ib extended essay world studies

IB World Studies EE examples

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IB World Studies Extended Essay Ideas

Reflecting on my IB Diploma Program experience, I typically recall how exciting it was to write the extended essay in World Studies. This one-of-a-kind component encourages students to think critically and internationally by bringing disciplines together to investigate topics of worldwide relevance. Today, I’m here to share insights and inspiration with a selection of engaging World Studies Extended Essay topics.

Understanding the World Studies Extended Essay

To further understand the World Studies Extended Essay , it’s essential to recognize that this IB Diploma Program component examines global issues’ interconnectedness through an interdisciplinary perspective. Below are several points that every student should consider.

Interdisciplinary Focus

The essay is special in that it requires an interdisciplinary approach. You must use at least two IB topics to investigate your selected issue. For example, Economics may be integrated with Environmental Systems and Societies to explore the economic consequences of climate change policy. This strategy broadens your perspective while also enriching your analysis.

Global Significance

Your topic must be globally relevant. It should address challenges that cross national lines and affect people worldwide. Whether the issue is the impacts of global warming, the expansion of digital culture, or the ethics of genetic engineering, it should have apparent global implications.

Research and Analysis

A substantial portion of the essay consists of completing extensive research and delivering a detailed analysis. In my experience, your research’s depth and insight clarity may truly differentiate your article. It entails gathering data, critically analyzing it, and reaching intelligent conclusions.

Personal Engagement

According to general IB criteria, the essay should reflect a high degree of personal engagement with the topic. It means choosing a subject you are genuinely interested in and curious about. From my path through the IB, I can attest that passion for your topic can significantly enhance the quality of your work.

Reflection on Global Awareness

Finally, the World Studies extended essay is an opportunity to demonstrate your global awareness. It’s a chance to show how you can apply academic knowledge to real-world problems, offering potential solutions or new ways of understanding these issues.

World Studies Extended Essay: Ideas for Research

Amid your research, it’s crucial to focus on areas that resonate with the complexities of our interconnected world. Here’s a concise list of domains that have consistently proven to be fertile ground for in-depth investigation:

• Environmental Sustainability . From the repercussions of climate change to the search for renewable energy sources, this area invites a rich analysis of how we can safeguard our planet for future generations.
• Economic Stability and Development . Investigate the dynamics of globalization, the impact of microfinance, or the sustainability of tourism, exploring implications for global economic health.
• Cultural Exchange and Identity . This domain allows for examining how migration, digital media, and globalization affect cultural identities and practices.
• Conflict, Peace, and Security . Dig into the effectiveness of peacekeeping missions, cybersecurity challenges, or the complexities of managing refugee crises.
• Health and Development . Topics can range from global health initiatives to mental health awareness across cultures, highlighting efforts to improve well-being worldwide.

In my experience, these fields allow students to contribute to meaningful global conversations. The secret to creating a compelling paper is approaching your chosen topic with a critical eye and a commitment to finding nuanced insights.

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World Studies Extended Essay Topics for Inspiration

These topics can inspire us to explore global issues from an interdisciplinary perspective, combining methodologies and theories from different IB subjects:

• The Impact of Social Media on Cultural Identity in Teenagers Across Different Countries . How do social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook influence teenagers’ cultural identity and self-image in diverse cultural settings?
• The Global Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic . A Comparative Study. How have different countries’ health systems’ responses to the COVID-19 pandemic affected the rate of virus containment and population health outcomes?
• Sustainable Agriculture Practices and Their Impact on Food Security in South America . How do sustainable agriculture practices impact South American countries’ food security and economic stability?
• The Influence of Globalization on Indigenous Cultures: A Case Study of the Amazonian Tribes . How has globalization affected the preservation or transformation of cultural practices among Amazonian tribes?
• The Effectiveness of International Peacekeeping Missions in Africa . How effectively have United Nations peacekeeping missions maintained peace and security in African conflict zones?
• Cybersecurity Threats and Their Impact on Global Economic Stability . What are the implications of rising cybersecurity threats for global economic stability and international trade?
• The Role of Green Technology in Promoting Environmental Sustainability in Urban Areas . How can green technology be implemented in urban areas to promote environmental sustainability and improve quality of life?
• The Psychological Effects of Climate Change on Communities in Vulnerable Regions . What are the psychological effects of climate change on individuals and communities in regions most vulnerable to environmental changes?
• Plastic Pollution and International Environmental Policies: A Study of Effectiveness . How effectively are international policies combating plastic pollution in the world’s oceans?
• Cultural Exchange Through International Education: Benefits and Challenges . What are the benefits and challenges of cultural exchange programs in international education settings?
• The Economic and Environmental Impact of Electric Vehicles in Developed vs. Developing Countries . How do electric vehicles impact developed countries’ economic and environmental landscapes compared to developing countries?
• Mental Health Awareness and Treatment Accessibility in Asia vs. Europe . How does accessibility to mental health treatment and awareness vary between Asian and European countries?
• The Impact of Digital Education on Traditional Learning Methods Across Continents . To what extent has digital education transformed traditional learning methods in countries across different continents?
• Water Scarcity and Its Effects on Gender Equality in Sub-Saharan Africa. How does water scarcity impact gender equality and women’s access to education and employment in Sub-Saharan Africa?
• Comparative Analysis of Refugee Integration Policies in Canada vs. Europe . How do Canada’s refugee integration policies compare to those of European countries in terms of effectiveness and social outcomes?
• The Role of Social Enterprises in Addressing Homelessness in Urban Centers Globally . To what extent do social enterprises contribute to solving the problem of homelessness in global urban centers?
• Impact of Fair Trade Practices on Rural Development in Latin America . How have fair trade practices impacted rural development and farmer livelihoods in Latin American countries?
• Globalization and Its Impact on Traditional Crafts and Industries . How does globalization impact the preservation and sustainability of traditional crafts and industries?
• Eco-Tourism as a Sustainable Development Tool in Small Island Developing States . Can eco-tourism be considered an effective tool for sustainable development in Small Island Developing States (SIDS)?
• The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing Global Health Care Systems . How can artificial intelligence (AI) be utilized to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of healthcare systems globally?
• Urbanization and Its Impact on Air Quality and Public Health in Mega Cities . What are the implications of rapid urbanization for air quality and public health in the world’s megacities?
• The Effect of International Sanctions on the Civilian Population of North Korea . How have international sanctions affected the daily lives and human rights of the civilian population in North Korea?
• Cultural Implications of Climate Change for Indigenous Peoples in the Arctic . What are the cultural implications of climate change for indigenous peoples living in the Arctic regions?
• Youth Unemployment and Its Relation to Political Stability in the Middle East . How does youth unemployment contribute to political unrest and instability in Middle Eastern countries?
• The Impact of Cryptocurrency on Global Financial Systems and Regulations . What impact does the rise of cryptocurrency have on global financial systems and regulatory frameworks?
• Sustainable Fashion: Changing Consumer Behaviors in Europe and Asia . How are sustainable fashion initiatives changing consumer behaviors in Europe compared to Asia?
• The Role of International Cooperation in Addressing Space Debris . How critical is international cooperation in mitigating the risks associated with space debris for future space exploration and satellite operations?
• The Impact of Digital Divide on Educational Equity in Remote Areas . How does the digital divide affect educational equity and access to information technology in remote and rural areas globally?
• Sustainable Urban Development: A Comparison of Green Space Policies in Global Cities . How do green space policies in global cities contribute to sustainable urban development and the well-being of their inhabitants?
• The Influence of Global Trade Agreements on Small-scale Farmers in Developing Countries . What impact do global trade agreements have on the livelihoods and sustainability of small-scale farmers in developing countries?
• Cultural Heritage Preservation Amidst Political Conflict: Case Studies from the Middle East . How are efforts to preserve cultural heritage impacted by ongoing political conflicts in the Middle East?
• The Role of Youth Activism in Shaping Climate Change Policies . To what extent has youth activism influenced the development and implementation of climate change policies at the international level?

Each topic encourages multifaceted research on global issues, requiring students to integrate knowledge and methodologies from various disciplines.

Don’t let the stress of the IB curriculum hold you back.

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This Extended Essay provides a fantastic opportunity to connect with the world’s intricacies. You may offer significant insights into global conversations by selecting a topic that interests you and tackling it with curiosity and determination. So, start your study with an open mind and a determined heart, and remember that our IB professionals are always available to help you with Extended Essay writing.

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• Nora Spinster https://ibwritingservice.com/blog/author/noraspinster/ IB English A Extended Essay Topics
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Extended Essay: World Studies EE's

• 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

Everything you need to know about the WSEE

The chosen topic for the World Studies Extended Essay (WSEE) must address both a local and a global issue of significance, and invite an interdisciplinary approach, meaning that two approved IB subjects should be used as an interdisciplinary critical lens to answer the research question. The most successful topics reveal connections between specific and/or local places, people, phenomena or experiences, and the larger global framework in which they take place (IBO 2010). 

Interdisciplinary research

• Global issues often invite an interdisciplinary approach.
• Different individuals and groups bring different perspectives, areas of expertise, and interests to the same topic. 
• Spending time thinking about an issue and exploring a wide variety of sources will provide a deeper and richer research experience. 
• In a WSEE, crafting a research question does not begin with the subject, but with the issue. 

World Studies Extended Essays MUST fall within one of the following six categories:

• Science, technology and society
• Culture, language and identity
• Conflict, peace and security
• Equality and inequality
• Health and development
• Environmental and/or economic sustainability

Click here to learn more about the WSEE sub-categories. 

From the ib:, introduction to the world studies extended essay (wsee).

The WSEE invites students to conduct an in-depth,  interdisciplinary  investigation into an issue of contemporary global importance (maximum 4,000 words). 

Here are some examples of potential topics include:

Interdisciplinary approach

The perspective of just one subject may not be adequate to address complex issues like those in the list above. The WSEE therefore requires students to bring together aspects of different disciplines to illuminate their chosen topic. 

Students should use two Diploma Programme subjects. It is strongly recommended that students are undertaking a course of study in at least one of the subjects chosen for their essay.

Students are not expected to address the topic in its full complexity, but should aim to generate understandings that are new to them. 

The aims of the WSEE are to enable students to:

• frame and understand complex contemporary world problems for in-depth study
• gather and synthesize insights from two different disciplines to better understand the issue 
• develop global consciousness—a disposition to recognize and understand local and global relationships in dynamic interaction 
• view themselves as interpreters of and actors in an increasingly interconnected world.

Students are encouraged to focus on just  one or two contexts  in some depth, for example: 

• The student examines two geographical case studies to explore whether religious beliefs affect attitudes towards HIV/AIDS in Oslo and Mombasa. 
• The student examines one or two events to evaluate relief efforts after natural disasters, and suggests ways to make these more responsive. 
• The student examines one or two interventions to investigate what determines the success or failure of sanctions imposed by the United Nations. 

Students can refer to other places and events beyond the primary context(s) when relevant to the argument. In fact, the IB encourages this as it displays global consciousness. However, a detailed contextualized study of these additional cases is impossible within the 4,000-word limit.

WSEE Examiners follow special guidelines that are specific to interdisciplinary essays.  Click  here  to view a pdf of the published IB page that outlines these specific guidelines.  

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• Next: Six sub-categories for WSEE >>
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IB World Study Extended Essay: Global Themes And Topics

by  Antony W

January 14, 2023

This is a complete guide to the IB World Extended Essay.

In this post, you’ll learn what World Study Extended Essay is, the right disciplinary approach to take, example topics, as well as how to write the essay. Our goal in this guide is to equip you with the knowledge necessary to get full marks in your World Study Extended Essay.

What is IB World Study Extended Essay?

The IB World History Extended Essay requires you to conduct a detailed investigation into an issue of global significance. The essay must be 4,000 words long and meet all the IB Extended Essay requirements .

World Study Extended Essay requires you to focus on one or two contexts, and you have to examine with great depth.

Since the interdisciplinary investigation addresses complex issues such as migration, global health crisis, global financial crisis, and infringement on human rights, you need to bring together aspects of a number of disciplines to address your topic.

Instructions given by the IB Program requires that you use two subjects in your WSEE investigation. Given the flexibility of the subject, you don’t have to address the topic in full complexity . Instead, aim to demonstrate knowledge that’s new to you.

A comprehensive World Study Extended Essay should be:

• Integrative: It should bring together forms of communication, concepts, and methods from two or more subjects.
• Purposeful: Your World Study Essay should either connect different disciplines to solve real world problems or help to address more complex issues in a new way.
• Grounded: The Extended Essay should demonstrate a clear rooting in disciplinary knowledge and understanding.

The Right Approach to World Study Extended Essay

Pick a theme from the six global themes in World Study Extended Essay and then find a topic that fits a general research area.

Select two of the most suitable disciplines, such as Biology and Economics. You will need these to explore your research topic.

Develop possible research questions and identify possible sources of relevant data. Your goal here is to determine if there are enough sources that allow you to explore the research your research question.

IB Extended Essay Example Topics

The following are some examples of potential topics that you can cover in your World Study Extended Essay:

• Worldwide financial crisis
• Global health concerns
• Disaster rehabilitation and relief
• Energy migration
• Infringement on human right
• Disadvantaged groups
• Civil unrest and protest

Global Themes in Word Study Extended Essay

There are six global themes in World Study Extended Essay.

• Conflict, peace, and security
• Culture, language, and identity
• Environmental and/or economic sustainability
• Equality and inequality
• Health and development
• Science, technology and society

How to Write a World Study Extended Essay

Before you start writing a World Study Extended Essay, make sure the topic you intend to investigate and the arguments you’ll present are of global significance. Issues such as energy security, cultural exchange, racism, malnutrition, and globalization are some of the most interesting topics linked to the six global themes in WSEE.

Step 1:  Choose a Topic and Develop Your Research Question  

The topic you choose to explore should be an issue you are passionate about in the context of World Study Extended Essay.

It can also be about an interesting subject you’ve read lately or a topic you’re willing to investigate extensively.

Research the topic. Look through a variety of sources to find as many ideas and scope for your research as possible. Share your ideas with your EE supervisor, and don’t hesitate to ask them for advice.

Using the topic you’ve selected, develop a relevant research question for your investigation. Don’t worry if you don’t get the best research question right away. Look at your topic, write as many draft research questions as possible, and then pick one that makes the most sense.

Regardless of how many times you tweak your research question, it must reflect the contexts of what you’ll be investigating. So it helps to make sure your RQ is not only specific but also straight to the point.

Step 2: Choose 2 IB Subjects

Depending on the topic you choose to explore in your interdisciplinary investigation, your supervisor expects you to choose two IB subjects with a close correlation.

Say you choose to explore an issue on maternal malnutrition . In such a case, Biology and Economics would be the most suitable subjects to choose. Biology is a good fit because it’s a subject that allows you to explore nutrition and its impact on the development of the fetus. Economics, on the other hand, allows you to examine whether the lack of enough funding contributes to maternal malnutrition.

Look at the topic and the research question you selected in the first step and use them to select the most appropriate IB subjects. The subject you choose must be in the IB curriculum. Again, you can pick a topic from SL (Standard Level) or HL (Higher Level) in IB.

If you feel confused about what subjects would be suitable for your topic, don’t hesitate to consult your supervisor.

Step 3: Research the Topic

This is an important step in your World Study Extended Essay investigation. Because you’ll use the internet for your research, get information from reliable and trustworthy sources such as government websites, university repositories, research articles, and academic journals.

Look for relevant books from the local libraries for additional information. Many of these books have references in the bibliographies of many college and university papers, so they can be useful for your Extended Essay.

If your school allows, you can ask your supervisor to look into the sources you have selected and advice you whether they would be suitable for your interdisciplinary investigation.

Step 4: Write Your World Study Extended Essay

Writing your World Study Extended Essay shouldn’t be hard if you have done your research well.

Just like other types of Extended Essays , your WSEE should have an introduction, a body section, and a conclusion.

In the introduction, explain you chose to investigate the topic and state why you have a strong conviction that it’s the best topic to explore. State your research question, mention the scope of the essay in relation to the two subjects (picked in step 2), and explain how the subjects will help you answer the research question.

Follow this with an abstract. The word limit is 300, so you don’t have the space to include irrelevant information in the document. The information you include should be clear, concise, and direct to the point.

Write the body section of the essay well. Here, provide as much relevant information as possible to answer your research question. Write a strong conclusion, which should tie everything you have written in the body section.

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.

DP World Studies Extended Essay: Introduction

• Introduction
• Getting Started
• Global Themes
• Interdisciplinary Research
• What Makes Up a "Discipline"?
• Evaluating the Insights of Academic Disciplines
• Multiple Forms of Integration
• Evaluating Your Essay
• Common Stumbling Blocks
• Examples of Globally Conscious Students
• World Studies Exemplars
• List of IB Subjects
• Examiner Reports

World Studies EE Overview

The world studies extended essay (wsee).

The World Studies Extended Essay (WSEE) has to meet all the presentation requirements of the IB Extended Essay , including having a maximum length of 4,000 words.  

See the Extended Essay guide for more details.  WSEE documents are in the box to the right.

Examples of potential topics include:

Interdisciplinary Approach

The IB recommends that you use two IB Diploma Programme subjects, one of which you must be studying. 

You're not expected to address the topic in its full complexity, but you should aim to generate understandings that are new to you.

It would be very easy for you to rely on common-sense understanding of a global issue or more informal insights. However, the academic nature of the EE requires you to understand a global issue through disciplinary lenses.

• An examination of two geographical case studies exploring whether religious beliefs affect attitudes towards HIV/AIDS in Oslo and Mombasa. 
• An examination of one or two events evaluating relief efforts after natural disasters, with suggestions of ways to make these more responsive. 
• An examination of one or two interventions investigating what determines the success or failure of sanctions imposed by the United Nations. 

You can refer to other places and events beyond the primary context(s) when relevant to the argument.  This can demonstrate global consciousness in your writing. However, a really detailed study of these additional cases would not be possible given the 4,000-word limit.

WSEE Documents

• IB EE Subject Guide - World Studies, 2018
• Making Meaningful Connections Use this worksheet to help you think about your research plans: the concepts or methods your will be using, the global topic you're focusing on, and the academic disciplines you will be using.
• Sample Prompts for the WSEE RRS What should you write in your RRS? Use these questions and prompts to help you think through the various stages of the research for your WSEE: your initial ideas, your thoughts and reflections during the process, and your conclusions.
• RRS Example B - World Studies

RPPF (Researcher's Planning and Progress Form) examples:

• RPPF Example 5 - World Studies
• RPPF Example 7 - World Studies

IB Extended Essay Guide

Check the Extended Essay guide for specific guidance on completing the various steps in the research and writing process of the EE, and  these documents:

• Next: Getting Started >>
• Last Updated: Nov 22, 2023 11:14 AM
• URL: https://aism-mz.libguides.com/worldstudies

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Updated 31 March 2024

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• Sample Extended Essay - World Studies - ESS & DT
• IB Core and Philosophy
• Extended Essay

Sample Extended Essay - World Studies - ESS and Design Technology

This was an interesting first for me. The student is a passionate advocate for sustainable design and wanted to combine her interests in ESS (sustaibability) with an analysis of a new product design from Adidas that used plastic collected from the ocean. She wanted to examine whether this was a good example of circular economy principles or a bit of greenwashing. The essay was submitted for the 2018 session and so follows the latest extended essay criteria and formatting. It scored a B.

How the essay Scored

Creiterion A Focus and Method: 5/6

Criterion B Knowledge and Understanding: 5/6

Criterion C Critical Thinking: 4/12

Criterion D Presentation: 3/4

Criterion E Engagement 4/6 (See Reflections)

Examining Notes

Criterion a.

The examiner wondered how "extent" to which the design and production of a "model example" would be judged. This clearly signals that the examiner does not want a philosophical RQ here but one that can be measured and answered.

The examiner thought the method of investigation was not fully explained but that the essay did make a clear attempt to justify global and local issues.

They liked the fact that the thesis is clearly set out at the start of the essay.

Criterion B

The essay displays good knowledge and understand.

Criterion C

The examiner highlighted areas where there was source analysis and liked the fact that the essay laid out detailed background information that sets the scene for the analysis but they thought that large parts were descriptive rather than analytical. The inclusion of grades of PET did not seem to be relevant to the shoes. Any "sweeping statements" such as "put a stop to ocean pollution" were picked up. They thought that parts were not focused upon the question at all.

They wanted to see the candidate comment upon whether the collaboration had been successful, whether the aims had been met, if the shoes were actually sustainable. They felt the conclusion did not make sense.

Criterion D

The examiner picked up on when there were tiny changes in the font or formatting. They also found a part of the essay which is a small repeated section.

Criterion E

There is no feedback on the reflections but to score in the top mark band candidates need to show what action they took when they made a reflection. How did they move to overcome challenges.

Implementation of recycled ocean plastic in product design involving Adidas

To what extent is the design and production of the adidas x parley ultraboost shoe a model of successful implementation of a new circular economy.

World Studies: Environmental & Visual Arts

Word count: 3997

1.Introduction

Through research into the use of recycled materials in industrial design, I have become aware of the importance towards a new circular economy to tackle the depletion of resources and plastic pollution. The new circular economy represents a circular approach towards resource and solid domestic waste management where materials and fuels are regenerated and recycled (Ellen Macarthur Foundation, 2011). My focus lies with a case study about the use of plastics retrieved from the ocean, by the Parley organization, in sustainably designed Adidas Ultraboosts seen in Figure 1. Parley for the Oceans is a non-profit organization in charge of tackling major threats to the oceans through the application of artistic measures involving  artists, designers or even filmmakers to make use of the problem (Parley, n.d.). Specifically, Parley has collected plastic from the oceans and collaborated with designer Stella McCartney at Adidas to create designs using the recycled material. Thus, exploring the implementation of a new circular economy, and the extent to which it is successful through the design and production of this Ultra boost.

Figure 1 Adidas X Parley Ultraboost From (Mar.Ex, 2016)

This topic is worthy of study as it not only concerns the influence that plastic has on the environment but the relevance of sustainability in design production towards tackling resource depletion. The exploration focuses on a World Studies approach regarding the subject areas of  Environmental Systems and Societies in combination with Design Technology. These two areas are suitable for analyzing the case study at full potential seeing there is space for research about the environmental impacts in combination with design production process. My personal interest lies in product design, as well as the outlook of resource choice and use, therefore I am drawn to investigating solutions that may generate large change in the sustainability of the design industry. Sustainability is defined by the natural replacement and recovery of resources used and managed within production (International Baccalaureate Organization, 2015). It is relevant for the coming generation of designers to introduce new possibilities for textile and considerations aimed at sustainability by foreseeing management of further material use and focus on product life. Looking through this case study I have elected to pose the following question of ‘ To what extent is the design and production of the Adidas X Parley Ultraboost shoe a model of successful implementation of a new circular economy”. Therefore, my research is aimed at unpacking the circular economy along with the design cycle of this collaboration looking at the global issue and implications of the product manufacture. Through analyzing the process of this partnership I hope to provide evidence that the Parley collaboration with Adidas is a model of successful implementation to a new circular economy.

2. Resources in the design industry

In order to explore the roots of a successful new circular economy, it is essential to discuss the efficiency of society’s current trends. The design industry has an abundance of resources and a vast variation in materials in which designers are able to integrate into their products. Within the industrial design industry, designers attempt to find materials which grant advantage to their products in such a competitive market therefore strongly considering consumer taste without considering environmental impact. The resources available, however, are not infinite and there is limitation to the extent in which designers can be dependent of those materials in their designs. Looking at this infographic in Figure 2 we are provided with data to understand the limit on resource use.

Figure 2: Infographic on Remaining World Supplies (Zagami, 2012)

The infographic represents the years left for non-renewable resources, including ecosystems, fossil fuels and minerals, at the current rate of world consumption from 2012. Figure 1 shows that Zagami separates the resources into minerals – materials for production, fossil fuels – those burned for energy in production, and ecosystems – where the materials used for production are grown. By showing us that we are losing the resources it creates a shock factor and a sense of fear. Fear derives from the fact that the depletion of these non-renewable resources is inevitable. Yet, the chart is created emphasizing that the trend comes from a “current trend of consumption” (Zagami, 2012) which grants hope to our generation of a chance at preserving these materials or developing alternatives to consumption trends in the future. In addition, it triggers further reflection on the nature of social and political will to preserve resources for future generations thought of the preservation since there is an inevitability in the decline of these materials in which case considers concepts such as the reuse of these factored into the design process. The reasoning behind the depletion is the concept of a linear economy where humans take the resources, use them and then dispose of them. Since humans take this approach there is huge increase in solid domestic waste of materials which are non biodegradable causing long term negative impacts on the environment (Ellen Macarthur Foundation, 2011). In continuation of the linear economy we will face a tipping point (being minimal change causing to destabilize a current system towards a new equilibrium, thus causing for the positive feedback loops to become more catastrophic (International Baccalaureate Organization, 2015)). By looking at societies linear approach to resource use,  it is essential to understand that changing the behavior of consumers through further sustainable implementation this concept is the basis in achieving a successful new circular economy.

As a result of this, the flow of materials would mimic the system of the living world of regeneration leading to a new circular economy seen in Figure 3.

Figure 3 Circular Economy diagram ("Circular Economy," n.d.).

Figure 3 demonstrates the different principles under a circular economy in order to protect the limited environment. Referring to Figure 3, principle 1 involves controlling the use of resources such as finite materials and stocks as well as including non renewable energy source, together with the idea that these resources undertake cycles to reach highest utility through optimization. This is done through manufactures and consumers recycling, reusing and regeneration of the resources followed by carefully executed plans to tackle the negative externalities in their disposal and cause a minimized effect on the environment.  

All of the principles mentioned occur through alternations in human activity such as education, government regulations and laws as well as organizational work.

The diagram referred to in Figure 3 is located on the Ellen Macarthur Foundation page which is responsible for the introduction to the circular economy. Ellen Macarthur (2015) came to a realization through sailing the world that fuels  and materials were finite and the exponential increase in use due to declines of commodity prices have caused for flaws in the current linear system. While developing the new plastic economy it was clear that reducing consumption was not enough to save the environments resources therefore adapted to an economy where such a complex systems could minimize waste by recovering and remanufacturing materials (D. E. Macarthur, lecture, March, 2015).

Even if designers are not dominant over the government and multinationals who control the resource availability in a county, the movement of designers in the market can highly affect the demand of certain resources in an economy. In theory, once designers begin to think about the bigger issues on a global scale to do with material implementation and use, in time the resources will be protected since there will be less incentive to use these materials. The booming consumption of such materials in design is the major source to their reduction so, by changing current habits beginning on a small scale through human and government action can change the fate of resource management and solid domestic waste. The concept of regeneration is essential to designers to adapt to solution which will support the design industry once further depletion occurs. Thus, referring back towards the potential through changing the use of resources in production to implement a successful model of a new circular economy. 

Plastics have been used continuously in recent history within industrial design in most everyday items. During the Industrial Revolution, the first forms of plastic started in decorative items in the nineteenth century followed by an acceleration in the mass production of the material around the 1940s and its development over time (Freinkel, 2011).  Plastic consists of a wide range of synthetic organic compounds in which result in negative externalities to the environment involving the degrading of chemicals (Thompson, Moore, Vom Saal, & Swan, 2009). A material that was revolutionary towards creating new products, also including infrastructure, automobiles, and tackled the problems that natural materials came with. The implementation of the material was cheap and became an efficient alternative in design due to its malleable structure and durability (Freinkel, 2011).  There are 7 main groupings of plastic consisting of PET, HDPE, PVC, LDPE, PP, PS all of which have various properties for different applications (Eartheasy.com, 2012). Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)  is most commonly recycled and reuses although regeneration is necessary since the toxins can become harmful to consumers after primary use (Eartheasy.com, 2012). PET is also responsible for the majority of single use packaging – being a large part of plastic use in society (Eartheasy.com, 2012).

Here is a study by Ahmad Shakeradekani and Roselina Karim focusing on pistachio packaging and the efficiency of different plastic while measuring the effects on the moisture and aflatoxin levels of the nuts.

Figure 4: Results measuring effectiveness of different kinds of plastics in packaging (Shakerardekani & Karim, 2012, p.2).

The results in Figure 4 (2012) concluded that PET resulted in the lowest moisture content and aflatoxin levels before reaching the maximum level 10ppb (maximum aflatoxin level) therefore increasing shelf life of the product for over 5 – 6 months, more than any other plastic. This finding is important in understanding the tense and flexible properties of the exponentially used PET in order to understand the efficiency of the product life and various conditions including high humidity that it may survive under (Shakeradekani & Karim, 2012, p.3)

Controversially, Cyrill Gutsch – founder of Parley for the Oceans- claims, “Plastic is a design failure” (Howarth, 2016). Plastic is a non-point source of solid domestic waste that has been consistently used within the industry yet will ultimately be the reasoning behind the downfall of society. Plastic is a material that although appears cost effective and functionally efficient, disrupts the nature of the design cycle as it holds an afterlife of which the chemical composition has damaging effects in the disposal process. According to Mckie (2016), human activities involving plastic are having a major impact on the world since the disposal is causing lasting effects to environment considering its persistent nature disables the process of biodegrading. Parley is an organization created in aim to protect oceans and prevent this chronic pollution through public collaborations by tackling the collection of the pollutants, integration of innovation and the creation of public campaigns to protect the oceans (Parley, n.d.). Yet, plastic is what fuels the need for Parley to remain active as the continuous pollution of these products is what damages our oceans and the lack of innovation for recycling plastic reflects the global issue. Thus, making collaborations such as Adidas X Parley models a new circular economy since the collection of plastic allows for the material to be remade safely to fit our society again (Parley, n.d.).

 4. The Design Cycle

Figure 5 Representing the different stages of the design cycle Retrieved from ("What We Do," n.d.)

The design cycle consists in the reasoning behind intentions of product life. Including, ergonomic and ecological applications towards their audience since products tend to be results of communal needs. The beginning to the design cycle, according to Figure 3, retrieved from Green Heart Global, comes from the product concept followed by the analysis of environmental and material issues. The considerate selection of materials supports the thought process behind the production and the means of which the product will be made. Differently from simply searching for design opportunities, this cycle reflects a new circular economy by considering the environmental impact of production and the nature of the product. Once the product is manufactured, producers then contemplate the method of selling 

including packaging and the availability of the product in the market according to price, load and accessibility. The design cycle does not only regard the making and distribution of the product yet also the afterlife consisting of its disposal or reuse seen in Figure 3. This entire process sums up the thinking behind the creation of a new product, and the ways in which the cycle can manipulate results in how the product will succeed in society depending on its’ social and environmental impacts.

Relating the design cycle to my case study of Adidas collaboration with Parley, the consideration of both environmental and social impacts played a large role in the thought process behind the making of the products (Blaustein, 2015). The collaboration provides a green solution to both factors seeing that the highly recognized fashion brand have used their reach to promote this product which reflects success towards modelling a sustainable circular approach.

5. The Problem: Ocean Pollution

The major concept behind the Adidas x Parley collaboration was to put a stop to ocean pollution. Pollution results in substances from human activity entering the environment at a rate faster than the resilience of the ecosystem therefore rendering harmful to organisms (International Baccalaureate Organization, 2015). Ocean pollution is one of the many problems we face as a society in the world today with mass production and industries. The major causes for ocean pollution consist of the release of toxic chemicals through industries and runoff into the ocean, oil spills and littering ("Various Causes," n.d.). Looking at the  proportion of plastic included in littering, approximately 8 million tons pollute the oceans each year since plastic production and use has increased exponentially over the years due to the flexible properties and cheap implementation of the resource (Plastic Oceans). This yet allows for quick disposable and single use packaging, including plastic bottles and plastic bags, therefore responsible for 40% of the litter in the ocean (Plastic Oceans). This is proven, for instance, with the case study of Capt Charles Moore in the South Pacific discovering large surface area of 965’000 square miles covered with plastic debris, concluding in immense harm to marine food chains in deep oceans as well as coastlines (Brassey, 2017).

Figure 6 Microplastic harmful to marine life (Brassey, 2017)

Thus, the pollution by plastic in the oceans causes harm on our ecosystems, economy and human health. With a physical presence of micro plastic, seen in Figure 6,  in the oceans it is bound to complicate the ecosystem behavior as the life interacts with the plastic it either consumes it or is found entangled in it (Smith, 2017). By consuming the plastic, such as plastic bags or even the chemicals, it not only directly injures the species yet it results in the destruction of food chains since chemicals get passed on to direct as well as small scale collision of the animal and plastic causes for serious damage impacting the food chain furthermore through biomagnification (Smith, 2017). Differently, plastic contaminates the water with organic pollutants such as DDT which affects the surrounding seawater (Smith, 2017)

With contaminated waters inducing problems in our human society through health, the pollution of plastic in the oceans may also affects the economy (Lytle, 2017).  The management of such pollution requires increased expenditure for cleanup as well as the loss of income for citizens in coastal communities and the contaminated waters cause a fall in marine life therefore damaging fish farming results or coastal agriculture in coastal pollution (Lytle, 2017).

The extraction happens involving a variety of solutions to reducing plastics from the ocean with new technology. The Ocean Cleanup, for example, is an organization has created an autonomous and energy neutral polyethylene floater which acts to catch and concentrate the plastic before it gets carried away in the current (“The Ocean,”, n.d.).  However,  Parleys association with Global Clean up Network aims to not only reduce the impact yet to educate, create awareness and carry out research for the future resource use (Parley, n.d.).

To conclude, the pollution of plastic results in damage largely in ecosystems, human health and the economy thus proving the linear economy ineffective. Through a change in behavior in design production towards a circular economy, such as Parley, the collaboration deems a successful example.

While organizations such as The Ocean Cleanup rely on large systems to extract the plastics, they don’t require external sources for energy to run since they depend on renewable energy sources such as ocean currents for movement and solar energy for any minor electronics in use (“The Ocean Cleanup”, n.d.). Furthermore, while Parley is not yet associated with The Ocean Cleanup, they rely on pollution management strategies which don’t require any forms of energy sources rather simply collaborations of worldwide volunteers which make up the Global Clean up Network (Parley, n.d.). Volunteers collect washed up plastic from their coastline, use fishing boats to retrieve forgotten nets, educate themselves all for the implementation of Parleys A.I.R strategy consisting of avoiding, intercepting and redesigning the pollutant.

When it comes to energy based in remanufacturing the plastics into safer materials through green chemistry, Dow chemicals was able to regenerate energy through the incineration of these plastics which minimizes the need for natural gases and fossil fuels (Hepler, 2016).

Hence, striving towards an efficacious circular economy using renewable approaches in the design production.  Parley believes in the creation of a safer material from the ocean plastic by making them less toxic to the environment. This is where the organization introduces green chemistry in their opportunity for growth in a sustainable future (Hepler, 2016). Green chemistry includes the aim of making materials more environmentally friendly than their existing alternatives while tackles the cost as it is more economically viable and functionally equivalent than the original material (Hepler, 2016). The goal is towards pollution prevention through the design of less hazardous synthesis of safer chemicals and a harmless catalysis thus reflecting on the concept of efficient reuse of materials.

7. Collaboration

The newly developed plastic was to be integrated into the fashion industry at the world known brand of Adidas . The German brand founded in 1949 has expanded becoming highly acknowledged worldwide, therefore aim to continue innovation throughout the years to suit their wide audience and their desires (“History”, 2014). The collaboration consists of Parley providing Adidas with an environmentally friendly alternative design proposal to their existing products. Eric Liedtke (2016) the Group Executive Board member Of Adidas describes the values of the company as “Through sport we have the power to change lives” which justifies the approach towards a collaboration with an organization like Parley. The partnerships involves a design mandate being introduced so the footprint is reduced. “Sustainability is good business” Liedtke (2016) says as the collaboration takes place. By aligning Adidas’s core beliefs of sustainable innovation the brand is able to engage with clients about the effects of a new circular approach to resource use in design which spreads word of this implementation.

8. The Product

The focus began ultimately in the Adidas shoe department when Parley X Ultra boost was released. Before the collaboration, Adidas approached a younger generation of clients through the fashion trend of Ultra boost sneakers. The sneakers are the new elastic fit and mimics individual forms since the Primeknit elasticity provides breathability offering energy return with each movement (“Adidas Unveils,”n.d.).

In order to successfully start a movement, the newfound plastics merged into a Stella McCartney design (Morby, 2017) such as of the previous Ultra boost and the controlled release. The trainers release happened on World Oceans Day in 2016 where 50 shoes were released to those who won a competition on their Instagram page. The participation required a video to be submitted online proving the user’s involvement in protecting the environment with determination to end plastic use in products by discussing their appreciation of the oceans and pledge to fight ocean pollution. On this release there was a limited selection of sales and quantity of product yet the brand planned to make more and in 2017 one million pairs of shoes were released where they currently sell for $200 a pair (MarEx, 2016). The cost of the shoe is solely based of the expensive buildup of the design keeps profit to the organization for further use in their projects with regenerated plastic reflecting a circular approach. 

9. The Impact

The collaboration mirrors the new circular in aim to hold environmental goals for their future in Adidas by reducing harmful production in limiting to energy efficient material in 3D design. This makes even the disposal of their products have a better effect on our environment reflecting the circular approach. Hence, the integration of such a plastic holds a message in its publicity that will model the sustainable movement towards a circular economy. Through educating consumers, it indirectly benefits the environment affecting society’s behavior towards consumption.

The new philosophy introduced to consumption provides higher incentive to increasing awareness of the problems concerning our environment and make careful considerations of the way society manages products to adapt to a circular economy. As for designers, this collaboration holds large potential for future partnerships involving the new plastic textile given the chance to integrate this material into a larger variation of products as well as continue research for other functional opportunities of recycled plastic.

However, one can argue that the large publicity of the collaboration has generated debate about opportunities for public relations stunts as Adidas is not part of the Ellen Macarthur Foundation partnership. Similarly, the Ultraboost shoe continues to be largely expensive while the other ocean plastic products are more affordable shows as if the shoe is only available to those who can afford them at this cost. The availability doesn’t comply with the philosophy that the company preaches to integrate the recycled material fully within their products thus proving limitations to how successful this collaboration is for a new circular economy.

10 Conclusion

To conclude, Parleys collaboration with Adidas moves towards a successful model seeing that it has created a clear innovative path for the future for designers as well as the consumers. By critiquing the viability of regenerated plastic and renewable energy sources in production, it is a feasible approach to entering a new circular economy. Consumers are compelled to follow the sustainable movement started with the publicity from Parley X Adidas having decided to tackle ocean pollution and deemed opportunity to change the way consumers thought about their purchases. While publicity was arguable, it was essential in bringing awareness to the failing nature of plastic in design leading both consumers and designers to avoid virgin plastic. Since the research on the collaboration was indefinite and through the lack of research of pollution costs in the process, it is difficult to know whether the collaboration truly proves successful. Yet by researching the involvement of largely influential companies it brings potential approach to modelling a new circular economy in the long term. A future for Parley collaborations include Corona X Parley which is set to generate profit to carry out a clean up of 100 islands by 2020 (Luciana, 2017 and the creation of football jerseys which will be worn by Real Madrid in LaLiga and Bayern Munich in Bundesliga as marketing strategies for this new circular economy (Arrowsmith, 2016). A few unresolved question are held in whether there has any difference in using virgin plastic against recycled plastic during the design process of the shoe.  Overall, the success of the collaboration as a model to a circular economy depends on the outlook of plastic use and the movement to be triggered towards the end of virgin plastic as a whole. 

Adidas unveils ultra boost with highest energy return yet. (n.d.). Adidas News Stream . Retrieved from http://news.adidas.com/us/Latest-News/adidas-Unveils-Ultra-BOOST-with-Highest-Energy-Return-Yet/s/8c8dac9b-42e8-4be3-ba8c-d75aedb1cbdb

Arrowsmith, R. (2016, November 4). Real madrid and bayern munich to wear specially designed one-off kits made from recycled ocean plastic [Newsgroup post]. Retrieved from Daily Mail website: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3904666/Real-Madrid-Bayern-Munich-wear-kits-Parley-recycled-ocean-plastic-one-games.html

Blaustein, L. (2015, July 24). How adidas is pioneering open-source sustainability for sports [Newsgroup post]. Retrieved from GreenBiz website: https://www.greenbiz.com/article/how-adidas-pioneering-open-source-sustainability-sports

Brassey, C., Dr. (2017, July 16). A mission to the pacific plastic patch. BBC . Retrieved from http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-40584629

Circular economy system diagram. (n.d.). Retrieved October 22, 2017, from https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/circular-economy/interactive-diagram

Eartheasy.com. (2012, May 2). Plastic by the numbers [Blog post]. Retrieved from Eartheasy website: http://learn.eartheasy.com/2012/05/plastics-by-the-numbers/

Ellen Macarthur Foundation. (2011, August 28). Re-thinking progress: The circular economy [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=51&v=zCRKvDyyHmI

Freinkel, S. (2011, May 29). A brief history of plastic's conquest of the world [Newsgroup post]. Retrieved from Scientific American website: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/a-brief-history-of-plastic-world-conquest/

Hepler, L. (2016, February 9). The real key to remaking manufacturing: Chemistry [Newsgroup post]. Retrieved from GreenBiz website: https://www.greenbiz.com/article/real-key-remaking-manufacturing-chemistry

History. (2014, May 7). Retrieved October 4, 2017, from https://www.adidas-group.com/en/group/history/

Howarth, D. (2016, June 8). "Plastic is a design failure" says parley for the oceans founder [Newsgroup post]. Retrieved from Dezeen website: https://www.dezeen.com/2016/06/08/cyrill-gutsch-interview-parley-for-the-oceans-founder-ocean-plastic/

International Baccalaureate Organization. (2015). Environmental systems and societies guide: IB diploma programme . Interantional Baccalaureate Organization.

Lefort, C. (2016, May 30). A way to save the worlds oceans [Newsgroup post]. Retrieved from Billionaire website: http://www.billionaire.com/philanthropy/environment/2463/a-way-to-save-the-worlds-oceans

Liedtke, E., & Gutsch, C. (Presenters). (2016). Strategic sustainability . Speech presented at New York Times | International Luxury Conference, .

Luciana. (2017, May 18). Corona x parley: 100 islands protected by 2020 [Blog post]. Retrieved from WordPress website: http://diegoluna.net/corona-x-parley-100-islands-protected-by-2020/

Lytle, C. L. G. (2017, January). When the mermaids cry: The great plastic tide [Online forum post]. Retrieved from http://plastic-pollution.org/

Macarthur, D. E. (Presenter). (2015, March). The surprising thing I learned sailing solo around the world . Lecture presented at TED2015, .

MarEx. (n.d.). Adidas releases first mass-produced ocean plastic shoe [Newsgroup post]. Retrieved from The Maritime Executive website: http://www.maritime-executive.com/article/adidas-releases-first-mass-produced-ocean-plastic-shoe

McKie, R. (2016, January 24). Plastic now pollutes every corner of the earth. The Guardian . Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/jan/24/plastic-new-epoch-human-damage

Morby, A. (2017, March 17). Stella McCartney and Adidas unveil Parley Ultra Boost X trainers made from ocean plastic [Newsgroup post]. Retrieved from Dezeen website: https://www.dezeen.com/2017/03/17/stella-mccartney-adidas-parley-ultra-boost-x-ocean-plastic-trainers-design-fashion/

The ocean cleanup. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.theoceancleanup.com/technology/

Parley. (n.d.). Parley for the oceans. Retrieved October 6, 2017, from http://www.parley.tv/#fortheoceans

Plastic oceans. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.plasticoceans.org/the-facts/

Shakerardekani, A., & Karim, R. (2012). Effect of different types of plastic packaging films on the moisture and aflatoxin contents of pistachio nuts during storage .

Smith, B. (2017, April 25). How is plastic trash affecting the ocean food chain? [Online forum post]. Retrieved from https://sciencing.com/plastic-trash-affecting-ocean-food-chain-12143.html

Thompson, R. C., Moore, C. J., Vom Saal, F. S., & Swan, S. H. (2009). Plastics, the environment and human health: Current consensus and future trends. PubMed Central® . Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2873021/

Various causes of ocean pollution. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.eartheclipse.com/pollution/various-causes-of-ocean-pollution.html

Vincent, J. (2016, November 4). This Adidas sneaker made from recycled ocean waste is going on sale this month [Newsgroup post]. Retrieved from The verge website: https://www.theverge.com/2016/11/4/13518784/this-adidas-sneaker-made-from-recycled-ocean-waste-is-going-on-sale-this-month

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First Reflection

Having undertaken a pre college course in the summer of 2016 at Pratt Institute in Industrial Design I was faced with a number of unanswered questions about the nature of design that I wanted to explore further. In consultation with my supervisor, I realised that I needed to narrow the scope of my study in design and so I specified to my interest in furniture to reflect the relationship between functionality and taste. Whilst attempting to isolate the question, I became aware of the extensive use and scarcity of materials. Connecting with my concern for environmental issues I began to look at how recycling materials are introduced in high quality furniture design. Now, I am looking for specific case studies that will help narrow the research question.

Second Reflection

Being halfway through the extended essay process, I've researched about resource sustainability and the correlation to Parleys collaboration to Adidas. My topic is resource based, finding information has been a challenge due to a lack of depth in the sources and I also had come to underestimate the difficulty of contacting the Parley organisation or Cyrill Gutsch, the designer. I hadn't considered the depth needed in the background information and why the process of innovating new materials happens. Writing this part made me realise that I was able to get a lot more information that I thought and by purely writing about the causes and extraction of the pollution summed up enough words. Considering organisation, I have written already a quarter of my first draft. The process of my writing consists of writing smaller topics on each heading and then combining them once they are all completed.

Final Reflection - Viva Voce

I enjoyed the research of my EE, yet it was extremely limited upon the collaboration. I looked at a variety of NGOs who analysed the reasons of the collaboration as well as academic research on the true impacts of the environment. I learned a lot about the importance of extended research as well as the limitations it may provide. I definitely feel comfortable discussing my topic however the research often relied on non academic sources. If I were to redo this process I would have picked a case study that had more information attached to it which could allow me to look further into consumer reactions or the actual design in order to evaluate my conclusion further. A problem I faced consisted of deciding my scope in the essay, and once this was determined it allowed me to be argumentative and reach structure in my essay. Through evaluating the collaboration, a high point of the process was definitely suitable for benefiting me in my future work as I now have carried out extensive research which makes me stand out as an upcoming designer. A low point was figuring out what was necessary to be included in my essay and once proof reading at the end and matching my text to my RQ the structure cleared up thus I would advise future EE students to establish a plan early on. 

Gr. 11-12 Extended Essay

• Reflections
• Choose a Subject
• Choose a Topic
• Draft a Research Question
• Develop Your Search Strategy
• Computer Science
• Visual Arts
• World Studies

World Studies EE Overview

Recommended databases, website sources.

• Introduction
• Academic Integrity
• Common Questions
• For Supervisors
• EE Examples
• Introduction to the World Studies EE
• World Studies Extended Essays Guidance
• World Studies EE: Workflow and Expectations
• Intro to World Studies EE

World Studies EE examples

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Extended Essay: World Studies

• Introduction to the EE
• Step 1 - Choose a subject

World Studies

• Step 3 - The Researchers Reflection Space
• Identify Sources
• Tools for Note Taking
• Video Guides
• Step 5 - Creating Research Questions
• Step 6 - Outlines and Plans
• Step 7 - Citing
• Criteria E - 3 Reflections
• Know Your Criteria
• Criteria D - Check your Formatting
• 4000 words final hand in

This is not for the faint hearted. To embark on a World Studies extended essay means you have to really focus across two or more subject areas. It is very easy to do this badly, but if you succeed it is a very worthy assignment. Note also that it is a new area so it is something that you will have to do a lot of reading around yourself to make sure you are on track. if you have any doubts, turn back now.

If you choose to move forward - start by doing the following:

1. Read from the IBO.

Examples -  Go into and reading the exemplars in  this folder.

There have been a large number of examples added to the  ib website  recently., examiners comments are also very very useful: , world studies  subject report 2018, world studies subject report 2021, very useful document:  step by step guide to a world studies ee (source isb), how to fill in a proposal for a world studies essay.

Task 1. Look at the example above - You will practice reverse engineering a World Studies EE first doing  these tasks  and looking at some examples of EEs in World Studies.

Task 2: Look at some more examples of EE's that have been done in the past in World Studies

Task 3: Look again at the themes and examples - write a list of possible themes and wider topics you would want to look at.

Task 4: Do some reading and refine what you might want to do.

Task 5: Now put forward proposals - choose a range if you want

Presentation

New examples 2021.

There have been a large number of examples added to the IB website recently.

Look at them - even if they have a lower grade - look at why they might have got this.. Was it due to the choice of topic/ research question?

video resources

Video Resources

Both provided by ISB - Thanks

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• Next: Step 3 - The Researchers Reflection Space >>
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Extended Essay

• Mathematics
• Studies in language and literature
• World studies extended essay
• Visual arts
• Language Acquisition

World studies: Sample A

World studies: sample b, world studies: sample c.

• Last Updated: Oct 14, 2021 3:31 PM
• URL: https://keystoneacademy-cn.libguides.com/extended-essay

Useful resources

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 syllabus
• The Extended Essay Guide , a free material in the Programme Resource Centre (PRC), which requires a log-in given to IB World Schools
• 10 monografias excelentes,  a digital document looking at model extended essays in Spanish.

Through the  programme resource centre,  educators in IB World Schools can access digital versions of many IB publications related to the extended essay.

These materials in the programme resource centre , which are only available to IB World Schools, are free.

If you already work at an IB World School, you should have access to the PRC. Please request log-in details from the programme coordinator at your school.

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