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Extended Essay (EE)

The Extended Essay gives students the unique opportunity to conduct independent research on a topic in which they have a special interest - it is comparable to a ‘dissertation’ at university level. It is an inquiry-based experience that is guided by students’ personal engagement and interest in the topic that they select to explore.  

 Students are allocated a personal supervisor to support and guide them through the process.  

Below you can hear current students and alumni talk about the area they chose to explore in their Extended Essay:

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Course content

The Extended Essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word essay or research project.  The IB states that “The essay is to be the authentic, personal work of the student and is to provide the student with the opportunity to engage in independent research.  Emphasis is placed on the development of the skills of organising and expressing ideas logically and coherently.”  

 The Extended Essay requires students to identify a topic of their choice, research into it and then write 4000 words on it.  Students keep a ‘Process Log’ which forms the basis of Reflection at the end of the process.  The choice of topic is entirely based on personal choice (within reason).     

Examples  

  • To what extent has the third Millennium Development Goal of gender equality and empowerment of women been achieved in Pakistan?  World Studies    
  • To what extent was Jane Austen a voice for social change, or for entertainment?  English  
  • To what extent does boiling time effect the Vitamin C concentration in citrus fruits and vegetables and what are the dietary implications? Biology  
  • To what extent are there socio-economic disparities between the South East and the North West of England? Geography  
  • Is Pornography immoral? Philosophy  
  • To what extent is Psychodynamic Therapy the most effective treatment in helping to relieve the symptoms of Postpartum Depression in mothers? Psychology  

Assessment 

The Extended Essay is completed in Year 12 and is a compulsory requirement of the Diploma core.

 

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 EE has been really interesting for me because it has allowed me to find out more about the parts of my subject that I am really interested in whilst not having to include the parts I don’t like.

Ollie

 Although 4000 words sounds like a lot, once you really get going with it it’s hard to stay within the limit because it’s so easy to get carried away. 

Sarah  

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