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Depending on your subject, your introduction might look a little different. Those doing a WSEE will have a much larger introduction.Β
Think of the introduction as answering:
π‘ What am I researching?
π‘ Why does it matter?
π‘ How will I investigate it?
The introduction is mainly evaluated under Criterion A : Focus and Method, which expects:
β Clear, focused RQ
β Contextual understanding of the topic
β Appropriate method for investigation
A great intro doesn't have to be long (300β400 words) but it must:
Answer: What, Why, and How
Show you're thinking like a young academic, not just summarising!
Opening Context / Background
π Briefly introduce the topic in a general way.
π Explain why the topic is worthy of investigation, showing relevance and interest.
π Provide background information if necessary to help the reader understand the scope.
Clear Statement of the Research Question
π The research question (RQ) must be clearly stated, usually in the form of a question.
π It should be sharply focused, specific, and appropriate to the subject area.
π It should appear early in the introduction, usually at the end of the first or second paragraph.
Scope of the Essay
π Clarify the scope and limits of your investigation.
π What aspects are you focusing on? What are you not covering, and why?
π Briefly explain how youβre going to approach the research question (methods, perspectives, sources).
Significance of the Topic
π Why is this research question important?
π How does it relate to broader issues or debates within the subject?
π This is your chance to show personal engagement β why did the student choose this topic?
Thesis Statement / Hypothesis (if applicable)
π If the subject/discipline allows, a working thesis or hypothesis may be included.
π This is especially relevant for History, Economics, or the Sciences.
Overview or Outline (optional but useful)
π A brief sentence or two outlining the structure or organisation of the essay.
ποΈ IB History EE β Introduction Template
Paragraph 1 β Topic Context & Importance
Historical inquiry allows us to understand the forces that shape societies, institutions, and ideologies. This essay explores the [general topic area], focusing on its influence during [specific time period]. The topic holds particular relevance in understanding [mention historical significance or controversy].
Paragraph 2 β Research Question & Scope
The research question guiding this essay is:
βTo what extent did [event/policy/leader] influence [outcome/phenomenon] in [specific context]?β
This investigation will examine primary sources such as [name key sources], and secondary scholarship from historians like [mention 1β2]. The essay focuses on the period between [start year] and [end year] in [geographic location], intentionally excluding [irrelevant factors] to maintain a focused analysis.
Paragraph 3 β Approach & Significance
The essay analyses both immediate and long-term consequences of [main focus] by evaluating different historiographical perspectives and using the method of historical comparison. Understanding this question allows for deeper insights into [broader historical themes or debates], such as [e.g., nationalism, imperialism, revolution].
π IB English A Literature EE β Introduction Template
Paragraph 1 β Topic Context & Literary Relevance
Literature often reveals deeper truths about human experience through symbolic, thematic, and stylistic choices. This essay focuses on [authorβs name]βs [title(s) of literary work(s)] and explores how [author] portrays [theme or issue] within the text(s). This topic is relevant because it raises questions about [literary, philosophical, or social concept].
Paragraph 2 β Research Question & Scope
The guiding research question is:
βHow does [author] use [literary technique(s)] to explore [theme or concept] in [title(s)]?β
This essay focuses on [a particular character, motif, or element], analysing textual evidence from [specific sections or scenes]. The analysis avoids broad biographical interpretations and centers instead on close reading and literary analysis.
Paragraph 3 β Approach & Method
Through close textual analysis and comparative commentary, this essay explores the authorβs stylistic choices, narrative structure, and thematic complexity. The discussion will engage with relevant literary criticism but will prioritise original analysis. By understanding the portrayal of [theme], we gain insights into [broader human or cultural issue].
𧬠IB Biology EE β Introduction Template
Paragraph 1 β Scientific Context
Scientific exploration contributes to our understanding of life processes and ecological systems. This essay investigates a specific biological process: [topic area, e.g., the effect of X on Y in Z species]. This topic was chosen due to its relevance to current scientific research and personal interest in [mention real-world or ecological relevance].
Paragraph 2 β Research Question & Variables
The research question addressed is:
βWhat is the effect of [independent variable] on [dependent variable] in [organism or system]?β
This essay is based on a controlled experiment conducted over [time period]. Key variables include:
Independent variable: [describe]
Dependent variable: [describe]
Control variables: [list]
Data collection follows standardised procedures to ensure reliability and reproducibility.
Paragraph 3 β Scope & Scientific Value
This study aims to contribute to understanding [specific biological mechanism or interaction], with potential applications in [e.g., agriculture, medicine, conservation]. While limited in scale, the investigation models scientific inquiry and contributes to broader discussions in biology around [relevant theory or issue].
π° IB Economics EE β Introduction Template
Paragraph 1 β Context & Importance
Economics provides a framework for understanding how scarce resources are allocated in society. This essay investigates a real-world economic issue in [local/national] context, focusing on [briefly state economic situation or policy]. The topic is timely and relevant due to its implications for [stakeholders or policy impact].
Paragraph 2 β Research Question & Definitions
The research question is:
βTo what extent has [government policy or external factor] affected [economic variable] in [specific location]?β
Key economic concepts relevant to this investigation include [list 2β3 relevant concepts, e.g., supply and demand, market failure, elasticity]. Terms such as [define a key economic term] are used throughout this analysis.
Paragraph 3 β Method & Scope
The essay uses a microeconomic/macroeconomic approach, drawing on primary data (e.g., interviews, surveys, local business data) and secondary sources (e.g., government statistics, reports). The analysis is confined to the period between [years], and to [specific geographic or market scope]. This investigation helps demonstrate the application of economic theory in a real-life context.
π§ IB Psychology EE β Introduction Template
Paragraph 1 β Background & Relevance
Psychology seeks to explain human thoughts, feelings, and behaviors through empirical investigation and theoretical frameworks. This essay explores the topic of [general area, e.g., memory, development, social behavior], focusing on its manifestation in [context or population]. The subject is both personally and socially relevant, particularly in understanding [issue].
Paragraph 2 β Research Question & Theoretical Framework
The guiding question is:
βTo what extent does [psychological factor or treatment] affect [behavior/outcome] in [group/context]?β
The essay draws on theories such as [name key psychological theory] and studies by [name researchers]. Concepts like [list key terms] are central to this investigation.
Paragraph 3 β Approach & Boundaries
This essay synthesises findings from experimental studies, meta-analyses, and theoretical models. The scope is limited to [population, age range, context], and will not include [whatβs excluded, e.g., clinical applications or neurological mechanisms]. Ethical considerations are addressed through responsible treatment of sensitive data and source materials.
β IB Mathematics AA EE β Introduction Template
Paragraph 1 β Mathematical Relevance
Mathematics is not only a tool for solving problems but also a language through which abstract ideas are expressed. This essay explores a mathematical investigation into [general area, e.g., calculus, number theory, game theory], sparked by interest in [real-life problem, mathematical curiosity, or pattern].
Paragraph 2 β Research Question & Context
The research question is:
βTo what extent can [mathematical model/concept] be used to analyse/solve [specific problem or pattern]?β
The exploration is situated within [relevant math domain, e.g., differential equations, probability], and references foundational concepts such as [list key principles].
Paragraph 3 β Approach & Scope
This essay involves formulating and analysing mathematical models, performing calculations, and interpreting results. While theoretical, the essay maintains a practical lens by applying findings to [real-world context if applicable]. Graphing tools, simulations, and formal proofs are used to maintain rigor. The investigation does not assume knowledge beyond the HL syllabus.
π¨ IB Visual Arts EE β Introduction Template
Paragraph 1 β Artistic Context
Art serves as a mirror to society, reflecting cultural values and challenging perceptions. This essay examines the work of [artist or art movement] in the context of [social, political, cultural theme], exploring how artistic choices shape viewer interpretation.
Paragraph 2 β Research Question & Artistic Focus
The research question is:
βHow does [artist or movement] use [artistic techniques/media] to express [theme] in [specific work or body of work]?β
This essay explores [specific artworks or exhibitions], with a focus on visual elements such as composition, symbolism, and technique. The historical, cultural, or political context is considered to enrich the visual analysis.
Paragraph 3 β Methodology & Engagement
Primary analysis of artworks is supported by critical reviews, curatorial notes, and artist interviews where available. The approach is interpretive and critical, not biographical. This essay reflects personal engagement with the artwork and an exploration of how art communicates meaning across cultures and time periods.
π± IB Environmental Systems & Societies EE β Introduction Template
Paragraph 1 β Environmental Relevance
Environmental challenges like biodiversity loss, pollution, and climate change require interdisciplinary understanding. This essay investigates [environmental issue] in [local/global context], inspired by [personal experience, local issue, or global concern].
Paragraph 2 β Research Question & Focus
The research question is:
βTo what extent has [human activity/policy] impacted [environmental factor] in [ecosystem/location]?β
The essay considers ecological principles (e.g., carrying capacity, succession, biodiversity) and integrates data on both environmental and social dimensions.
Paragraph 3 β Methodology & Boundaries
This investigation combines fieldwork (e.g., sampling, surveys) with secondary data (e.g., government reports, scientific articles). The scope is limited to a specific location, time frame, and indicator (e.g., species population, air quality index). The interdisciplinary nature of ESS allows for both scientific and ethical analysis.
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