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Extended Essay: Before You Start

Introduction to IB - The Extended Essay

Welcome to our three part video of the introduction to IB series. In this video we introduce the extended essay and some pointers on how to succeed. The extended essay may seem daunting at first, however it is a walk in the park ;). Thank you for watching!

On this page you will find different types of resources to get you better acquainted with the EE.

Student Responsibilities

Pedagogical support for the extended essay

As the extended essay is an important component of the Diploma Programme, and a substantial piece of work, students need to ensure that they understand the expectations of the task and manage their time and workload effectively. The following suggestions are given as guidance to help with the process.

Pre-Reading

Initial guidance on research and writing

Supervisors are recommended to advise their students on how to conduct research and write the extended essay, paying particular attention to the following key areas.

Outside Reading

Pedagogical support for the extended essay

As the extended essay is an important component of the Diploma Programme, and a substantial piece of work, students need to ensure that they understand the expectations of the task and manage their time and workload effectively. The following suggestions are given as guidance to help with the process.

Organisation: A Guide for the Disorganised IB Student

There's one thing that I truly believe is consistent among all the IB students who get the highest grade. And that's organisation. Some of them would argue that they're not organised at all. That their notes are messy, they don't make schedules, or they feel they're all over the place.

6 tips for writing your IB Extended Essay

The extended essay is a required component of the IB Diploma Programme , it is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper. The following 6 tips are to help you get started on writing a quality extended essay. Tip 1: Get started !

Advice From Previous Students

"Don’t get overwhelmed by the process of the paper; you have a lot of time and resources; organize your time; don’t procrastinate; choose something you are passionate about"

"Use your mentors and librarian; do something you care about; ask questions at the beginning"

"Work on it over the summer"

"Use your mentor a lot more to bounce ideas off"

"Do not procrastinate...do not leave anything to last minute.  You must be organized. Follow the prescribed structure."

 

"Pick a topic they are really passionate about; if you’re not invested in it is not going to be a good paper; narrowing down sources is good"