied and the impact of a cultural change on the form or use of the language OR
• an analysis and comparison of literary texts.

For those undertaking a classical Greek or Latin EE, the focus is on demonstrating an understanding of a relevant or significant aspect of the language, literature and civilization of ancient Greece or Rome."

From: IBO (2020) Extended Essay: Language acquisition including classical languages

Note that you may not do your EE in a language you are studying at ab initio level .

The individuals and societies EE is intended to encourage the systematic and critical study of:

• human experience and behaviour
• physical, economic and social environments
• the history and development of social and cultural institutions.

Students’ choice of topic should enable them to recognize that the content and methodologies of the subjects are contestable and that their study requires critical thinking.

Students must have sufficient grounding in the subject under which they submit their essay: reading a textbook or consulting an encyclopedia while writing the EE will not compensate for a lack of proper background knowledge."

From: IBO (2020) Extended Essay: Individuals and societies

Note: The IB considers Environmental Systems and Societies EEs to be interdisciplinary, so materials for these can be found under the Interdisciplinary essays tab, above.

"An extended essay (EE) in the sciences gives students an opportunity to apply a range of skills while researching a topic of personal interest in the field. Students working on a science EE must demonstrate an in-depth analysis of the subject matter studied, be it biology, chemistry, computer science, design technology, physics or sports, exercise and health science. This understanding must be shown in the form of a research paper involving a wellformulated research question. Students should be advised that while there is overlap between the subjects, their study should reflect one specific science area. For example:

• biology—dealing with living organisms and life processes
• chemistry—dealing with the composition, characterization and transformation of substances

...The nature of the topic under investigation should be different for each subject area and students should be careful if they undertake essays that may blur the boundaries between two science subjects. For example, when studying the pH of a body of water, students may investigate the chemicals responsible for the observed pH (chemistry), or the effect of the pH on the biota (biology)."

From: IBO (2020) The Sciences: an introduction from Extended Essay: The sciences

• the applicability of mathematics to solve both real and abstract problems
• the beauty of mathematics, as in, for instance, geometry or fractal theory
• the elegance of mathematics in the proving of theorems as in, for example, number theory
• the origin and subsequent development of a branch of mathematics over a period of time, measured in tens, hundreds or thousands of years
• the links between different branches of mathematics, or the way that branch of mathematics has been born, or has flourished, as a result of technology.

Students should be advised on the importance of formulating logical and coherent reasons for selecting a particular topic for the EE, the need to identify a well-thought-out research question and the requirement to search for the mathematical problems that require a solution. Students must be advised that mathematical research is a long-term and open-ended exploration of a set of related mathematical problems that are based on personal observations. The answers to these problems connect to and build upon each other over time."

From: IBO (2020) Extended Essay: Mathematics

• a coherent analysis and interpretation of their chosen area in relation to a posed research question
• the testing and validation of the research and consideration of its effect on the practice of the investigated area of the arts
• development and exploration in a disciplined and imaginative way of an area of study specifically appropriate to the curriculum area chosen
• a link to a practical dimension.

Each subject area poses its own unique set of challenges. Therefore, the approach to the topic of investigation should reflect the particular methodology most appropriate to the arts subject being studied. Students should have logical and coherent reasons for selecting a particular topic for their essay, a well-thought out research question and an approach that allows them to develop a reasoned argument.

...While there may be overlap between the subjects in the arts and common approaches, the research topic must clearly relate to one specific arts area. If a student chooses a research area that blurs the boundaries between two arts subjects, they must ensure that their essay’s emphasis clearly lies within the arts subject for which they are submitting it. Crucially, the topic selected should reflect each student’s particular interest and enthusiasm within that subject area."

From: IBO (2020) Extended Essay: The arts

For example, in literature and performance, students focus on the nature of the relationships that occur between a chosen text and its adaptation for performance; in world studies an issue of contemporary global significance is explored through the lenses of two subjects ; and in environmental systems and societies the interaction and integration of natural environmental systems and human societies are explored

Students undertaking one of these options must demonstrate a solid understanding of their area of research, taking a fully integrated approach. This examination must be shown in the form of:

• a coherently written and structured essay that effectively addresses an area of research, taking an interdisciplinary approach
• bringing together concepts, methods and approaches from across different subjects
• the development and exploration of an area of study specifically appropriate to the interdisciplinary choice

The most critical stage in preparing for the EE is the formulation of a logical and coherent rationale for selecting a particular topic for the extended essay, a topic that offers enough scope to provide material for a substantial essay , and the development of ideas around the topic and research question that examine existing views and argue against them."

From: IBO (2020) Interdisciplinary essays: an introduction from Extended Essay: Interdisciplinary essays

We do not recommend undertaking an EE in World Studies. If you choose to do so anyway, make sure that you consider very carefully whether your topic would fit the requirements of a single subject discipline instead. It can be challenging to juggle the requirements of two different subjects while undertaking a piece of academic research like this for the first time, particularly if you do not currently study one or both of the subjects.

Note that the Treatment of the Topic section of the Subject Guide for World Studies says that:

"It is expected that students will have a good grounding in at least one of the Diploma Programme subjects used in the EE.

If they are unfamiliar with a discipline used, they must access its syllabus so that they can identify the concepts, terminology and modes of thinking required for their EE. (Many IB syllabuses contain lists of key concepts.)"

This means that whether or not you are currently studying either or both of the subject areas your World Studies EE is based in  you will need to use DP Level concepts, terminology and modes of thinking appropriate to both subject areas.

Subject Specific Guidance

Use the links below to explore the Subject-Specific Guidance for your chosen subject. Note that it is very important to use the side navigation menu to make sure you have read ALL the relevant guidance (see example for Biology, below).

You MUST read the subject-specific guidance before completing your Supervisor Application Form, and reread it before completing your Research Proposal Log. You might find it helpful to take notes using the Using the Subject-Specific Guidelines table.

Electronic versions of these can be found at the top right hand side of this page (follow links). If you wish to submit your handwritten version to ManageBac, you may upload a (legible!) photograph.

Ethical guidelines

You must address the IB ethical guidelines in your Research Proposal and follow them throughout the EE process. Some Subject Guides will contain specific ethical guidelines for that subject, but here are some general guides you might need to refer to:

Extended essays from previous years

Past essays

It can be really useful at this stage to look at essays from previous Oakham students, to see what kinds of topics they investigated and what their final essays looked like. These are upstairs in the library and can be looked at while you are here.

Please remember:

• These are all the essays from past Oakhamians and they were awarded a range of grades (which are recorded on the contents pages). They are not a set of examples of 'good' essays or even 'good' titles.
• There have been several rule changes in the past, most notably in 2018, so make sure you are aware of the current rules.

You may take photographs of individual pages (such as the contents pages). You may not photograph or photocopy whole essays.

How do I choose a topic?

Go back to your brainstormed list of topics from the first session:

• Eliminate any that you don’t really want to write about and focus on the rest.
• Use the ideas on the mind map below to examine these topics and decide which might be worth further exploration. You might choose to make a mind map like this for some of your topics.

Before deciding on a topic you should do some preliminary research to see what information is out there. Make a few brief notes as you go.

• General internet browsing: You could begin with some freestyle internet searching on a broad topic that interests you. Search for your topic online, give yourself an hour to follow links and see where they take you – keeping an EE focus, of course!
• Subscription Databases : While you will almost certainly search the databases extensively for your research once you have chosen a topic, you can also browse them to help you to chose one. See the ' Browsing our subscription databases ' box below for advice on the best ones to choose for this. Using the subscription databases to help you to choose a topic also means that you are guaranteed to be able to find high quality information on that topic.
• Talk to your teachers, friends and family

Put your notes away, forget about what you have read for a few days, then see what you remember.  This time and distance is important as it is likely that you will remember what is of most interest to you, and so the angle you should develop.

Aim to have three suggestions for topic areas you might like to explore for your EE to explore further before making a decision .

Browsing our subscription databases

You are likely to have used our databases in the past to search for information on specific topics, but many of them are also excellent when browsing for ideas. I have made some suggestions below. You will need to access them from the list on our Subscription Databases page (using the log in information given if you are not on the school network).

An excellent series of ebooks providing a short, academic introduction to a wide range of topics. Choose 'Browse by subject' from the menu bar to explore them (or use the excellent search facility if you know which topic you are interested in).

An online encyclopaedia that you can trust and cite! Choose 'Advanced' then 'Explore: Articles' to browse Britannica in a range of different subject areas.

Hodder Education Magazines

Although aimed at A-level students, browsing these Review magazines may be a good way to identify a broad topic of interest. After you log-in, you can choose to search the whole database or choose a specific subject and browse/search within it.

Other, subject-specific resources

• Art: Oxford Art
• Drama: Drama Online
• Economics: Financial Times and Gale Newspaper Collection
• English literature: Connell Guides, EBSCO Literary Reference Centre, emagazine and MASSOLIT (a video-based resource)
• Music: Naxos Music Library, Oxford Music
• Politics: Financial Times and Gale Newspaper Collection 

Using the Subject Specific Guidelines

This table will help you work with the Subject-Specific Guidelines as you choose your topic. You are not required to submit this form to your supervisor, but you might find it helpful when filling in your Supervisor Application Form and Research Proposal.

AI Prompt Catcher

• AI Prompt Catcher Example

This Prompt Catcher  must  be completed if you are using AI tools as part of your initial research.  Since examiners cannot access the exact AI-generated content subsequently, you must cite and reference the tool in your essay and include a copy of the Prompt Catcher containing the generated content and the prompt you used to generate it in an appendix.

Annotated bibliography

This resource will help you to keep track of all the different sources you find. Once you start working with each source in more detail, you will also need a tool like the Investigative Journal to organise your notes.

Head of Library and Archives

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Search the Library Catalogue

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Normal term-time Library opening hours: Mon-Fri: 08:30-21:15 Sat: 08:00-16:00 Sun: 14:00-18:00 (Summer Term only)

The IB Extended Essay: Subject Guides & documents you need

• Details of the EE
• Topic ideas and research Questions
• Subject Guides & documents you need
• Writing a research paper

IB Assessment Criteria

• Presentation Requirements Information on formatting the extended essay, covering: word counts (what is included and what is NOT included), illustrations, tables, footnotes and endnotes, appendices and specimen materials. Covers essays submitted in November 2018 and forward (IB Guide 2018).
• Required Elements of the Extended Essay List and description of the six required elements of the final extended essay work that is to be submitted for extended essays for November 2018 and forward (IB Guide 2018).
• Assessment objectives and criteria for the extended essay - first exams 2018 Assessment objectives and criteria for students submitting extended essays, beginning with the Class of 2018.
• Assessment of the EE - Advice for Students Use this list to help you think about the five assessment criteria for the EE and whether you have addressed the expectations within your essay.
• Assessment Grade Descriptors for the Extended Essay, 2018 A list of the qualitative grade descriptors for the Extended Essay, grades A through E. IB senior examiners will use these descriptors to set the boundaries (i.e., grade) the extended essay beginning in May 2018.

Subject Guides

• Biology Extended Essay Subject Guide
• Chemistry Extended Essay Subject Guide
• Dance Extended Essay Subject Guide
• Design Technology Extended Essay Subject Guide
• Economics Extended Essay Guide
• Film Extended Essay Subject Guide
• Geography Extended Essay Subject Guide
• History Extended Essay Subject Guide
• Language acquisition: An introduction to EE
• Language Acquisition Extended Essay Subject Guide
• Mathematics: An introduction to the EE
• Mathematics Extended Essay Subject Guide
• Music Extended Essay Subject Guide
• Physics Extended Essay Subject Guide
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS) Extended Essay Subject Guide
• Studies in Language and Literature Extended Essay Subject Guide
• Theatre Extended Essay Subject Guide
• Visual Arts Extended Essay Subject Guide

IB Ethical Guidelines

• Academic Honesty, 2018 IB EE Guide Guidance on producing accurate references and a bibliography is a skill that students should be seeking as part of the extended essay writing process, covering: bibliography, citations, referencing (both traditional and online sources), using electronic sources, using online encyclopedias and other similar information websites, use of computer programs, and reliance on external sources.
• Academic Honesty in the IB Educational Context Discusses the importance in the IB of making academic honesty a school priority, provides a framework for identifying aspects of academic honesty in the various courses in the IB Diploma Programme.
• Effective Citing and Referencing Explains why citations are needed, what needs to be cited, when citations are necessary, and how to cite, and also provides a list of citation definitions, a documentation checklist, and a chart showing the elements to be included in a reference.
• Ethical Guidelines for Extended Essays Research and Fieldwork Explicit guidance from the IB on any research or fieldwork undertaken as a part of an Extended Essay.
• Guidelines for the Use of Animals in IB World Schools These guidelines from IB set out the parameters for the acceptable inclusion of animals in an IB World School.

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IB Extended Essay: Assessment Criteria

• Research Questions
• Past Essays
• Notes & Outlines
• Works Cited Page
• In-Text Citations
• Assessment Criteria
• Reflections
• Supervisor Info
• Net Valley Library This link opens in a new window

Score Descriptors for each Criterion:

• A - Focus and Method
• B - Knowledge and Understanding
• C - Critical Thinking
• D - Presentation
• E - Engagement

Printable: Full Rubric  for all subjects

To view details for your SUBJECT, open the correct page below.

• Choose "Interpreting the EE Assessment Criteria" on the sidebar to see how to score well in YOUR subject area

Language & literature (language A)

Language acquisition (language B)

Mathematics

Visual Arts

World Studies

Business Management

Grade Boundaries

What's Expected?

• A: Focus/Method
• B: Knowledge
• C: Critical Thinking
• D: Presentation
• E: Engagement
• A: Focus and Method (6 marks)
• B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 marks)
• C: Critical Thinking (12 marks)
• D: Presentation (4 marks)
• E: Engagement (6 marks)
• Total marks possible: 34 (see grade boundaries below)
• Printable:  Full Rubric
• Printable: A3 size with details
• Printable:  Details for each criterion , via the Oxford guide

Criterion A:  Focus and Method (6 points)

What It Means:   This criterion focuses on the topic, the research question and the methodology. It assesses the explanation of the focus of the research (this includes the topic and the research question), how the research will be undertaken, and how the focus is maintained throughout the essay.

Questions to ask:  

• Does this essay meet the requirements for the subject for which you are registering it?
• Is your research question stated as a question?
• Have you explained how your research question relates to the subject that you selected for the extended essay?
• Have you given an insight into why your area of study is important?
• Is your research question feasible within the scope of the task? Could your research question be “answered” or it is too vague?
• Did you refer to your research question throughout the essay (not only in the introduction and conclusion)?
• Did you explain why you selected your methodology?
• Are there other possible methods that could be used or applied to answer your research question? How might this change the direction of your research?
• If you stated a particular methodology in the introduction of your essay, or specific sources, have you used them?
• Are there any references listed in the bibliography that were not directly cited in the text?

(Source: Susan Trower, via West Sound Academy)

Criterion B:  Knowledge and Understanding (6 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the extent to which the research relates to the subject area/discipline used to explore the research question; or in the case of the world studies extended essay, the issue addressed and the two disciplinary perspectives applied; and additionally, the way in which this knowledge and understanding is demonstrated through the use of appropriate terminology and concepts.

• Have you explained how your research question relates to a specific subject you selected for the extended essay?
• Have you used relevant terminology and concepts throughout your essay as they relate to your particular area of research?
• Is it clear that the sources you are using are relevant and appropriate to your research question?
• Do you have a range of sources, or have you only relied on one particular type, for example internet sources?
• Is there a reason why you might not have a range? Is this justified?

(Source: Oxford EE manual, p. 110)

Criterion C:  Critical Thinking (12 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the extent to which critical thinking skills have been used to analyze and evaluate the research undertaken.

• Have you made links between your results and data collected and your research question?
• If you included data or information that is not directly related to your research question have you explained its importance?
• Are your conclusions supported by your data?
• If you found unexpected information or data have you discussed its importance?
• Have you provided a critical evaluation of the methods you selected?
• Have you considered the reliability of your sources (peer-reviewed journals, internet, and so on)?
• Have you mentioned and evaluated the significance of possible errors that may have occurred in your research?
• Are all your suggestions of errors or improvements relevant?
• Have you evaluated your research question?
• Have you compared your results or findings with any other sources?
• Is there an argument that is clear and easy to follow and directly linked to answering your research question, and which is supported by evidence? Are there other possible methods that could be used or applied to answer your research question? How might this change the direction of your research?

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p. 111)

Handy Links:

• Presentation One Pager  via Catalina Bordoy
• Presentation Checklist
• Sample Title page   (see below - top half of the page)

Criterion D:  Presentation ( 4 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the extent to which the presentation follows the standard format expected for academic writing and the extent to which this aids effective communication.

• Have you read and understood the presentation requirements of the extended essay?
• Have you chosen a font that will be easy for examiners to read on-screen?
• Is your essay double-spaced and size 12 font?
• Are the title and research question mentioned on the cover page?
• Are all pages numbered?
• Have you prepared a correct table of contents?
• Do the page numbers in the table of contents match the page numbers in the text?
• Is your essay subdivided into correct sub-sections, if this is applicable to the subject?
• Are all figures and tables properly numbered and labelled?
• Does your bibliography contain only the sources cited in the text?
• Did you use the same reference system throughout the essay?
• Does the essay have less than 4,000 words?
• Is all the material presented in the appendices relevant and necessary?
• Have you proofread the text for spelling or grammar errors?

Criterion E: Engagement

• Three reflections (best after meeting with your supervisor)
• 500 words TOTAL (100 + 150 + 250?)
• Reflections are done in Managebac on your Reflection space
• See the "Reflections" tab above for prompts to write about

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p.135)

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p.133)

• Sample Reflections
• Full chapter on Reflections from the Oxford Guide

Criterion E:  Engagement (6 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the student’s engagement with their research focus and the research process. It will be applied by the examiner at the end of the assessment of the essay, after considering the student’s RPPF (Reflections on planning and progress form).

• Have you demonstrated your engagement with your research topic and the research process?
• Have you highlighted challenges you faced and how you overcame them?
• Will the examiner get a sense of your intellectual and skills development?
• Will the examiner get a sense of your creativity and intellectual initiative?
• For prompts to deepen your reflections, go  here  and then to the bottom of the page
• Presentation Quick Guide
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IB Guide: Extended Essay

• EE Examples
• NoodleTools Students
• NoodleTools Teacher
• Using the Library Catalogue
• Bibliothéque nationale de Luxembourg
• IB Official Resources This link opens in a new window

Great Extended Essay Books

Subject Specific Guidance

Subject Specific Pages

Group 1:  studies in language and literature, group 2:  language acquisition, including classical languages, group 3:  individuals and societies, group 4:  the sciences, group 5:  mathematics, group 6:  the arts, additional/other:  interdisciplinary essays, extended essay: what write it, the extended essay provides:.

• practical preparation for undergraduate research
• an opportunity for students to investigate a topic of personal interest to them, which relates to one of the student's six DP subjects, or takes the interdisciplinary approach of a World Studies extended essay.

Through the research process for the extended essay, students develop skills in:

• formulating an appropriate research question
• engaging in a personal exploration of the topic
• communicating ideas
• developing an argument. 

Participation in this process develops the capacity to analyze, synthesize and evaluate knowledge.

EE Reflection Process

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HS DP Extended Essay: General Information

• General Information
• Class of 2025 EE Calendar
• The assessment criteria
• Criterion D
• Research Questions, Topics & Keywords
• ISZL Online Subscription Sources
• Open Access Resources
• NoodleTools
• Annotated Bibliography
• Academic Honesty
• Understanding Source Types
• Formatting and Citation Assistance
• EE Exemplars from IBO
• HS Library Homepage This link opens in a new window

What is the Extended Essay?

One component of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) core, the extended essay is mandatory for all IBDP students.

What is the significance of the extended essay?

The extended essay provides:

• practical preparation for undergraduate research
• an opportunity for students to investigate a topic of personal interest to them, which relates to one of the student's six DP subjects, or takes the interdisciplinary approach of a World Studies extended essay.

Through the research process for the extended essay, students develop skills in:

• formulating an appropriate research question
• engaging in a personal exploration of the topic
• communicating ideas
• developing an argument. 

Participation in this process develops the capacity to analyze, synthesize and evaluate knowledge.

Source: https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/curriculum/extended-essay/

Extended Essay Guide and Assessment

This is the complete Extended Essay guide from the IBO. You should consult the guide frequently in order to ensure that you are doing exactly what is required of you throughout the process.

Extended Essay Subject Specific Guides

             Guidelines from the IB on each subjects’ requirements for the extended essay (EE).

Guidelines from the IB on how to put together an annotated bibliography to help you think critically about your sources and save time.

Samples provided in the IB Extended Essay Guide

From George Mason University's Writing Center, a guide to crafting a research question.

Essay Outline from Philpot Education You will need to adapt for your own specifications. Also note the link to methodology. 

Effective Citing and Referencing from the IBO

This link directs you to the "Presentation" page of the Extended Essay Guide (online). Pay attention to the left-hand column as there are links to further information on Word Counts, Illustrations, Tables, Headers, Footnotes and Endnotes, Appendices and more.

What goes on the EE title page?

Use this checklist to identify areas that need your focus before the final deadline.

CC Source : Ohio State Press

Strategies for using the EE in university applications

10 Extended Essay Tips

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What Are the Easiest and Hardest Extended Essay Subjects?

Table of contents.

As a seasoned IB writer who has helped many students through their IB route, I’ve seen my fair share of problems and successes with the extended essay (EE). Picking the right subject for your EE can make a big difference in how well you do and how much you enjoy the experience. Let’s examine what makes some subjects easier and what might make others harder.

What Are the Extended Essay Requirements?

Before we get into the best EE subjects that are the easiest to work on, let’s discuss the basics. This aspect is crucial if you want to understand which factors determine the difficulty of one or another course.

The extended essay is one of the most essential parts of the IB Diploma. It allows you to learn a lot about something that interests you. It takes hard work, the ability to think critically , and a lot of creativity. From what I’ve seen, the first step to success is understanding the EE’s basic needs.

This critical part of the IB program pushes you to learn skills like a college researcher. You have to write a paper with a strict word count , which is a big task that requires both intellectual interest and a well-organized approach. You can prepare for college study by writing an extended essay and going into a topic of your choice in great detail.

The extended essay has strict standards graded in multiple ways, not just on the paper’s topic. You need to develop a research question that is both interesting and possible. This question tells you what to look into and helps you build your theory. The IB standards also stress the importance of a structured and organized investigation method. Your essay should show a strong personal connection to the topic. This result can come in many ways, such as through your thoughts, experiences, or comments.

As someone who has helped many students through their IB assessments, I’ve seen that those who understand the basics of these standards from the start tend to find it easier to deal with problems. They know that the extended essay isn’t just schoolwork; it’s a task that prepares them for the more severe work they’ll be doing in college.

What Factors Influence the Difficulty of Extended Essay Subjects?

A big problem for many IB students when writing an extended essay is picking the right subject. As a teacher and writer for the IB for many years, I’ve seen how subject choice can significantly affect the essay’s difficulty. Many things affect this level of complexity, so it’s not just random.

Interests of the Student

Your interest in and understanding of the subject are the most critical factors. Finding a topic you are interested in makes the study process more fun. Many IB students often find the EE less stressful and more rewarding when they choose areas they are genuinely interested in. This emotional link and motivation help you get deeper insights and think more deeply about the topic, which are both very important when assessing the extended essay.

Access to Resources

The complexity of the topic, what is the easiest ee subject to work on, group 1. studies in language and literature, group 3. social sciences, group 6. the arts, what are the hardest ee subjects.

Even though choosing the easiest extended essay subject might be appealing, it’s also essential to know which options could be more difficult. From my many years of experience, I’ve seen that some groups in the IB program have a reputation for being especially hard.

Group 2. Language Acquisition

For Group 2 extended essays, students must learn a second language, which can be challenging for many. For these kinds of writings, you need to know a lot about the language and the cultural details hidden in it. Students can choose to study a language’s writing, film, or media, requiring them to think critically about the language. The hard part is finding the right words and phrases to explain complicated ideas in a language different from your first . It’s also important to be very aware of cultural settings.

Group 4. Experimental Sciences

Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are some of the most challenging subjects in Group 4. Exact experiments, thorough scientific paperwork, and statistical analysis are usually needed regarding these options.

For example, a Chemistry EE might include lab work with strict safety rules and complicated chemical processes that must be handled and understood carefully. Because empirical proof is needed, students must plan, do exact experiments, and analyze the results. Due to the difficulty of the tasks and the high standards for science writing, Group 4 is a strong option for submitting an extended essay .

Group 5. Mathematics

Many people think that Mathematics is one of the hardest EE subjects because it requires a lot of abstract thinking and strict rational reasoning. In a Mathematics extended essay, you might talk about a specific theory, how it can be used, or even devise a way to solve a problem. It requires a deep knowledge of mathematical ideas and the skill to use them correctly and artistically.

Students must understand complex subjects and explain complicated ideas clearly and precisely. They often do this by making proofs or building models. Many students find Group 5 especially hard because they need to communicate and understand Math at this level of complexity.

Get Help With Your Paper

How do you choose the best ee subject for you.

As an experienced IB writer who has helped many students, I know that the best EE subject fits your academic skills and interests. Here’s a plan to help you make this critical decision.

First, think about the things you are best at and enjoy the most. Your interest in a subject will keep you going during the long months of study and writing. Thinking about what you want to happen is also a good idea. For instance, picking a Group 4 topic might help you gain experience if you’re going to work in science.

Essential things to think about when choosing your EE subject:

• Interests and drives . Do you want to know about the subject? If you’re going to spend a lot of time on something, make sure it makes you happy.
• Resource availability . Can you easily access the tools you need? Consider using internet sources, labs, and libraries. Also, make proper IB references .
• The expertise of the advisor . Is there a teacher who knows much about your field and is ready to help you?
• Scope for research . Are there enough topics in the subject to find your unique angle?
• Your skill set . Do the skills you already have match up with what the subject requires?

Getting advice and talking to your teachers can help you understand how complicated different topics are. They can help you determine if your possible topics are possible based on the tools and knowledge at your school. Looking at great extended essays that other students have written can also help you understand what is expected of you and what has worked in the past.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the best EE subject is the one that fits your personality and intellectual skills. Make a wise choice, and remember that a well-done EE can be a fun experience that significantly affects your IB score. Always try to choose a topic that fits the IB requirements and interests you. It will make the study and writing process more fun and informative. Also, when you need help with extended essay writing, you can get in touch with our IB writers at IBStudentHelp.com .

Nick Radlinsky

Nick Radlinsky is a devoted educator, marketing specialist, and management expert with more than 15 years of experience in the education sector. After obtaining his business degree in 2016, Nick embarked on a quest to achieve his PhD, driven by his commitment to enhancing education for students worldwide. His vast experience, starting in 2008, has established him as a reputable authority in the field.

Nick's article, featured in Routledge's " Entrepreneurship in Central and Eastern Europe: Development through Internationalization ," highlights his sharp insights and unwavering dedication to advancing the educational landscape. Inspired by his personal motto, "Make education better," Nick's mission is to streamline students' lives and foster efficient learning. His inventive ideas and leadership have contributed to the transformation of numerous educational experiences, distinguishing him as a true innovator in his field.

IB Paper 1 Writing Guide

As an experienced IB writer, I’ve compiled this complete guide to help you feel strong as you take on this critical part of the IB Diploma Programme. This article details the methods and skills you need to ace Paper 1, from understanding how the test is set up and choosing the right texts.

IB Economics IA Article Suggestions 2024/2025

When IB students start their Economics Internal Assessment (IA), it’s important for them to pick an interesting topic. For the school years 2024/2025, we will consider many different areas of economics, ranging from the rise of inflation to the changing nature of global trade.

In this article, we discuss the easiest and hardest extended essay subjects, providing insights to help you make an informed decision. From the creative freedom found in the Arts to the demanding nature of the Experimental Sciences, we break down into what makes a subject approachable or daunting.

Failed Your Extended Essay? What to Do?

In this article, I’ll consider the immediate steps you should take after receiving an EE score that didn’t meet your expectations. We’ll discuss how to analyze feedback effectively, manage your emotions, and consider whether a retake is the right choice for you. If a retake isn’t feasible, we’ll look at alternative paths that can still lead you to diploma success.

What to Do If You Fail Your TOK Essay?

Failing your TOK essay can be disheartening, but it’s not the end of your IB path. As a seasoned IB writer, I understand the intricacies of the TOK essay and the common pitfalls students face. In this article, I’ll guide you through practical steps to reassess, revise, and rebound from a failing grade.

What to Do if You Don’t Pass Your IB IA and How to Succeed Next Time

Overcoming the challenges of failing an IB Internal Assessment can be daunting, but it’s not the end of your academic path. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the immediate actions to take if you don’t pass your IA, including analyzing feedback and consulting with your teachers. We’ll discuss opportunities for resubmission, the strategies for improving your work, and long-term tactics to prevent similar setbacks.

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Library: Extended Essay

• Extended Essay
• English Literature
• Pre-DP Reading List

ASK Secondary Library Team about the EXTENDED ESSAY!

• Extended Essay-The Basics
• 1.Read key EE documents
• 2.Record your thoughts@RRS
• 3.Formulate a Topic
• 4.Formulate a Research Question
• 5.Identify Sources
• 6.Decide on Reference Style
• 7.Commence research/reading
• 8.Writing your Essay
• Presentation
• Subject-Specific Guidance
• Student's Role
• Supervisor's Role
• Online Courses for EE Preparation

Academic Databases

• EE Exemplars

Extended Essay The E xtended Essay  (EE) is a mandatory core component of the IB Diploma Programme. It is a research paper of up to 4,000 words giving students an opportunity to conduct independent research or investigation on a topic that demonstrates their passion, enthusiasm, intellectual initiative and/or creative approach for their chosen topic. Like the  theory of knowledge  (ToK) essay, ToK presentation, and participation in the CAS (creativity, activity, service) activities, submitting an extended essay is a prerequisite to award of the Diploma.

Common EE terminologies

• Topic:  The topic of the extended essay is the subject, issue or theme that you are investigating within a specific DP subject or world studies area of study. 
• Title:   A title of an EE is a clear, summative statement that specifically focuses the topic being researched. It appears on the title page. 
• Research Question (RQ):  A research question is a clear and focused question  centred  on a research topic. It derives from the title and is expressed as a question that is intended to be answered through researching and writing the EE (IB EE guide, pp. 74-75). 
• Check-in sessions:  Informal short meeting with a supervisor for about 10 minutes to discuss a timeline or clarification of a comment made by the supervisor (IB EE guide, p. 58).
• Reflection sessions: These are the mandatory sessions that must be recorded  on  the Reflections on planning and progress form ( RPPF ). IB recommended that these sessions last 20–30 minutes (IB EE guide, p. 58).
• RRS:  The RRS is a personal learning environment that can be either a physical or virtual support tool.  It is like a daily diary or research or process journal in MYP Personal Project. 
• RPPF:  Reflections on planning and progress form is known as RPPF of which candidates write their formal reflections. Completing the Reflections on planning and progress form (RPPF) is a requirement for the submission of the extended essay. Note that the maximum total word limit for the three reflections on the RPPF is 500 and it must be completed in the language of the student’s extended essay submission. At ICS, candidates are encouraged to record their formal reflections on ManageBac. 
• Supervisor: An appropriately qualified member of staff within the school which should be guided through the process of EE. 

What is the significance of the extended essay?

Ultimately, the point of the EE is to prepare you in a very practical, hands-on way for research and academic writing at college or university. In addition, it is   an opportunity for students to investigate a topic of special interest to them, which is also related to one of the student’s six DP subjects.

Through the research process for the extended essay, students develop skills in:

• formulating an appropriate research question
• engaging in a personal exploration of the  topic
• communicating ideas
• developing an argument.

To summarise, participation in this process develops the capacity to analyze, synthesize and evaluate knowledge.  An extended essay can also be undertaken in  world studies , where students carry out an in-depth interdisciplinary study of an issue of contemporary global significance, across two IB diploma disciplines. For more information, see pages 360-369 in the Extended Essay Guide .

Further Information is on the IBO  website

To determine the EE subject and topic, educate yourself with the following materials: 

• IB Extended Essay website
• IB Extended Essay guide ( pdf )
• The EE assessment criteria
• Extended Essay exemplars 
• Academic Integrity and required citation and referencing styles
• The IB's ethical guidelines and other associated policies where relevant, such as those relating to animal experiments
• Studies in language and literature (1)
• Studies in language and literature (2)
• History  (1)
• History  (2)
• Mathematics
• World studies

After choosing the subject for your extended essay, the next step in the research process is to define what your research is going to focus on - the topic.

At this stage you need to explore:

• What are your personal interests?
• what are my possible topics?
• what do I know about those topics?
• which words would be good search terms and keywords?
• What speakers have you heard that were interesting?
• What novels are you reading?
• What is in your CAS portfolio?
• What scientific experiments have you heard of that interest you?
• Are there any historical events that have caught your imagination?
• Are there any innovations, phenomena or theorems you have heard of lately?

Your research topic:

• Must  fall into  one  of the approved IB categories
• Must   NOT  be from a TOK subject area
• Should  be an area in which there is data and material to support your research
• Should  be manageable  with 4,000 words within  40 hours of work.  

Tips to choose a research topic:

• Preliminary reading of academic journals and reputable scholarly e-resources, e.g. conference papers, essays, book chapters or journal articles (school librarian can advise on this).
• Read the local newspaper/magazine and identify any issues that interest you!
• Do conversations with teachers, fellow students and librarians.

Details tips on how to choose a Research Topic

• Find a subject area that interests and challenges you. You might have studied a certain topic in class that you would like to research further or you may be able to research and write about something you are particularly interested in. Writing about what you know can help you throughout the entire researching and writing process.
• If you are having trouble finding a suitable topic that interests you, read through some current newspapers and magazines or you may search online. You might find a news story or a subject area that you would like to research further.
• You can also use the  Questia Topic Finder  listing to help select your topic. You can also use  Questia Topic Generator .
• Once you have chosen a topic, decide whether you need to narrow or broaden its focus. If your topic is too broad, you might become overwhelmed by the number of resources available on the subject and your research paper may prove almost impossible to write. On the other hand, if your topic is too narrow, you might have trouble finding resources and your paper might not be long enough. For example, writing about the Internet is too broad. Writing about publishing on the Internet is narrower. Writing about one document published on the Internet might be too narrow!
• Ask yourself some questions about the topic. These questions will help you to focus on a certain issue or problem. One of these questions will form your research question, which your thesis statement will answer. For example, if you chose to write about publishing on the Internet, your research question might be “Has the fact that it is so easy to publish on the Internet made it difficult for students to find reliable information?”

[Developing a Topic video by Oregon School Library Information System]

[“Writing a Research Paper.” World News Digest. Infobase Learning, n.d. Web. 15 Feb. 2017. ]

The research question (RQ) derives from the title and is expressed as a question that is intended to be answered through researching and writing the EE. It appears on the title page and could also be visible as a header throughout the essay. It should: 

• be clear and focused 

• provide a path through which you can undertake achievable research 

• use keywords that connect with the topic, the title, and the DP subject or world studies area of study 

• support the development of an argument

Qualities of a good research question:

1. Cannot Google the answer!

2. It should be broad enough to explore (40 hours) and narrow enough to be manageable (4000 words)

3. It does not repeat what is already known

4. It adds value to the existing knowledge

5. It expands on existing knowledge or frames it in a new context

Sample Research Questions 

Five Steps to develope a research question 

1. Choose a topic within a subject that is of interest

2. Carry out preliminary reading.

• what has already been written about this topic?
• was it easy to find sources of information?
• is there a range of different sources available?
• is there a range of views or perspectives on the topic?
• what  interesting questions have started to emerge from this reading? 

3. Consider the emerging questions

•  These questions will usually be framed using the terms “how”, “why” or “to what extent”.

4. Evaluate the question

• Clear: Will the reader understand the nature of my research? Will it direct the research being undertaken?
• Focused: Will the research question be specific enough to allow for exploration within the scope of the task (that is, the number of words and time available)?
• Arguable : Does the research question allow for analysis, evaluation and the development of a reasoned argument?

5. Consider research outcomes

• suggesting possible outcomes of the research
• outlining the kind of argument they might make and how the research might support this
• considering options if the research available is not sufficient to support a sustained argument

Note: Sometimes students may need to revise their research question; therefore, a research question should always be considered provisional until they have enough research data to make a reasoned argument. 

For more support, READ this blog post. 

The following video and pictorial presentations may guide you on how to formulate a research question: 

Lekanides , Kosta . Extended Essay Course Book: Oxford IB Diploma Programme . OUP, 2016.

Working on a specific area of research and engaging with different sources of information and data, you may expose to different and new perspectives on issues and topics. At this stage, you need to construct a r esource  Plan,  identifying  all the  resources  needed to complete the essay. You should also produce a schedule indicating when  each resource  will be used and note any assumptions and constraints made during the  resource  planning process.   IB suggested that students should use both primary and secondary sources for their research. However, students should use secondary data as the basis of their EE, supported where appropriate by primary research. The sole use of secondary sources is permitted and will allow students access to all levels of the EE assessment criteria (IB EEG, p.146). 

Primary vs Secondary Sources

Whether conducting research in the social sciences, humanities (especially history), arts, or natural sciences, the ability to distinguish between  primary  and  secondary source material  is essential. 

Note:  Often secondary and primary sources are relative concepts.  Typical secondary sources may be primary sources depending on the research topic.

• Intellectual history topics For example, although scholarly journal articles are usually considered secondary sources, if one's topic is the history of human rights, then journal articles on human rights will be primary sources in this instance.  Similarly, research on the thinking of a scholar will include her published journal articles as primary sources.  
• Historical topics Magazine articles are secondary sources, but for someone researching the view of judicial punishment in the 1920s, magazines from that time period are primary sources.  Indeed, any older publication, such as those prior to the 20th century, is very often automatically considered a primary source.  
• Newspapers may be either primary or secondary Most articles in newspapers are secondary, but reporters may be considered as witnesses to an event.  Any topic on the media coverage of an event or phenomenon would treat newspapers as a primary source.  There are so many articles and types of articles in newspapers that they can often be considered both primary and secondary.

How can I find and identify scholarly sources/resources?

Not very easy! but following some strategies/ methods, one can justify the scholarly resources. The following presentation may guide you on how to search and justify scholarly resources online!

Subscribed Dat abases at ICS, Zurich

Open Access Dat abases at ICS, Zurich

These are highly recommended Open Access databases. To search your desired resource click on the selected database and explore…

DOAJ (Directory of Open Access Journals)

ScholarWorks (Indiana University)

HighWire (Stanford University)

BASE ( Bielefeld University Library, Germany)

Google Scholar

IB Research Database

Digital Common Networks

World Digital Library

CORE (Open Access Research Papers) 

FreeFullpdf

List of Digitized Magazines

Students should use their chosen style of academic referencing as soon as they start writing. That way they are less likely to forget to include a citation. It is also easier than trying to add references at a later stage. Regardless of the reference style adopted by the student/school for a given subject, it is expected that the minimum information given includes (IB EEG, p.81):

• name of author

• date of publication

• title of source

• page numbers as applicable

• date of access (electronic sources)

Please, educate yourself with the IB Effective citing and referencing documents !

What to Cite and How to Cite

For the In-text citation and bibliography, follow the minimum requirements as summarized in this presentation. 

More resources

• ICS, Zurich MLA style guide

Commence Reading

It is important to adapt how you read to suit the material and your purpose for reading. Depending on what you are reading and why, you will find some of the following strategies useful. The following are the effective reading strategies adapted from Charles Darwin University: 

Skimming  ( click and scroll down)

Keyword Spotting@Key information

Analytical Reading

Critical Reading

Reading Difficult Texts

Commence Research

If you are undertaking an Extended Essay  on  any subject you are required to complete some research. Research generally involves two different types: primary and secondary research.  Once students have identified their topic and written their research question, they can decide how to research their answer.  Consider your research goals, and whether they can be met by secondary research, or require primary research. The definition of “research” and terms such as “primary data” and “secondary data” varies from subject to subject. In some subjects, students must use both primary and secondary data. In others, students may, or even must, rely exclusively on secondary data.

Primary vs Secondary Research

 Considering the complexity of research, all students must carry out secondary research in terms of a literature review for their topic (IB, EEG, p. 111).  The purpose of secondary research is to: 

• provide context for your own area of research within its wider discipline and/or issue
• give you ideas for refining your proposed research topic and/or question
• give you evidence of why your research is worthy of investigation
• provide material you can use when you analyze and evaluate your research data

How to Conduct an Effective Research?

Use of Scholarly resources

It is also important that you consult relevant and reliable scholarly and peer-reviewed sources in your research. You need to evaluate all the sources that you use for your secondary research. The authority and credibility evident in scholarly sources will improve the quality of your paper or research project. Moreover, the use of scholarly sources is an expected attribute of academic coursework.

How can I tell if a source is scholarly?

Not very easy but following some strategies/ methods such as ABCDE, CRAAP, CRAB methods, one can justify the scholarly resources. The following presentation may guide you on how to search and justify scholarly resources online!

Research Skills Guide: Brought to you by...

Oregon School Library Information System@  Learn how to do Research 

State Library of Victoria@  Research Skills

Kentucky Virtual Library@ How to do Research

Writing the extended essay

The structure of the essay is very important. It helps students to organize the argument, making the best use of the evidence collected. Six required elements of the extended essay:

Title page Contents page Introduction Body of the essay Conclusion References and bibliography

Integrate others' ideas through Paraphrasing, Summarizing and Quieting

In academic writing, we have to incorporate other ideas and research findings to our research. Now the question is how do we do that? Quoting, paraphrasing and summarizing are the three main ways of integrating others’ ideas in your academic work.

Writing Tips: Brought to you by...

English for Writing Research Papers@ Useful Phrases/Author voices

Purdue University-OWL@ Academic Writing

Cambridge Rindge & Latin School@  Writing an Introduction  

Cambridge  Rindge  & Latin School@  Writing a Conclusion

Plagiarism Tutorials: Brought to you by...

University of Sydney Library

Vaughan Memorial Library

Plagiarism Quizzes: B rought to you by...

Turnitin 

Staffordshire University

You are highly encouraged to read the document "How to Write a Research Paper" at Research Guide . <https://icsz.libapps.com/libguides/admin_c.php?g=664309&p=4700645>

The length of the extended essay

The extended essay should be written in a clear, correct and formal academic style, appropriate to the subject from which the topic is drawn. Given that the extended essay is a formally written research paper, it should strive to maintain a professional, academic look.

To help achieve this, the following formatting is suggested:

• the use of 12-point, readable font

• double spacing

• page numbering

• no candidate or school name on the title page or page headers

• the  essay should be a maximum of 4 000 words (the examiner won’t read anything past this cut off point!)

• the file size must not be more than 10 MB.

Note that the RPPF is uploaded separately and is not part of the overall file size of the essay!

Word counts

The upper limit is 4,000 words for all extended essays. Examiners are instructed not to read or assess any material in excess of the word limit. Please refer to the following guidance on what content should be included in the word count (IB EEG, pp. 82-83): 

Exception:  Students writing their extended essay in Japanese or Chinese should use the following conversions:

• Japanese: 1 word = approximately 2 Japanese characters (upper limit 8,000 characters)

• Chinese: 1 word = approximately 1.2 Chinese characters (upper limit 4,800 characters) 

• Business Management
• Classical Languages
• Language Acquisition
• Literature and Performance
• Studies in Language and Literature
• Visual Arts
• World Studies

There are two types of assessment identified by the IB:

• Formative assessment informs both teaching and learning. It is concerned with providing accurate and helpful feedback to students and teachers on the kind of learning taking place and the nature of students’ strengths and weaknesses in order to help develop students’ understanding and capabilities. Formative assessment can also help to improve teaching quality, as it can provide information to monitor progress towards meeting the course aims and objectives.

• Summative assessment gives an overview of previous learning and is concerned with measuring student achievement. 

Assessment of the extended essay is a combination of formative assessment (the Reflections on planning and progress form) and summative assessment (the extended essay itself). However, generic assessment criteria are used with subject-specific interpretations. 

What are the criteria to assess the Extended Essay?

There are five (A-E) criterion to assess the EE and each criterion is organized at three levels of information. Firstly, the  markband , which relates to the mark range available; secondly,  the strand , which relates to what is being assessed; and, thirdly,  the indicators , which are the demonstration of the strands within a markband.

Criterion A: Focus and method –  This criterion focuses on the topic, the research question and the methodology. Criterion B: Knowledge and understanding –  This criterion assesses the extent to which the research relates to the subject area/discipline used to explore the research question. Criterion C: Critical thinking –  This criterion assesses the extent to which critical-thinking skills have been used to analyse and evaluate the research undertaken. Criterion D: Presentation –  This criterion assesses the extent to which the presentation follows the standard format expected for academic writing and the extent to which this aids effective communication. Criterion E: Engagement –  This criterion assesses the student’s engagement with their research focus and the research process.

Overview of the Criteria

How is the Extended Essay assessed? All extended essays are externally assessed by examiners appointed by the IB. They are marked on a scale from 0 to 34. The score a student receives relates to a band. The bands are:

• A – work of an excellent standard.
• B – work of a good standard.
• C –work of a satisfactory standard.
• D – work of a mediocre standard.
• E – work of an elementary standard.

As the extended essay is an important component of the Diploma Programme, and a substantial piece of work, students need to ensure that they understand the expectations of the task and manage their time and workload effectively. The following suggestions are given as guidance to help with the process.

Students are strongly recommended to: 

• develop a Researcher’s reflection space as a planning tool

• use the Researcher’s reflection space to prepare for reflection sessions

• share excerpts from the Researcher’s reflection space with the supervisor during the reflection sessions

• choose a subject, followed by a topic, and then think carefully about the research question for their essay

• plan how, when and where they will find material and sources for their essay before deciding on the final topic and research question

• plan a schedule for both the researching and writing of their extended essay, including extra time for delays and unforeseen problems

• record sources as their research progress using their Researcher’s reflection space rather than trying to reconstruct a list at the end

• make the most of their supervision and reflection sessions by arriving prepared to discuss their work

• have a clear structure for the essay before beginning to write

• check and proofread the final version of their extended essay

• make sure that the version they submit for assessment is the final version with all sources correctly and consistently referenced

• ensure that all requirements are met

Adapted from IB EE Guide, pp.48-49.

At ICS, Zurich students are required to:

• Observe the regulations related to the EE
• write 3 Reflections (150+150+200) on ManageBac
• meet internal school deadlines
• treat your supervisor/ EE coordinator  appropriately according to IBO guidelines
• read EE Libgides for EE direction or consult with the responsible  Teacher-Librarians
• attend the DP Core Lessons & EE Sessions

Supervisor's support: 

You should think of your EE supervisor as a resource for general feedback, but do not rely on them to hold your hand through this process. You must take the initiative on all fronts, from choosing your subject to writing a plan and setting internal deadlines for yourself so that you can meet school deadlines! You will edit your EE on your own; do not expect your EE Supervisor to read, edit, or mark up your drafts in any way.

Think of it this way: The IB’s general EE guidelines require you to spend at least forty hours researching and writing your Extended Essay. In contrast, your EE Supervisor should spend no more than about 3-5 hours advising your work along the way.

That said, your supervisor can be a valuable support to you through this process - someone to bounce ideas off, clarify your understanding and support your time-management. Make them your first point of call if you have difficulties…do n't suffer in silence, they are there to help!

Important information for ICS supervisors - Link

The supervisor-student working relationship is probably the most important one in the Extended Essay process. The EE supervisor will advise students during the entire process such as confirm research questions, read the final draft and give comments for revising it and submit a predicted grade to the IBO. Supervisors must ensure that they understand the important role they play in supporting students in this process.

Supervisors are required to:

• undertake three mandatory reflection sessions with each student they are supervising;
• initial and date each reflection summarized on the Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF) and provide comments at the end of the process . If the form and essay are submitted via the eCoursework system, then it is deemed signed and authenticated. An RPPF that is blank, unsubmitted, or written in a language other than that of the essay, will be awarded a 0 for criterion E;
• provide students with advice and guidance in the skills of undertaking research;
• encourage and support students throughout the research and writing of the extended essay;
• discuss the choice of topic with each student and, in particular, help to formulate a well-focused research question which is suitable to the subject of registration and ensure that the chosen research question satisfies appropriate legal and ethical standards with regard to health and safety, confidentiality, human rights, animal welfare and environmental issues;
• familiar with the regulations governing the extended essay and the assessment criteria, and gives copies of these to students;
• monitor the progress of the extended essay to offer guidance and to ensure that the essay is the student’s own work (this may include presenting a section of the essay for supervisor comment)
• read and comment on one draft only of the extended essay (but do not edit the draft); this should take place after the interim reflection session, but before the final reflection session - the viva voce;
• ensure that the final version of the essay is handed in before the final reflection session (viva voce) takes place, and that no changes are made to it subsequently;
• read the final version and, in conjunction with the viva voce, confirm its authenticity;

Supervisors are strongly recommended to:

• read recent extended essay reports for the subject;
• spend between three and five hours with each student, including the time spent on the three mandatory reflection sessions;
• encourage the development of a Researcher’s reflection space for students;
• set a clear schedule for the reflection sessions;
• ensure that the chosen research question is appropriate for the subject;
• access to appropriate resources (such as people, a library, a laboratory, online databases)
• research methods
• how to cite and reference

Adapted from IB Extended Essay Guide, pp.46-47.

The following FREE online courses may guide you throughout your extended essay (click on the course image): 

1. Developing Your Research Project

What topics will this course cover?

Academic research: principles and definition

Drafting and developing research proposals

Gathering information from literature and from findings

Research methods: choosing an appropriate methodology

Academic reading and note taking

Referencing, plagiarism, and academic integrity

Academic writing: organising sources, structuring essays

Academic writing: summarising a research project into an abstract

Academic presentations: preparation and delivery

2. Information & Digital Literacy for University Success

• Referencing, Incorporating Sources & Avoiding Plagiarism
• Demonstrate awareness of ethical issues related to academic integrity surrounding the access and use of information
• Know where to look for information from various sources 
• Define the characteristics of different kinds of information
• Develop a search strategy and filter large numbers of search results effectively 
• Critically Evaluating, Filtering & Managing Information
• Understand how to  incorporate  ideas from sources into your work

3. Research Writing: How to Do a Literature Review

• Understanding the literature review as a genre, and its fundamental role in all serious investigations and research projects
• Developing a useful list of search terms and understanding where to use them to find the most relevant literature available
• Developing a professional bibliography and annotating it with critical evaluations of readings
• Asking good questions to guide the reading and writing process
• Planning a critical discussion in response to specific questions and based on evidence from the published literature

These are highly recommended Open Access databases. To search your desired resource click on the selected database and explore…[no password required]

DOAJ (Directory of Open Access Journals)

ScholarWorks (Indiana University)

HighWire (Stanford University)

BASE ( Bielefeld University Library, Germany)

• Sample Extended Essay Select your desired subject and click on it...
• Is it compulsory to write the extended essay? 

Yes. If you do not complete the extended essay (or it does not meet minimum standards) you will be deemed ineligible to receive your IB Diploma. 

• Should my extended essay be written in one of my examination subjects?

No. However, it is strongly recommended that you select a topic from one of your Higher Level (HL) subjects. Other subject areas may be chosen; however, that will only be allowed if there is a qualified staff member to help so that you have every opportunity to do well in that area. If you are not currently enrolled in a course in the subject area from which you choose your EE topic, you must have a solid knowledge base in that subject area. In general, you are ‘wisest’ to choose a topic in an area that you are passionate about and currently studying at the HL.

• I don’t understand. What is the Student / EE Supervisor relationship supposed to be?

Unlike most student/teacher relationships, for the Extended Essay, you are the one in the driver’s seat. Yes, there are deadlines and guidelines and you must meet them, but you choose your topic and you plan your research on your own and you write and edit the essay on your own. Your EE Supervisor is there as a resource if you need help, or if your essay is heading in the wrong direction or stalled. Think of your EE Supervisor as a backseat driver - you may hear “Watch out!” or “Go [write] faster!” but, ultimately, you are the one responsible for putting your foot on the pedal and making sure you are in good shape coming down the home stretch of the Extended Essay process.

• Help! I’m used to teachers reading my drafts and telling me what to fix. What do I do for the Extended Essay?

Learning how to edit your own work is an invaluable skill, though it may be painful at first. Some tried-and-true tips for copy-editing as you go along:

• Print out a draft and mark it up by hand, with colored pens or a pencil - write on your paper liberally. Circle phrases that just sound “funny”, put question marks or “awk” (short for awkward) when a sentence construction is particularly gawky, write “w.c.” when you need to reconsider your word choice, and play around with chopping sentences down in size (this one would be a good example!) or changing around the order of your paragraphs or arguments. For some reason, it is often a lot easier to see these mistakes and visualize changes when you are looking at a printed sheet of paper rather than scrolling down a computer screen.
• When you think you have your final draft, print it out and read the entire thing out loud to yourself, pen in hand. Yes, this is tedious. But it is absolutely worth it! I guarantee you; you’ll hear subtle mistakes even when the same text you just read a moment ago appeared fine. It’s not just that your eyes may be tired… After all, punctuation in writing exists to imitate the natural inflections and intonation we have when speaking. Converting your essay back into oral form is the best litmus test for the integrity of your tone and grammar! Try it out!
• I have no idea how to write an academic paper. Where do I start?

Relax. Many students are overly worried about writing academic papers simply because they may not be able to visualize what exactly an academic paper will entail, and how it differs from the school papers they have been writing in one form or another since elementary school.

Here is the quick definition: an academic paper is a piece of formal writing (i.e., unlike a conversational tone such as what I am using now, you will most likely be using the third person voice, and should avoid colloquialisms and unfounded generalizations). At the heart of most academic papers is the thesis statement, which describes what you believe and what you are trying to prove, out of all the research and analysis you have done. All the other points in the paper will go towards supporting your thesis statement.

You will write the Extended Essay to emulate an academic journal article. Because these journal articles are published, there is often a very strict methodology for how you go about writing them. This is great for you because it means there are a lot of resources, both online and off, available to teach you about these methodologies!  Good luck, and happy writing!

• What will I learn from writing the extended essay?

You will have the opportunity to explore an interesting self-selected topic in-depth. You will develop your research skills and, if applicable to your subject area, your investigative skills. As well, you will improve your presentation skills, as you will be required to use MLA/APA as a citation format and to prepare an annotated bibliography. These skills will be extremely useful in your post-secondary studies.

• Is my extended essay ‘worth’ anything?

Yes! As noted above, if you do not submit an extended essay, or if your extended essay does not meet the minimum requirements, you will not receive your diploma. As well, your assessment on your extended essay and your ToK essay and project are combined into a point matrix. You may qualify for up to three additional points which are added to your total IB Diploma score. 

Search the catalogue for previous years' Extended Essays

EE Steps to follow...

Step -1: Read the key EE documents

Step -2: Record your thoughts@RRS

Step -3: Choose a subject & supervisor

Step -4: Confirm a research topic & title

Step -5: Formulate a research question

Step -6: Identify sources

Step -7: Plan a research outline

Step -8: Decide on reference style 

Step -9: Commence research/reading

Step -10: Writing the essay

*Write 3 reflections according to the ICS timeline

IB EE Poster

How can I help you find resources for your research?

Acknowledgement

This LibGuide was created by Zakir Hossain in 2018 using and adapting information from the IB Extended Essay Guide,  OCC (Online Curriculum Centre IBO)  and S usan Trower of West Sound Academy, Washington's EE guide resources . The Guide was licensed under CC-BY-NC 4.0

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