The Core: EE

The EE process aims to provide students with the opportunity to:

• undertake independent research on a focused topic of their choice

• develop and demonstrate a pre-university level skills set in the areas of self-management, research, academic writing, and critical thinking

• engage with the methodologies (methods) of scholarship in a particular subject / field of study e.g. Natural Sciences, Language and Literature, Historical Studies in preparation for further study

The process is guided by the Extended Essay Coordinator, DP Coordinator and the Extended Essay supervisors allocated to each student. A number of core lessons are scheduled to specificially provide guidance to the students throughout the process to ensure they fully understand the expectations and the research, writing and reflection process, as outlined below.

1. The planning and pursuit of a research project with intellectual initiative, creativity, and personal insight

2. The development of a precise research question

3. The selection, recording and interpretation of source material or data appropriate for the chosen research question

4. The demonstration of sound formal presentation and referencing skills (according to academic conventions)

5. The usage of terminology and language appropriate to the subject in which the EE is based

6. The application of analytical and evaluative skills to form an in-depth understanding of the context and implications of the research undertaken by the IB candidate

7. A demonstration of reflection skills presented in the form of an electronic portfolio (the researcher’s reflection space) on ManageBac

8. The application of key concepts and terms from the TOK course when researching and writing the EE

In the Diploma Programme, the extended essay is the prime example of a project where the student has the opportunity to show knowledge, understanding and enthusiasm of a topic through a thoughtful and sustained argument. In those countries where interviews are required prior to acceptance for employment or for a place at university, the extended essay is often a valuable stimulus for discussion.