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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
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IB English A (Lang & Lit) EE examples
Filter exemplars, how is art portrayed as a coping mechanism in emily st. john mandel’s station eleven, how do martin luther king jr’s eulogy for the martyred children and queen elizabeth i’s speech at tilbury compare in the methods used to achieve their respective purposes, want to get full marks for your ee allow us to review it for you 🎯, gender: the skinning of identity how is the characterization of clarice and buffalo bill in “silence of the lambs” used to critique societal perspectives and expectations of gender identity, how are the revolutionaries and aristocracy of the french revolution characterised through shared symbolism in charles dickens’ a tale of two cities and baroness orzcy’s the scarlet pimpernel, to represent their differing social perceptions, how does george r.r. martin use the characters sansa and arya stark to represent the outcomes of challenging or aligning with gender-based societal norms in westerosi society, fast track your coursework with mark schemes moderated by ib examiners. upgrade now 🚀, how does je ffrey eugenides explore the theme of decay in the virgin suicides, how do symbolism and dystopian atmosphere communicate john wyndham’s fear in ‘the day of the triffids, how and to what effect do patterns in speech and behavior demonstrate internalized misogyny in season 4 of bravo’s reality tv show the real housewives of beverly hills, how is visual imagery used to portray the black women experience in the poetry of audre lorde and maya angelou, to what extent do the contrasting themes of feminism and power intersect throughout the literary texts of macbeth and the handmaid’s tale, to what extent does the author’s perception of reality affect the portrayal of the american dream’s futility in death of a salesman and of mice and men, how does the recurring motif of absence in integral traditional customs of society impact the treatment of morality in “oryx and crake”, how and why do albert camus in the outsider and john barth in lost in the funhouse explore absurdist themes through characterization and narrative perspective to comment upon humans’ reactions to societal turning points, how does carol ann duffy construct the female voice in “mrs. quasimodo”, “pilate’s wife”, and “medusa” in her anthology “the world’s wife”, how does lewis carroll portray the theme of growing up through the perspective of the child protagonist, alice, in through the looking-glass, in what ways do heathcliff from wuthering heights conform or differ from the aristotelian depiction of a tragic hero, to what extent are the remains of middle english present in the english we speak today based on the analysis of vocabulary, pronunciation and spelling in geoffrey chaucer’s the canterbury tales: the general prologue, how does khaled hosseini’s characterization of women in his novel ‘a thousand splendid suns’ challenge the stereotypical notion of afghan women as being ‘weak & oppressed’, how effective is the language and the visuals in the documentary the game changers in persuading viewers about the benefits of veganism, how does maya angelou portray feminism in her famous poems, ‘still i rise’, ‘phenomenal woman’ and ‘i know why the caged bird sings’, to what extent has the godfather portrayed the idea of the great american dream, and how does the movie challenge the myths related to this american ideal, to what extent does disney propagate heteronormativity in their g-rated movie the princess and the frog, to what extent can friends portrayal of gender and sexuality be considered problematic for modern viewers, how does kendrick lamar depict racial discrimination against african americans in his album to pimp a butterfly (tpab) through both the album cover photo and a song titled alright, how can the idolization of technology alter human behavior according to jungian theories, as portrayed through the use of film techniques and language in the episodes “nosedive” and “men against fire” from the netflix series black mirror, exploring the theme of covid-19 in advertising campaigns, how and to what effect were the connotations to the pandemic transformed in the #socialiseresponsibly campaign into representing values, how is the theme of female friendship portrayed in khaled hosseini's a thousand splendid suns in regard to a patriarchal society, how does f. scott fitzgerald explore man’s downfall in pursuit of the american dream in the novel 'tender is the night', how does george saunders’ the brief and frightening reign of phil utilize satire to portray the corruption and power imbalances present within us society during the 2001-2005 administration of george w. bush, how do female characters in kate chopin’s the awakening utilize music to constitute rebellion against nineteenth century patriarchal social expectations, how is suicide presented in the tragic plays 'hamlet' and ajax', how do dreams characterize winston smith in george orwell’s 1984 and rodion raskolnikov in fyodor dostoevsky’s crime and punishment, what role do odours and tastes play in the evaluation of core memories in "10 minutes 38 seconds in this strange world" by elif shafak, to what extent does madeline miller challenge the traditional gender roles of males through the representations in the song of achilles, in her novel banana heart summer, how does merlinda bobis explore the nature of personal belief through the character of nenita and her participation in systems of belief, in what ways are themes of feminism portrayed in the play, “hedda gabler” by henrik ibsen and the poem “the drunken husband” by marilyn chin, how are the black female characters in the novel the color purple used by alice walker to resist the narratives forced upon black women, effects of parallels and divergence in mythological retellings, how is the theme of desire represented in perfume: the story of a murderer and great expectations.
Extended Essay: Group 1: English Language and Literature
- General Timeline
- Group 1: English Language and Literature
- Group 2: Language Acquisition
- Group 3: Individuals and Societies
- Group 4: Sciences
- Group 5: Mathematics
- Group 6: The Arts
- Interdisciplinary essays
- Brainstorming
- Pre-Writing
- Research Techniques
- The Research Question
- Paraphrasing, Summarising and Quotations
- Writing an EE Introduction
- Writing the main body of your EE
- Writing your EE Conclusion
- Six sub-categories for WSEE
- IB Interdisciplinary EE Assessment Guide
- Sources: Finding, Organising and Evaluating Them
- Conducting Interviews and Surveys
- Citing and Referencing
- Check-in Sessions
- First Formal Reflection
- Second Formal Reflection
- Final Reflection (Viva Voce)
- Researcher's Reflection Space (RRS) Examples
- Information for Supervisors
- How is the EE Graded?
- EE Online Resources
- Stavanger Public Library
- Exemplar Essays
- Extended Essay Presentations
- ISS High School Academic Honesty Policy
Group 1: Language and Literature
From the IB Subject Specific Guide :
A Group 1 Extended Essay in studies in language and literature gives students an opportunity to undertake independent research into a topic of special interest to them within the subject. It is intended to promote advanced research and writing skills, intellectual discovery and creativity.
The essay is open to students who are writing in a language that they would be capable of offering as a language A.
It must be written in the language for which it is registered. Students must not submit a Group 1 EE in their Group 2 language. Studies in language and literature EEs are divided into three categories:
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. Texts can be compared with a translated text originally written in another language. Where a comparative approach is taken, and at least one of the text types is non-literary and/or multimodal, the essay would be a category 3.
At the point of submission, the category of Language A essay must be identified
Category 1 and 2
An EE in categories 1 and 2 gives students an opportunity to:
- study in depth a literary topic
- engage in independent literary criticism
- engage with established critical comment (where appropriate)
- develop the ability to put forward their views persuasively and in a well-structured manner, using a register appropriate to the study of literature.
Students must place their analysis of their chosen text(s) in the wider context of the discipline. This may include other literary texts, or particular critical perspectives or insights. However, this wider discussion should not detract from the main focus of their chosen text(s).
A category 3 studies in language and literature EE gives students the opportunity to:
- demonstrate skills of textual analysis by considering how language, culture and/or context influence the ways in which meaning is constructed in texts
- examine critically the different relationships and interactions that exist between texts, audiences and purposes
- engage with established (or developing) critical writing, as appropriate
- develop the ability to put forward their views persuasively and in a well-structured manner, using a register and terminology appropriate to the subject.
Helpful Websites
IB Language and Literature Subject Specific Guide - Use tabs on the left under Language and Literature: Subject Specific Guide for more information.
Gale Literature Resources Center
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- Next: Group 2: Language Acquisition >>
- Last Updated: Feb 21, 2024 9:33 AM
- URL: https://isstavanger.libguides.com/c.php?g=695888
Guide to the IB Extended Essay in 2024
January 24, 2024
If you’re an International Baccalaureate student getting ready to write your IB Extended Essay, you might be experiencing some very understandable trepidation. But have no fear—we’re here to help you understand what’s required of you, how to plan ahead (IB extended essay topics), and how you’ll be graded (IB extended essay rubric). Keep reading for a good dose of preparation and confidence before you begin the journey. In this article, we’ll cover:
What is the IB Extended Essay?
The ib extended essay—required content, ib extended essay topics.
IB Extended Essay—Sample Essays
IB Extended Essay Tips
Ib extended essay rubric, ib extended essay—more resources.
The IB Extended Essay is a 4,000-word paper that asks you to immerse yourself in research and academic writing. A required part of the IB program, the Extended Essay is a chance to dig deep into a topic that fascinates you.
Although it’s no small task, the IB Extended Essay is an opportunity to gain practical research and writing skills that will come in handy again in college. As you write, you’ll learn how to:
- Identify credible sources
- Formulate a research question and limit your scope of research
- Communicate ideas to an audience
- Develop a well-supported argument
The IB Extended Essay is largely an independent, self-directed project, but don’t worry—the IB program doesn’t throw you into the deep end. You do get to select a mentor (usually a teacher at your school) to help guide you through the process. As you write, you’ll be required to meet with your mentor three times. As part of your final evaluation, your mentor will interview you in a final reflection section called a viva voce . During the viva voce, your mentor will check for plagiarism and malpractice, ask you to reflect on challenges and difficulties, and prompt you to discuss what you’ve learned through the research and writing process. Your mentor will then generate a report that factors into your final grade.
Your final essay must include the following:
- Contents page
- Introduction
- Body of the essay
- References and bibliography
For this essay, it will be up to you to generate a topic; the International Baccalaureate does not provide prompts. However, your essay will need to fit within one of six provided subject areas . You’ll choose from the following list of IB Extended Essay Topics:
- Language and literature
- Language acquisition
- Individuals and societies
- Mathematics
IB Extended Essay Topics (Continued)
At a glance, the subject areas might look limited, but the topics you can choose to write about are actually wide-ranging. The “Individuals and societies” category includes social science topics like economics, history, world religions, and philosophy. And, if you’re leaning toward “Science,” you can choose from classic subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics, or related topics like environmental systems or health science, among others.
The IB also offers a special “World Studies” option for students interested in researching global issues. This subject would allow you to center your writing on global issues such as migration, global health, cultural exchange, or climate change.
Wondering what an outstanding IB Extended Essay looks like? The International Baccalaureate provides quite a few sample student essays online . Here are five essays that earned A grades.
Language and literature: An exploration of an aspect of the narrative voice in Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita
Environmental Systems and Societies: The economic impact of the 1995 reintroduction of grey wolves to Yellowstone National Park
Psychology: To what extent do social networking sites (SNS) usage lead to experience of anxiety in adolescents?
Music: Composition techniques in the 1st movement of Johannes Brahms’s Symphony No. 2, Op. 73
Business Management: Corporate Culture at Oracle
1) Pick something you’re passionate about
As you can see from the titles above, the IB Extended Essay is a great place to delve into a niche topic that fascinates you. Since you’ll be spending many months on this essay, you’ll want to pick a topic you genuinely enjoy spending time learning about. It’s also smart to choose something you’ve already learned about in your IB classes so that you have a strong foundation of knowledge to start with. In music class, do you love pondering why music makes us feel a certain way? Maybe an essay about music theory will keep your gears turning. Do you come alive trying to solve seemingly impossible problems in physics class? Now’s your chance to put those equations into action.
Since this essay is all about your academic interests, it’s also a good idea to pick a topic that’s relevant to what you plan to study in college. Selecting a relevant topic will provide you with significant exposure to the field and will also give you something meaningful to talk about in your college admissions essays.
2) Limit your scope
What’s the meaning of life? Why do wars happen? What is time? Some questions are just way too big to answer, and your IB Extended Essay is not a good place to tackle expansive, philosophical questions. Instead, think of this essay as a place to investigate one piece of a big question. If, let’s say, you’re generally interested in what helps women reach positions of leadership in business, this is a good place to examine how one or a few companies approach this issue. Or, if you’re interested in studying what inspires surrealist painters, you’ll want to pick one or a few painters to research, likely all from the same time period. For both these topics, you’d need a whole textbook to tackle the full question, but limiting your scope will make it much easier to write a clear and cohesive 4,000 words.
On the other hand, it’s possible to narrow your focus too much. It would be impossible, for example, to write 4,000 words about a single sentence in a novel. Make sure you talk about scope early and often with your mentor. Together, you can find the perfect Goldilocks scope for your project that’s not too big and not too small.
3) Choose a good mentor
Speaking of mentors, choosing wisely will help you enormously as you embark on your IB Extended Essay. You’ll want to make sure you choose someone with existing knowledge in your research topic. Your English teacher may be able to give you great writing advice, for example, but they won’t be able to guide your research and scope if you’re writing about marine animals or modern dance.
Before you approach a teacher, make sure you have at least one topic idea (or even a few ideas) in mind so that you can make sure they’ll be a good fit to supervise your project. When you meet with them, find out what their mentorship style is like. Make sure they’ll have time to read several drafts of your essays, meet with you a few times, and give you feedback. Some IB schools will require your IB Extended Essay mentor to sign an agreement form too, so make sure you find out what paperwork is required in advance.
4) Get organized, way organized
The IB Extended Essay is not something you can crank out the night before it’s due. The essay is meant to be a substantive, in-depth, thoughtful, and thoroughly researched analysis, and Rome simply isn’t built in a day. This might be the longest paper you’ve written to date, and this project might require more research than you’ve been asked to do before. Timelines vary by school, but you’ll likely spend between eight months and a year working on your IB Extended Essay. So, how will you pull it all off? For these 8-12 months, organization will be your guiding light. We recommend you:
- Get started early. If your essay is due November of your senior year, start generating topic ideas during your junior year right after winter break.
- Create a long-view schedule for yourself. What will you accomplish each month of your process?
- Give yourself deadlines. Once you choose a mentor, suggest 2-3 draft deadline dates so that you will be held accountable throughout the writing process.
- Find a note-taking system that works for you. You’ll be reading many articles and books and it’s hard to keep track of all your sources. Create a document or spreadsheet where you keep track of the sources you’ve found and check them off as you read. As you finish reading a text, type up important quotes and a few notes explaining how it connects to your topic and to your other texts.
5)Write a messy first draft
Writing never comes out perfect the first time, even for New York Times bestselling authors and the most experienced researchers. In your first draft, give yourself permission to get all your thoughts out, no matter how unstructured or rambling they are. Call this your brainstorming draft. When you’re ready to revisit it, see what patterns emerge, what common ideas you can group together, what beginning buds of ideas you can make bloom into full-fledged analysis.
6) Communicate for an audience
When you’re used to producing writing that only your teacher reads, it can be hard to remember to write for an audience. But at the end of the day, writing is communication , and the best writing is clear and thorough communication that anyone could pick up and read. For your IB Extended Essay, you’ll want to remember that many people will be reading your final essay, and not all of them will be experts in the niche topic you choose to study. Ask yourself: how can I explain my research to an audience who doesn’t already agree with my analysis?
To communicate to an audience, you’ll want to:
- Provide lots of general background information on your topic.
- Don’t assume your reader is familiar with your sources. Introduce them as if they’re guest speakers about to walk up to a podium and deliver a lecture.
- After including quotes, facts, and figures, be sure to explain what those sources mean in your own words and how they connect to your bigger-picture argument.
- Don’t assume your arguments are self-evident. In this essay, communicating for an audience means supplying ongoing interpretation and analysis, even if it feels like you’re explaining the obvious. Your reader isn’t on your research journey with you, so your points might not be so obvious to your reader.
Although your IB Extended Essay provides a report that factors into your grade, your essay will also be assessed by external examiners the IB. Per the IB Extended Essay Rubric , essays are graded on a scale from 0 to 34 based on 5 different criteria:
- 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)
As you can see, Critical Thinking is the most significant rubric category. This means that the IB wants to see you arrive at your own unique analysis of your topic, drawing connections between sources and data, and making well-supported arguments. This means they want a lot of you: your ideas, your interpretations, your thoughts. Make sure you emphasize that in your essay, but of course don’t forget the other categories.
The score a student receives corresponds to a letter grade scale that is slightly different than what we’re accustomed to in the U.S. Here’s the letter grade to numerical score breakdown:
You must earn a D or higher to receive your IB Diploma. To learn more about the different criteria included in the IB Extended Essay Rubric, you can explore the IB’s full guide to the Extended Essay .
We hope you found our look at the IB extended essay rubric and IB extended essay topics to be helpful. Ready to dive into research? You may want to read our 10 Expert Tips for Improving Reading Comprehension before you hit the books.
And if you’re a high school student in the process of mapping out your pathway to college, take a look at a few other useful guides:
- IB vs AP—Which Classes are Best for College Admission?
- How to Earn College Credit in High School
- High School Course Requirements for College Admission
- SAT Score Calculator
- ACT Score Calculator
- High School Success
Christina Wood
Christina Wood holds a BA in Literature & Writing from UC San Diego, an MFA in Creative Writing from Washington University in St. Louis, and is currently a Doctoral Candidate in English at the University of Georgia, where she teaches creative writing and first-year composition courses. Christina has published fiction and nonfiction in numerous publications, including The Paris Review , McSweeney’s , Granta , Virginia Quarterly Review , The Sewanee Review , Mississippi Review , and Puerto del Sol , among others. Her story “The Astronaut” won the 2018 Shirley Jackson Award for short fiction and received a “Distinguished Stories” mention in the 2019 Best American Short Stories anthology.
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English Extended Essay: The Complete Guide for IB Students
by Antony W
March 13, 2023
Group 1 Extended Essay subjects give IB students the opportunity to conduct independent research into a topic of interest in English, Language, and Literature.
Apart from promoting creativity and intellectual discovery, the subject group helps you to appreciate the value of advanced research and improve your writing skills.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about English Extended Essay.
In particular, we will look at the definition of English EE, English EE categories, and some English Extended Essay topics to get you started.
English Extended Essay Categories
Category 1: language.
This category focuses on the analysis of some aspects of English.
Topics such as national language policies of English speaking countries, the influence of technology on English vocabulary, and use of dialects and ascents would fit into this category.
The primary sources of information for this category would be newspapers, interviews, and websites. You secondary sources would be articles and journals.
Category 2: Culture and Society
We divide Culture and Society further into two sub-categories.
In the first sub-category, the focus is on the effect of cultural change on a language in a particular issue on the use or form of the language itself.
In this case, your essay can focus on topic to do with gender, communities, or social groups.
For example:
- Does language reflect a shift in gender roles in the workplace?
- To what extend has the rise and use of slang among teenagers affected the English language?
Such are important and interesting questions that your Extended Essay can focus on if you choose to work on this sub-category.
The second sub-category focuses on artefacts. While this sub-category is general in its cultural nature, it must be specific to a country or community that speaks the language.
To research topics in this sub-category, you will have to use cultural artefacts, which can be visual documents (such as architectures and films), written documents (such as newspapers, articles, adverts, and magazines), spoken documents (such as interviews and screenplays), and fashion icons (such as food dishes or brands).
Category 3: Literature
This category of English Extended Essay is based on a specific work of literature wit text written in the English language.
How to Write English Extended Essay
Writing a 4,000-word essay takes time. You have to identify a topic of interest, develop a research question, determine what to base your research on, and find the right information to include in the essay.
In the following section, you’ll learn how to write a comprehensive English Extended Essay using an easy to follow, systematic approach – even if you think your topic of interest in the subject looks complicated.
Step 1: Pick a Topic of Meaningful Interest to You
Explore the topics and themes taught in you English class and pick one that’s not only of interest to you but also one you’d like to know more about.
Generally, the English EE topic you choose should:
- Be something you’re keen to investigate
- Allow you to formulate a relevant research question
- A subject that you can answer in 4,000 words
After identifying your area of interest and the topic that you would like to explore, it should be easy for you to develop a relevant research question to explore.
Step 2: Develop a Research Question
Many IB students fail Extended Essay because they get the research question part completely wrong. Quite too often, they choose narrow or broad topics that they can’t answer in 4,000 words.
You shouldn’t make the same mistake with your English Extended Essay. What you need is a workable research question with a clear focus that you can answer within the word limits of an Extended Essay.
To arrive at more concise topic to explore in your English Extended Essay, it’s best to employ relevant limiting factors to the broad topic.
For example, the theme “how technology and social media impact our lives” is obviously too broad because it doesn’t tell us what part or component of our lives social media affects exactly.
By applying limiting factor to this theme, we can come up with a more focused research question that will be easily to evaluate within the limits of the expected word count.
A question such as “ to what extent social media corrupted or contributed or corrupted the English language” would be an interesting and more specific topic to explore in your EE.
Step 3: Choose What to Base Your Research On
The third step to writing an English Extended Essay is to find relevant sources to support your research into the topic you selected in step 1.
Start by determine which English category you wish to base your Extended Essay on. That’s because there are minimum expectations when it comes to primary as well as secondary sourcing.
Step 4: Find More Information for Your Extended Essay
If you’ve ticked all the boxes in step one to three, schedule an appointment with your supervisor for more guidance on how to proceed further with your research project.
English Extended Essay Topics
You shouldn’t worry too much if you feel stuck on choosing the best topic for your English Extended Essay . We’ve put together a list of some topic ideas that cover different areas in literary themes, literature, and the English language.
English Extended Essay Topics for College and University
- Is the English a language of customs and traditions with no hard and fast rules unlike other languages in the world?
- How is the American English different from British English, and which one is superior to the other?
- Has globalization played a role in the development of the English language?
English Extended Essay Topics on English Poetry
- Was poetry a text of upper classes in English literature in the classical age and in the era of renaissance?
- Why are there fragmentation and lack of interconnectivity between the stanzas of poems in modern poetry?
English EE Topics on American Literature
- Do various American novels and other literary texts show how the American dream proves to be a complete failure?
- Why were slaves against the anti-slavery movement in the United States of America?
About the author
Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.
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.
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Extended Essay
- Mathematics
- Studies in language and literature
- World studies extended essay
- Visual arts
- Language Acquisition
Studies in language and literature Sample A
Studies in language and literature sample b, studies in language and literature sample c, studies in language and literature example.
- Studies in language and literature exampleA_RPPF
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IBDP English A: Language & Literature
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2022 Category 2 Extended Essay (The Bell Jar and The Vegetarian)
Thursday 22 September 2022
This is a great model example to give to students who are embarking on a Category 2 EE or a Category 1 EE using two literary works originally written in English.
In this EE, the student compares and contrasts the two novels well. There is an original research question and angle. The essay is rich in terms of the literary analysis and research. But it’s also not perfect. The attention to MLA citations needs some improvement. Some phrasing is a bit awkward or long-winded too.
However, taken as a whole - especially when one considers the questions that arise from the powerful conclusion - there's a whole lot to celebrate in this EE!
You can find the Extended Essay here.
Tim and David
Tags: Tim , 2022 , EE , C2 , Category 2 , Extended Essay , The Bell Jar , The Vegetarian
English B Extended Essay Topic Ideas
Table of contents
- Writing Metier
Struggling to pick a topic for your English B Extended Essay? Fear not, because we’ve got a treasure trove of ideas that’ll spark your creativity and curiosity. Yes, my team at Writing Metier have been in this industry for quite a while now, and I’ll share this awesome list of more than 50 various topic options with you.
From the influence of culture in literature to the evolving dynamics of language in our digital age, we’re covering a spectrum of topics that are not just about writing an extended essay , but about exploring the fascinating world of language and its impact on our lives.
Get ready to find a topic that not only intrigues you but also challenges you to think and write outside the box!
Extended Essay Topics for English B
Ready to explore how literature isn’t just words on a page, but a reflection of our world?
Cultural Influence in Literature
In Cultural Influence in Literature, we’re connecting historical events, cultural identities, and the effects of globalization with the stories and poems we love. It’s like watching history and culture come alive through words.
Influence of Historical Events on Literature
- Topic: The Influence of World War II on British Post-War Literature
- Research Question: How did World War II shape the themes and characterizations in British post-war literature?
- Topic: The Reflection of the Civil Rights Movement in American Literature
- Research Question: How did the Civil Rights Movement influence the portrayal of racial themes in American literature of the 1960s?
Representation of Cultural Identity in Modern Novels
- Topic: Cultural Identity in the Novels of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
- Research Question: How does Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie portray Nigerian cultural identity in her novels?
- Topic: Exploring Indigenous Cultural Identity in Tommy Orange’s “There There”
- Research Question: How does Tommy Orange represent the complexities of Indigenous cultural identity in “There There”?
Impact of Globalization on Contemporary Poetry
- Topic: The Influence of Globalization on the Themes of Contemporary African Poetry
- Research Question: How has globalization influenced the thematic development of contemporary African poetry?
- Topic: Cross-Cultural Influences in the Contemporary Poetry of the Asian Diaspora
- Research Question: How do poets of the Asian diaspora incorporate cross-cultural influences in their work in the context of globalization?
Switching gears, let’s talk about Language and Communication. Here, we’re unraveling the magic of how we express ourselves.
Language and Communication
From the evolution of texting to the nuances of cross-cultural chats and the persuasive power of a well-crafted speech , language is our bridge to understanding each other in this hyper-connected world.
The Evolution of Language in Digital Communication
- Topic: The Impact of Social Media on the Evolution of English Slang
- Research Question: How has social media contributed to the evolution and spread of English slang?
- Topic: Emoji as a Language: The Changing Face of Digital Communication
- Research Question: How have emojis influenced the way language is used and interpreted in digital communication?
The Role of Language in Cross-Cultural Understanding
- Topic: The Role of English as a Lingua Franca in International Business
- Research Question: How does the use of English as a lingua franca facilitate or hinder cross-cultural understanding in international business?
- Topic: Language Barriers in Healthcare: A Study of Patient-Provider Communication
- Research Question: How do language barriers affect communication and understanding between healthcare providers and patients from different cultural backgrounds?
Language as a Tool for Persuasion in Political Speeches
- Topic: Rhetorical Strategies in Barack Obama’s Presidential Speeches
- Research Question: What rhetorical strategies does Barack Obama employ in his presidential speeches to persuade and connect with his audience?
- Topic: The Use of Language for Persuasion in Environmental Activism Speeches
- Research Question: How is language used as a tool for persuasion in speeches by prominent environmental activists?
Each of these topics offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of culture, language, and literature, providing a rich basis for an Extended Essay in English B.
Now, let’s step into the intriguing world of Comparative Literary Analysis .
Comparative Literary Analysis
Imagine having a conversation between a 19th-century novelist and a contemporary writer, or seeing how poets from different eras play with the same theme. It’s like being a literary matchmaker, finding connections across time and style.
Thematic Comparisons between Classic and Modern Novels
- Topic: Exploring the Theme of Love in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” and John Green’s “The Fault in Our Stars”
- Research Question: How is the theme of love portrayed differently in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” compared to John Green’s “The Fault in Our Stars”?
- Topic: The Evolution of the Hero’s Journey in Classical Greek Literature and Modern Superhero Novels
- Research Question: How does the concept of the hero’s journey in classical Greek literature compare to its portrayal in modern superhero novels?
Comparative Analysis of Literary Techniques in Poetry
- Topic: A Comparative Analysis of Imagery in the Poetry of William Wordsworth and Sylvia Plath
- Research Question: How do William Wordsworth and Sylvia Plath uniquely employ imagery in their poetry, and what effects do these techniques have?
- Topic: The Use of Metaphor in the Works of Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou
- Research Question: How do Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou use metaphor in their poetry, and what are the implications for understanding their respective themes?
Character Development in Dystopian vs. Utopian Literature
- Topic: Character Evolution in George Orwell’s “1984” and Thomas More’s “Utopia”
- Research Question: How is character development employed differently in the dystopian world of George Orwell’s “1984” compared to the utopian society in Thomas More’s “Utopia”?
- Topic: The Role of Protagonists in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World” and Lois Lowry’s “The Giver”
- Research Question: How do the protagonists in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World” and Lois Lowry’s “The Giver” reflect and challenge the norms of their respective societies?
Next, we’re diving into Media and Society. This is where stories jump off the page and onto our screens.
Media and Society
We’re looking at how social media is reshaping our language, how movies and TV shows mirror our diverse societies, and the powerful role journalism plays in our perception of the world. It’s storytelling with a pulse on society’s heartbeat.
The Influence of Social Media on Language and Communication
- Topic: The Impact of Twitter on the Brevity and Informality of Language
- Research Question: How has Twitter influenced changes in language use towards greater brevity and informality?
- Topic: The Role of Memes in Shaping Modern Internet Slang
- Research Question: How have internet memes contributed to the development and spread of modern internet slang?
Representation of Gender and Diversity in Film and Television
- Topic: Gender Stereotypes in Contemporary Romantic Comedies
- Research Question: How do contemporary romantic comedies perpetuate or challenge traditional gender stereotypes?
- Topic: The Portrayal of Racial Diversity in Recent Superhero Movies
- Research Question: How has the portrayal of racial diversity in recent superhero movies evolved, and what impact does it have on audience perception?
The Role of Journalism in Shaping Public Opinion
- Topic: The Influence of Investigative Journalism on Public Awareness of Environmental Issues
- Research Question: How has investigative journalism influenced public awareness and opinion on major environmental issues?
- Topic: The Impact of 24-Hour News Cycles on Political Discourse
- Research Question: How have 24-hour news cycles affected the nature of political discourse and public opinion?
Let’s take a turn into Literature and Psychology . Before I proceed further, I would like to share with you our psychology essay writing service , which has proved its quality through the lats several years. If you ever need assistance with your psychology-related assignments, they are one of the best on the market.
Literature and Psychology
Here, we’re peeking into the minds of characters and exploring the emotional depths of narratives. How do novels explore mental health? What makes a character in a drama so relatable? It’s like being a literary psychologist, decoding the human experience through stories.
Psychological Analysis of Characters in Literature
- Topic: The Psychological Complexity of Hamlet in Shakespeare’s Play
- Research Question: How does Shakespeare’s portrayal of Hamlet reflect psychological theories of human behavior and motivation?
- Topic: The Representation of Narcissism in Oscar Wilde’s “The Picture of Dorian Gray”
- Research Question: How does “The Picture of Dorian Gray” depict the psychological aspects and consequences of narcissism?
Exploration of Mental Health Themes in Contemporary Novels
- Topic: Mental Health Representation in Sylvia Plath’s “The Bell Jar”
- Research Question: How does “The Bell Jar” portray the realities of mental health issues, particularly in the context of the 1950s?
- Topic: The Depiction of Depression in J.D. Salinger’s “The Catcher in the Rye”
- Research Question: How does “The Catcher in the Rye” explore the theme of depression and its impact on adolescent identity?
The Use of Psychological Realism in Modern Drama
- Topic: Psychological Realism in Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman”
- Research Question: How does “Death of a Salesman” employ psychological realism to explore the human condition?
- Topic: The Portrayal of Family Dynamics and Psychological Conflict in Tennessee Williams’ “A Streetcar Named Desire”
- Research Question: How does “A Streetcar Named Desire” use psychological realism to depict family dynamics and conflict?
And now, let’s explore the Adaptation of Literature.
Adaptation of Literature
Ever wonder what happens when a beloved book gets a movie makeover or how ancient myths are reborn in today’s novels? We’re about to see how stories evolve when they travel across mediums and cultures, transforming with each retelling.
Analysis of Film Adaptations of Classic Novels
- Topic: The Adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” in Modern Cinema
- Research Question: How do modern film adaptations of “Pride and Prejudice” interpret and portray the novel’s themes and characters?
- Topic: Cinematic Interpretations of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”
- Research Question: How have different film adaptations of “Frankenstein” varied in their portrayal of the novel’s core themes?
The Transformation of Myths and Legends in Modern Literature
- Topic: The Modern Reinterpretation of Greek Myths in Contemporary Literature
- Research Question: How does contemporary literature reinterpret Greek myths, and what new perspectives do these adaptations offer?
- Topic: The Influence of Norse Mythology in Modern Fantasy Novels
- Research Question: How have modern fantasy novels incorporated and transformed Norse mythology?
The Impact of Cultural Context on Literary Adaptations
- Topic: Cultural Adaptation of Shakespeare’s Plays in Non-Western Contexts
- Research Question: How are Shakespeare’s plays adapted and interpreted in non-Western cultures, and what cultural elements are emphasized?
- Topic: The Adaptation of “One Thousand and One Nights” in Western Literature
- Research Question: How have Western adaptations of “One Thousand and One Nights” been influenced by their cultural context?
Finally, we arrive at Language in Education. Also, make sure to check our other related articles; if you are interested in Film extended essay topics , you will get more than 30 options related to film studies.
Language in Education
This is where the building blocks of language learning come together. We’re talking about the power of bilingual education, the strategies that make learning English B engaging, and the role literature plays in shaping language skills . It’s where language learning meets real-world application.
The Effectiveness of Bilingual Education Systems
- Topic: The Impact of Bilingual Education on Academic Achievement
- Research Question: How does participation in bilingual education programs affect students’ academic achievement and language proficiency?
- Topic: Bilingual Education and Cognitive Development in Early Childhood
- Research Question: What is the impact of bilingual education on cognitive development in early childhood?
Language Acquisition and Learning Strategies in English B
- Topic: The Role of Immersion in Second Language Acquisition
- Research Question: How effective is immersion as a strategy for language acquisition in English B learners?
- Topic: The Use of Technology in Enhancing English Language Learning
- Research Question: How does the integration of technology in the classroom enhance the language learning experience for English B students?
The Role of Literature in Language Learning and Development
- Topic: The Impact of Literary Texts on Vocabulary Development in English B Learners
- Research Question: How do literary texts contribute to vocabulary development in students learning English B?
- Topic: Incorporating Multicultural Literature in English B Curriculum
- Research Question: What are the benefits of incorporating multicultural literature in the English B curriculum for fostering cultural awareness and language skills?
There you have it – a sneak peek into the diverse and dynamic world of English B. At Writing Metier, we’re excited to help you explore these avenues in your Extended Essay, bringing fresh insights and perspectives to your writing.
For those of you who were searching for some modern, fresh topics and research questions – here is the next block.
10 Modern Topics for 2024
Here are 10 unique and modern research questions for an English B Extended Essay, each designed to explore contemporary and relevant topics:
- How does the portrayal of artificial intelligence in contemporary science fiction literature reflect societal attitudes towards technology and ethics?
- In what ways do modern graphic novels challenge traditional narrative structures and themes found in conventional literature?
- How does the use of code-switching in bilingual literature influence readers’ understanding of cultural identity and language dynamics?
- What role does dystopian young adult literature play in shaping adolescents’ perspectives on political and social issues?
- How do contemporary travel blogs and vlogs influence linguistic and cultural perceptions among English B learners?
- In what ways do modern podcast narratives utilize language to create immersive storytelling experiences?
- How do contemporary song lyrics reflect the linguistic evolution of English in the context of global cultural exchange?
- What impact does the increasing use of internet slang and abbreviations in digital communication have on formal language skills among English B students?
- How do modern adaptations of Shakespeare’s plays in film and theater incorporate contemporary language and themes, and what effect does this have on audience engagement?
- In what ways do autobiographies of refugees and immigrants contribute to the understanding of cross-cultural experiences and language adaptation among English B learners?
Let’s turn those ideas into an essay that speaks volumes!
Select your IB EE topic wisely!
There you have it – a collection of English B Extended Essay topics to get your gears turning! Picking your topic is just the first step on this exciting path.
If you’re feeling a bit stuck or just want a helping hand along the way, remember Writing Metier is right here to back you up. Whether it’s brainstorming ideas, organizing your thoughts, or polishing your final extended essay draft , we’re here to guide you through.
We’re committed to helping you create an essay that’s not only impressive in meeting IB standards but also brilliantly reflects your own voice and insights.
Need a partner in your essay-writing adventure? Give us a shout, and let’s make your Extended Essay shine!
Free topic suggestions
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Vasyl Kafidoff is a co-founder and CEO at WritingMetier. He is interested in education and how modern technology makes it more accessible. He wants to bring awareness about new learning possibilities as an educational specialist. When Vasy is not working, he’s found behind a drum kit.
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How long is the IB Extended Essay? 🤔
The IB extended essay is designed to ensure that students learn critical learning skills and can organize their thoughts correctly. The idea is to help students build their skills and empower them to solve more complex real-life problems. However, most students tend to wonder how long the extended essay should be.
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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
- << Previous: In-Text Citations
- Next: Reflections >>
- Last Updated: Dec 15, 2023 10:08 AM
- URL: https://sis-cn.libguides.com/ExtendedEssay
Submission deadline
The International Baccalaureate® (IB) sets a submission date for the extended essay, which is communicated to schools.
It is each school’s responsibility to ensure that all candidate work is received by the IB, with the required paperwork received by the submission date set.
Schools should set internal deadlines
It is strongly recommended that schools set internal deadlines for the different stages of producing an extended essay, keeping in mind the IB’s submission date.
If you wish to find out more about the deadline for a particular school, please contact that school directly .
Further information on deadline setting
There is further information on the requirements for meeting external deadlines in the Diploma Programme Assessment Procedures .
Educators in IB World Schools can access the relevant parts of the handbook on the IB’s programme resource centre , using their existing log-in details.
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The extended essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper. One component of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) core, the extended essay is mandatory for all students. Read about the extended essay in greater detail.
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.
EE English A (Lang & Lit) A How do Martin Luther King Jr's Eulogy for the Martyred Children and Queen Elizabeth I's Speech at Tilbury compare in the methods used to achieve their respective purposes? EE English A (Lang & Lit) A Want to get full marks for your EE? Allow us to review it for you 🎯 Promoted Advertise with Clastify
IB Language and Literature: Extended Essay Examples Languages Subjects Extended Essay Examples TOK Online Resources Referencing Support State Library of Victoria Home A Grade Extended Essay Examples by GGS Students Please note that as of 2023 APA 7 is used for Referencing.
A Group 1 Extended Essay in studies in language and literature gives students an opportunity to undertake independent research into a topic of special interest to them within the subject. It is intended to promote advanced research and writing skills, intellectual discovery and creativity.
IB Extended Essay Guide - We look at the rubric, essay topics, and offer advice for penning a stellar composition in 2024.
Extended Essay The extended essay is an IB core requirement, where students explore a subject in depth. The subject must relate to one of the courses offered in Groups 1 - 6 of the IB Diploma Programme. The extended essay is an opportunity to demonstrate research and writing skills, along with other traits of the IB learner profile.
(Extended Essay) is an IB core requirement, where students explore a subject in depth. The subject must relate to one of the courses offered in Groups 1 - 6 of the IB Diploma Programme. The is an opportunity to demonstrate research... Extended Essays: Studies in Language Sample Topics and Research Questions
Group 1 Extended Essay subjects give IB students the opportunity to conduct independent research into a topic of interest in English, Language, and Literature. Apart from promoting creativity and intellectual discovery, the subject group helps you to appreciate the value of advanced research and improve your writing skills.
IB mission statement The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.
Annotated Bibliography 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
6. The essay is a good example of work which meets the requirements of the top level (5-6) of achievement in this criterion. The research topic is effectively communicated and the purpose and focus of the research is clear. In addition, the candidate has made an effective selection of source material in support of her answer (especially the ...
In this week's update, we've published an excellent Category 2 Extended Essay. The student takes a well-known, classic piece of literature and compares and contrasts it to a contemporary award-winning novel from South Korea. In her essay, the student asks this question: How do Sylvia Plath and Han Kang critique the...
From the influence of culture in literature to the evolving dynamics of language in our digital age, we're covering a spectrum of topics that are not just about writing an extended essay, but about exploring the fascinating world of language and its impact on our lives.
IB Extended Essay: Past Essays. EE Home; Lessons Toggle Dropdown. Research Questions ; Past Essays ; Notes & Outlines ; Databases; Citation Toggle ... Language & literature (language A) Language acquisition (language B) Economics. Chemistry. Biology. Mathematics. Music. Physics. Psychology. Visual Arts. World Studies. Film. Business Management ...
The International Baccalaureate® (IB) provides several resources for IB World Schools. These include support materials for the extended essay. Items in the IB store are available to everyone. Publications include: 50 more extended essays, a DVD of essays submitted in the DP that all fulfil the requirements for an 'A' grade in the current ...
IB ENGLISH: Extended Essay Assessment All extended essays are externally assessed by examiners appointed by the IBO. All extended essays are marked on a scale from 0 to 34. For each criterion, examiners are instructed to identify the level descriptor that is most appropriate (i.e. the best match) for the extended essay under consideration.
Overview: Five Criterion, each worth various points: 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) Handy Links: Printable: Full Rubric Printable: A3 size with details
The extended essay (EE) is one of the centrepieces of the IB Diploma Programme. Designed as an independent, academic investigation into a topic of personal i...
Submission deadline Last updated: 06 June 2023 The International Baccalaureate® (IB) sets a submission date for the extended essay, which is communicated to schools. It is each school's responsibility to ensure that all candidate work is received by the IB, with the required paperwork received by the submission date set.