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EE and TOK Matrix: How It Affects the IB Program?

Luke MacQuoid

Welcome, IB graduates! Do you need help with the EE and TOK matrix? You’ve landed on the right spot. As a specialist in IB education, I’ve assisted numerous students in comprehending the intricacies of the International Baccalaureate program, specifically the Extended Essay (EE) and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) .

Learning the EE and TOK matrix is crucial for anyone eager to succeed in the IB Diploma. That’s why today, we’re going to break down this aspect in as much detail as possible so that you won’t have any questions in the future.

Maximizing IB Diploma Scores with the EE TOK Matrix

The EE TOK matrix is essential in the IB Diploma Program. It helps to increase a student’s score by combining their achievements in the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge. This way, students can earn more points towards their IB Diploma.

EE: The Path to Excellent Research

The Extended Essay is a significant research project that concludes with a 4,000-word paper. It allows IB students to conduct independent investigations, preparing them for college-level studies.

This aspect of the International Baccalaureate program will enable students to get into a subject they are passionate about in-depth, especially one of their six Diploma Programme subjects. The Extended Essay cultivates academic skills, personal development, and intellectual curiosity.

TOK: Cultivating Critical Thinking

TOK, on the other hand, aims to improve students’ critical thinking skills. It encourages students to think about how they know things and the different areas of knowledge. TOK also challenges students to examine the nature of knowledge in different cultures and contexts, broadening their perspectives. This class is essential for shaping students’ comprehension of information and its practical use.

The Synergy of EE and TOK in the Matrix

The EE TOK matrix combines two critical parts. The evaluation of a student’s performance in EE and TOK grants them extra points in their IB Diploma. The matrix recognizes academic abilities and supports a well-rounded approach to learning and gaining knowledge. 

Understanding and doing well in Extended Essays and Theory of Knowledge is essential for achieving one’s full potential in the IB Diploma Program and establishing a solid basis for future academic and personal success.

The EE and TOK matrix contributes to the IB Program in several ways:

• Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills . Both EE and TOK encourage students to develop critical thinking and analytical skills. These skills are crucial not just for academic success but also for personal and professional life.
• Interdisciplinary Learning . TOK, in particular, encourages students to make connections between different areas of knowledge, fostering a more holistic understanding of the world.
• Research Skills . The Extended Essay requires students to engage in independent research. This experience is invaluable for university-level studies and developing information-gathering, analysis, and presentation skills.
• Additional Points . The combination of grades achieved in EE and TOK can contribute up to 3 extra points towards the total IB Diploma score. This can be crucial for students aiming for higher IB scores.
• Personal Growth . Both components encourage students to explore and articulate their perspectives on knowledge and learning, fostering personal growth and self-awareness.

In short, the EE and TOK parts are crucial to the IB Program. They give scholars vital abilities and chances for self-improvement and intellectual expansion. Beyond being educational needs, they shape all-around analytical and reflective thinkers.

How Can You Calculate EE and TOK Matrix?

Calculating your score in the EE and TOK matrix is integral to strategizing for success in the IB Diploma Program. Here’s an extended guide to how it works:

• Your EE is graded on a scale from A (highest) to E (lowest). This grade reflects your ability to conduct in-depth research and present your findings coherently. Striving for a high grade in EE means showcasing your research, analysis, and writing skills.
• Similarly, TOK is graded from A to E. Your TOK grade indicates your understanding and application of critical thinking skills. It evaluates your ability to question, analyze, and reflect on the nature of knowledge.

The IB provides a matrix table that aligns these grades. The table is designed to encourage students to perform well in both areas. For example, if you get an “A” in TOK and a “B” in EE, find the intersecting cell in the matrix to determine your bonus points.

Remember that receiving an “E” in either EE or TOK could mean not obtaining the IB Diploma. It underlines the importance of dedicating sufficient time and resources to both components.

EE and TOK Matrix: College Admissions

In today’s world, the IB Diploma is essential for getting into college. It’s like a detailed report card that shows how good you are at studying. The extra points you get from doing well in your EE and TOK can help. Here’s why these additional points matter a lot:

• Getting into College . Some colleges ask for a certain number of points to let you in. If you get extra points from your EE and TOK, it can help you reach or even go past this number.
• Making the Cut . Sometimes, when colleges can’t decide if they should let you in, these extra points can make all the difference. They can help you get a spot in the college you want.
• Getting Scholarships . If you want a scholarship, you usually need to have perfect grades. The extra points from EE and TOK can be what you need to get a scholarship instead of taking a college loan.
• Going to Top Colleges . If you want to attend an outstanding college, you often need a lot of points. The extra points from EE and TOK can help you meet these high requirements.
• Special Programs . For some special college programs that are hard to get into, having extra points can make you look more appealing to the college.

So, if you’re aiming for a great college or an exceptional program, the extra points from your EE and TOK aren’t just good. They can help you get where you want to go.

Tips for Success in the EE and TOK Matrix to Earn Additional Points

Consider these strategies to stand out in the TOK EE matrix and earn extra points for your IB Diploma.

1. Gain a Deep Understanding of the EE TOK Matrix

Understanding the mechanics of the EE and TOK matrix is crucial. Familiarize yourself with how your grades in these two components translate into additional points for your IB Diploma. This knowledge will allow you to aim for grades that maximize your overall score strategically.

2. Thoughtful Selection of EE Topic

Choosing the right topic for your Extended Essay is vital. Select a subject that interests you and aligns with your strengths and academic interests. A well-chosen topic can inspire more profound research and engaging writing, making the process more enjoyable and rewarding regarding your final grade.

3. Strong EE Research Question

A solid research question should anchor your EE. This issue should be clear, focused, and complex enough for in-depth investigation and discussion. Spend time refining this question to ensure it guides your research effectively and aligns with the IB criteria.

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From research and analysis to structuring and editing, our skilled mentors will be by your side, helping you craft an exceptional extended essay that not only meets the wordcount and stringent IB criteria but also reflects your passion for selected IB group .

4. Effective Planning and Structuring of EE

Organize your EE with a clear structure and plan. A well-organized essay not only makes your arguments more coherent but also makes the writing process more manageable. Detailed planning can significantly enhance the quality of your final submission.

5. Deep Engagement with TOK Concepts

In TOK, depth of understanding is critical. Engage thoroughly with the course’s core concepts, such as the ways of knowing and areas of knowledge. Demonstrating a deep and thoughtful engagement with these ideas can significantly impact your TOK grade.

6. Developing Critical Thinking for TOK

TOK is all about evaluating knowledge claims and arguments. Practice critical thinking by analyzing different perspectives and arguments. This skill is essential for TOK and beneficial for your overall intellectual development.

7. Applying TOK to Real-World Scenarios

Use practical examples to illustrate and support your arguments in TOK. Applying theory to real-world scenarios shows your ability to connect abstract concepts with realistic situations, a skill highly valued in the IB TOK assessment.

8. Regular Feedback from Teachers and Mentors

Regularly seek feedback from your teachers and mentors on your EE and TOK work. Their insights can offer new perspectives and help identify areas for improvement. Constructive feedback is invaluable in refining your work and aligning it closely with IB expectations.

In conclusion, the EE TOK matrix is a critical component of the IB Diploma, offering students the chance to earn additional points crucial for university admissions and scholarships. While the EE and TOK paths can be challenging, Extended Essay Writers provides IB expert assistance. We offer services designed to reduce the stress of writing EE, allowing IB students to balance their academic and personal interests better. Our team of IB writers provides high-quality essays and assists with topic selection, ensuring that students can submit work that stands out. 🏆

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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Understanding EE and TOK with the Matrix

Hello, IB students! Are you seeking assistance with the EE and TOK matrix? You’re in the perfect place. As an expert in IB education, I have guided many students through the complexities of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program , including the Extended Essay and the Theory of Knowledge. Understanding the EE and TOK matrix is vital for success in the IB Diploma program. Therefore, today, we will dig into this topic to clarify all aspects so you can move forward.

The Role of EE and TOK in the IB Diploma

The Extended Essay, in my opinion, is a rite of passage for IB students. It’s a 4,000-word research paper that gives students a taste of university-level research. Here, students can dig into a topic of their choice, cultivating their research skills and fostering independence and self-discipline. It’s a challenging yet rewarding process that, according to general IB criteria, significantly contributes to the holistic development of students.

On the other hand, Theory of Knowledge is a course unique to the IB, designed to encourage students to question the bases of knowledge and to understand the biases that influence judgment. From my experience, this course is instrumental in shaping critical thinkers and informed citizens. It challenges students to reflect on the nature of knowledge and how we claim to know what we know.

In the heart of these two components lies the EE and TOK matrix, a grading system that combines the scores of EE and TOK. Understanding it is vital for several reasons:

• Additional Points . It offers up to 3 additional points towards the total IB score, which can be crucial for university admissions.
• Interdisciplinary Learning . It encourages students to make connections between different areas of knowledge.
• Critical Thinking . EE and TOK develop critical thinking skills crucial for higher education and professional life.
• Research Skills . The EE, in particular, develops advanced research skills, preparing students for university-level writing and analysis.
• Reflective Learning . TOK teaches students to reflect on the learning process, fostering a deeper understanding of how knowledge is constructed and evaluated.

From my experience, integrating EE and TOK within the IB curriculum is not just about academics; it’s about preparing students for the challenges they will face in the real world. These components teach them to think independently, question conventional wisdom, and approach problems critically and analytically.

What Is the EE and TOK Matrix?

The Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay matrix is a framework that connects two core elements of the IB curriculum. As I’ve realized through my extensive experience in IB education, this is not just a scoring mechanism but a strategic tool that underscores the interconnectedness of knowledge and critical thinking. Below is a breakdown of what this matrix entails.

Scoring System

The EE and TOK matrix operates on a scoring system that awards points based on the grades achieved in both the Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay. Each component is graded individually on an A (highest) to E (lowest) scale.

Additional Points

The intersection of these two grades in the matrix determines the additional points students can earn toward their overall IB Diploma score. The maximum extra points a student can earn from the matrix is 3. It can be crucial for students aiming for a high total score in the IB Diploma, which can impact university admissions and scholarship opportunities.

Encouraging Depth and Breadth

The matrix is designed to encourage students not only to excel in individual research and critical thinking but also to understand the interconnectedness of different areas of knowledge. The EE allows students to dig deeply into a subject of interest, developing research skills and subject-specific knowledge. Meanwhile, TOK challenges students to reflect on the nature of this knowledge and understand the broader implications of what they learn.

Holistic Education

This matrix underscores the IB’s emphasis on a holistic educational approach. It recognizes that academic success is not just about content knowledge but also about understanding the complexities of knowledge itself and applying critical thinking skills across various disciplines.

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How to Calculate the EE and TOK Matrix?

Calculating the EE and TOK matrix in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program involves understanding how the grades received in both the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge contribute to your total IB score.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to calculating your points in the EE and TOK matrix:

• Understand the Grading Scale . The Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge are graded on a scale from A (highest) to E (lowest). Your performance in each is assigned one of these grades.
• Refer to the Matrix Table . The IB provides a matrix table that cross-references the grades from EE and TOK. It shows how combinations of grades in these two areas translate into additional points for your IB Diploma.
• Locate Your Scores on the Matrix . First, find your EE grade on the vertical axis of the matrix table, and then find your TOK grade on the horizontal axis. Where these two grades intersect is the number of additional points you earn.
• Calculate Your Additional Points . These additional points are added to your overall IB score. The maximum number of points you can earn from the EE and TOK matrix is 3.
• Consider the Failing Condition . Be aware that receiving an “E” in either TOK or the EE is considered a failing condition for the IB Diploma, regardless of how many points you’ve scored in other subjects.

Here’s a simplified example: If you receive an “A” in TOK and a “B” in your Extended Essay, you would find “A” on the vertical axis (for EE) and “B” on the horizontal axis (for TOK) and see where these lines intersect on the matrix. The intersection point gives you the additional points you’ve earned.

Strategies for Success in EE and TOK

As an IB mentor, I’ve accumulated a wealth of strategies that pave the way to success in both the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge. Let me share these insights, which I believe can be instrumental in your academic path.

Topic Selection

In my opinion, the choice of topic is where your path to an excellent EE begins. Select a subject that piques your interest and aligns with your academic strengths. This alignment is crucial, as it will sustain your motivation throughout the research and writing process. Remember, a well-chosen topic is like a map; it guides every research step.

Research Thoroughly

As I know from experience, the depth and breadth of your research can make or break your essay. Use a variety of sources to gather diverse perspectives. Academic journals, books, and reputable online resources should be your pillars. It’s about being thorough and discerning in choosing quality over quantity, especially for interdisciplinary extended essay topics .

Outline and Structure

According to general IB criteria, a coherent structure is vital to writing a successful Extended Essay . I always advise my students to begin with a detailed outline. It should map out your introduction, where you pose your central research question, a body where arguments are meticulously developed, and a conclusion that doesn’t just recap but adds value to your essay.

Feedback and Revision

From my experience, feedback is gold. Seek it early and often from your supervisor. Be open to constructive criticism and use it to refine your essay. Remember, revision is a process that can significantly improve the quality of your work.

Engage with the Material

Truly engaging with TOK means going beyond passively attending classes. Participate in discussions, challenge ideas, and, most importantly, apply TOK concepts to different areas of knowledge.

Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is the essence of TOK. I always encourage students to examine arguments from multiple angles, question assumptions, and develop their reasoned perspectives. It is not just about answering questions but also about asking the right ones.

The TOK Essay

When it comes to the TOK essay, it’s imperative to select a prescribed title that resonates with you. Then, structure your response by clearly outlining your thesis, supporting arguments, and real-life situations that illustrate your points.

The TOK Exhibition

The exhibition is your chance to bring TOK concepts to life. From my experience, the most successful works clearly connect a real-life situation to TOK ideas. It’s not just about the content; it’s about how you communicate it. Engage your audience with clear explanations and genuine enthusiasm for the subject matter.

The Bottom Line

In summary, the EE and TOK matrix plays an essential role in the IB Diploma, providing students an opportunity to gain extra points important for university admissions and scholarship applications. Although IB requirements can be demanding, our IB Extended Essay Writing Service is here to help. We provide specialized support to ease the burden of EE writing, enabling IB students to balance their academic pursuits with personal interests more effectively.

Valerie Green

Valerie Green is a dedicated educator who spends her time helping high school and college students succeed. She writes articles and guides for various online education projects, providing students with the tools they need to excel in their studies. Friendly and approachable, she is committed to making a difference in the lives of students.

What Is IB Reflective Project?

The Reflective Project is an in-depth study where students select an ethical issue related to their career-related studies to research and analyze through various lenses. This research is not a mere academic exercise; it is a rigorous, reflective process that encourages students to connect their findings with their own beliefs, values, and experiences.

What’s the Ideal Number of Sources for Your IB EE?

What’s the ideal number of sources for my EE? The answer, nuanced and subject-specific, depends on striking the perfect balance between breadth and depth of research. As a seasoned IB writer, I’ve seen how this balance varies across disciplines — a History EE might thrive on many sources to construct a well-rounded argument, while a Math EE might depend on a few texts for its foundational theory.

How Much Does It Cost to Order a Custom Extended Essay Online?

When tackling the International Baccalaureate program, students often wonder about the cost of ordering a custom extended essay online. As an experienced IB writer, I can tell you that several factors influence this cost. These include the essay’s length, its complexity, the urgency of your deadline, and the writer’s expertise.

Pros and Pitfalls of Using Internet-Sourced EE Topics

In the ever-evolving landscape of academic research, the Internet has emerged as a significant resource for students undertaking the challenging task of the IB Extended Essay (EE). As an experienced IB writer, I’ve observed the transformative impact of Internet-sourced EE topics. This article aims to highlight both the benefits and challenges of this modern approach to research.

How Can You Ensure Originality in Your IB Extended Essay?

Ensuring originality in your IB extended essay is a crucial step in distinguishing your work in the world of academic research. As an experienced IB essayist, I’m here to guide you in creating an essay that not only meets academic standards, but also showcases your unique intellectual contributions. Originality in the IB extended essay is about bringing your personal insights and perspectives to every aspect of your work, from the choice of topic to the final argument.

What’s Your Secret Writing Weapon in EE? Annotated Bibliographies!

Imagine having a map that guides you through the labyrinth of research and enriches your understanding and appreciation of the topic. That’s what an annotated bibliography does. It allows you to keep track of your sources, critically evaluate their content, and reflect on their relevance to your research question. This process deepens your engagement with the topic, providing a clearer direction for your argument and analysis.

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Can someone explain the IB TOK points system to me? I'm a bit confused with how I can earn points in theory of knowledge. How do these points factor into my overall diploma score and influence college admissions?

Of course! Let me break down the International Baccalaureate (IB) Theory of Knowledge (TOK) points system for you.

The Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is a part of the IB Diploma Programme's core requirements, alongside the Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). TOK is a course that centers on the philosophical investigation of knowledge, by evaluating ways of knowing and exploring areas of knowledge.

TOK is assessed through an essay (externally assessed) and a presentation (internally assessed). The TOK essay is worth 10 points, while the TOK presentation is worth 10 points as well, making a total of 20 points available for the course.

The essay requires you to respond to one of six prescribed titles provided by the IB, and it should be between 1,200 and 1,600 words. The presentation is an oral task based on a real-life situation of your choosing, which you will explore through TOK concepts.

Now, how do TOK points impact your overall IB Diploma score? The TOK and Extended Essay (EE) combine to form the "Diploma Points Matrix," where your scores in both components are combined to create up to 3 bonus points that contribute to your final 45-point diploma score. These bonus points can help you achieve a higher total diploma score, if you meet the requirements, but failing to achieve minimum points in either TOK or EE can lead to not receiving the diploma.

Regarding college admissions, TOK points are not typically considered as a standalone item by admissions officers. However, a strong TOK essay or presentation can reflect your critical thinking and communication skills. More importantly, the overall IB Diploma score, which is affected by TOK points, plays a role in admissions decisions.

Colleges often have a minimum required IB score for applicants as they evaluate the academic rigor and coursework. Regarding specific IB course grades, subject grades might also be relevant for admission if your intended major aligns with courses taken in high school.

In conclusion, TOK points impact your overall IB diploma score by adding up to 3 bonus points when combined with your Extended Essay score. The overall diploma score is a better indicator for college admissions than the sole TOK points, but doing well in TOK shows your ability to think critically and communicate effectively.

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Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay

What is theory of knowledge (tok).

The interdisciplinary Theory of Knowledge course is designed to develop a coherent approach to learning that transcends and unifies the academic areas and encourages appreciation of other cultural perspectives.

The course is in part intended to encourage students to reflect on the huge cultural shifts worldwide around the digital revolution and the information economy. The extent and impact of the changes vary greatly in different parts of the world, but everywhere their implications for knowledge are profound. Theory of knowledge encourages critical thinking about knowledge itself and aims to help young people make sense of what they encounter. Its core content focuses on questions such as the following:

• What counts as knowledge?
• How does it grow?
• What are its limits?
• Who owns knowledge?
• What is the value of knowledge?
• What are the implications of having, or not having, knowledge?

What is Extended Essay (EE)?

The extended essay of approximately 4,000 words offers the opportunity for IB students to investigate a topic of special interest, usually one of the student’s six Diploma Programme subjects, and acquaints them with the independent research and writing skills expected at university. It is intended to promote high-level research and writing skills, intellectual discovery and creativity—resulting in approximately 40 hours of work. It provides students with an opportunity to engage in personal research on a topic of choice, under the guidance of a supervisor.

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Planning and structuring the TOK essay

TOK Home > Free TOK notes > TOK essay guidance > Planning and structuring the TOK essay

Once you’ve grasped the essay rubric , and chosen your title , you can start planning and structuring your TOK essay. You base this around the 3 interactions with your teacher, which are one-on-one meetings discussing your progress, and receiving feedback.

As well as the interactions, you can also ask your teacher specific questions about your essay, for example, the suitability of arguments and examples.

STEP 3: Plan and structure your TOK essay

Interaction 1.

In your first interaction, you’ll discuss the title that you have chosen and why, your interpretation of its general meaning, and the key words from the title that you’ve identified and will be focusing on.

You should also have a good idea about the areas of knowledge you’ll be using as the context of your essay (these may be specified in the title), the key concepts that could be included, and have a rough idea about the arguments and counterarguments that could be offered.

By the end of the first interaction, you should be clear about your choice (ideally, the meeting will have confirmed you made the right decision, rather than making you rethink it, but that’s still not a problem at this early stage of the essay-writing process), know the context you’ll be using, and be ready to write your introduction.

Interaction 2

During your second interaction, you’ll explain how you have moved your ideas forward, and the arguments and counterarguments that you’re developing. Ideally, you should be able to show your teacher your introduction, and a rough plan of the rest of your essay.

Be ready to discuss personal experiences and real-world examples that you will use to support points, key thinkers, and different points of view. It’s also useful to discuss any challenges and problems that you’ve encountered. Your teacher should then give you plenty of advice on how to turn all of this into a draft essay, which takes you to the final interaction.

Interaction 3

The third interaction is arguably the most important one, as it is when you will discuss your draft essay, and receive written feedback on how to turn this into your final version.

The first thing to ensure is that your draft is as complete as it possibly can be. The reason for this is that your teacher can only give you one set of written feedback, so if you’ve given them something that doesn’t have much detail, they won’t be able to give you any meaningful advice.

Make sure your teacher has had enough time to go over your essay, and has provided you with clear and detailed feedback on the strength and clarity of your arguments, the suitability of your examples, how successfully you’ve considered perspectives and implications, and how effectively your essay answers the questions. You should now feel ready to write the final version of the essay.

A four-step guide to the TOK essay

Click on the buttons below to take you to the four steps of creating a great TOK essay. Don’t forget that we have plenty of videos on this and other aspects of the course, and members of the site have access to a huge amount of other resources to help you master the course and assessment tasks.

Check out our three-minute explainer video on the TOK essay here . The video goes over the basics of the TOK essay, such as how it’s assessed, the word count and other practical details, terms such as ‘perspectives’ and ‘implications’, and the role of real-world examples in justifying claims and arguments.

You’ll find more videos on this and other aspects of TOK here , and you can dive into much more depth via our free and premium webinars, here .

Watch our essay & exhibition webinars

Click on the images below to access these premium webinars on how to create the essay and exhibition. Access more webinars here , and watch our videos on the assessment tasks on this page .

FAQs about the TOK essay

How do i choose my tok essay title.

You choose your essay from six prescribed essay titles, that are released at the beginning of your second DP year. We give a few tips on how to choose a PT that will work for you here . But briefly, choose one that links to your pre-existing knowledge, and that you find personally engaging.

What will I be writing about in my TOK essay?

You’ll be answering your prescribed title, within the context of two areas of knowledge, considering how different perspectives might affect our response to the question, and what the implications of your arguments are.

Can I use ChatGPT to write my essay?

You can use ChatGPT to help you gather materials for your essay, but you should definitely not be using it to write the essay. Be very careful with ChatGPT. It bases its answers on online material, and much of this is inaccurate or out-of-date. For example, depending on what you ask it, it may tell you that you have to explore multiple areas of knowledge (rather than the two stipulated by the titles), and that you have to identify a separate knowledge question to the title (which is absolutely not the case).

How much help should I expect from my teacher?

Your teacher should run through the PTs when they are first released, and then meet you for three interactions, during which you’ll discuss your progress. They are allowed to give you one set of written feedback. But you can consult them at other times with specific questions.

Do I need to use real-world examples in my TOK essay?

Yes, real-life examples help illustrate your points and make your arguments more tangible. They can be drawn from personal experiences, historical events, scientific discoveries, etc.

Should I include my personal opinion in the TOK essay?

While the TOK essay is not about your personal opinion per se, it’s important to reflect on your perspective and how it shapes the way you understand the title. However, you should avoid using the essay as a platform for rants or unsubstantiated claims.

Is it necessary to include counter-arguments in my TOK essay?

Yes, including counter-arguments shows a deeper understanding of the complexity of the topic and demonstrates your critical thinking skills. It also enables you to consider different perspectives, and evaluate the implications of arguments.

Should I include the 12 key concepts in my essay?

Yes, as much as you can, draw on the key concepts such as justification, evidence, perspective, bias, certainty, and objectivity within your arguments linking them to the title, and to the real-world examples you draw on.

How do I ensure that my TOK essay reflects my own original thinking, and avoids plagiarism?

Clearly attribute ideas and sources that are not your own, and strive to present original insights and interpretations supported by evidence and reasoning. See our point above on using ChatGPT – never view this as more than a tool to help you gather material for your essay, rather than a tool to write it for you.

What are some common pitfalls to avoid when writing a TOK essay?

Avoid oversimplifying complex issues, relying solely on personal opinion without justification, neglecting counter-arguments, veering off the question, and failing to include a consideration of different perspectives.

How long do I have to write my essay?

You’ll have 6 months from the time the prescribed titles are released, to the deadline date for uploading your essay to the IB. However, most schools will set their own deadline for completing the essay, so that everyone has plenty of time to complete your PPF, and upload it on time. Follow what your school tells you about this.

How important is the TOK essay PPF?

The PPF (‘Planning and Progress Form’) is the document that you fill in to outline your discussions during the three essay. Although this is not directly assessed, it is an important part of demonstrating that you have approached the TOK essay in an ethical way, which is now particularly important in the era of ChatGPT.

What are some effective strategies for revising and editing my TOK essay to improve clarity and coherence?

Take breaks between revisions, seek feedback from peers or teachers, and carefully proofread for grammar, punctuation, and coherence.

Should I include references or a bibliography in my TOK essay?

While not required, referencing sources appropriately adds credibility to your essay; use footnotes or endnotes for citations.

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Resources for Academic Success

Looking for more information to help you find your direction towards academic success?

Welcome to our blog - a resource of top tips and strategies for ambitious students and families!

Studying law has traditionally been seen as the purview of the academically elite, and the practice of it even more so. To gain a place on such a competitive course at a top UK university, how should you choose the subjects which will maximise your chances of success? How much work experience or extra-curricular debating and MUN is sufficient? If you fail to secure a place on your desired law course, what options do you have? Read on to find out!

Grades and teacher recommendations are the primary ways schools evaluate students' academic readiness in the US boarding application process. However, SSAT provides another data point for students to increase academic confidence. When deciding whether to send your SSAT scores to a boarding school, there are a few things to consider.

Recommendations are crucial when applying to US boarding schools. They provide valuable insights into who you are as a student and a person. A strong recommendation can showcase your strengths and potential, while a weak one can raise concerns. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities and character to ensure a strong recommendation. Schools typically require recommendations from your current-year English Teacher, Math Teacher, and School Counselor. Some schools may allow or require additional recommendations, such as one from an area of interest or a personal recommendation. A personal recommendation from someone who knows you well is better than a general one from someone with power or prestige.

When selecting the right boarding school for your child, it's important to do your research. For many families, the process typically begins with the school's website. Most boarding school websites show happy students engaged in classes and activities. They feature impressive buildings and unique programs. Most have a small faculty-to-student ratio and offer impressive pathways to the top US universities. Families often come to us excited about what boarding schools provide and need clarification about how to tell them apart, making it challenging for them to come up with a school list or define their top choices once they’ve applied. Here are a few things we recommend considering in your search for the right fit.

While academic performance is undoubtedly important, other factors can also play a significant role in your application. Two of the most important aspects that admissions officers seek are leadership and school involvement.

You have written a compelling personal statement, passed any aptitude tests or written assessments with flying colours, and reached the infamous Oxbridge interview stage. Congratulations, but how are you going to ace your life’s most important thirty minutes to date, and what should you do when you are presented with seemingly irrelevant questions in an Oxbridge interview? As cliché and obvious as it may sound, Oxbridge are looking for someone with the academic potential and being the best, if not at least one of the best, in their chosen course. Therefore, any apparently unrelated questions that you could have been asked in the interview are in fact, subject specific.

Whichever university you apply to, there is always the practical need for university budgeting besides admissions planning. Read on to find out how you should kickstart university planning in ways that would allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Are you noticing any signs of stress or anxiety in your child as they prepare for their upcoming US boarding school interview? It's understandable for them to feel a bit nervous, but there are things you can do to help ease their concerns. Encourage them to practice their interview skills with you or a trusted friend or family member. Remind them to stay calm and confident and to be themselves during the interview. Reassure them that their hard work and achievements have already gotten them this far and that the interview is another step in the process. With support and guidance, your child can approach their interview with a positive attitude and a sense of preparedness.

Quick Facts about IB Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and Extended Essay (EE)

Within the IBDP Curriculum, where do the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and Extended Essay (EE) belong?

The IB Mission Statement states that the International Baccalaureate® aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.

In order to achieve the above statement, the IB has 3 core elements:

• To create inquiring students, the IBDP has the TOK, or the Theory of knowledge, in which students reflect on the nature of knowledge and on how we know what we claim to know.
• To create knowledgeable students, the IBDP has the EE or extended essay, which is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper.
• To create caring students, the IBDP has CAS, or Creativity, activity, service, in which students complete a project related to those three concepts.

As the academic representation of the first mission statement, the TOK or EE have been at the heart of the IB.

How does the TOK reflect an inquiring mind?

Theory of knowledge (TOK) is a course taught at the IBDP level. Students, who have passed through IBMYP should have the basic framework to advance into Theory of Knowledge (TOK) at the IBDP level. For some needed context, the 5 years leading up to the IBDP, the middle years programme or IBMYP (grades 5-10 or years 6-11) focuses on “learning how to learn” through the development of approaches to learning (ATL) skills. Approaches to learning skills are all the interpersonal and intrapersonal skills that a student learns from interacting with other students, community members (through CAS) and by instruction from their teachers. The complete IB system runs from primary years, middle years, and finally to the last two years - the diploma programme.

Approaches to learning can be broken down into the following, but are not limited to:

communication, collaboration, organization, self-management, reflection, research, informational literacy, media literacy, creative and critical thinking, and transfer of learning.

Interactive teachers who focus on supporting all of the above ATLs in their respective classrooms have built the necessary foundations for students to understand the concepts in the TOK - which is intercultural understanding, global engagement, and personal awareness of knowledge from the perspective of the individual and their respective peers.

How would the ARCH bridge the GAP in understanding the TOK and EE as a product within the IB?

Specifically, ARCH Education helps students understand the overall aim of the TOK, which is understanding how to answer: “how do you know?” in a variety of contexts, and to see the value of that question in creating a life-long partnership with learning.

On a more meaningful level, ARCH Education sees the IBDP as a holistic programme that encompasses two of the core elements: TOK and EE. And at the heart of these elements is the student’s own Real-Life Situation from which both the TOK Knowledge question and the Extended Essay Question are derived.

In the TOK and the EE, personal “insight” is what separates a mediocre paper from a great paper. And through the ARCH pedagogy of teaching, we can framework the necessary skill sets for personal inquiry and academic exploration.

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EE / TOK Matrix  

• Support Sites

Extended Essay Support Site

Grade boundaries.

After marks are awarded for all five assessment criteria , they are converted into letter grades using 'grade boundaries'. Grade boundaries are not subject specific. In theory these boundaries can change from year to year. In practice they usually stay the same. The following boundaries can be applied to sample Extended Essays. They can also be used as a tool to determine a candidate's 'predicted grade'. Please note, however, that the 'official' boundaries are not published by the IB until after each exam session.

Extended essay

The extended essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper.

One component of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) core, the extended essay is mandatory for all students.

Read about the extended essay  in greater detail.

You can also read about how the IB sets deadlines for the extended essay , find examples of extended essay titles from previous DP students and learn about the world studies extended essay .

Learn more about the extended essay in a DP workshop for teachers . 

DP subject briefs

Find out about what each subject offers within the Diploma Programme (DP).

Our DP subject briefs—for both standard and higher level—contain information about core requirements, aims and assessment.

• Explore the DP subject briefs

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