EXTENDED ESSAY

An extended essay (EE) in the sciences gives you an opportunity to apply a range of skills while researching a topic of personal interest in the field. Working on a science EE must demonstrate an in-depth analysis of the subject matter studied, be it biology, chemistry, computer science, design technology, ESS or physics. This understanding must be shown in the form of a research paper involving a well formulated research question. It is important your study should reflect one specific science area. For example: 

• biology—dealing with living organisms and life processes

• chemistry—dealing with the composition, characterization and transformation of substances 

• computer science—exploring advances in hardware and software development, network systems and computer control systems. 

The nature of the topic under investigation should be different for each subject area and you should be careful if you undertake essays that may blur the boundaries between two science subjects. For example, when studying the pH of a body of water, you may investigate the chemicals responsible for the observed pH (chemistry), or the effect of the pH on the biota (biology). 

A critical stage in preparing for the EE is the formulation of a logical and coherent rationale for selecting a particular topic. You need to identify a topic that offers enough scope for the essay. You also require a research question that allows you to either generate data or examine existing data in order to support or refute their argument. 

The outcome of the research should be a coherent and structured piece of writing that effectively addresses the research question and arrives at a particular objective conclusion based on the evidence presented. In addition, you are expected to think critically about your methodology, especially when the data may not support your initial thoughts. You should consider a range of factors that may have contributed to this.

The emphasis of your EE should always be on: 

• written analysis 

• interpretation of data 

• evaluation 

• construction and development of a reasoned argument. 

Therefore, it is vital that the chosen methodology and experimental work of the essay is tailored to the research question and allows for an in-depth exploration.

Introduction

An EE in the sciences is intended for you whom are interested in undertaking research in an area of biology, chemistry, computer science, design technology, ESS or physics. Qualitative and quantitative methods are used. 

Methods most relevant to subjects in this group 

Primary methods involve analysis of original scientific publications, experiments, analysis of data, use of databases, modelling, written computer programs, surveys, questionnaires, observations, personal communications and interviews. 

Secondary sources include the collection of information from books, academic journals, newspaper and magazine articles, textbooks, reviews and websites. 

Suggestions for possible sources 

Use of peer-reviewed journals, newspaper articles, books, e-resources and publications online, specialized academic research engines, unpublished conference papers and previously published essays. 

Where relevant and possible, you may wish to consult practitioners and professionals to stimulate original ideas, provide models of disciplined, structured and informed approaches and encourage direct and personal involvement with the essay topic. 

Particular things to be aware of 

You need to be aware that your work will be checked in terms of the IB’s academic honesty policy and so you must ensure that you are familiar with this document. 

When collecting data and conducting experimental procedures with human subjects (especially in biology), you must gain informed consent from the research participants. Research participants should be informed of the purpose, procedures and potential risks involved in a study. 

Investigations that are based on experiments likely to inflict pain on, or cause unnecessary stress to, living organisms are inadmissible. For greater clarification you are advised to read the IB Animal experimentation policy. 

It is recommended that all test subjects complete a physical activity readiness questionnaire (PAR-Q) or similar readiness questionnaire prior to partaking in rigorous exercise to ensure that they are suitable candidates for the investigation. 

Experiments involving bodily fluids must not be performed under any circumstances due to the risk of the transmission of pathogens. Experiments involving dangerous or carcinogenic substances, radioactive materials, toxic chemicals, ionizing radiation, loud sounds or heavy equipment should be avoided unless adequate safety apparatus and qualified supervision are available. 

Summary 

Undertaking an EE is a challenge and so planning is crucial. You need to start writing your paper early and discuss any emerging difficulties with your supervisor, especially those that relate to experimental work that needs to be undertaken over a period of time, as with, for example, experiments with plants. 

Supervisors, practitioners and professionals in the field are a great source of information, advice and support for you. 

When writing a science EE, you should search for primary and secondary sources of information prior to initiating the writing process. 

The framing of a good research question that is well structured and thought through will aid you in establishing a reasoned argument. 

The EE and internal assessments- IMPORTANT 

The EE is not an extension of the internal assessment, or any other assessment component, and YOU must ensure that you do not use material submitted for any other assessment component as part of the EE submission. In the sciences this explicitly means that data collected for experiments undertaken as part of science lessons or the internal assessment task cannot be used as the basis of the EE in that subject.