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

International Baccalaureate (IB)

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

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

IB Extended Essay: Why Should You Trust My Advice?

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

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

What Is the Extended Essay in the IB Diploma Programme?

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

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

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

The IB Extended Essay must include the following:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the topics covered in your viva voce :

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

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

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

What Should You Write About in Your IB Extended Essay?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1: Write About Something You Enjoy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don't get stuck with a narrow topic!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#6: Start Writing Sooner Rather Than Later!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The early bird DOES get the worm!

How Is the IB Extended Essay Graded?

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Does the Extended Essay Grade Affect Your IB Diploma?

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

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

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

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

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

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

40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme

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

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

What's Next?

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

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

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

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IB Extended Essay: Past Essays

• 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

Check these CAREFULLY to be sure your topic fits with IB expectations!

• Language & literature (language A)
• Language acquisition (language B)
• Mathematics
• Visual Arts
• World Studies

Business Management

English a & b ee examples.

• English A EE Example
• English A EE Example 1
• English A EE Example 2
• English A EE Example 3
• English B EE Example
• English B EE Example 1
• English B EE Example 2
• English B EE Example 3
• English B EE Example 4
• English B EE Example 5
• English B EE Example 6

Philosophy EE Examples

• Philosophy Example 1
• Philosophy Example 2
• Philosophy Example 3
• Philosophy Example 4

Economics EE Examples

• Econ Example 1
• Econ Example 2
• Econ Example 3
• Econ Example 4
• Econ Example 5
• Econ Example 6
• Econ Example 7
• Econ Example 8

Review Past Papers

• From the IB:  papers from other students and how they scored
• Renaissance Library Past Essays :  Links to all subject area examples

Music EE Examples

• Music EE Example 1
• Music EE Example 2
• Music EE Example 3
• Music EE Example 4

Psychology EE Examples

• Psych EE Example 1
• Psych EE Example 2
• Psych EE Example 3

Chinese EE Examples

• Chinese EE Example 1
• Chinese EE Example 2
• Chinese EE Example 3
• Chinese A EE Cat 1
• Chinese A EE Cat 2
• Chinese A EE Cat 3
• Chinese B EE Example 1
• Chinese B EE Example 2
• Chinese B Example 3
• Business EE Example 1
• Business EE Example 2
• Business EE Example 3

Visual Arts EE Examples

• Visual Arts EE Example 1
• Visual Arts EE Example 2
• Visual Arts EE Example 3
• Visual Arts EE Example 4

Film EE Examples

• Film Example 1
• Film Example 2

Chemistry EE Examples

• Chemistry EE Example

Biology EE Examples

• Biology EE Example
• Biology EE Example 1
• Biology EE Example 2
• Biology EE Example 3

Physics EE Examples

• Physics EE Example
• Physics EE Example 1
• Physics EE Example 2
• Physics EE Example 3
• Physics EE Example 4
• Physics EE Example 5

Math EE Examples

• Math EE Example 1
• Math EE Example 2
• Math EE Example 3
• Math EE Example 4
• Math EE Example 5
• Math EE Example 6

World Studies EE Examples

• World Studies Example 1
• World Studies Example 2
• World Studies Example 3
• World Studies Example 4
• World Studies Example 5
• World Studies Example 6
• World Studies Example 7
• World Studies Example 8
• World Studies Example 9
• World Studies Example 10
• World Studies Example 11
• World Studies Example 12
• World Studies Example 13
• World Studies Example 14
• World Studies Example 15
• World Studies Example 16
• World Studies Example 17
• World Studies Example 18
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• Last Updated: Apr 9, 2024 9:39 AM
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Extended Essay

Extended Essay Examples

26 Best Extended Essay Examples for Inspiration

Published on: May 3, 2023

Last updated on: Oct 28, 2024

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Are you struggling to choose a topic or develop a research question for your Extended Essay? Or are you looking for examples to help guide your writing process? 

Look no further! 

In this blog, we will provide you with a variety of extended essay examples across different subject areas. By examining these examples, you can gain a better understanding of what a well-written extended essay looks like. 

So, without further ado, let's start the blog!

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What is an Extended Essay?

An extended essay is a research paper that students write as part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program . This type of essay aims to allow students to dig deeply into a topic, and develop their writing skills.

The Extended Essay must be between 3,500 and 4,000 words. It is typically written in one of the six subject areas: 

• Language and Literature
• Language Acquisition
• Individuals and Societies
• Mathematics

Want to learn more about Extended essay writing? Check out his video!

Let's explore extended essay examples categorized by subject to better understand various topics and research questions within each discipline.

IB Extended Essay Examples

IB Extended Essay Example Biology

IB Extended Essay Example World Religions

English Extended Essay Examples

English Extended Essay Example 1

English Extended Essay Example 2

History Extended Essay Examples

History Extended Essay Example 1

History Extended Essay Example 2

Psychology Extended Essay Examples

Psychology Extended Essay Example 1

Psychology Extended Essay Example 2

Economics Extended Essay Examples 

Economics Extended Essay Example 1

Economics Extended Essay Example 2

Physics Extended Essay Examples -H3

Physics Extended Essay Example 1

Physics Extended Essay Example 2

Math Extended Essay Examples -H3

Math Extended Essay Example 1

Math Extended Essay Example 2

Business Extended Essay Examples -H3

Business Extended Essay Example 1

Business Extended Essay Example 2

Chemistry Extended Essay Examples

Chemistry Extended Essay Example 1

Chemistry Extended Essay Example 2

Global Politics Extended Essay Examples

Global Politics Extended Essay Example 1

Global Politics Extended Essay Example 2

Music Extended Essay Examples

Music Extended Essay Example 1

Music Extended Essay Example 2

Visual Arts Extended Essay Examples

Visual Arts Extended Essay Example 1

Visual Arts Extended Essay Example 2

World Studies Extended Essay Examples -H3

World Studies Extended Essay Example 1

World Studies Extended Essay Example 2

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Tips for Writing Extended Essays

Here are some tips for writing extended essays:

• Choose an extended essay topic that interests you and aligns with your strengths.
• Create a research question that is specific, manageable, and has enough depth to explore in detail.
• Develop a clear extended essay outline and structure for your essay, including an introduction, main body, and conclusion.
• Use a variety of sources, including academic journals, books, and primary sources, to support your arguments.
• Maintain a critical and analytical approach throughout your essay, examining various perspectives and evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of different arguments.
• Avoid plagiarism by citing your sources correctly and using your own words to explain your ideas.
• Revise and edit your essay thoroughly, ensuring that it is coherent, logical, and well-written.
• Seek feedback from your supervisor or teacher, as well as peers or family members, to improve your essay further.

In conclusion, extended essay writing is an essential part of academic life, and it requires a lot of dedication and practice. However, with the right guidance and inspiration, anyone can excel in writing a compelling extended essay. 

The examples we have explored in this blog have provided valuable insights into the process. We hope they have inspired you to start your own journey toward excellence.

But if you need any additional assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to CollegeEssay.org. Our extended essay writing service consists of professional writers who are always ready to help you with your writing assignments.

We provide the best essay writing service to meet your specific needs and requirements.

So, get in touch with us today, and let our essay writer help you achieve your academic goals!

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IB English A (Lang & Lit) EE examples

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dorian gray subvert gender expectations according to judith butler’s theory of performative gender, to what extent has language in american advertising slogans changed from the 1900s to the 21st century in the food and beverage industry to target cultural changes, how does kanye west use religion in the songs black skinhead, i am a god, on sight and i’m in it from the album yeezus to defy racial dilemmas and limiting norms of the music industry through stylistic features, in what ways has language practice related to dying and the deathbed changed between the late medieval period and modernity, how does screenwriter aaron sorkin utilize mise-en-scène devices and language to depict the self-destructive consequences of pursuing financial success and external validation through the character of mark zuckerberg in the movie the social network, what effect does biographical criticism have on universalism and imaginative aspects of the poetry of sylvia plath, how does sylvia plath use esther's character in the novel, the bell jar to illustrate the journey into depression and the fragility of mental health, how does kendrick lamar, through his songs, explore the prejudices and challenges faced by black people in america, how is the portrayal of witchcraft in madeline miller’s circe a representation of female power in a patriarchal society, how does eva khatchadourian’s narration in ‘we need to talk about kevin’ portray the unfair societal expectations of motherhood and its consequences, how does the rejection of religious expectations by esther greenwood in sylvia plath’s the bell jar reflect a broader critique of organized religion's role in shaping women's lives in the 1950s, how does the representation of women in texts carmilla and twelfth night challenge the restrictive characterization of binary archetypes, how does italo calvino's use of metafictional techniques, through language and structure in 'if on a winter’s night a traveler' affect reader engagement and their understanding of postmodern literature, how does langton hughes’ reflection of the african american identity during the harlem renaissance empower the works “the negro artist and the racial mountain” and “theme for english b”, how does neal shusterman portray the difference between good and evil in scythe, to what extent do family relationships in 'arcane' shape the identities of individual characters, influencing their values, decisions, and personal growth, how does everything everywhere all at once explore the impact of generational trauma on the expression of individuality using stylistic devices, how is visual imagery used to portray the black women experience in the poetry of audre lorde and maya angelou, how do symbolism and dystopian atmosphere communicate john wyndham’s fear in ‘the day of the triffids, 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 carol ann duffy construct the female voice in “mrs. quasimodo”, “pilate’s wife”, and “medusa” in her anthology “the world’s wife”, 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, 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, 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 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 the recurring motif of absence in integral traditional customs of society impact the treatment of morality in “oryx and crake”, to what extent do the contrasting themes of feminism and power intersect throughout the literary texts of macbeth and the handmaid’s tale.

Extended Essay (First Exams 2018): Examples of Extended Essays

• EE Intro to Inquiry
• Examples of Extended Essays
• Recommended Research Tools
• How-to: Research Help
• EE Module Videos

Samples from the IBO

The IBO publishes two volumes of  50 Excellent Extended Essays , covering all Diploma Programme groups -- and all scored a top A grade.

Click on the link below to access PDFs of the essays. 

50 Excellent Extended Essays

All 50 essays are also available in electronic form in the QD Library on the iPads.  Look for the display at the circulation desk. The essays are found in the iBooks app. The iPads are available for check out at the circulation for periods of 30 minutes at one time.

Recently, the IBO has produced another list of exemplars with marks. Click on the link below to access this:

• Assessed Student Work  
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IB Extended Essay Guide: Steps, Tips & Examples

The IB Extended Essay (EE) is a vital component of the IB Diploma Programme , serving as a challenging but rewarding opportunity for students to conduct in-depth research on a topic of their choice. This 4,000-word essay is a significant undertaking that not only contributes to the IB diploma but also prepares students for future academic endeavours.

At its core, the EE is an essential academic task that allows IB students to explore a question that fascinates them, while developing university-level research and writing skills . It’s a rigorous process that can significantly impact your final diploma score, making it a crucial step for those aiming to excel in the IB curriculum.

Tip For Success – IB Mentor For Guidance 

If you’re feeling stuck on deciding your research topic, question or just struggling with writing your essay, it might be best to seek assistance from an IB advisor – be it a teacher or a private tutor  

Your IB advisor, along with your IB teacher, plays a pivotal role in the Extended Essay (EE) process. Furthermore, these mentors guide you through the complexities of the EE. Initially, they assist you with the topic selection, and subsequently, they support you throughout the extended journey to the final stages of writing. Furthermore, they are there to help you refine your research question, structure your argument, and ensure that you stay on track with the EE timeline.

What is The Best Subject for EE?

If you’ve also had this question and pondered which subject to choose for your essay, here you can see which ones are chosen most often, as well as how they’re ultimately graded.

Writing the Extended Essay Step-by-Step

Step 1 – what is ib extended essay and what’s the purpose of the ee.

Before you begin, it’s essential to grasp what the EE entails. It’s an independent, self-directed piece of research , culminating in a 4,000-word paper. The EE is an opportunity to explore a topic of interest related to one of the subjects you are studying.

Step 2 – Choosing Your Topic Wisely

Select a topic that aligns with one of the IB subjects you are studying. Your topic should be narrow enough to be manageable but broad enough to facilitate in-depth research. Consult with your IB advisor or IB teacher to ensure your chosen topic meets IB criteria.  

Step 3 – Formulating Your Research Question

Your research question fundamentally guides your investigation and writing. Consequently, it should be focused, precise, and open to analytical debate. An effective research question typically leads to a more successful Extended Essay.

Step 4 – Researching and Gathering Data

Start your research early, utilising a variety of sources such as books, academic journals, and credible websites. Keep meticulous records of your sources to aid with citations and ensure your research is well-rounded.

Step 5 – Creating an Outline

Firstly, organise your findings into a structured outline. This should include an introduction, followed by body sections that are divided by subtopics or arguments, and finally, a conclusion. Importantly, a well-structured outline keeps your writing focused. Moreover, it ensures that you comprehensively cover all aspects of your research question.

Step 6 – The Writing Process

Start writing your Extended Essay (EE), thoughtfully expanding on each section of your outline. Moreover, ensure that each paragraph introduces a clear idea and is robustly supported with evidence. Additionally, it’s important to stay on track with your research question and thesis, diligently avoiding tangents or unnecessary information

Step 7 – Reflection

The IB mandates three reflection sessions following specific milestones in your EE process. Importantly, these reflections are pivotal for the Reflections on Planning and Progress Form and serve to encourage you to contemplate both the successes and the challenges of your research journey.

Step 8 – Reviewing and Revising

After completing your first draft, take the time to revise. Initially, check for clarity, coherence, and academic rigour. Subsequently, ask for feedback from your IB advisor or peers, and be ready to make substantial edits for improvement.

Step 9 – Finalising Your Essay

Incorporate the feedback you’ve received, correct any errors, and ensure your essay meets the IB extended essay structure. Pay special attention to the required components such as the title page, abstract, and contents page.

Step 10 – Proofreading and Submission

Before submitting, check your essay against the IB’s formal presentation guidelines to ensure proper formatting. Ensure that your word count stays within the limit and that you have correctly cited all sources.

Ensure you understand the submission deadline for the IB Extended Essay, typically around the end of the first term of the final year. Submit your EE via the IB’s required method, and ensure you have a submission confirmation.

Do’s and Don’ts When Writing the IB Extended Essay

• Choose a Topic You’re Passionate About
• Plan Your Time Wisely
• Conduct Thorough Research
• Create a Detailed Outline
• Write Clear and Coherent Arguments 
• Use Subject-Specific Language
• Cite Your Sources Properly
• Adhere to IB Guidelines
• Seek Feedback
• Procrastinate
• Be Too General
• Neglect the Essay Structure
• Ignore the Word Count
• Use Informal Language
• Overlook the Importance of Reflections
• Submit Without Proofreading
• Disregard the Formatting Guidelines

Phrases to Use

– “This essay seeks to explore…”

– “The research question being investigated…”

– “A critical analysis of [topic] reveals…”

– “The evidence suggests that…”

– “Consequently, it can be argued…”

– “The data indicates…”

– “In light of these findings…”

Phrases to Avoid

– “I think…” or “I believe…” (instead, present evidence to support your claims)

– “This essay will cover everything about…” (be specific about what you will discuss)

– “Everybody knows that…” (avoid assumptions and generalisations)

– “In my opinion…” (the essay should be analytical rather than personal)

– “It is obvious that…” (make a case for your argument instead of assuming it is self-evident)

– “Stuff,” “things,” etc. (use precise and academic vocabulary)

– “In conclusion, this is a complex topic…” (your conclusion should summarise your specific findings, not restate the complexity of the topic) 

Remember – The Extended Essay is a formal academic piece, so maintaining a formal tone, adhering to a structured format, and demonstrating a high level of analysis are key to achieving a good grade.

IB Extended Essay Grading

The ee assessment criteria.

The IB Extended Essay is evaluated using a set of criteria that focus on different aspects of writing and research. These include:

1. Focus and Method (6 points) – This criterion firstly assesses the clarity and purpose of the research question. Additionally, it evaluates the appropriateness of the methodology, and furthermore, examines how well these elements align with the chosen topic.

2. Knowledge and Understanding (6 points) – In this section, the essay is assessed primarily on the demonstration of knowledge and understanding of the topic studied. Specifically, it focuses on how well you grasp and explain the concepts related to your research.. Additionally, it considers the context and significance of the research question, thereby ensuring a comprehensive assessment.”

3. Critical Thinking (12 points) – Critical thinking is essential consequently, this section meticulously reviews the extent to which the essay employs analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of knowledge to effectively support the argument.

4. Presentation (4 points) – The structure and presentation of the essay are assessed, specifically focusing on adherence to guidelines concerning word count and formatting. Furthermore, clear and coherent use of language is critically evaluated.

5. Engagement (6 points) – This criterion evaluates the student’s reflection on their research process, additionally considering the challenges encountered, as well as the skills and insights subsequently gained.

The EE Grading Scale

The Extended Essay is graded on a scale from A to E, with A being the highest and E being the lowest. Here’s how the points contribute to the final grade:

Award of the IB Diploma

The Extended Essay contributes to the total score of the IB Diploma in tandem with the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) through a points system. Students can earn up to three additional points based on their performance in these two core components.

Both the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge are evaluated according to specific assessment criteria that measure the quality of work. The performance of the student in each component is graded within one of the five bands that have been outlined previously.

The cumulative points awarded for the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge are derived from a matrix that correlates the levels achieved in both components. This matrix decides the number of additional points that will be added to the student’s overall diploma score, reflecting the interconnectedness of knowledge and research within the IB framework.

Closing Thoughts

For aspiring IB students, the journey of crafting your Extended Essay is both a challenge and an extraordinary opportunity for intellectual development. Embrace this venture with enthusiasm, knowing that it is a unique chance to explore your academic interests in depth.

If you feel like you might need some extra assistance during this difficult process that is writing your IB Extensive Essay, don’t hesitate to reach out to IB tutors from Edumentors – a platform where they truly care for your success.

As we conclude, I extend my best wishes to all students embarking on this rigorous but rewarding endeavour. May your Extended Essay not only be a gateway to academic success but also a fulfilling learning experience that stays with you long after your IB journey has ended.

• IB Extended Essay

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IB Students Can Now Use ChatGPT in Their Essays

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