Extended Essay

‘The Basics’

An in-depth study of a focused topic chosen from the list of approved Diploma Program subjects.
Presented as a formal piece of paperwork with no more than 4,000 words
Compulsory for all diploma students
The result of approximately 40 hours work by the student
A piece of independent research on a topic chosen by the students in cooperation with a supervisor in the school
Concluded with the signing of the new Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF)
Externally Assessed and in combination with the grade for TOK
Contributes a maximum of 3 bonus points to the score of the diploma (with TOK)

The EE is an in-depth study of a focused topic. It gives students the opportunity to:

engage in independent research with intellectual initiative, creativity and rigor
develop research, thinking, self-management and communication skills
reflect on what they have learned throughout the research and writing process.

All students must:

provide a logical and coherent rationale for their choice of topic
review what has already been written about the topic
formulate a clear research question:
- - - Clear: Will the reader understand the nature of the research? Will it direct the research being undertaken?
    - Focused: Will the research question be specific enough to allow for exploration within the scope of the task (that is, the number of words and time available)?
    - Arguable: Does the research question allow for analysis, evaluation and the development of a reasoned Argument?
offer a concrete description of the methods they use to investigate the question
generate reasoned interpretations and conclusions based on their reading and independent research in order to answer the question.

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