This criterion focuses on the topic, the research question, and the methodology. It assesses the explanation of the focus of the research (this includes the title and the research question), how the research will be undertaken, and how the focus is maintained throughout the essay.

1. The topic chosen is identified and explained to readers in terms of contextualizing and justifying its worthiness.

   • How well does the research paper identify and communicate the chosen topic?

2. The title is a formal requirement on the title page of the essay. If the title is missing, it will be considered on balance with the other formal requirements against criterion D. While there is no explicit penalty in criterion A, the title will help address the requirements as it expands on the student’s intended focus. Without a title, students lose an opportunity to clarify their focus.

3. The purpose and focus of the research to be addressed is within the scope of a 4,000-word extended essay, is outlined in the introduction and specified as a research question.

   • Is the research question appropriate given the scope of the task? For example, is the topic sufficiently focused to be adequately addressed within the requirements of the task?

   • Is the research question clearly stated, focused, and based on/situated against background knowledge and understanding of the chosen subject/topic area?

   • Is the focus of the research question maintained throughout the essay?

4. The research is planned and appropriate methods of data collection (methodology) are chosen and identified in order to address the research question.

   • Is there evidence of effective and informed source/method selection with regard to the choice of appropriate sources and/or method(s) used to gather information, including narrowing of scope the range of sources/methods, in order to address the research question within the constraints of the word limit?

5. Sources/methods are considered relevant/appropriate or sufficient in so far as the academic standards for the discipline are concerned. For example, for an economics essay, it would not be sufficient to only use textbooks but rather include reports and data. The quality of the research question itself is not considered when assessing source selection on balance(“Unpacking the Criteria”)

Unpacking Criteria A - Focus and  Method