Embedded Files
Overview:
Overview:
The essay must be based on secondary sources only. The collection of primary data is not permitted.
The essay needs to be focused on the study of behavior, not on descriptions of neurological processes, etc.
Topics that aren't supported by peer-reviewed research studies (e.g. pop psychology or self-help) aren't appropriate for the extended essay.
Topic such as eating disorders, dysfunctional behaviors and forensic psychology are considered extremely ambitious topics that require far more time and experience than a student typically has. They are considered inappropriate topics, unless the student focuses their research question very tightly.
The research must follow the IB ethical guidelines.
Refer to the official IB guide for more detailed information on appropriate topics, appropriate texts and examples for topics, research questions and suggested approaches.
Example Essay & Examiner's Comments
Read the example for a high scoring essay in Psychology to get a better idea of the expectations. Read the Examiner's Comments to understand the assessment of the essay.
Assessment
Subject specific interpretation of the assessment criteria:
Refer to the checklist for a general overview of the assessment criteria, as well as the subject-specific interpretation for Psychology.
Subject-specific Resources
Our World in Data: data on several global issues
Encyclopedia of Science, Technology and Ethics: this Encyclopedia considers both the professional ethics of science and technology, and the ethical and political issues raised by science and technology in an increasingly complex and global society
Ethics, Science, Technology and Engineering: this publication considers both the professional ethics of science and technology, and the ethical and political issues raised by science and technology in an increasingly complex and global society
American Decades Primary Sources: world events, the arts, business and the economy, education, fashion, government and politics, law and justice, lifestyles and social trends, media, medicine and health, religion, science and technology, and sports 2000-2009
Plos One: open access journals
World Book Advanced: multimedia ebook center and primary source content
Boise Public Library: access to a variety of online resources (get a free library card first)
Lili.org: free access to academic databases with an Idaho address (select a database first, then search for your topic)
Page updated
Report abuse