Student

As the extended essay is an important component of the Diploma Programme, and a substantial piece of

work, students need to ensure that they understand the expectations of the task and manage their time

and workload effectively. The following suggestions are given as guidance to help with the process.

Students are strongly recommended to:

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

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

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

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

essay

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

final topic and research question

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

delays and unforeseen problems

• record sources as their research progresses using their Researcher’s reflection space rather than trying

to reconstruct a list at the end

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

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

• check and proofread the final version of their extended essay

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

consistently referenced

• ensure that all requirements are met.