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International Baccalaureate (IB)

IB students around the globe fear writing the Extended Essay, but it doesn't have to be a source of stress! In this article, I'll get you excited about writing your Extended Essay and provide you with the resources you need to get an A on it.

If you're reading this article, I'm going to assume you're an IB student getting ready to write your Extended Essay. If you're looking at this as a potential future IB student, I recommend reading our introductory IB articles first, including our guide to what the IB program is and our full coverage of the IB curriculum .

IB Extended Essay: Why Should You Trust My Advice?

I myself am a recipient of an IB Diploma, and I happened to receive an A on my IB Extended Essay. Don't believe me? The proof is in the IBO pudding:

If you're confused by what this report means, EE is short for Extended Essay , and English A1 is the subject that my Extended Essay topic coordinated with. In layman's terms, my IB Diploma was graded in May 2010, I wrote my Extended Essay in the English A1 category, and I received an A grade on it.

What Is the Extended Essay in the IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Extended Essay, or EE , is a mini-thesis you write under the supervision of an IB advisor (an IB teacher at your school), which counts toward your IB Diploma (learn more about the major IB Diploma requirements in our guide) . I will explain exactly how the EE affects your Diploma later in this article.

For the Extended Essay, you will choose a research question as a topic, conduct the research independently, then write an essay on your findings . The essay itself is a long one—although there's a cap of 4,000 words, most successful essays get very close to this limit.

Keep in mind that the IB requires this essay to be a "formal piece of academic writing," meaning you'll have to do outside research and cite additional sources.

The IB Extended Essay must include the following:

• A title page
• Contents page
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References and bibliography

Additionally, your research topic must fall into one of the six approved DP categories , or IB subject groups, which are as follows:

• Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
• Group 2: Language Acquisition
• Group 3: Individuals and Societies
• Group 4: Sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics
• Group 6: The Arts

Once you figure out your category and have identified a potential research topic, it's time to pick your advisor, who is normally an IB teacher at your school (though you can also find one online ). This person will help direct your research, and they'll conduct the reflection sessions you'll have to do as part of your Extended Essay.

As of 2018, the IB requires a "reflection process" as part of your EE supervision process. To fulfill this requirement, you have to meet at least three times with your supervisor in what the IB calls "reflection sessions." These meetings are not only mandatory but are also part of the formal assessment of the EE and your research methods.

According to the IB, the purpose of these meetings is to "provide an opportunity for students to reflect on their engagement with the research process." Basically, these meetings give your supervisor the opportunity to offer feedback, push you to think differently, and encourage you to evaluate your research process.

The final reflection session is called the viva voce, and it's a short 10- to 15-minute interview between you and your advisor. This happens at the very end of the EE process, and it's designed to help your advisor write their report, which factors into your EE grade.

Here are the topics covered in your viva voce :

• A check on plagiarism and malpractice
• Your reflection on your project's successes and difficulties
• Your reflection on what you've learned during the EE process

Your completed Extended Essay, along with your supervisor's report, will then be sent to the IB to be graded. We'll cover the assessment criteria in just a moment.

We'll help you learn how to have those "lightbulb" moments...even on test day!  

What Should You Write About in Your IB Extended Essay?

You can technically write about anything, so long as it falls within one of the approved categories listed above.

It's best to choose a topic that matches one of the IB courses , (such as Theatre, Film, Spanish, French, Math, Biology, etc.), which shouldn't be difficult because there are so many class subjects.

Here is a range of sample topics with the attached extended essay:

• Biology: The Effect of Age and Gender on the Photoreceptor Cells in the Human Retina
• Chemistry: How Does Reflux Time Affect the Yield and Purity of Ethyl Aminobenzoate (Benzocaine), and How Effective is Recrystallisation as a Purification Technique for This Compound?
• English: An Exploration of Jane Austen's Use of the Outdoors in Emma
• Geography: The Effect of Location on the Educational Attainment of Indigenous Secondary Students in Queensland, Australia
• Math: Alhazen's Billiard Problem
• Visual Arts: Can Luc Tuymans Be Classified as a Political Painter?

You can see from how varied the topics are that you have a lot of freedom when it comes to picking a topic . So how do you pick when the options are limitless?

How to Write a Stellar IB Extended Essay: 6 Essential Tips

Below are six key tips to keep in mind as you work on your Extended Essay for the IB DP. Follow these and you're sure to get an A!

#1: Write About Something You Enjoy

You can't expect to write a compelling essay if you're not a fan of the topic on which you're writing. For example, I just love British theatre and ended up writing my Extended Essay on a revolution in post-WWII British theatre. (Yes, I'm definitely a #TheatreNerd.)

I really encourage anyone who pursues an IB Diploma to take the Extended Essay seriously. I was fortunate enough to receive a full-tuition merit scholarship to USC's School of Dramatic Arts program. In my interview for the scholarship, I spoke passionately about my Extended Essay; thus, I genuinely think my Extended Essay helped me get my scholarship.

But how do you find a topic you're passionate about? Start by thinking about which classes you enjoy the most and why . Do you like math classes because you like to solve problems? Or do you enjoy English because you like to analyze literary texts?

Keep in mind that there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing your Extended Essay topic. You're not more likely to get high marks because you're writing about science, just like you're not doomed to failure because you've chosen to tackle the social sciences. The quality of what you produce—not the field you choose to research within—will determine your grade.

Once you've figured out your category, you should brainstorm more specific topics by putting pen to paper . What was your favorite chapter you learned in that class? Was it astrophysics or mechanics? What did you like about that specific chapter? Is there something you want to learn more about? I recommend spending a few hours on this type of brainstorming.

One last note: if you're truly stumped on what to research, pick a topic that will help you in your future major or career . That way you can use your Extended Essay as a talking point in your college essays (and it will prepare you for your studies to come too!).

#2: Select a Topic That Is Neither Too Broad nor Too Narrow

There's a fine line between broad and narrow. You need to write about something specific, but not so specific that you can't write 4,000 words on it.

You can't write about WWII because that would be a book's worth of material. You also don't want to write about what type of soup prisoners of war received behind enemy lines, because you probably won’t be able to come up with 4,000 words of material about it. However, you could possibly write about how the conditions in German POW camps—and the rations provided—were directly affected by the Nazis' successes and failures on the front, including the use of captured factories and prison labor in Eastern Europe to increase production. WWII military history might be a little overdone, but you get my point.

If you're really stuck trying to pinpoint a not-too-broad-or-too-narrow topic, I suggest trying to brainstorm a topic that uses a comparison. Once you begin looking through the list of sample essays below, you'll notice that many use comparisons to formulate their main arguments.

I also used a comparison in my EE, contrasting Harold Pinter's Party Time with John Osborne's Look Back in Anger in order to show a transition in British theatre. Topics with comparisons of two to three plays, books, and so on tend to be the sweet spot. You can analyze each item and then compare them with one another after doing some in-depth analysis of each individually. The ways these items compare and contrast will end up forming the thesis of your essay!

When choosing a comparative topic, the key is that the comparison should be significant. I compared two plays to illustrate the transition in British theatre, but you could compare the ways different regional dialects affect people's job prospects or how different temperatures may or may not affect the mating patterns of lightning bugs. The point here is that comparisons not only help you limit your topic, but they also help you build your argument.

Comparisons are not the only way to get a grade-A EE, though. If after brainstorming, you pick a non-comparison-based topic and are still unsure whether your topic is too broad or narrow, spend about 30 minutes doing some basic research and see how much material is out there.

If there are more than 1,000 books, articles, or documentaries out there on that exact topic, it may be too broad. But if there are only two books that have any connection to your topic, it may be too narrow. If you're still unsure, ask your advisor—it's what they're there for! Speaking of advisors...

Don't get stuck with a narrow topic!

#3: Choose an Advisor Who Is Familiar With Your Topic

If you're not certain of who you would like to be your advisor, create a list of your top three choices. Next, write down the pros and cons of each possibility (I know this sounds tedious, but it really helps!).

For example, Mr. Green is my favorite teacher and we get along really well, but he teaches English. For my EE, I want to conduct an experiment that compares the efficiency of American electric cars with foreign electric cars.

I had Ms. White a year ago. She teaches physics and enjoyed having me in her class. Unlike Mr. Green, Ms. White could help me design my experiment.

Based on my topic and what I need from my advisor, Ms. White would be a better fit for me than would Mr. Green (even though I like him a lot).

The moral of my story is this: do not just ask your favorite teacher to be your advisor . They might be a hindrance to you if they teach another subject. For example, I would not recommend asking your biology teacher to guide you in writing an English literature-based EE.

There can, of course, be exceptions to this rule. If you have a teacher who's passionate and knowledgeable about your topic (as my English teacher was about my theatre topic), you could ask that instructor. Consider all your options before you do this. There was no theatre teacher at my high school, so I couldn't find a theatre-specific advisor, but I chose the next best thing.

Before you approach a teacher to serve as your advisor, check with your high school to see what requirements they have for this process. Some IB high schools require your IB Extended Essay advisor to sign an Agreement Form , for instance.

Make sure that you ask your IB coordinator whether there is any required paperwork to fill out. If your school needs a specific form signed, bring it with you when you ask your teacher to be your EE advisor.

#4: Pick an Advisor Who Will Push You to Be Your Best

Some teachers might just take on students because they have to and aren't very passionate about reading drafts, only giving you minimal feedback. Choose a teacher who will take the time to read several drafts of your essay and give you extensive notes. I would not have gotten my A without being pushed to make my Extended Essay draft better.

Ask a teacher that you have experience with through class or an extracurricular activity. Do not ask a teacher that you have absolutely no connection to. If a teacher already knows you, that means they already know your strengths and weaknesses, so they know what to look for, where you need to improve, and how to encourage your best work.

Also, don't forget that your supervisor's assessment is part of your overall EE score . If you're meeting with someone who pushes you to do better—and you actually take their advice—they'll have more impressive things to say about you than a supervisor who doesn't know you well and isn't heavily involved in your research process.

Be aware that the IB only allows advisors to make suggestions and give constructive criticism. Your teacher cannot actually help you write your EE. The IB recommends that the supervisor spends approximately two to three hours in total with the candidate discussing the EE.

#5: Make Sure Your Essay Has a Clear Structure and Flow

The IB likes structure. Your EE needs a clear introduction (which should be one to two double-spaced pages), research question/focus (i.e., what you're investigating), a body, and a conclusion (about one double-spaced page). An essay with unclear organization will be graded poorly.

The body of your EE should make up the bulk of the essay. It should be about eight to 18 pages long (again, depending on your topic). Your body can be split into multiple parts. For example, if you were doing a comparison, you might have one third of your body as Novel A Analysis, another third as Novel B Analysis, and the final third as your comparison of Novels A and B.

If you're conducting an experiment or analyzing data, such as in this EE , your EE body should have a clear structure that aligns with the scientific method ; you should state the research question, discuss your method, present the data, analyze the data, explain any uncertainties, and draw a conclusion and/or evaluate the success of the experiment.

#6: Start Writing Sooner Rather Than Later!

You will not be able to crank out a 4,000-word essay in just a week and get an A on it. You'll be reading many, many articles (and, depending on your topic, possibly books and plays as well!). As such, it's imperative that you start your research as soon as possible.

Each school has a slightly different deadline for the Extended Essay. Some schools want them as soon as November of your senior year; others will take them as late as February. Your school will tell you what your deadline is. If they haven't mentioned it by February of your junior year, ask your IB coordinator about it.

Some high schools will provide you with a timeline of when you need to come up with a topic, when you need to meet with your advisor, and when certain drafts are due. Not all schools do this. Ask your IB coordinator if you are unsure whether you are on a specific timeline.

Below is my recommended EE timeline. While it's earlier than most schools, it'll save you a ton of heartache (trust me, I remember how hard this process was!):

• January/February of Junior Year: Come up with your final research topic (or at least your top three options).
• February of Junior Year: Approach a teacher about being your EE advisor. If they decline, keep asking others until you find one. See my notes above on how to pick an EE advisor.
• April/May of Junior Year: Submit an outline of your EE and a bibliography of potential research sources (I recommend at least seven to 10) to your EE advisor. Meet with your EE advisor to discuss your outline.
• Summer Between Junior and Senior Year: Complete your first full draft over the summer between your junior and senior year. I know, I know—no one wants to work during the summer, but trust me—this will save you so much stress come fall when you are busy with college applications and other internal assessments for your IB classes. You will want to have this first full draft done because you will want to complete a couple of draft cycles as you likely won't be able to get everything you want to say into 4,000 articulate words on the first attempt. Try to get this first draft into the best possible shape so you don't have to work on too many revisions during the school year on top of your homework, college applications, and extracurriculars.
• August/September of Senior Year: Turn in your first draft of your EE to your advisor and receive feedback. Work on incorporating their feedback into your essay. If they have a lot of suggestions for improvement, ask if they will read one more draft before the final draft.
• September/October of Senior Year: Submit the second draft of your EE to your advisor (if necessary) and look at their feedback. Work on creating the best possible final draft.
• November-February of Senior Year: Schedule your viva voce. Submit two copies of your final draft to your school to be sent off to the IB. You likely will not get your grade until after you graduate.

Remember that in the middle of these milestones, you'll need to schedule two other reflection sessions with your advisor . (Your teachers will actually take notes on these sessions on a form like this one , which then gets submitted to the IB.)

I recommend doing them when you get feedback on your drafts, but these meetings will ultimately be up to your supervisor. Just don't forget to do them!

The early bird DOES get the worm!

How Is the IB Extended Essay Graded?

Extended Essays are graded by examiners appointed by the IB on a scale of 0 to 34 . You'll be graded on five criteria, each with its own set of points. You can learn more about how EE scoring works by reading the IB guide to extended essays .

• Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum)
• Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum)
• Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum)
• Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum)
• Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum)

How well you do on each of these criteria will determine the final letter grade you get for your EE. You must earn at least a D to be eligible to receive your IB Diploma.

Although each criterion has a point value, the IB explicitly states that graders are not converting point totals into grades; instead, they're using qualitative grade descriptors to determine the final grade of your Extended Essay . Grade descriptors are on pages 102-103 of this document .

Here's a rough estimate of how these different point values translate to letter grades based on previous scoring methods for the EE. This is just an estimate —you should read and understand the grade descriptors so you know exactly what the scorers are looking for.

Here is the breakdown of EE scores (from the May 2021 bulletin):

How Does the Extended Essay Grade Affect Your IB Diploma?

The Extended Essay grade is combined with your TOK (Theory of Knowledge) grade to determine how many points you get toward your IB Diploma.

To learn about Theory of Knowledge or how many points you need to receive an IB Diploma, read our complete guide to the IB program and our guide to the IB Diploma requirements .

This diagram shows how the two scores are combined to determine how many points you receive for your IB diploma (3 being the most, 0 being the least). In order to get your IB Diploma, you have to earn 24 points across both categories (the TOK and EE). The highest score anyone can earn is 45 points.

Let's say you get an A on your EE and a B on TOK. You will get 3 points toward your Diploma. As of 2014, a student who scores an E on either the extended essay or TOK essay will not be eligible to receive an IB Diploma .

Prior to the class of 2010, a Diploma candidate could receive a failing grade in either the Extended Essay or Theory of Knowledge and still be awarded a Diploma, but this is no longer true.

Figuring out how you're assessed can be a little tricky. Luckily, the IB breaks everything down here in this document . (The assessment information begins on page 219.)

40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme

In case you want a little more guidance on how to get an A on your EE, here are over 40 excellent (grade A) sample extended essays for your reading pleasure. Essays are grouped by IB subject.

• Business Management 1
• Chemistry 1
• Chemistry 2
• Chemistry 3
• Chemistry 4
• Chemistry 5
• Chemistry 6
• Chemistry 7
• Computer Science 1
• Economics 1
• Design Technology 1
• Design Technology 2
• Environmental Systems and Societies 1
• Geography 1
• Geography 2
• Geography 3
• Geography 4
• Geography 5
• Geography 6
• Literature and Performance 1
• Mathematics 1
• Mathematics 2
• Mathematics 3
• Mathematics 4
• Mathematics 5
• Philosophy 1
• Philosophy 2
• Philosophy 3
• Philosophy 4
• Philosophy 5
• Psychology 1
• Psychology 2
• Psychology 3
• Psychology 4
• Psychology 5
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 1
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 2
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 3
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 1
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 2
• Visual Arts 1
• Visual Arts 2
• Visual Arts 3
• Visual Arts 4
• Visual Arts 5
• World Religion 1
• World Religion 2
• World Religion 3

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US IB Extended Essay: Home

• Academic Writing
• Researchers Reflective Space (RRS)
• Research Questions
• Databases & Web Resources (English & Spanish)
• Bibliographies, References & Citations
• Reflections
• Subject Specific EE Resources

Getting Started

Academic Integrity-The IB Guide

To read the full Academic Integrity IB Guide, click HERE.

Extended Essay Guides

If you have questions or concerns about the Extended Essay, see your supervisor, or Dr. Bree. Research needs, see Ms. Keating.

The first part of the IB guide contains general information that is relevant to all Extended Essays, regardless of subject. The section is quite short, and it is well worth reading for the advice and information given. 

Six required elements of the extended essay: Title page Contents page Introduction Body of the essay Conclusion References and bibliography https://ibpublishing.ibo.org/extendedessay/apps/dpapp/guide.html?doc=d_0_eeyyy_gui_1602_1_e&part=5&chapter=5

Presentation of Your Extended Essay https://ibpublishing.ibo.org/extendedessay/apps/dpapp/guide.html?doc=d_0_eeyyy_gui_1602_1_e&part=5&chapter=6

ESSENTIAL TO KNOW!

The extended essay should be written in a clear, correct and formal academic style, appropriate to the subject from which the topic is drawn. Given that the extended essay is a formally written research paper, it should strive to maintain a professional, academic look.

To help achieve this, the following formatting is required: the use of 12-point, readable font double spacing page numbering no candidate or school name on the title page or page headers.

Submitting the extended essay in the required format will help set the tone of the essay and will aid readability for on-screen assessment by examiners.

• ASM Extended Essay Information
• General EE Info for Juniors

Assessment Points

Points awarded for the Extended Essay in conjunction with the Theory of Knowledge Essay - out of a maximum total of 45 points.   (See the IBO webpage on Assessment for more information.)

Extended Essay Topics

Your Extended Essay (research topic) must fall into one of the six approved DP categories , or IB subject groups, which are as follows:

• Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
• Group 2: Language Acquisition
• Group 3: Individuals and Societies
• Group 4: Sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics
• Group 6: The Arts

IB Academic Honesty/Integrity

Academic honesty in the IB educational context

Most students understand that it is wrong to copy another student's work and submit as their own. However, it is also dishonest to copy and paste text from WWW into your paper and submit as your own writing or ideas. 

Academic Honesty   The Plagiarism.org website provides some helpful information on intentional and unintentional plagiarism, and on how students can avoid plagiarism by good citation. Paraphrasing can be difficult, and the  Indiana University Writing Tutorial Services provides some helpful information on how to properly paraphrase.

Citing Sources for Academic Research When doing research for papers and projects, it is necessary to properly acknowledge authors whose work has been used in your end product. This acknowledgement takes place in your writing in the form of parenthetical references, footnotes, endnotes, works cited pages or bibliographies. There are many documentation styles used by a variety of academic disciplines.  At the American School of Madrid , students are strongly encouraged to use MLA. Noodle Tools is an excellent way to assure students that their citations will be correctly formatted.

Plagiarism Plagiarism is often clear to students only when it involves non-electronic sources. For example, buying a paper from a paper mill to turn in as one's own work is unquestionably plagiarism. Students realize that copying from a book or journal without properly citing the source is plagiarism, but using materials from Web documents seems to be different. Students have the perception that everything on the Web is free, therefore could be no theft involved in taking material that is found there. However, plagiarism is not limited to any specific format, electronic or non-electronic.

Copyright law protects Web documents. Georgia Harper, a lawyer for the University of Texas, says that people assume that everything on the Web is public domain, probably because the law used to require that copyrighted material display a copyright notice. The law changed, however, and "putting the fingers on the keyboard creates a copyrighted work." She says that copyright protection is automatic, so that postings of all kinds are protected (Harper). (Southeastern Louisiana University)

To view this PowerPoint click HERE.

The Extended Essay-Understand the Process

Click here to get the full Extended Essay Guide , or the links below to the specific sections. 

Overview of the Extended Essay

Academic honesty in the IB

Ethical guidelines for Extended Essay research and fieldwork

Researcher's Reflection Space

Role of External Mentors

Viva voce final reflection session

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Extended Essay Resources: Plagiarism VS. Documentation

• Research Video Tutorials
• Video Tutorials
• In-text Citations
• Finding and Citing Images
• Plagiarism VS. Documentation
• MiniLessons
• Human Rights News
• Peace & Conflict News
• Primary Sources
• Introductory Resources
• Narrowing Your Topic
• Subject Resources

Plagiarism vs. Documentation

Plagiarism is the act of presenting someone else's work as your own. It is the theft of intellectual property. The following examples should help you distinguish plagiarism from well-documented research.

Original text from:

McCullough, David. John Adams. New York: Simon & Schuster, 2001. p. 57

His marriage to Abigail Smith was the most important decision of John Adams's life, as would become apparent with time. She was in all respects his equal and the part she was to play would be greater than he could possibly have imagined, for all his love for her and what appreciation he already had of her beneficial, steadying influence.

Writing sample #1

John Adam’s marriage to Abigail was the most important choice in his life. He was to come to understand this better with time. In so many ways, she was his equal, and he could not have imagined the importance of the role she was going to play, despite his love for her and his appreciation of her good, solid influence.

Unacceptable!  This paragraph is the work of someone either deliberately plagiarizing or someone who doesn’t understand what it means to plagiarize. The writer may have changed a few words and switched the order of words in the sentences, but the writer has not changed McCullough’s sequence of ideas and has not used the information in a meaningful way. He or she failed to cite what are really McCullough’s original ideas or words.

Writing sample #2

When John Adams was ready to marry, he sought a woman who was his equal. He found Abigail Smith and loved her for her steadying influence.

Unacceptable!  Not only did this student neglect to cite, this paraphrase twists McCullough’s meaning. Though it changes words significantly, it also does a poor job conveying the original idea accurately.

Writing sample #3

The best decisions of a great leader may extend beyond the political. In fact, the course of American history may have been changed by an entirely personal decision. In his biography of Adams, David McCullough notes that Adams’ choice of Abigail Smith as a wife was the most critical decision of his life. “She was in all respects his equal and the part she was to play would be greater than he could possibly have imagined” (McCullough 57).

This is  acceptable  because the author uses the information in a meaningful way, accurately paraphrases the ideas presented in the original source, credits them and weaves in a quote to emphasize the point. The source is properly quoted and cited using quotation marks and in-text documentation. Note that in this example the student created his/her own topic sentence, following an independent plan and not the necessarily following the structure of another author's material.

All of the above content is from:

Valenza, Joyce. "Documentation/Citation & Info Ethics ."  The Research/Inquiry Process . Spartan

Libguides, n.d. Web. 21 Nov. 2013. <http://sdst.libguides.com/content.php?pid=184760>.

Plagiarism Presentation

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IB Extended Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Extended Essay is a substantial research project that challenges high school students to explore a topic of personal interest within one of the IB's six subject areas. This extended essay, typically around 4,000 words in length, allows students to engage in independent research and develop critical thinking and writing skills. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of completing your IB Extended Essay successfully.

1. Choose Your Subject Area and Topic

- Subject Area: First, select one of the six IB subject areas that you're passionate about and in which you have a strong academic background. These areas include Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts.

- Topic: Narrow down your subject area to a specific topic or research question that genuinely interests you. Your topic should be neither too broad nor too narrow, allowing for in-depth exploration within the word limit.

2. Develop a Research Question

- Research Question: Create a clear and focused research question that guides your investigation. Your research question should be specific, open-ended, and relevant to your chosen subject area.

3. Conduct Preliminary Research

- Literature Review: Start with preliminary research to gain an understanding of the existing scholarship and literature related to your topic. This will help you refine your research question and identify gaps in the current knowledge.

4. Create a Research Plan

- Timeline: Develop a timeline that outlines key milestones and deadlines for your extended essay. This plan should include research, data collection (if applicable), writing, and revision phases.

5. Collect and Analyze Data (if applicable)

- If your extended essay requires data collection (e.g., experiments, surveys, interviews), conduct this research following ethical guidelines. Ensure that your data collection is well-documented and relevant to your research question.

6. Outline Your Essay

- Structure: Create a clear and organized outline for your extended essay. Typically, your essay will include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The body should be divided into sections or chapters that address different aspects of your research.

- Thesis Statement: Develop a strong thesis statement that presents your main argument or hypothesis.

7. Write Your Extended Essay

- Introduction: Start with a compelling introduction that introduces your research question and provides context for your study.

- Body: Present your research findings and analysis in a logical and structured manner. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to your argument and supports your thesis.

- Citations: Properly cite all sources using a consistent citation style (e.g., MLA, APA). Be diligent in avoiding plagiarism.

- Conclusion: Summarize your main findings, restate your thesis, and discuss the significance of your research.

8. Revise and Edit

- Review: Take time to review and revise your extended essay. Check for clarity, coherence, grammar, spelling, and formatting errors.

- Peer Review: Consider having a peer or teacher review your essay for feedback and suggestions.

9. Create Citations and Bibliography

- Generate a comprehensive bibliography that includes all the sources you used in your research. Ensure that your citations are accurate and properly formatted.

10. Submit Your Extended Essay

- Follow your school's guidelines for submission, including deadlines and formatting requirements.

11. Reflect on the Process

- After completing your extended essay, take some time to reflect on your research journey. Consider what you learned, the challenges you faced, and the skills you developed.

12. Celebrate Your Achievement

- Completing an IB Extended Essay is a significant accomplishment. Celebrate your hard work and the knowledge you've gained throughout the process.

The IB Extended Essay is an opportunity for high school students to engage in independent research and develop essential academic skills. By following this step-by-step guide and staying committed to your research and writing, you can successfully complete your extended essay and present a well-researched and well-structured project that demonstrates your academic abilities and passion for your chosen subject area.

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Guide to the IB Extended Essay in 2024

January 24, 2024

If you’re an International Baccalaureate student getting ready to write your IB Extended Essay, you might be experiencing some very understandable trepidation. But have no fear—we’re here to help you understand what’s required of you, how to plan ahead (IB extended essay topics), and how you’ll be graded (IB extended essay rubric). Keep reading for a good dose of preparation and confidence before you begin the journey. In this article, we’ll cover:

What is the IB Extended Essay?

The ib extended essay—required content, ib extended essay topics.

IB Extended Essay—Sample Essays

IB Extended Essay Tips

Ib extended essay rubric, ib extended essay—more resources.

The IB Extended Essay is a 4,000-word paper that asks you to immerse yourself in research and academic writing. A required part of the IB program, the Extended Essay is a chance to dig deep into a topic that fascinates you.

Although it’s no small task, the IB Extended Essay is an opportunity to gain practical research and writing skills that will come in handy again in college. As you write, you’ll learn how to:

• Identify credible sources
• Formulate a research question and limit your scope of research
• Communicate ideas to an audience
• Develop a well-supported argument

The IB Extended Essay is largely an independent, self-directed project, but don’t worry—the IB program doesn’t throw you into the deep end. You do get to select a mentor (usually a teacher at your school) to help guide you through the process. As you write, you’ll be required to meet with your mentor three times. As part of your final evaluation, your mentor will interview you in a final reflection section called a viva voce . During the viva voce, your mentor will check for plagiarism and malpractice, ask you to reflect on challenges and difficulties, and prompt you to discuss what you’ve learned through the research and writing process. Your mentor will then generate a report that factors into your final grade.

Your final essay must include the following:

• Contents page
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References and bibliography

For this essay, it will be up to you to generate a topic; the International Baccalaureate does not provide prompts. However, your essay will need to fit within one of six provided subject areas . You’ll choose from the following list of IB Extended Essay Topics:

• Language and literature
• Language acquisition
• Individuals and societies
• Mathematics

IB Extended Essay Topics (Continued)

At a glance, the subject areas might look limited, but the topics you can choose to write about are actually wide-ranging. The “Individuals and societies” category includes social science topics like economics, history, world religions, and philosophy. And, if you’re leaning toward “Science,” you can choose from classic subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics, or related topics like environmental systems or health science, among others.

The IB also offers a special “World Studies” option for students interested in researching global issues. This subject would allow you to center your writing on global issues such as migration, global health, cultural exchange, or climate change.

Wondering what an outstanding IB Extended Essay looks like? The International Baccalaureate provides quite a few sample student essays online . Here are five essays that earned A grades.

Language and literature: An exploration of an aspect of the narrative voice in Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita

Environmental Systems and Societies: The economic impact of the 1995 reintroduction of grey wolves to Yellowstone National Park

Psychology: To what extent do social networking sites (SNS) usage lead to experience of anxiety in adolescents?

Music: Composition techniques in the 1st movement of Johannes Brahms’s Symphony No. 2, Op. 73

Business Management: Corporate Culture at Oracle

1) Pick something you’re passionate about

As you can see from the titles above, the IB Extended Essay is a great place to delve into a niche topic that fascinates you. Since you’ll be spending many months on this essay, you’ll want to pick a topic you genuinely enjoy spending time learning about. It’s also smart to choose something you’ve already learned about in your IB classes so that you have a strong foundation of knowledge to start with. In music class, do you love pondering why music makes us feel a certain way? Maybe an essay about music theory will keep your gears turning. Do you come alive trying to solve seemingly impossible problems in physics class? Now’s your chance to put those equations into action.

Since this essay is all about your academic interests, it’s also a good idea to pick a topic that’s relevant to what you plan to study in college. Selecting a relevant topic will provide you with significant exposure to the field and will also give you something meaningful to talk about in your college admissions essays.

2) Limit your scope

What’s the meaning of life? Why do wars happen? What is time? Some questions are just way too big to answer, and your IB Extended Essay is not a good place to tackle expansive, philosophical questions. Instead, think of this essay as a place to investigate one piece of a big question. If, let’s say, you’re generally interested in what helps women reach positions of leadership in business, this is a good place to examine how one or a few companies approach this issue. Or, if you’re interested in studying what inspires surrealist painters, you’ll want to pick one or a few painters to research, likely all from the same time period. For both these topics, you’d need a whole textbook to tackle the full question, but limiting your scope will make it much easier to write a clear and cohesive 4,000 words.

On the other hand, it’s possible to narrow your focus too much. It would be impossible, for example, to write 4,000 words about a single sentence in a novel. Make sure you talk about scope early and often with your mentor. Together, you can find the perfect Goldilocks scope for your project that’s not too big and not too small.

3) Choose a good mentor

Speaking of mentors, choosing wisely will help you enormously as you embark on your IB Extended Essay. You’ll want to make sure you choose someone with existing knowledge in your research topic. Your English teacher may be able to give you great writing advice, for example, but they won’t be able to guide your research and scope if you’re writing about marine animals or modern dance.

Before you approach a teacher, make sure you have at least one topic idea (or even a few ideas) in mind so that you can make sure they’ll be a good fit to supervise your project. When you meet with them, find out what their mentorship style is like. Make sure they’ll have time to read several drafts of your essays, meet with you a few times, and give you feedback. Some IB schools will require your IB Extended Essay mentor to sign an agreement form too, so make sure you find out what paperwork is required in advance.

4) Get organized, way organized

The IB Extended Essay is not something you can crank out the night before it’s due. The essay is meant to be a substantive, in-depth, thoughtful, and thoroughly researched analysis, and Rome simply isn’t built in a day. This might be the longest paper you’ve written to date, and this project might require more research than you’ve been asked to do before. Timelines vary by school, but you’ll likely spend between eight months and a year working on your IB Extended Essay. So, how will you pull it all off? For these 8-12 months, organization will be your guiding light. We recommend you:

• Get started early. If your essay is due November of your senior year, start generating topic ideas during your junior year right after winter break.
• Create a long-view schedule for yourself. What will you accomplish each month of your process?
• Give yourself deadlines. Once you choose a mentor, suggest 2-3 draft deadline dates so that you will be held accountable throughout the writing process.
• Find a note-taking system that works for you. You’ll be reading many articles and books and it’s hard to keep track of all your sources. Create a document or spreadsheet where you keep track of the sources you’ve found and check them off as you read. As you finish reading a text, type up important quotes and a few notes explaining how it connects to your topic and to your other texts.

5)Write a messy first draft

Writing never comes out perfect the first time, even for New York Times bestselling authors and the most experienced researchers. In your first draft, give yourself permission to get all your thoughts out, no matter how unstructured or rambling they are. Call this your brainstorming draft. When you’re ready to revisit it, see what patterns emerge, what common ideas you can group together, what beginning buds of ideas you can make bloom into full-fledged analysis.

6) Communicate for an audience

When you’re used to producing writing that only your teacher reads, it can be hard to remember to write for an audience. But at the end of the day, writing is communication , and the best writing is clear and thorough communication that anyone could pick up and read. For your IB Extended Essay, you’ll want to remember that many people will be reading your final essay, and not all of them will be experts in the niche topic you choose to study. Ask yourself: how can I explain my research to an audience who doesn’t already agree with my analysis?

To communicate to an audience, you’ll want to:

• Provide lots of general background information on your topic.
• Don’t assume your reader is familiar with your sources. Introduce them as if they’re guest speakers about to walk up to a podium and deliver a lecture.
• After including quotes, facts, and figures, be sure to explain what those sources mean in your own words and how they connect to your bigger-picture argument.
• Don’t assume your arguments are self-evident. In this essay, communicating for an audience means supplying ongoing interpretation and analysis, even if it feels like you’re explaining the obvious. Your reader isn’t on your research journey with you, so your points might not be so obvious to your reader.

Although your IB Extended Essay provides a report that factors into your grade, your essay will also be assessed by external examiners the IB. Per the IB Extended Essay Rubric , essays are graded on a scale from 0 to 34 based on 5 different criteria:

• Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum)
• Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum)
• Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum)
• Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum)
• Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum)

As you can see, Critical Thinking is the most significant rubric category. This means that the IB wants to see you arrive at your own unique analysis of your topic, drawing connections between sources and data, and making well-supported arguments. This means they want a lot of you: your ideas, your interpretations, your thoughts. Make sure you emphasize that in your essay, but of course don’t forget the other categories.

The score a student receives corresponds to a letter grade scale that is slightly different than what we’re accustomed to in the U.S. Here’s the letter grade to numerical score breakdown:

You must earn a D or higher to receive your IB Diploma. To learn more about the different criteria included in the IB Extended Essay Rubric, you can explore the IB’s full guide to the Extended Essay .

We hope you found our look at the IB extended essay rubric and IB extended essay topics to be helpful. Ready to dive into research? You may want to read our 10 Expert Tips for Improving Reading Comprehension before you hit the books.

And if you’re a high school student in the process of mapping out your pathway to college, take a look at a few other useful guides:

• IB vs AP—Which Classes are Best for College Admission?
• How to Earn College Credit in High School
• High School Course Requirements for College Admission
• SAT Score Calculator
• ACT Score Calculator 
• High School Success

Christina Wood

Christina Wood holds a BA in Literature & Writing from UC San Diego, an MFA in Creative Writing from Washington University in St. Louis, and is currently a Doctoral Candidate in English at the University of Georgia, where she teaches creative writing and first-year composition courses. Christina has published fiction and nonfiction in numerous publications, including The Paris Review , McSweeney’s , Granta , Virginia Quarterly Review , The Sewanee Review , Mississippi Review , and Puerto del Sol , among others. Her story “The Astronaut” won the 2018 Shirley Jackson Award for short fiction and received a “Distinguished Stories” mention in the 2019 Best American Short Stories anthology.

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Example essays

The International Baccalaureate® (IB)  programme resource centre,  a key resource for educators at IB World Schools, includes several examples of  extended essay titles .

These highlight the diverse range of topics covered by International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) students during their extended essays.

Some examples are:

• “An analysis of costume as a source for understanding the inner life of the character”
• “A study of malnourished children in Indonesia and the extent of their recovery after a period of supervised improved nutrition.”
• “Doing  versus  being: language and reality in the Mimamsa school of Indian philosophy.” 
• “The effects of sugar-free chewing gum on the pH of saliva in the mouth after a meal.”
• “To what extent has the fall in the exchange rate of the US dollar affected the tourist industry in Carmel, California?”
•  “What level of data compression in music files is acceptable to the human ear?”

Also available in the programma resource centre , the Diploma Programme Assessment Procedures has guidance on choosing a subject for the extended essay.

The PRC is only available to existing IB World Schools.

You can also purchase examples of essays in the IB Store . These essays fulfil the requirements for an ‘A’ grade in the extended essay.

If your school is not one already, learn how to become an IB World School  in order to implement the DP.

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IB Study Tips

March 24, 2022

IB Extended Essays: 3 Mistakes To Avoid When Writing It

As an integral part of the IB diploma, the Extended Essay (EE) is something that students must put great care into their writing to score the best they can. While this task can be daunting for many because of the number of criteria involved in writing an excellent EE, there are tips and pointers to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and efficient writing process.

1. Getting a good understanding of the essay writing process

The IB EE has plenty of ambiguous terms and elements, such as:

Research question

• Introduction
• Investigation
• Comprehension of the studied topic
• Reasoned argument
• Application of evaluative and analytical skills appropriate for the subject
• Use of language and vocabulary appropriate for the subject
• Formal presentation
• Holistic judgement

Clearly understanding these terms helps ensure that you score high on your EE. Furthermore, students should be mindful that the EE is an academic essay, not a report. Learning this distinction entails understanding that your Extended Essay’s narrative is built around your point of view or hypotheses, which serves as the foundation of your Essay. Moreover, proving or disproving your hypothesis is the entire point of writing the EE. Let us take a closer look at the first two elements above and understand their importance.

The research question embodies your whole thesis and helps shape your EE. When writing the research question, try to find the right balance between focusing on a specific topic without it being too narrow. Seek to hit the right spot where your question has enough scope to allow for a thorough investigation but not too broad for your embarked purpose. A good practice to consider using is the ‘Taper Down’ methodology. This entails constructing your research question in a way that ‘tapers down’ and emphasises the area of focus of your EE. Another way to view this taper down effect is like a funnel divided into three parts. The topmost is the broad methodology, which is then reduced to a limited scope and investigated via scope-related elements.

This is one area where many students make their first big mistake. As shown in the list above, the abstract and the introduction are two separate things. Although the abstract supersedes the introduction chronologically, the former must be written only after finalising your report. Why? Because it is best to think of the abstract as the trailer of sorts for your EE. One can hardly make a trailer without making the entire movie first. The abstract serves as a glimpse of your approach in writing your EE. This 300-word summary for your whole essay must be clear, concise, and engaging enough to make readers want to know more.

2. Following the right mentality to start your essay

Some students prefer to wait for some kind of inspiration before they get to writing, but the truth is that there is no such thing as the right inspiration when it comes to writing your EE. So, how exactly should one proceed in writing? One of the most common ways is through the repetitive process that starts by writing the first draft and sharing it with your mentor, editing it for improvements, getting it reviewed again, and so on and so forth until you are satisfied with your work.

Although there is nothing inherently wrong with this method, it is best to compartmentalise it into smaller milestones. In that way, you can establish explicit targets you wish to achieve and build up momentum to keep you motivated.

Here is a quick example of how to break down the writing process of your EE:

• Create a rough outline
• Write a quarter of content
• Share it with your mentor to discuss your direction moving forward
• Complete the first draft
• Have it reviewed by your mentor
• Add any necessary changes
• Design and format your EE
• Finish the final draft and review before submission

Divide the process as per your understanding and convenience. The outline mentioned above is only one of many ways to go about your writing. The more broken down the process is, the easier it becomes to track it.

3. Being familiar with the relevant responsibilities

The IBO has certain expectations for its students when they write their EE. Since they are all about empowering their students and transforming them into global scholars, the last thing they encourage is spoon-feeding. The same applies to your EE. When writing, expect your mentor to only provide you with the minimum help you need to progress. Their job is to guide you, and it is up to you to do the rest. Make sure to share your progress with them at least once a month since they can only assist when you have the material they can review.

Lastly, take care to acknowledge all your sources and ideas in an academically approved manner. IB does not tolerate plagiarism, and you cannot expect to score well if you fail to cite your sources properly, regardless of how well-made your EE may be.

Writing an IB Extended Essay can be a challenging and nerve-wracking task that IB students must overcome to achieve their diploma. Those unaware of how to go about writing their essay may commit several mistakes that could affect their chances of scoring well. But hopefully, with the help of the content above, you are now more knowledgeable of some of the dos and don’ts when tackling your EE.

Understandably, the IB programme can be demanding at times, especially for those that struggle with writing the Extended Essay. As such, we at the Quintessential Education Centre provide quality tuition programs led by our experienced IB and IGCSE tutors in Singapore for both academic tracks to help students navigate their academic careers. Don’t hesitate to contact our educators and advisors who are more than happy to answer your queries and concerns, and we’ll help you score your best for your exams.

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Extended Essay Writers

What to Do If Your Teacher Found Plagiarism in Your Extended Essay?

Luke MacQuoid

As a seasoned IB writer, I’ve seen my fair share of ups and downs in academia. However, one challenge that often catches students off guard is dealing with plagiarism in extended essay. This is a big problem in the International Baccalaureate (IB) world. You’ve put your heart and soul into your work, and then you’re accused of plagiarism out of nowhere. It’s a tough spot, but don’t worry. I’m here to guide you through this tricky situation.

Causes of Plagiarism in Extended Essays

First things first, let’s clarify what we mean by plagiarism in extended essays . From my experience, it’s not always about intentionally copying someone’s work. Sometimes, it’s the little things — forgetting to cite a source or paraphrasing too closely. Remember, in the IB, integrity is critical; understanding this can save you a lot of trouble. Also, plagiarism in extended essays can stem from a variety of causes:

• Lack of Understanding . Sometimes, students may not fully understand what constitutes plagiarism. They might think changing a few words in a sentence or paraphrasing without crediting the source is acceptable.
• Poor Time Management . Students often juggle multiple assignments and responsibilities. When pressed for time, they might copy materials directly from sources to meet deadlines.
• Inadequate Research Skills . Students who struggle with research may find it challenging to gather enough information to write a comprehensive essay. It may lead them to copy from existing primary or secondary sources .
• Pressure for High Grades . The desire to achieve high grades or meet high academic expectations can lead some students to plagiarize, thinking it’s a shortcut to success.
• Access to Technology . With the vast amount of online information, it’s easy for students to find and copy content. This accessibility can increase the temptation to plagiarize.
• Lack of Confidence . Students who doubt their writing abilities may resort to plagiarism, believing they cannot produce quality work independently.

In my opinion, many students stumble into plagiarism unintentionally. Perhaps you were in a rush or didn’t quite grasp how to cite sources correctly. Or maybe the sheer volume of information made it difficult to differentiate between common knowledge and ideas that needed crediting. It happens, but the key is learning how to avoid these pitfalls in the future.

Initial Steps to Take After Being Accused of Plagiarism

Let’s look at this scenario: you’ve just been hit with the big “P” — plagiarism — in your extended essay. Your first reaction might be panic, confusion, or maybe even a bit of anger. But here’s my first advice, coming from years of experience in the IB field: stay calm. I know, easier said than done, right? But trust me, keeping a level head is your secret weapon here.

Get Clarity on the Situation

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. According to general IB criteria, understanding what you’re accused of is crucial. Maybe you’re thinking, “But I didn’t copy anything!” Here’s where things get interesting. Plagiarism isn’t always about lifting chunks of text from Wikipedia. It can be as subtle as paraphrasing too closely or forgetting to cite a source. So, the first proactive step? Get clarity.

Communicating with Your Teacher or Supervisor

Reach out to your teacher or supervisor for a detailed explanation of the plagiarism allegation. It’s about understanding the specific sections of your work under scrutiny. Sometimes, a simple conversation can clear up a lot of misunderstandings. You may have missed a citation, or there’s been a mix-up with your sources. These things happen and can often be resolved with a bit of dialogue.

Revisit Your Extended Essay

Once you have a clear picture of the accusation, it’s time to reflect. It is where you put on your detective hat and revisit your essay. Look at it through the lens of the feedback you’ve received. As I’ve learned through my years in the IB, self-reflection is a powerful tool. It’s not just about fixing a mistake; it’s about understanding how and why it happened. This way, you’re clearing your name, learning, and growing as a scholar.

Document your Findings

And here’s a little tip from me to you: document your findings and your reflections. If you’ve found areas where you could’ve cited better, note them down. If you believe there’s been a misunderstanding, prepare your points calmly and logically. It’s about demonstrating your commitment to academic integrity. In the end, remember, this isn’t a catastrophe. You can smooth it out with the right approach and come out wiser on the other side. So take a deep breath, gather your thoughts, and step forward confidently and clearly.

Rectifying the Situation with Plagiarism in EE: How to Proceed

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get down to business. You’ve talked with your teacher about the plagiarism hiccup in your extended essay, and now it’s time to take action. From my extensive experience in the IB, I can tell you this: correcting a problem like this is more than just a quick fix; it’s an invaluable learning curve. So, how do we turn this ship around? Let’s break it down.

Step 1. Re-examine and Understand the Problem Areas

First, closely examine the sections of your essay that were flagged. Understanding what went wrong is critical. Was it a missing citation? A paraphrased paragraph too close to the original? Or maybe it was an overlooked quote? Pinpoint the issue.

Step 2. Research and Learn the Correct Citation Practices

If you’re unsure how to cite sources correctly, now’s the time to learn. Get into the IB’s guidelines on citations. There are plenty of resources out there that can guide you — use them. Remember, citing is not just an academic requirement; it’s a skill that will benefit you throughout your academic and professional life.

Step 3. Revise Your Essay with Integrity

Now, bring out your editing tools. It’s time to revise those problematic sections to make a high-grade extended essay . But here’s the thing: do it with integrity. It is more than just avoiding plagiarism; it’s about respecting intellectual property and valuing your academic integrity. Replace any copied text with your original thoughts and analysis, and cite your sources meticulously.

Step 4. Use Plagiarism Checkers as a Tool, Not a Crutch

There are fantastic plagiarism checkers available to ensure your extended essay is unique . Use them to ensure you have caught everything. But remember, these tools are just that — tools. They’re there to help, not to do all the work. Your critical thinking and attention to detail are irreplaceable.

Step 5. Reflect and Learn from the Experience

Once you’ve revised your essay, take a moment to reflect. What did you learn from this experience? How will it influence your approach to academic work in the future? As I always say, every challenge in the IB is an opportunity to grow.

Step 6. Submit and Communicate

Finally, once you’re confident with your revisions, resubmit your essay. And don’t just drop it in your teacher’s inbox and vanish. Communicate your process and what you’ve learned. It shows your commitment to learning and growth, something that’s highly valued in the IB community.

Turning Plagiarism Challenges into Growth Opportunities

Throughout my years in the IB, I’ve learned that every challenge, especially one as daunting as a plagiarism issue in your extended essay, is not just a hurdle but a profound learning opportunity. It’s these moments, often uncomfortable and a bit scary, that mold us into not just better students but wiser persons.

Understand the Root Cause

First off, take a moment to dissect what led to the plagiarism issue. Was it a lack of understanding about what constitutes plagiarism? Or was it a time management issue, where the rush to meet a deadline led to cutting corners? As I’ve often found, identifying the root cause is critical to ensuring it doesn’t happen again.

Develop Strong Research Skills

Plagiarism often stems from how we handle our research. It’s crucial to develop strong research skills. It means gathering information, understanding its context, paraphrasing effectively, and keeping meticulous track of your sources. It’s like building a strong foundation for a house.

Enhance Citation and Referencing Skills

I can’t emphasize this enough: mastering citation and referencing is a game-changer. Whether it’s APA, MLA, or another style, knowing how to cite sources properly is a skill that will serve you well beyond the IB. Consider attending workshops, using online resources, or even practicing by revising past assignments. It’s a bit like learning a new language — challenging at first but incredibly rewarding once you get the hang of it.

Time Management and Planning

Often, plagiarism is a result of last-minute work. Developing strong time management and planning skills can make a world of difference. Start by breaking down assignments into manageable tasks with clear deadlines. It’s like plotting a course on a map — it helps you go through your workload without unnecessary stress or haste.

Need help with your IB extended essay?

From research and analysis to structuring and editing, our skilled mentors will be by your side, helping you write an exceptional extended essay that meets the word count and stringent IB criteria and reflects your passion for the selected IB group .

Seeking Feedback and Support

After an incident like this, feel free to seek support and feedback. It could be from teachers, peers, or even academic counselors. I’ve learned that a support network can provide guidance, reassurance, and perspective. It’s like having a team of coaches and cheerleaders by your side.

To wrap it up, encountering plagiarism in your extended essay isn’t the end of the world. It’s a bump in the road that can be smoothed out with the right approach. Your integrity as a student is priceless; learning from these experiences will make you a stronger, more ethical scholar. So take a deep breath and tackle the issue head-on. And remember that Extended Essay Writers are always here to help!

Luke MacQuoid has extensive experience teaching English as a foreign language in Japan, having worked with students of all ages for over 12 years. Currently, he is teaching at the tertiary level. Luke holds a BA from the University of Sussex and an MA in TESOL from Lancaster University, both located in England. As well to his work as an IB Examiner and Master Tutor, Luke also enjoys sharing his experiences and insights with others through writing articles for various websites, including extendedessaywriters.com blog

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IB Extended Essay: Citation

• Research Questions
• Past Essays
• Notes & Outlines
• Works Cited Page
• In-Text Citations
• Assessment Criteria
• Reflections
• Supervisor Info
• Net Valley Library This link opens in a new window

• Citation FAQs

Academic Honesty statements

• SIS Academic Honesty Policy
• IB Academic Honesty statment

Types of Academic Dishonesty

Plagiarism : Using the ideas or work of someone else without acknowledgement

Cheating : Getting someone else to write your work for you

Fabrication : Falsification of data or information

Collusion : Where one student knowingly helps another student produce the piece

Infringement : Improper or missing acknowledgment of an in-text citation

Plagiarism in the news

• The Guardian: Jane Goodall blames 'chaotic note taking' for plagiarism controversy
• The New Yorker: The Plagiarist’s Tale The author of “Assassin of Secrets” had a secret of his own.
• Helene Hegemann, the art of cut and paste Young new author copies and pastes online writing in her newly published work. But she admits it!
• Chris Spence loses appeal to keep PHD amid plagiarism findings.

Tips to Avoid Plagiarism

• IB Guide to citing AI The IB's guidance on citing AI generated work in your papers
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Extended Essay Resources: Supervisor Resources

• Research Video Tutorials
• In-text Citations
• Plagiarism VS. Documentation
• Primary Sources
• Subject Resources
• Cite Your Sources This link opens in a new window
• Evaluate Your Sources This link opens in a new window
• Supervisor Resources
• Note Taking Templates
• Paper Formatting
• Ms Wood's presentation
• Extended Essay calendar
• Submit your topic selection

Useful Resources

• Subject-Specific Guidance Covers individual subjects’ requirements for the extended essay (EE) in terms of choice of topic, treatment of topic, and assessment and interpreting the assessment criteria.
• 2023 IB Extended Essay Guide The official guide from the IB. It contains information on overall requirements, subject-specific requirements, tips for conducting research, and assessment information. IMPORTANT!
• IB Extended Essay Homepage Official IB website for Extended Essay resources.
• EE Exemplars Student sample extended essays, corresponding marks and comments from senior examiners.
• Teacher Support Material Advice written by IB teachers experienced in supporting students and fellow teachers through the EE component of the Diploma Programme.
• EE Subject Reports Visit MyIB.com to view EE subject reports which are located within each subject's resources page.

Role of the Supervisor

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A clear focus is key. We'll assist in narrowing down and refining your research question, ensuring that your essay remains relevant and insightful."

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We have an experienced team of IB Certified teachers Our approach involves collaborating closely with you to understand your research question(RQ) , guiding you through the research process, and helping you develop a clear and coherent argument. We also emphasize the importance of proper citation and referencing, ensuring your essay meets academic integrity standards.More than just a service, we’re your partners in this scholarly adventure. Together, we’ll delve deep into your chosen topic, ensuring that every page of your essay resonates with clarity, originality, and the echoes of your dedication.

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⚫️ Expert insights and guidance based on IB guidelines ⚫️Assistance in formulating a strong research question ⚫️Research resources and strategies tailored to your topic ⚫️Structured outlines and drafts to ensure your essay flows logically ⚫️Thorough proofreading and editing for clarity and coherence ⚫️A final essay that aligns with IB's expectations and showcases your academic growth

Extended Essay

Unlocking the power of in-depth research and critical thinking, number speaks, benefits and impact of extended essays, academic excellence:.

Undertaking an extended essay is a valuable opportunity for students to demonstrate their intellectual capabilities and passion for a subject.

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Beyond academic achievements, extended essays foster personal growth and self-discovery. Students learn to manage their time effectively, take ownership of their learning process,

College and Career Readiness

Completing an extended essay showcases a student's ability to undertake rigorous research and produce a substantial piece of work independently.

The Essence of Extended Essays

Defining extended essays, choosing a topic, enhanced communication skills:.

Engaging in the extended essay process provides students with the opportunity to enhance their communication skills.

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Frequently asked questions.

The Extended Essay (EE) is a 4,000-word independent research essay on a topic of your choice, falling within one of the subjects of the IB Diploma Programme. It’s a significant component of the IB, allowing students to delve into a topic deeply, develop research skills, and cultivate critical thinking. The EE is a chance to showcase your passion, understanding, and ability to construct a well-reasoned argument.

TOK offers invaluable skills for intellectual and personal growth. It We believe that a great EE starts with a passionate topic choice. Our experts work closely with students, understanding their interests and strengths, and then proposing topics that are both intriguing and academically robust. Our aim is to ensure that the chosen topic aligns with IB guidelines and resonates with the student’s personal interests.

Absolutely! Whether you’re facing challenges in structuring your essay, finding credible sources, or refining your arguments, our team can step in at any stage. We’ll work together to identify the areas that need enhancement and guide you towards a polished, coherent final draft.

Our team comprises experts familiar with the IB curriculum and the specific criteria of the Extended Essay. We emphasize understanding the assessment criteria and ensuring that each essay we guide adheres to these standards. From topic relevance to argument depth, we make sure your essay is primed for success.

Originality is paramount. We prioritize guiding students in producing authentic content. While we provide guidance, brainstorming sessions, and feedback, the ideas and writing come from the student. Additionally, we educate students on proper citation practices and offer tools to check originality, ensuring the final submission is plagiarism-free.

Of course! We believe feedback is an essential part of the writing process. Once your essay is drafted, our experts will review it, offering insights, suggestions, and areas of improvement. Our goal is to ensure that by the time you submit, you’re confident in the quality and depth of your work.

Extended Essay: MLA Works Cited & In-Text Citations

• Extended Essay- The Basics
• Step 1. Choose a Subject
• Step 2. Educate yourself!
• Using Brainstorming and Mind Maps
• Identify Keywords
• Do Background Reading
• Define Your Topic
• Conduct Research in a Specific Discipline
• Step 5. Draft a Research Question
• Step 6. Create a Timeline
• Find Articles
• Find Primary Sources
• Get Help from Experts
• Search Engines, Repositories, & Directories
• Databases and Websites by Subject Area
• Create an Annotated Bibliography
• Advice (and Warnings) from the IB
• Chicago Citation Syle
• MLA Works Cited & In-Text Citations
• Step 9. Set Deadlines for Yourself
• Step 10. Plan a structure for your essay
• Evaluate & Select: the CRAAP Test
• Conducting Secondary Research
• Conducting Primary Research
• Formal vs. Informal Writing
• Presentation Requirements
• Evaluating Your Work

MLA In-Text Citations

General Guidelines

Basic in-text citation rules.

In MLA style, referring to the works of others in your text is done by using what is known as parenthetical citation. This method involves placing relevant source information in parentheses after a quote or a paraphrase.

In-text citations: Author-page style

MLA format follows the author-page method of in-text citation. This means that the author's last name and the page number(s) from which the quotation or paraphrase is taken must appear in the text, and a complete reference should appear on your Works Cited page. The author's name may appear either in the sentence itself or in parentheses following the quotation or paraphrase, but the page number(s) should always appear in the parentheses, not in the text of your sentence. For example:

Wordsworth stated that Romantic poetry was marked by a "spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings" (263).  Romantic poetry is characterized by the "spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings" (Wordsworth 263).

Wordsworth extensively explored the role of emotion in the creative process (263).

Both citations in the examples above, (263) and (Wordsworth 263), tell readers that the information in the sentence can be located on page 263 of a work by an author named Wordsworth. If readers want more information about this source, they can turn to the Works Cited page, where, under the name of Wordsworth, they would find the following information:

Wordsworth, William. Lyrical Ballads. London: Oxford UP, 1967. Print.

See Purdue OWL: MLA Formatting and Style Guide -  MLA In-Text Citations: The Basics   for detailed explanations and examples of in-text citations from different sources.

Quick MLA In-Text Citation Guide

Mla parenthetical (in-text) citation quick guide, place the parenthetical citation where there is a pause in the sentence - normally before the end of a sentence or a comma. a period comes at the end of each citation., extra help with citing literary, classic and religious works, citing literary, classic, and religious works.

For works such as novels, plays and other classic works , it’s helpful to provide further identifying information along with the page information. Do this by adding a semicolon and then the identifying information following the page number .

(Tolstoy 5; pt. 2, ch. 3).

When citing c lassic poems and plays , replace page numbers with division numbers (part, book, scene, act).  The example below refers to book 10 line 5. Bear in mind the divisions and the way they are written can vary by source.

Fear plays a role in Homer’s Odyssey (10.5).

The titles of books in the Bible and other famous literary works should be abbreviated.

(New Jerusalem Bible, Gen. 2.6-9).

Extra Help with Placing Parenthetical Citations in Direct Quotations

Placing parenthetical citations in direct quotations.

When  directly quoting  a source, place the parenthetical citation  after the quote.

Sanders explains that economic woes are due to “the mortgage crisis and poor risk assessment” (20).  

Place the parenthetical citation at the end of an indented quotation.  There should be no period after the parenthetical citation.  The last sentence of the indented quote should look like:

It’s unclear whether multilateral tariffs are disruptive to bilateral talks. (Evert 30-31)

Extra Help with Long Quotes

Long quotes.

When quoting four lines or more,  indent every line you are quoting by one inch  (or 10 spaces) and  do not use quotes.  For example:

The use of nuclear weapons in today’s society is strikingly alarming. Though the United States is the only country to employ it in the past, they are at the same time the country that condemns its use the most. While this may seem hypocritical, is it the most proper action for the United States to make as the global leader. (Taparia 9)

Acknowledgment

The MLA Parenthetical (In-text) Citation Quick Guide  and Extra Help boxes were based on the ones found in the   I.B. Theatre - Director's Notebook guide  created by Nancy O'Donnell, School Library Media Specialist, for Kenmore West High School Library in Kenmore, New York.

How Are Those Citations & Works Cited Coming Along?

Any information you use that comes from another source must be cited both in  and  after the paper. This means only including a works cited page at the end of the paper is not sufficient.  You must also include parenthetical, or in-text, citations after each piece of information you reference.

Quick Links

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By DocIB November 24, 2010 in Extended Essay

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I'm very worried that I'll be denied the diploma because I forgot to cite the sources of two diagrams. I did most of my EE in a rush, so I forgot to cite the diagrams, but I didn't claim that the diagram was my own work. On another diagram that was created by myself, I made it clear that it was my own work.

Is it possible that I will be accused of plagiarism, and be denied the diploma?

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Matthew Sinclair

I'm very worried that I'll be denied the diploma because I forgot to cite the sources of two diagrams. I did most of my EE in a rush, so I forgot to cite the diagrams, but I didn't claim that the diagram was my own work. On another diagram that was created by myself, I made it clear that it was my own work. Is it possible that I will be accused of plagiarism, and be denied the diploma? or will they just mark me down. I don't care if my mark is crap, I just want the diploma

So yeah, don't worry! =) If you had copied like every single diagram and didn't cite it, then that'd be a problem.

Just curious, are those diagrams distinctly different looking from those that you made yourself?

Try checking for plagiarism?

Use turnitin.com or viper scanner. (haven't tried both but my school do use turn it in to check our EEs)

Stereoisomer

Oh dear. I don't think so. The maximum penalty will be an academic infringement. A girl from my year accidentally copied approximately 3 lines of material from the net word to word and forgot to cite it. She was marked down heavily and given a warning. But yes - she was on the brink of failing her diploma for plagarism.

Talk to your IB Co-ordinator. If it's just 2 diagrams, I honestly honestly don't think they'll pin you for plagarism.

Not trying to make this worse however:

Failure to comply with this requirement will be viewed as plagiarism and will, therefore, be treated as a case of malpractice- IBO

But like said above I don't think it would be as bad as having incited text..at least I hope.

Anyways, ask your coordinator just in case, although if I were you I wouldn't because he may just make it worse for you and you will be worried like this for the rest of year, which is pointless. You have exams to prepare for and other IAs to do!

Oh wow, thanks for the quick replies everyone! I feel better now.

Only 7% similarity report from turnitin.com, so that should be ok.

One of the diagrams was of a Daniell Cell, and it was easy to find from google images I think.

The other wasn't really a diagram, but a table (the layout I made myself) showing standard electrode potentials, but I didn't cite where I got the data from, although it's in most chemistry textbooks.

(My EE was done on chemistry btw.)

Guest IMBATMAN

I don't think they will deny you the diploma but if you get caught, just tell the truth and say you forget because you were rushing it.

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