The RQ in the...

Picking just one topic

You may have a list of possible topics. To narrow these down:

• Make sure your topic fits into one of the IB specified subject areas.

• Choose a topic that will keep you interested for a long period of time.

• Try not to pick a topic that you have strong personal feelings about as you may not remain open-minded.

• Consider if there is a teacher who can supervise this topic.

• Make sure you have the resources you need to carry out your research.

• Consider choosing a topic which relates to your future career aspirations.

(https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/ib-extended-essay/7/steps/669241)

Let’s take the example of a student who is exploring the topic of how people learn new languages.

They may initially generate a question such as “What impacts students’ ability to learn English as a second language?”. However, this is not specific enough. A more effective title might be: “What cross-linguistic influence is experienced by Hong Kong children learning English as their second language?”. The original question was improved by:

• using a specific case study rather than general terms and concepts

• narrowing the scope by focussing on a specific geographical area

• narrowing the scope by focussing on a particular demographic.