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IB Extended Essay

Resources to support students as they plan, write, edit, and revise their Extended Essays

Introduction

What is the IB Extended Essay?

  • A major project in the IB Diploma Programme where you get to dive deep into a topic you’re passionate about.
  • A chance to research and write a 4,000-word paper on something meaningful to you within a subject you’re studying.
  • Helps you develop important skills like critical thinking, research, and academic writing that will be useful in college and beyond.
  • Encourages you to work independently, manage your time well, and take charge of your own learning.

EE Process

Your Responsibilities

Student Responsibilities for the Extended Essay

  1. Topic Selection: Choose a topic that is relevant to an IB subject area and of personal interest.
  2. Research Question: Formulate a focused, manageable research question.
  3. Planning: Create a detailed plan for research and writing to meet deadlines.
  4. Research: Conduct thorough and relevant research using a range of sources.
  5. Analysis and Critical Thinking: Analyze information critically and form a coherent argument.
  6. Academic Writing: Write a structured essay with an introduction, body, and conclusion.
  7. Formal Presentation: Follow the prescribed structure, including citations and bibliography.
  8. Reflection Sessions: Initiate three reflection sessions with the supervisor including the final session called the Viva Voce.
  9. Written Reflections: Write three formal reflections with a combined total of 500 words.
  10. Adherence to Academic Honesty: Avoid plagiarism, ensure proper citation, and uphold IB’s academic honesty policy.
  11. Self-Assessment: Continuously evaluate the work against IB’s Extended Essay criteria.

The Role of the Student

Source: Pedagogical Support for the Extended Essay. ibpublishing.ibo.org/extendedessay/apps/dpapp/guide.html?doc=d_0_eeyyy_gui_1602_1_e&part=3&chapter=2§ion=4.