extended essay topics ib

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, the complete ib extended essay guide: examples, topics, and ideas.

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

What's Next?

Trying to figure out what extracurriculars you should do? Learn more about participating in the Science Olympiad , starting a club , doing volunteer work , and joining Student Government .

Studying for the SAT? Check out our expert study guide to the SAT . Taking the SAT in a month or so? Learn how to cram effectively for this important test .

Not sure where you want to go to college? Read our guide to finding your target school . Also, determine your target SAT score or target ACT score .

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

As an SAT/ACT tutor, Dora has guided many students to test prep success. She loves watching students succeed and is committed to helping you get there. Dora received a full-tuition merit based scholarship to University of Southern California. She graduated magna cum laude and scored in the 99th percentile on the ACT. She is also passionate about acting, writing, and photography.

Student and Parent Forum

Our new student and parent forum, at ExpertHub.PrepScholar.com , allow you to interact with your peers and the PrepScholar staff. See how other students and parents are navigating high school, college, and the college admissions process. Ask questions; get answers.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

• For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

100 IB Extended Essay Topic Ideas!

One of the biggest keys to the Extended Essay is choosing which subject you want to write your work in and developing that crucial research question. Read on to find inspiration for topics across a wide range of subjects.

Extended Essay: The Love/Hate aspect of the IB

One of the biggest keys to the Extended Essay is choosing which subject you want to write your work in and developing that crucial research question. Annoyingly, coming up with that idea and research question can be the toughest part of the entire process. Writing 4,000 words about something you are interested in is a big ask and it often feels impossible to narrow down your thoughts. To make everything super clear, here are 100 Extended Essay Topics for you to draw inspiration from! Use these as a springboard to create your own research question !

Get Support from A Top Tutor Today

At Lanterna we have over 300 tutors who smashed their Extended Essay. They know exactly how to get an A in your EE and can give you tips and tricks on how you can do the same. What are you waiting for? Get your own tutor today !

How to Begin Your IB Extended Essay

To make everything super clear, here are 100 Extended Essay Topics for you to draw inspiration from! Use these as a springboard to  create your own research question !

Get Support from a Top Tutor Today

At Lanterna, we have over 300 tutors who smashed their Extended Essay. They know exactly how to get an A in your EE and can give you tips and tricks on how you can do the same. What are you waiting for? Get your own tutor today!

10 Steps to Writing an Extended Essay

Before we look at specific topics for your essay, let’s recap the 10-steps you’ll need to follow to complete your extended essay.

1. Define the Topic and Draft the Research Question

2. Create a Timeline

3. Identify and gather Sources

4. Set Deadlines

5. Plan the structure according to the total word count

6. Evaluate

7. independent Research

8. Write the extended essay draft

10. Present

By following the steps above, you should be able to produce a logical and coherent rationale to follow when writing the extended essay for your IB diploma programme.

By starting with a solid research question, you’ll be able to put an extended essay of global significance together, from the research and writing process all the way through to your final submission with a favourable extended essay grade.

Below, we’re sharing 10 topics across 10 subjects to inspire your next IB extended essay.

1. How the change of habitat affects an X organism?

2. How does climate affect the growth of X plant?

3. Can photosynthesis take place without sunlight?

4. What is the effect of age and gender on the photoreceptor cells in the human retina?

5. How is climate change impacting the appearance of coral reefs?

6. An evaluation of how  antioxidants  work in our bodies?

7. Does hand sanitizer, hand soap or antibacterial wipes have the greatest ability to inhibit the growth of E. Coli?

8. To what extent do live cultures in yogurts/milk/other dairy products reduce the concentration of lactose present over the course of a 2 hour incubation period at x°C?

9. What is the relationship between  population density  between X and population size of X?

10. What is the relationship between indoleacetic acid, a growth hormone, and the growth of X (a crop)?

11. How does human influence impact an aquatic ecosystem?

12. How can one organize a pollution check along a X canal in X?

13. What is the effect of the increased ecological footprint in the  Amazon ?

14. What are the forest and woodland restoration in Siberia, Russia and which one is most effective?

15. How does human interference cause ecological imbalances in an X city/country/continent?

16. What is the impact of urban development on the  bee population  in X city?

17. What are the differences in the conversation efforts in Yosemite National Park (California, USA) and the Lake District National Park (UK)?

18. To what extent have healthcare policies in X country influenced their human population curve?

19. How have changes in environmental systems influenced the value system of X country?

20. How has X landfill site affected the surrounding terrestrial ecosystem?

21. What is the profitability of  airline companies ?

22. How does unemployment affect the market?

23. Why did X recession occur?

24. How did the financial Policy affect the economy in X?

25. How effective are government policies in reducing overconsumption of alcohol (specifically hard liquor)?

26. To what extent are public buses and subways substitute goods in a country?

27. How did the tax reform in country x affect its growth and development? (many countries to choose from)

28. To what extent was weak government policy responsible for the Latin American financial crisis of 1997?

29. How effective is the  Big Mac Index  in measuring purchasing power parity?

30. To what extent would the UK suffer from leaving the European Customs Union if Brexit happens?

31. Is there an association between viewing violence on television and the display of violent acts?

32. What motivational climate should a coach employ in order to achieve optimal performance in athletes?

33. How does  X hormone affect human behavior ?

34. Compare theories explaining altruism in human behaviour

35. Discuss short-term and long-term consequences of exposure to violence

36. Why do relationships change or end?

37. Discuss how  social variables (poverty, parenting, educational environment) may the affect cognitive environment.

38. To what extent do mirror neurons play a role in empathy? (2014)

39. To what extent does Mindfulness help people cope with General Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

40. To what extent is drug therapy effective in the treatment of bipolar disorder?

41. Does the British Parliamentary reforms act of 1832 deserve its title as the great reform act?

42. To what extent are there similarities in Hitler and Mussolini’s Rise to Power?

43. To what extent did Mao’s tackle the problems which he faced?

44. Was Tsar Alexander II of Russia reforms a success or failure?

45. To what extent was the bombing of Dresden in 1945 justifiable?

46. To what extent can  Sweden be considered neutral during WWII ?

47. The impact of structural economic weakness on the collapse of the Soviet Union.

48. How were women treated differently in 1920s and 1950s Great Britain?

49. Why did Israel win the  Six Day War  of 1967?

50. What role did economics play in the unification of Germany from 1834 to 1871?

English Literature

51. What are the Compare and Contrast Jane Austen Books?

52. How does Joseph Conrad’s portray Racism in A Heart of Darkness?

53. How does Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman critique today’s capitalist society? The American Dream?

54. To what extent does Chris McCandless in Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild escape familial influence?

55. What are the similarities and differences between J.K. Rowling’s characterization of Severus Snape in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows?

56. How does Yaa Gyasi use structure in her novel Homegoing to portray the evolution of time?

57. What is the impact of the social context on Holden Caufield and Huckleberry Finn?

58. How does Sylvia Path’s use of Inanimate objects in Bell Jar?

59. How is the empowerment of Feminine portrayed in the Lord of the Rings?

60. Compare the political rhetoric as used in the inaugural addresses of George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump.

61. The design, construction and calibration of an apparatus for measuring lipid concentration in milk.

62. What is the effect of a change in the optimal lift on the horizontal gliding distance of an aircraft?

63. How does the sugar concentration affect the refractive index of water?

64. How does temperature affect the viscosity of X juice/soda?

65. Is the relationship between temperature and conductivity and insulators and conductors?

66. What is the Oberth Effect?

67. What is the temperature dependence of work performed on an AA battery?

68. How can the rotational frequency of a fan driven by a flame measure distance?

69. Do wine bottles of different shapes behave as Helmholtz resonators?

70. How does the diameter of a wheel affect stability in different weather conditions?

71. What factors influence the location of industries in country/city X?

72. An investigation into the significance of preserving the quality of water in a continent/country/city?

73. An investigation into the degree to which City X can be considered a Sustainable City/Community.

74. To what extent is Biodiversity being managed successfully in city X?

75. To what extent does the education and employment of women affect Country x’s fertility rate?

76. To what extent do gender, educational attainment, and working parameters influence obesity risk?

77. To what extent has urban development affected human thermal comfort levels in Country/city x (a country/city that has developed in a rapid rate over the past decades)?

78. To what extent is the Company x corporate waste management program effective, demonstrating environmental sustainability?

79. To what extent is biodiversity being managed successfully at National Park X?

80. What types of urban design encourage high rates of vandalism in X neighbourhoods?

81. The kinetics of Enzymatic Reactions.

82. How do Iron Intake Diets differ in X country?

83. What are the different factors that affect the iodine values in cooking oils?

84. What is the effect of standing time and temperate on the acid content in X juice or soda?

85. Can caffeine in tea or coffee be reduced?

86. What is the effect of temperature on the souring of milk?

87. What are the sources of error in calorimetry?

88. Does brushing your teeth affect the pH in your mouth after eating?

89. How does changing the concentration of the reagents affect the formation and spacing between Liesehang rings in the reaction between X chloride and X when conducted in a test tube?

90. What effect does the coating of aspirin tablets have on the hydrolysis of aspirin?

Social and Cultural Anthropology

91. How clothing relates to the cultural anthropology of X culture.

92. The extent to which social media networks affect different societies.

93. The relationship between ritual, myths and faith in an X society.

94. The history of rituals in X culture.

95. How different marriage rituals inform the cultural anthropology of X culture.

96. Climate change and its impact on the evolution of different creatures on the planet.

97. Understanding the social and cultural anthropology of the supernatural in X culture.

98. An analysis of body modification in relation to social and cultural anthropology.

100. Chaste systems and social ranks in societies.

There are so many class subjects that can form the basis of your extended essay, including these popular six subjects:

– Information technology

– Computer science

– Health science

– World studies

– Visual arts

– Business management

Extended essays are a great way to improve your writing skills in academic writing. Essays of a high standard that demonstrate critical thinking and in depth analysis can be submitted to academic journals. These have the potential to reach the global society.

Start Writing Your Extended Essay Topic

We hope this gave you some great inspiration for the variation of topics available for your Extended Essay . The research question you select is what will carry you through the entire process, so be sure to choose wisely!

Remember, if you are looking for more help with your Extended Essay, make sure to check out our guide which will tell you exactly how to plan, structure, research and write your Extended Essay!

Grab Free Extended Essay Resources!

No matter the subject groups in your diploma program, we’re here to help all of our IB students. Whether you’re writing about social and cultural anthropology, business management, design technology, or scientific methods for your IB diploma, Lanterna has you covered.

Share article links

Related Articles

• Most Popular

25 History IA Topic Ideas!

Are you about to start your History internal assessment? We know the struggle. One of the most difficult parts about the task is finding a good History IA topic because it feels like you can just write about anything. The IB breaks it down into 7 main different types of topics that you can choose, […]

• IB Extended Essay

How to Finish Your Extended Essay Over Summer!

Completing their extended essay before they begin DP2 is the dream of most IB students. In reality, however, few achieve it.  In this blog, we’ll explore how to finish your extended essay over summer without feeling overwhelmed! Part 1: Get Some Rest! Don’t forget that the reason you have a summer break is to take […]

Top 5 Essentials for Studying Physics

As the school year just started and some people are stressed about their upcoming journey in the IB Diploma Programme, we wanted to take the time to discuss perhaps one of the most infamous subjects for its difficulty … physics. It gets some bad rep and many people think that they’re just not “meant” for […]

IB Extended Essay: 250+ Ideas and Guide

Charles Whitehouse

What is the IB Extended Essay?

The Extended Essay , along with the Creativity, Activity, Service component and Theory of Knowledge , forms an integral part of the IB Diploma Programme . It offers IB high school students an opportunity to explore a topic of personal interest in-depth, develop research and writing skills, and experience the rigours of academic investigation.

One of the distinguishing features of the IB Extended Essay is its length. It requires students to write a substantial essay of up to 4,000 words, which is equivalent to about 16-20 pages. This allows students to delve into their chosen subject matter and demonstrate their ability to engage with complex ideas.

Over 88,000 IBDP students across the globe undertook the Extended Essay in 2022 as part of their IB Diploma requirements. It has been lauded as an effective preparation for university-level research and writing, helping students develop critical thinking, analytical, and independent research skills.

The Extended Essay is an opportunity for students to apply the knowledge and skills gained from their chosen subjects in a multidisciplinary manner. It encourages interdisciplinary exploration, enabling students to connect different areas of knowledge and develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

In order to successfully complete the Extended Essay, students must adhere to a structured process that includes selecting a research question, conducting thorough research, organising their findings, and presenting their analysis and conclusions in a coherent manner. By undertaking the IB Extended Essay, students not only enhance their academic skills but also develop essential skills such as time management, critical thinking, and independent inquiry.

How to Choose Your Extended Essay Research Question?

Choosing a research question for your IB Extended Essay is a crucial step that sets the direction and scope of your investigation. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when selecting your research question:

1. Personal Interest: Choose a topic that genuinely interests you. Passion for the subject matter will fuel your motivation and dedication throughout the research process.

2. Feasibility: Ensure that your research question is manageable within the constraints of the Extended Essay. Consider the availability of resources, time required for research and analysis, and the scope of the topic.

3. Specificity: Formulate a research question that is focused and specific. A broad question may lead to a lack of depth in your analysis, while a narrow question may limit the availability of relevant sources and data.

4. Relevance: Select a research question that is relevant to the subject you are investigating. It should align with the objectives and content of the chosen subject area.

5. Novelty: Aim for a research question that offers a unique perspective or contributes to existing knowledge. Originality in your approach and analysis can make your Extended Essay stand out.

6. Consultation: Seek guidance from your teachers, mentors, or IB tutors . They can provide valuable insights and help you refine your research question.

Remember that your research question will shape the entire trajectory of your Extended Essay, so take the time to carefully consider and refine it before proceeding with your research.

Now, let's explore a variety of ideas for each subject, providing you with a diverse range of potential topics to consider for your IB Extended Essay.

Top 10 IB Extended Essay Subjects in 2022

Extended Essay Ideas for Each Subject

1. How Do Fibonacci Sequences Apply in Real World Scenarios?

2. Do Fractals Have a Role in Modelling Weather Patterns?

3. Is the Monty Hall Problem Really Counter-Intuitive? A Statistical Analysis.

4. To What Extent Does the Golden Ratio Appear in Architecture?

5. How Does Bayesian Probability Predict Election Outcomes?

6. The Role of Game Theory in the Cold War: A Mathematical Perspective.

7. Can Catastrophe Theory Model Stock Market Crashes?

8. How Effective are Neural Networks in Predicting Future Events?

9. A Study of the Mathematical Strategies Employed in Chess.

10. Comparing the Accuracy of Different Numerical Methods for Solving Differential Equations.

11. Is Bitcoin's Value Deterministic or Stochastic?

12. How Does Voronoi Diagram Optimize Emergency Service Locations?

13. Using the Markov Chain to Predict Weather Patterns.

14. To What Extent is RSA Encryption Secure?

15. How Does Linear Algebra Apply in Computer Graphics?

16. An Investigation into the Math Behind Google's PageRank Algorithm.

17. How Effective is the Math Behind Machine Learning Algorithms?

18. Exploring the Effect of Maths in Optimising Traffic Flow.

19. Are There Mathematical Patterns in Successful Lottery Numbers?

20. How Efficiently Can Prime Numbers Be Generated?

Have a look at our comprehensive set of IB Study Notes and IB Practice Questions , developed by expert IB teachers and examiners!

English Literature

1. The Role of Feminism in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.

2. A Study of Racial Identity in Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye.

3. Is Hamlet Truly Mad or Just Pretending? An Analysis.

4. The Impact of Post-Colonialism in Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart.

5. How Does Orwell Use Language to Depict Dystopia in 1984?

6. The Influence of Gothic Elements in Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights.

7. The Depiction of Mental Illness in Sylvia Plath's The Bell Jar.

8. The Role of Nature in William Wordsworth's Romantic Poetry.

9. The Effect of Social Hierarchy in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby.

10. How Does Harper Lee Convey Themes of Racial Injustice in To Kill a Mockingbird?

11. Exploring Gender Stereotypes in George Eliot's Middlemarch.

12. The Role of Supernatural in Shakespeare's Macbeth.

13. Exploring the Influence of Marxism in George Orwell's Animal Farm.

14. A Study of Homosexuality in Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray.

15. How Does Virginia Woolf Explore Feminism in Mrs Dalloway?

16. The Depiction of War in Erich Maria Remarque's All Quiet on the Western Front.

17. The Role of the American Dream in Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman.

18. The Use of Symbolism in Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter.

19. A Study of Isolation in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.

20. The Impact of Social Class in Charles Dickens' Great Expectations.

1. How Do Different pH Levels Affect the Activity of Enzymes in Yeast?

2. Investigating the Effects of Light Intensity on the Rate of Photosynthesis.

3. How Does Temperature Affect the Germination of Seeds?

4. Impact of Varying Salinity Levels on Brine Shrimp Survival Rates.

5. The Role of Epigenetics in Gene Expression: Case Study on Identical Twins.

6. To What Extent Do Different Antibiotics Inhibit Bacterial Growth?

7. How Does Caffeine Affect the Heart Rate of Daphnia?

8. An Investigation into the Impact of Pollution on Local Plant Diversity.

9. The Impact of Various Drugs on the Pulsation Rate of Lumbriculus variegatus.

10. Comparing the Efficacy of Natural Vs. Synthetic Pesticides on Plant Growth.

11. The Role of Gut Microbiota in Obesity: A Literature Review.

12. Does the Level of Vitamin C in Oranges Change Over Time?

13. How Do Different Types of Soil Affect Earthworm Activity?

14. Investigating the Correlation Between Altitude and Plant Biodiversity.

15. Analysis of Microplastic Concentration in Local Freshwater Bodies.

16. Impact of Noise Pollution on Birdsong: A Case Study.

17. A Comparison of Antibacterial Properties in Manuka Honey Vs. Regular Honey.

18. The Effect of Different Light Wavelengths on the Growth of Pea Plants.

19. How Does Exercise Intensity Impact Blood Glucose Levels?

20. Is There a Correlation Between Water pH and Aquatic Life Diversity?

1. How Does Temperature Affect the Rate of Reaction in the Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide?

2. Investigating the Effectiveness of Different Antacids on Stomach Acid.

3. A Comparative Study on the Vitamin C Concentration in Different Citrus Fruits.

4. How Does Cooking Time Affect the Vitamin C Levels in Vegetables?

5. To What Extent Does Enzyme Concentration Affect the Fermentation of Yeast?

6. Analysis of Caffeine Content in Different Types of Tea .

7. The Effect of Different Factors on the Corrosion of Iron.

8. How Does the Concentration of Sodium Chloride Affect the Electrolysis of Water?

9. Comparing the Energy Output of Different Biofuels.

10. The Effect of Temperature on the Crystal Size in the Recrystallisation Process.

11. Comparing the Acidities of Natural and Processed Foods.

12. Investigating the Effect of Various Catalysts on the Rate of Hydrogen Peroxide Decomposition.

13. Synthesis of Aspirin: A Study on the Purity of the Product.

14. Comparing the Efficiency of Different Types of Solar Panels.

15. Investigating the Impact of Carbonation on pH Levels in Various Soft Drinks.

16. The Effect of Chelating Agents on the Solubility of Metal Ions.

17. A Study on the Photodegradation of Dyes Using Titanium Dioxide.

18. How Do Different Sugar Types Affect Fermentation Rates in Yeast?

19. Analysis of Water Hardness in Various Local Water Supplies.

20. Investigating the Efficacy of Different Water Filtration Methods in Removing Heavy Metals.

1. Investigating the Relationship Between the Drop Height and Crater Size in a Simulated Impact.

2. How Does the Angle of Incidence Affect the Efficiency of a Solar Panel?

3. Analysing the Relationship Between the Length of a Pendulum and Its Period.

4. To What Extent Does the Mass of a Projectile Affect Its Range?

5. Investigating the Factors Affecting the Drag Force on a Falling Object.

6. A Study on the Efficiency of Different Insulating Materials in Reducing Heat Loss.

7. How Does the Depth of Water Affect Wave Speed?

8. The Relationship Between the Angle of Release and the Distance Traveled by a Trebuchet.

9. Investigating the Effect of Surface Area on Terminal Velocity.

10. How Does the Thickness of a Wire Affect Its Electrical Resistance?

11. The Impact of Varying Air Pressure on the Lift Force of an Airfoil.

12. Analysing the Relationship Between the Magnitude of an Earthquake and the Distance from the Epicentre.

13. Investigating the Factors Affecting the Speed of Sound in Different Media.

14. How Does the Concentration of a Solution Affect Its Refractive Index?

15. The Effect of Various Materials on the Absorption of Radiation.

16. A Study on the Efficiency of Wind Turbines at Different Wind Speeds.

17. Investigating the Effect of Temperature on the Viscosity of Liquids.

18. How Does the Type of Material Affect the Transmission of Sound Waves?

19. The Relationship Between the Angle of a Ramp and the Frictional Force Acting on an Object.

20. A Study on the Factors Affecting the Strength of Electromagnets.

1. The Impact of Social Media on Teenagers' Mental Health: A Cross-Cultural Study.

2. Investigating the Role of Parenting Styles in Child Development.

3. The Effect of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Performance.

4. How Does Classical Conditioning Apply in Advertising Strategies?

5. The Impact of Colour on Consumer Behaviour: A Study in Retail Settings.

6. The Role of Social Support in Coping with Stress.

7. To What Extent Does Personality Influence Career Success?

8. Investigating the Effect of Group Dynamics on Decision Making.

9. The Impact of Music on Cognitive Task Performance.

10. A Study on the Effectiveness of Different Techniques for Reducing Test Anxiety.

11. The Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Academic Performance.

12. Analysing the Impact of Stereotype Threat on Test Performance.

13. Investigating the Factors Affecting the Formation of False Memories.

14. How Does the Bystander Effect Manifest in Online Settings?

15. The Role of Mindfulness in Reducing Stress and Anxiety.

16. Analysing the Impact of Gender Stereotypes on Occupational Choices.

17. Investigating the Influence of Cultural Background on Conflict Resolution Styles.

18. The Impact of Video Games on Aggression: A Meta-Analysis.

19. A Study on the Factors Affecting Altruistic Behaviour.

20. The Role of Attachment Styles in Romantic Relationships.

1. Investigating the Impact of Unemployment on Crime Rates in Urban Areas.

2. The Effect of Immigration on Wage Levels: A Case Study.

3. To What Extent Does Government Spending Influence Economic Growth?

4. A Comparative Analysis of the Economic Impact of Tourism in Coastal Vs. Inland Regions.

5. Assessing the Impact of Brexit on the UK's Trade Balance.

6. The Role of Microfinance in Alleviating Poverty in Rural India.

7. Investigating the Effects of Minimum Wage Policies on Small Businesses.

8. The Impact of Covid-19 on the Global Supply Chain: A Study on the Auto Industry.

9. How Do Oil Prices Affect Inflation Rates? A Historical Analysis.

10. A Study on the Relationship Between Income Inequality and Economic Growth.

11. The Effect of Trade Tariffs on Domestic Industries: The Case of US-China Trade War.

12. The Role of Foreign Direct Investment in Economic Development of Emerging Markets.

13. To What Extent Does Education Contribute to Economic Productivity?

14. The Impact of Climate Change Policies on the Energy Sector.

15. Evaluating the Effectiveness of Fiscal Policy in Combating Recessions.

16. The Role of the Informal Economy in Urban Development: A Case Study.

17. Investigating the Correlation Between Real Estate Prices and Economic Growth.

18. The Impact of Population Aging on Healthcare Expenditure .

19. Assessing the Economic Consequences of Natural Disasters: A Case Study.

20. The Effect of Technological Advancements on Employment Rates in the Manufacturing Sector.

Business Management

1. The Impact of Leadership Styles on Employee Motivation in Tech Start-ups.

2. How Does Corporate Social Responsibility Influence Brand Image?

3. The Role of Human Resource Management in Employee Retention.

4. Investigating the Impact of E-commerce on Traditional Retail Businesses.

5. How Do Changes in Interest Rates Affect Small Business Financing?

6. The Role of Innovation in the Competitive Advantage of Businesses.

7. Investigating the Effects of Workplace Diversity on Team Performance.

8. The Impact of Organisational Culture on Employee Job Satisfaction.

9. How Does Supply Chain Management Affect the Profitability of Manufacturing Firms?

10. The Role of Digital Marketing in Enhancing Customer Engagement.

11. Assessing the Impact of Brexit on the Business Strategy of UK-based Companies.

12. The Effect of Ethical Practices on Business Reputation.

13. Investigating the Role of Strategic Alliances in Enhancing Market Position.

14. The Impact of Covid-19 on Remote Work Policies: A Case Study.

15. How Does Customer Relationship Management Influence Customer Loyalty?

16. The Effect of Government Regulations on Startup Ecosystem.

17. Evaluating the Role of Corporate Governance in Financial Performance.

18. The Impact of Merger and Acquisition on Employee Morale.

19. The Effect of Green Initiatives on Business Sustainability.

20. The Role of Business Intelligence in Decision-making.

Get expert help with your IB Extended Essay

The world's leading online IB Extended Essay tutoring provider trusted by students, parents, and schools globally.

4.92 /5 based on 480 reviews

1. Investigating the Impact of Urbanisation on Local Biodiversity: A Case Study.

2. The Role of Climate Change in the Spread of Vector-borne Diseases.

3. The Effect of River Diversions on Local Ecosystems.

4. Assessing the Impact of Deforestation on Local Climate: A Case Study.

5. The Role of Tourism in the Sustainable Development of Coastal Regions.

6. Investigating the Impact of Gentrification on Urban Neighbourhoods: A Case Study.

7. The Effect of Climate Change on the Availability of Freshwater Resources.

8. Assessing the Impact of Agricultural Practices on Soil Erosion in Rural Areas.

9. Analysing the Relationship Between Population Density and Transportation Infrastructure.

10. The Role of Renewable Energy in Reducing Carbon Emissions: A Case Study.

11. Investigating the Impact of Land Reclamation on Coastal Ecosystems.

12. The Effect of Urban Sprawl on Air Quality in Major Cities.

13. Assessing the Vulnerability of Coastal Communities to Sea Level Rise.

14. The Impact of Industrialisation on River Water Quality: A Case Study.

15. How Does Waste Management Affect the Sustainability of Urban Areas?

16. Investigating the Relationship Between Income Inequality and Spatial Segregation.

17. The Role of Urban Green Spaces in Enhancing Residents' Well-being.

18. The Impact of Natural Disasters on Economic Development in Small Island Nations.

19. Analysing the Factors Affecting the Distribution of Earthquakes and Volcanic Activity.

20. The Effect of Land Use Change on Flood Risk in Urban Areas.

Computer Science

1. Evaluating the Effectiveness of Different Machine Learning Algorithms in Predicting Stock Prices.

2. Investigating the Impact of Encryption Techniques on Data Security.

3. The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Automating Routine Tasks.

4. How Does the Implementation of Blockchain Technology Affect Supply Chain Management?

5. Assessing the Impact of Social Media Algorithms on User Behaviour.

6. The Effect of Augmented Reality on the User Experience in Mobile Applications.

7. Investigating the Feasibility of Quantum Computing in Solving Complex Problems.

8. The Role of Big Data Analytics in Enhancing Business Decision-making.

9. Analysing the Factors Affecting the Adoption of Cloud Computing by SMEs.

10. The Impact of Cybersecurity Measures on the Prevention of Data Breaches.

11. Investigating the Ethical Implications of Facial Recognition Technology.

12. The Effect of Internet of Things on Energy Efficiency in Smart Homes.

13. Assessing the Impact of Virtual Reality on Gaming Industry.

14. The Role of Natural Language Processing in Enhancing Human-Computer Interaction.

15. How Does the Development of Autonomous Vehicles Affect Traffic Management?

16. Investigating the Scalability Issues in Distributed Systems.

17. The Effect of Software Development Methodologies on Project Success Rates.

18. The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Job Market: A Case Study.

19. Analysing the Factors Affecting the Performance of Mobile Networks.

20. The Role of Bioinformatics in Personalised Medicine.

Environmental Systems and Societies

1. Investigating the Impact of E-waste on Soil and Water Quality.

2. The Effect of Climate Change on Coral Reef Ecosystems.

3. Assessing the Impact of Invasive Species on Native Biodiversity.

4. The Role of Sustainable Agriculture in Reducing Environmental Degradation.

5. Analysing the Factors Affecting the Ozone Layer Depletion.

6. The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Life: A Case Study.

7. Investigating the Feasibility of Carbon Capture and Storage Technologies.

8. The Role of Urban Planning in Reducing Air Pollution in Cities.

9. The Effect of Overfishing on Marine Ecosystems: A Case Study.

10. Assessing the Impact of Renewable Energy Sources on Carbon Emissions.

11. Investigating the Relationship Between Deforestation and Climate Change.

12. The Impact of Industrial Pollution on Local Communities' Health: A Case Study.

13. The Role of Waste Management in Reducing Ocean Pollution.

14. The Effect of Pesticides on Soil Microorganism Diversity.

15. Assessing the Impact of Dams on River Ecosystems.

16. Investigating the Efficacy of Reforestation Efforts in Carbon Sequestration.

17. The Role of Environmental Education in Promoting Sustainable Consumption Behaviours.

18. The Effect of Acid Rain on Forest Ecosystems: A Case Study.

19. Analysing the Impact of Mining Activities on Local Water Quality.

20. The Role of Green Infrastructure in Enhancing Urban Sustainability.

Social and Cultural Anthropology

1. Investigating the Impact of Globalisation on Indigenous Cultures: A Case Study.

2. The Role of Language in Shaping Cultural Identity.

3. Analysing the Influence of Cultural Practices on Gender Roles.

4. The Effect of Migration on Cultural Assimilation: A Case Study.

5. The Impact of Western Media on Body Image Perceptions in Non-Western Societies.

6. Investigating the Relationship Between Religion and Social Norms in a Given Society.

7. The Role of Cultural Traditions in Shaping Food Habits.

8. The Impact of Social Media on Cultural Exchange: A Case Study.

9. Analysing the Influence of Socioeconomic Status on Educational Attainment.

10. The Effect of Colonialism on Cultural Diversity: A Case Study.

11. Investigating the Role of Folklore in Preserving Cultural Heritage.

12. The Impact of Urbanisation on Traditional Social Structures: A Case Study.

13. The Role of Music and Dance in Cultural Expression.

14. Analysing the Influence of Cultural Factors on Mental Health.

15. The Effect of Cultural Beliefs on Healthcare Practices: A Case Study.

16. Investigating the Impact of Tourism on Local Cultures.

17. The Role of Rituals and Ceremonies in Social Cohesion.

18. The Impact of Legal Systems on Gender Equality: A Comparative Study.

19. Analysing the Cultural Adaptations of Immigrants in a New Society.

20. The Role of Art and Literature in Reflecting Social Changes.

Visual Arts

1. Investigating the Influence of Social Issues on Banksy's Street Art.

2. The Impact of Japanese Art on Claude Monet’s Painting Style.

3. Analysing the Representation of Women in Renaissance Paintings.

4. The Role of Surrealism in Salvador Dali's Artistic Expression.

5. Investigating the Cultural Symbolism in Frida Kahlo’s Self-portraits.

6. The Impact of Pop Culture on Andy Warhol's Art .

7. Analysing the Use of Light and Shadow in Caravaggio's Paintings.

8. The Role of Spirituality in Wassily Kandinsky's Abstract Art.

9. The Influence of African Art on Picasso's Cubist Period.

10. The Depiction of War and Its Aftermath in Otto Dix's Works.

11. Investigating the Use of Colour in Mark Rothko’s Abstract Paintings.

12. The Role of Indigenous Culture in Emily Carr's Landscape Paintings.

13. Analysing the Evolution of Political Themes in Chinese Contemporary Art.

14. The Effect of the Harlem Renaissance on Aaron Douglas' Art.

15. Investigating the Use of Geometric Shapes in Kandinsky’s Abstract Art.

16. The Role of Dutch Culture and Society in Vermeer's Paintings.

17. The Depiction of Nature in Georgia O'Keeffe's Works.

18. Analysing the Impact of Feminism on Barbara Kruger's Art.

19. Investigating the Influence of Post-Impressionism on Vincent van Gogh’s Style.

20. The Representation of the American Dream in Edward Hopper's Paintings.

World Studies

1. Investigating the Global Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Mental Health.

2. The Effect of Climate Change on Food Security in Sub-Saharan Africa.

3. Analysing the Influence of Globalisation on Indigenous Cultures.

4. The Role of International Law in Resolving Border Disputes: A Case Study.

5. Investigating the Impact of Global Trade Policies on Developing Economies.

6. The Effect of Globalisation on Income Inequality: A Comparative Study.

7. Analysing the Influence of Western Media on Global Perceptions of Beauty.

8. The Role of International Organizations in Addressing the Refugee Crisis.

9. Investigating the Global Response to the Rise of Cybercrime.

10. The Impact of Climate Change on Natural Disaster Frequency and Severity Worldwide.

11. Analysing the Influence of Globalisation on Language Diversity.

12. The Role of Technology in Bridging the Education Gap in Developing Countries.

13. Investigating the Global Impact of Antibiotic Resistance.

14. The Effect of International Trade on Cultural Exchange: A Case Study.

15. Analysing the Impact of Global Warming on Polar Ecosystems.

16. The Role of the United Nations in Promoting Global Gender Equality.

17. Investigating the Impact of Social Media on Political Activism Worldwide.

18. The Effect of Globalisation on the Sustainability of Traditional Crafts.

19. Analysing the Global Strategies for Wildlife Conservation.

20. The Role of International Cooperation in Space Exploration.

How to Write a Great IB Extended Essay

Crafting an exceptional IB Extended Essay requires a combination of strategic planning, critical thinking, and effective writing. In this guide, we will provide you with valuable insights and practical advice to help you excel in your writing journey and produce an outstanding essay.

1. Develop a Clear and Coherent Structure : Creating a well-organised structure is crucial to convey your ideas effectively. Start by outlining the main sections and subtopics of your essay. Ensure a logical flow of information, with each paragraph building upon the previous one. This will guide the reader through your arguments and analysis smoothly.

2. Conduct Thorough and Methodical Research : Thorough research forms the foundation of a strong Extended Essay. Dive into reputable sources, including academic journals, books, and credible websites. Gather evidence, data, and expert opinions to support your arguments. Take meticulous notes and properly cite your sources to maintain academic integrity.

3. Apply Critical Thinking and Evaluation : Engage in critical analysis by examining and evaluating the evidence you've gathered. Assess the strengths and weaknesses of different viewpoints, theories, or methodologies. Develop your own informed perspective and present a well-reasoned argument supported by reliable evidence.

4. Craft Engaging and Coherent Paragraphs : Each paragraph should focus on a specific idea or argument, clearly stated in a topic sentence. Support your claims with evidence, examples, and relevant data. Use smooth transitions between paragraphs to ensure a cohesive and coherent essay.

5. Revise, Edit, and Proofread : Give yourself ample time for revising, editing, and proofreading your essay. Review your work for clarity, coherence, and consistency. Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Consider seeking feedback from teachers, peers, or mentors to gain valuable insights and improve your essay further.

We asked one IB teacher what they had to say about writing a great essay:

"The key is to choose a topic that truly ignites your curiosity, one that you are passionate about exploring. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and delve into uncharted territories. Remember, this is your chance to showcase your unique perspective and make a meaningful contribution to your chosen field. Embrace the research process, be diligent in gathering reliable sources, and let your creativity shine through in your writing. And most importantly, enjoy the journey of discovery and growth that the Extended Essay offers."

Remember, the IB Extended Essay is an opportunity to demonstrate your intellectual curiosity, research skills, and ability to present a coherent argument. Choose a topic that genuinely interests you, stay organised throughout the process, and invest time in thoughtful analysis and writing. To maximise your chances of success, you may also want to purchase an Extended Essay textbook or get the help of an IB Extended Essay tutor .

IB Extended Essay Grade Distribution in 2022

Finding Reliable Sources for Your Extended Essay

When writing your IB Extended Essay, it is essential to rely on credible and trustworthy sources. Follow these strategies to find reliable information:

1. Use Academic Databases: Access reputable databases like JSTOR and PubMed to find scholarly articles and research papers relevant to your subject.

2. Consult Library Resources: Take advantage of books, encyclopaedias, and reference materials available in your school or local library.

3. Explore Digital Libraries: Visit digital libraries such as the Digital Public Library of America and Europeana for access to a wide range of digitised resources.

4. Evaluate Websites Carefully: Verify the credibility of the author or organisation, check for peer-reviewed articles or references, and consider the domain (.edu, .gov, or .org) for reliable information.

5. Utilise Scholarly Search Engines: Utilise specialised search engines like Google Scholar and Microsoft Academic to find academic publications.

6. Consult Subject-Specific Journals: Look for reputable journals in your field and review their latest issues for current research.

7. Seek Guidance from Librarians and Experts: Librarians and subject experts can offer valuable assistance in finding reliable sources and publications.

By following these strategies and critically evaluating the sources you find, you can ensure the credibility and integrity of your Extended Essay research. Reliable sources will strengthen your arguments and provide a solid foundation for your essay.

Strategies for Conducting Primary and Secondary Research

To conduct comprehensive primary and secondary research for your essay, consider the following strategies:

Primary Research

Surveys and Questionnaires: Create well-designed surveys or questionnaires to collect data directly from participants. Utilise online survey tools like Google Forms or SurveyMonkey for wider reach and convenient data analysis.

Interviews: Conduct interviews with subject experts, professionals, or individuals relevant to your research topic. Prepare insightful questions and record their responses for later analysis.

Experiments and Observations: Design and conduct controlled experiments or observations to gather firsthand data. Document procedures, measurements, and observations accurately.

Secondary Research

Literature Review: Conduct a thorough review of existing scholarly articles, books, and reports. Analyse and synthesise the information to identify research gaps and contribute to the existing knowledge.

Online Databases: Utilise reputable academic databases such as PubMed, JSTOR, and IEEE Xplore to access peer-reviewed articles and research papers specific to your subject area.

Government and Institutional Sources: Explore official government websites, research repositories of educational institutions, and databases of international organisations for reliable data, reports, and statistics.

Subject-Specific Sources: Identify subject-specific journals, publications, and conferences related to your research topic. These sources provide up-to-date research and insights from experts in the field.

Remember to consider ethical considerations throughout your research process, including obtaining necessary permissions, maintaining confidentiality, and respecting the rights and privacy of participants. Documentation of your research methods, sources, and any challenges faced is crucial. Analyse and interpret your findings critically, using them as evidence to support your arguments and contribute to your overall analysis.

Formatting and Structure Guidelines for the IB Extended Essay

To ensure a well-organised and coherent IB Extended Essay, consider the following structure as a guideline:

1. Title Page : Include essential information such as the title, subject, research question, and candidate number. Refer to the official IB Extended Essay Guide for specific requirements.

2. Abstract: Provide a concise summary of your essay, outlining the main research question, methodology, key findings, and conclusions. Limit the abstract to 300 words.

3. Table of Contents : Create a clear and accurate table of contents that outlines the structure of your essay, including sections, subheadings, and page numbers.

4. Introduction : Start with an engaging introduction that presents the research question, provides background information, and explains the significance of the topic. Clearly state the aim and objectives of your research.

5. Body : The body of your essay should delve into your research in-depth. Organize your content into coherent paragraphs, each addressing a specific aspect of your research. Consider the following elements:

a. Literature Review: Provide an overview of the relevant literature and theories related to your research topic. Analyse existing research, highlight key concepts, and discuss any debates or gaps in knowledge.

b. Methodology: Describe the research methodology employed, including the research design, data collection methods, and ethical considerations. Explain why the chosen methods are appropriate for addressing your research question.

c. Data Analysis and Findings: Present your findings based on the data collected. Use appropriate analysis techniques, such as statistical analysis or qualitative coding, to interpret your data and draw meaningful conclusions. Include tables, charts, or graphs to support your findings.

d. Discussion: Analyse and interpret your findings in the context of your research question. Explore the implications of your results, compare them with existing research, and discuss any limitations or challenges encountered during the research process.

6. Conclusion : Summarise your key findings, address your research question, and draw meaningful conclusions based on your analysis. Reflect on the implications and broader significance of your research. Highlight any recommendations for future research or areas for further exploration.

7. References : Include a comprehensive list of all sources consulted in your research. Follow the appropriate citation style (e.g., MLA, APA, or Chicago) for in-text citations and the bibliography. Accurately cite all sources, including books, articles, websites, and any other references used.

8. Appendices (if applicable): Include any supplementary materials, such as raw data, charts, graphs, or additional supporting evidence that are relevant to your research.

Typically, the Extended Essay has a word limit of around 4,000 words. It is important to note that this word count does not include footnotes, citations, and the bibliography. Additionally, the essay should be formatted using a standard font (e.g., Times New Roman or Arial) and a font size of 12 points. It is recommended to have double-spacing throughout the essay and to include page numbers.

The IB Extended Essay Assessment Criteria and Grading

The IB Extended Essay is assessed by examiners appointed by the IB on a scale of 0 to 34. Your essay will be evaluated based on five criteria, each carrying a specific point value. It is crucial to comprehend these criteria and how they relate to letter grades to gauge your performance accurately. Here's an overview of the assessment criteria:

Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum) Demonstrate a clear research question and a well-defined approach. Show how you applied appropriate research methods to investigate your topic.

Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum) Display a strong understanding of the subject matter, relevant concepts, and theories. Support your arguments with accurate and relevant evidence.

Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum) Apply critical thinking skills to analyse and evaluate information, theories, and arguments. Demonstrate the ability to consider alternative viewpoints and draw well-reasoned conclusions.

Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum) Organize your essay effectively with a clear and logical structure. Use proper formatting, referencing, and citation methods consistently.

Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum) Engage in a reflective process throughout your research and writing. Show awareness of the strengths, limitations, and implications of your research.

To determine your letter grade, it is important to understand how the rubric assessment points correlate to the overall score. Here is a rough estimation of how the point values align with letter grades:

• 30-34: Excellent - A
• 25-29: Good - B
• 17-24: Satisfactory - C
• 9-16: Mediocre - D
• 0-8: Elementary - E

However, relying solely on these point values is not sufficient. It is crucial to thoroughly read and comprehend the specific grade descriptors provided by the IB. These descriptors offer comprehensive information about the expectations and criteria that examiners consider when assigning letter grades.

The grade you receive on your IB Extended Essay contributes to your overall International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme points score. The Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge combined are worth up to 3 points of the total 45 points available for the IBDP .

IB Extended Essay and TOK points matrix

Final Thoughts

The IB Extended Essay is a challenging yet rewarding endeavour that allows high school students to showcase their research and analytical skills. With proper guidance and adherence to the assessment criteria, students have the opportunity to excel and achieve outstanding results. Embrace this opportunity to delve into a topic of interest, conduct in-depth research, and present your findings in a well-structured and engaging manner. Remember to consult reputable sources, seek guidance from your supervisor, and enjoy the journey of exploration and academic growth through the IB Extended Essay.

Is the IB Extended Essay hard?

The IB Extended Essay is undoubtedly a challenging undertaking, requiring significant effort and dedication, and is one of the hardest IB subjects . It is estimated that between 70% and 80% of IB students successfully complete the Extended Essay each year. Less than 14% of students received an A in the extended essay in 2022, showing its difficult.

Can you change your research question after starting the Extended Essay?

Yes, it is possible to change your research question after starting the Extended Essay. However, it is important to consult with your supervisor and ensure that the new research question still meets the requirements and aligns with the subject area you are pursuing.

When is the deadline to submit the Extended Essay?

The deadline to submit the Extended Essay can vary depending on the policies and timelines set by individual schools. In most cases, schools establish internal deadlines to ensure students have ample time to complete and revise their essays before the final submission. The typical deadline for submitting the Extended Essay is often set in the first half of the senior year, ranging from November to January. It is essential to check with your school's IB coordinator or Extended Essay coordinator for the specific deadline applicable to your academic institution.

Can you fail the Extended Essay?

Yes, it is possible to fail the Extended Essay if the work does not meet the required standards or does not fulfil the assessment criteria set by the IB. It is important to carefully follow the guidelines, seek guidance from your supervisor, and ensure your essay demonstrates strong research, analysis, and critical thinking skills. In 2022, 1.1% of students did not received no grade for their Extended Essays.

Can you fail the Extended Essay and still pass the IB?

Yes, it is possible to fail the Extended Essay and still pass the overall IB Diploma Programme. The Extended Essay contributes to a maximum of 3 points out of the total 45 points available for the diploma. Failing the Extended Essay means not earning any points from this component, but it does not necessarily mean failing the entire IB Diploma.

Can you collaborate with other students on the Extended Essay?

The IB allows limited collaboration with other students on the Extended Essay. While you can seek advice and support from others, it is important to maintain individual responsibility for your research, writing, and analysis. Collaboration should not compromise the integrity of your work, and any collaborative effort should be properly acknowledged and cited in your essay.

Need help from an expert?

The world’s top online tutoring provider trusted by students, parents, and schools globally.

Study and Practice for Free

Trusted by 100,000+ Students Worldwide

Achieve Top Grades in Your Exams with our Free Resources:

STUDY NOTES

Expert-crafted notes designed to make learning the material engaging and clear.

PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Comprehensive questions to boost your revision and exam preparedness.

PAST EXAM PAPERS

Extensive collection of previous exam papers for effective revision.

Need Expert IB Help?

If you’re looking for assistance with your essay and the IB, get in touch with the TutorChase team and we’ll be able to provide you with an expert IB Extended Essay tutor . We’ll be there every step of the way!

Professional tutor and Cambridge University researcher

Written by: Charles Whitehouse

Charles scored 45/45 on the International Baccalaureate and has six years' experience tutoring IB and IGCSE students and advising them with their university applications. He studied a double integrated Masters at Magdalen College Oxford and has worked as a research scientist and strategy consultant.

Related Posts

150 IB CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) Ideas

IB CAS Project: 100 Ideas and Guidance

What are the Hardest IB Subjects?

Hire a tutor

Please fill out the form and we'll find a tutor for you

• Select your country
• Afghanistan
• Åland Islands
• American Samoa
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Bouvet Island
• British Indian Ocean Territory
• Brunei Darussalam
• Burkina Faso
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Christmas Island
• Cocos (Keeling) Islands
• Congo, The Democratic Republic of the
• Cook Islands
• Cote D'Ivoire
• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
• Faroe Islands
• French Guiana
• French Polynesia
• French Southern Territories
• Guinea-Bissau
• Heard Island and Mcdonald Islands
• Holy See (Vatican City State)
• Iran, Islamic Republic Of
• Isle of Man
• Korea, Democratic People'S Republic of
• Korea, Republic of
• Lao People'S Democratic Republic
• Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
• Liechtenstein
• Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia, Federated States of
• Moldova, Republic of
• Netherlands
• Netherlands Antilles
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Norfolk Island
• Northern Mariana Islands
• Palestinian Territory, Occupied
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Puerto Rico
• Russian Federation
• Saint Helena
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Pierre and Miquelon
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Serbia and Montenegro
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
• Svalbard and Jan Mayen
• Switzerland
• Syrian Arab Republic
• Taiwan, Province of China
• Tanzania, United Republic of
• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• United States Minor Outlying Islands
• Virgin Islands, British
• Virgin Islands, U.S.
• Wallis and Futuna
• Western Sahara

Still have questions? Let’s get in touch.

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.

• 2-Year Colleges
• Application Strategies
• Best Colleges by Major
• Best Colleges by State
• Big Picture
• Career & Personality Assessment
• College Essay
• College Search/Knowledge
• College Success
• Costs & Financial Aid
• Dental School Admissions
• Extracurricular Activities
• Graduate School Admissions
• High Schools
• Law School Admissions
• Medical School Admissions
• Navigating the Admissions Process
• Online Learning
• Private High School Spotlight
• Summer Program Spotlight
• Summer Programs
• Test Prep Provider Spotlight

“Innovative and invaluable…use this book as your college lifeline.”

— Lynn O'Shaughnessy

Nationally Recognized College Expert

College Planning in Your Inbox

Join our information-packed monthly newsletter.

I am a... Student Student Parent Counselor Educator Other First Name Last Name Email Address Zip Code Area of Interest Business Computer Science Engineering Fine/Performing Arts Humanities Mathematics STEM Pre-Med Psychology Social Studies/Sciences Submit

• Westbourne Voices
• Awards and Affiliations
• Virtual Tour
• Admissions Overview
• School Admissions Process
• Nursery Admissions Process
• International Student Admissions
• Visits & Open Days
• Welcome to Nursery
• Nursery Life
• Nursery Curriculum
• Nursery Sessions
• Nursery Fees and Applications
• Stepping up to Prep School
• Welcome to Prep School
• Prep Academic Curriculum
• Prep Co-Curricular
• Prep School Case Studies
• Stepping up to Senior School
• Welcome to Senior School
• GCSE Subjects
• Senior Co-curricular
• Stepping Up to Sixth Form
• Welcome to Sixth Form
• IB Subjects
• IB Inner Core
• Oxbridge and Russell Group
• Careers Guidance
• Super Curriculum
• Sixth Form Case Studies
• Westbourne Life
• Welcome to Boarding
• Boarding Options
• Boarding Life
• Boarding FAQs
• Boarding Case Studies
• Future Leaders Lab
• School Uniform
• School Transport
• Visiting Information

How To Write The Extended Essay (With Topics and Examples)

This comprehensive guide navigates through every aspect of the EE, from selecting a topic and developing a research question to conducting in-depth research and writing a compelling essay. It offers practical strategies, insights, and tips to help students craft a piece of work that not only meets the rigorous standards of the IB but also reflects their academic passion and curiosity. Join us as we explore the keys to success in the Extended Essay, preparing you for an intellectually rewarding experience.

Posted: 13th February 2024

Section jump links:

Section 1: Understanding the IB Extended Essay

Section 2: the importance of the extended essay, section 3: selecting a topic, section 4: developing your research question, section 5: research methodology and theoretical frameworks, section 6: evaluating sources and data, section 7: integrating evidence and analysis, section 8: writing and structuring the extended essay, section 9: reflection and the rppf, section 10: the significance of academic discipline in the ee, section 11: good practice in extended essay writing, section 12: managing the extended essay process, section 13: collaboration and feedback, section 14: avoiding plagiarism, section 15: emphasising original thought, section 16: final presentation and viva voce, section 17: beyond the extended essay, what is the ib extended essay.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Extended Essay (EE) is a cornerstone of the IB Diploma Programme . It’s an independent, self-directed piece of research, culminating in a 4,000-word paper. This project offers students an opportunity to investigate a topic of their own choice, bridging the gap between classwork and the kind of research required at the university level.

Key Objectives and the Role of the EE in the IB Curriculum

The Extended Essay has several key objectives:

• To provide students with the chance to engage in an in-depth study of a question of interest within a chosen subject.
• To develop research, thinking, self-management, and communication skills.
• To introduce students to the excitement and challenges of academic research.

The EE plays a critical role in the IB curriculum by:

• Encouraging intellectual discovery and creativity.
• Facilitating academic growth and personal development through research and writing.
• Preparing students for the rigours of higher education.

Extended Essay Word Count and Requirements

The EE has a maximum word count of 4,000 words. This does not include the abstract, contents page, bibliography, or footnotes (which must be used sparingly). Here are some essential requirements:

• Research Question: Your essay must be focused on a clear, concise research question. You should aim to provide a comprehensive answer to this question through your research and writing.
• Subject : The EE can be written in one of the student’s six chosen subjects for the IB diploma or in a subject recognized by the IB.
• Supervision : Each student is assigned a supervisor (usually a teacher in their school) who provides guidance and support throughout the research and writing process.
• Assessment: The essay is externally assessed by the IB, contributing up to three points towards the total score for the IB diploma, depending on the grade achieved and the performance in the Theory of Knowledge course.

The Extended Essay is not just an academic requirement but a unique opportunity to explore a topic of personal interest in depth. This can be an incredibly rewarding experience, providing valuable skills and insights that will serve you well in your future academic and professional endeavours.

The EE is more than just a requirement for the IB Diploma. It’s an essential part of the IB experience , offering profound benefits for students. Let’s explore why the EE holds such significance.

Academic and Personal Development Benefits

Skill enhancement:.

The EE fosters a range of academic skills crucial for success in higher education and beyond. It teaches students how to:

• Conduct comprehensive research
• Develop a coherent argument
• Write extensively on a subject
• Manage time effectively

Personal Growth:

Beyond academic prowess, the EE encourages personal development. Students learn to:

• Pursue their interests deeply
• Overcome challenges independently
• Reflect on their learning process
• Enhance their curiosity and creativity

Contribution to University Admissions

Standout applications:.

The EE can be a significant advantage in university applications . It demonstrates a student’s ability to undertake serious research projects and commit to an intensive academic task. Universities value this dedication, seeing it as indicative of a student’s readiness for undergraduate studies.

Showcase of Skills:

The EE allows students to showcase their research, writing, and analytical skills. It provides concrete evidence of their academic abilities and their capacity to engage deeply with a topic of interest.

Skill Development: Research, Writing, and Critical Thinking

Research Skills:

Students learn to navigate academic literature, evaluate sources, and gather relevant data. This process sharpens their research skills, laying a solid foundation for future academic endeavours.

Writing Skills:

Crafting a 4,000-word essay challenges students to express their ideas clearly and persuasively. It hones their writing skills, teaching them the art of structured and focused academic writing.

Critical Thinking:

The EE encourages students to analyse information critically, assess arguments, and develop their viewpoints. This critical engagement fosters a sophisticated level of thought, beneficial in both academic and real-world contexts.

In conclusion, the Extended Essay is a pivotal element of the IB Diploma Programme. It’s an invaluable opportunity for intellectual and personal growth, preparing students for the challenges of higher education and beyond. With its emphasis on independent research and writing, the EE equips students with the skills and confidence to navigate their future academic journeys successfully.

Choosing a topic for your Extended Essay is the first step in a journey towards developing a deep understanding of a specific area of interest. It’s crucial to select a topic that is not only academically viable but also personally engaging. Here’s how to navigate this critical phase.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your EE Topic

Interest and passion:.

Select a topic that fascinates you. Your interest will sustain motivation over the months of research and writing.

Availability of Resources:

Ensure there are enough resources available on your chosen topic. Access to libraries, databases, and experts in the field is essential for comprehensive research.

Scope and Focus:

The topic should be narrow enough to allow for in-depth study yet broad enough to find sufficient research material. Balancing specificity with resource availability is key.

IB Subject Areas:

Your topic must align with one of the subjects you are studying in the IB Diploma Programme or an approved subject area. Familiarity with the subject’s methodology and criteria is crucial for success.

How to Align Your Interests with the IB Subjects

Explore the syllabus:.

Review the syllabus of your IB subjects to identify topics that interest you. This can provide a framework for your EE.

Consult with Teachers:

Teachers can offer insights into feasible topics that align with the IB criteria and offer guidance on how to approach them.

Consider Interdisciplinary Topics:

Some of the most engaging EEs explore the intersection between different subjects. If this interests you, ensure your approach meets the criteria for an interdisciplinary essay under the IB’s World Studies EE option.

Extended Essay Topics: Examples Across Various Disciplines

• Sciences: How does the introduction of non-native plant species affect biodiversity in your local ecosystem?
• History : What was the impact of Winston Churchill’s leadership on Britain’s role in World War II?
• English: How does the use of unreliable narrators influence the reader’s perception in Ian McEwan’s novels?
• Mathematics: Investigating the application of the Fibonacci sequence in predicting stock market movements.
• Visual Arts: Exploring the influence of Japanese art on Claude Monet’s painting style.

Selecting the right topic is foundational to your EE journey. It shapes your research direction, influences your engagement with the essay, and ultimately contributes to the satisfaction and success of your EE experience. Take your time, consult widely, and choose a topic that you are eager to explore in depth.

Crafting a focused and clear research question is a pivotal element of your Extended Essay. This question not only guides your research but also frames your essay’s entire structure. It’s the question to which your essay will provide an answer, and as such, it requires thoughtful consideration and precision.

A well-developed research question should be specific, relevant, and challenging. It should invite analysis, discussion, and the exploration of significant academic literature. Here’s a deeper look into formulating a robust research question for your EE.

Characteristics of a Strong Research Question

The hallmark of a strong research question is its specificity. It shouldn’t be too broad, as this could lead to a superficial treatment of the topic. 

Conversely, a question that’s too narrow might not allow for comprehensive exploration or significant discussion. Finding a balance is key. The question should also be focused on a particular aspect of a subject area, enabling in-depth analysis within the word count limit.

Another important characteristic is the question’s alignment with available resources. Before finalising your question, ensure that you have access to sufficient data and scholarly research to support your investigation. This might involve preliminary searches in academic databases, libraries, or consultation with your supervisor.

Tips for Refining Your Research Question

Start by brainstorming broad topic areas that interest you. Once you’ve identified a general area of interest, begin narrowing down by asking yourself specific questions about the topic. What aspects of this topic are unexplored or underexplored? What specific angle can I take that will make my research unique?

It’s also beneficial to review past EEs or academic journals for inspiration. Seeing how others have structured their research questions can provide valuable insight into crafting your own. However, ensure your question remains original and tailored to your interests.

Examples of Effective Research Questions

To give you an idea of what a well-formulated research question looks like, here are a few examples:

• Biology: How does the concentration of a specific nutrient affect the growth rate of plant species X in a hydroponic setup compared to soil-based growth?
• History: To what extent did the public speeches of Martin Luther King Jr. influence the public’s perception of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States between 1963 and 1968?
• Economics: How significant is the impact of recent economic policies on small businesses in [specific location] during the COVID-19 pandemic?
• English Literature: How does the use of magical realism in Gabriel García Márquez’s ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ reflect the political and social issues of post-colonial Latin America?

Developing your research question is an iterative process. It may evolve as you delve deeper into your research. Be open to refining your question based on the information you discover and discussions with your supervisor. A well-crafted research question will not only guide your research effectively but also engage your interest throughout the writing process, leading to a more meaningful and insightful Extended Essay.

A critical component of your Extended Essay is selecting an appropriate research methodology and theoretical framework. These elements are foundational to conducting your research and crafting your argument, influencing how you collect, analyse, and interpret data.

Understanding Research Methodologies

Research methodology refers to the systematic approach you take to investigate your research question. It encompasses the methods and procedures you use to collect and analyse data. Your chosen methodology should align with the nature of your research question and the objectives of your essay.

In the sciences, for example, your methodology might involve experiments, observations, or simulations to gather empirical data. In the humanities, you may lean towards content analysis, comparative analysis, or historical investigation, relying on textual or archival sources.

Selecting the right methodology is crucial. It should provide a clear path to answering your research question, considering the resources available and the scope of your essay. It’s also important to justify your choice of methodology in your essay, explaining why it’s appropriate for your research question and how it will help you achieve your objectives.

Applying Theoretical Frameworks

Theoretical frameworks provide a lens through which your research is conducted and interpreted. They offer a structured way to understand and analyse your findings, grounding your study in existing knowledge and theories.

Choosing a theoretical framework involves identifying relevant theories, models, or concepts that apply to your topic. For instance, if you’re exploring media representation of gender, you might utilise feminist theory as a framework to analyse your findings. In economics, you might apply game theory to understand competitive behaviours in a market.

The framework should guide your analysis, providing a coherent basis for interpreting your data. It helps to structure your argument, offering a deeper insight into the significance of your findings within the broader academic discourse.

Integrating Methodology and Frameworks into Your Research

Successfully integrating your chosen methodology and theoretical framework involves a few key steps:

• Clarify the Scope: Ensure your research question, methodology, and theoretical framework align in scope and focus. They should work together seamlessly to guide your research.
• Justify Your Choices: Explain the rationale behind your chosen methodology and framework. Discuss why they are suitable for your research question and how they will support your investigation.
• Apply Consistently: Use your methodology and framework consistently throughout your research and analysis. This consistency strengthens the coherence and academic rigour of your essay.

Reflecting on these components during the planning stage can enhance the quality of your research and the clarity of your argument. Your methodology and theoretical framework are not just academic requirements; they’re tools that shape the direction and depth of your inquiry, enabling a more structured and insightful exploration of your topic.

In the journey of crafting an Extended Essay (EE), the ability to critically evaluate sources and data stands as a fundamental skill. This evaluation is crucial in establishing the credibility and reliability of the information that forms the backbone of your research. Understanding how to discern the quality and relevance of your sources ensures that your EE is built on a solid foundation of trustworthy information.

Criteria for Selecting Credible and Relevant Sources

Authority: Consider the source’s authorship. Look for works by experts in the field, academic institutions, or reputable organisations. The author’s qualifications and affiliations can significantly impact the reliability of the information.

Accuracy: The information should be supported by evidence, referenced appropriately, and free from factual errors. Reliable sources often undergo a peer-review process, ensuring that the content is scrutinised and validated by other experts in the field.

Currency: The relevance of information can diminish over time, especially in fields that evolve rapidly, such as science and technology. Ensure that the sources you use are up-to-date, reflecting the latest research and developments.

Purpose: Understand the purpose behind the information. Is it to inform, persuade, entertain, or sell? Recognising the intent can help you assess potential biases, which is particularly important when dealing with controversial topics.

Techniques for Evaluating the Reliability and Validity of Data

Cross-Verification: Cross-check information across multiple sources to verify its accuracy and reliability. Consistency among various sources can be a good indicator of the information’s validity.

Statistical Analysis: When dealing with numerical data, consider its statistical significance and the methodology used in its collection. Reliable data should be gathered using sound scientific methods and accurately represent the population or phenomena studied.

Source Evaluation Tools: Utilise tools and checklists designed to evaluate the credibility of sources. These can provide a structured approach to assessing the quality of your research materials.

Incorporating Primary vs. Secondary Sources Effectively

Primary Sources: These are firsthand accounts or direct evidence concerning the topic you’re researching. They include interviews, surveys, experiments, and historical documents. Primary sources offer original insights and data, allowing for a deeper and more personal engagement with your subject.

Secondary Sources: These sources analyse, interpret, or summarise information from primary sources. They include textbooks, articles, and reviews. Secondary sources can provide context, background, and a broader perspective on your topic.

Balancing primary and secondary sources enriches your research, providing both the raw data and the interpretations that help frame your analysis. By rigorously evaluating sources and data, you ensure that your Extended Essay rests on a foundation of credible and relevant information, enhancing the depth and rigour of your investigation.

The heart of a compelling Extended Essay (EE) lies in the seamless integration of evidence and analysis. This integration not only supports and substantiates your arguments but also demonstrates your ability to critically engage with your research topic. Here’s how to weave evidence and analysis together in a way that enhances the strength and persuasiveness of your EE.

Strategies for Integrating Evidence Seamlessly into Your Argument

Directly Link Evidence to Your Thesis: Every piece of evidence you include should directly support or relate to your thesis statement. This ensures that all the information contributes to building your argument coherently.

Use Evidence to Illustrate Points: Utilise examples, data, quotes, and case studies as concrete evidence to illustrate your points. This makes abstract concepts more tangible and convincing to the reader.

Analyse, Don’t Just Present: For every piece of evidence, provide analysis and interpretation. Explain how it supports your argument, what it demonstrates, and its implications for your research question.

Balancing Descriptive and Analytical Writing

Avoid Over-Description: While some description is necessary to set the context, avoid dedicating too much space to merely describing your evidence. The focus should be on analysis.

Develop a Critical Voice: Cultivate a critical approach to your evidence. This means evaluating its reliability, considering its limitations, and discussing its relevance to your argument.

Synthesise Information: Aim to synthesise evidence from multiple sources to support your points. This demonstrates comprehensive understanding and the ability to draw connections across your research.

How to Critically Analyse Sources and Data Within Your Essay

Question the Source: Consider the source’s origin, purpose, and potential bias. How might these factors influence the information presented?

Evaluate Methodology: If the evidence comes from a study or experiment, evaluate the methodology used. Is it sound and appropriate for the research question?

Consider the Broader Context: Place your evidence within the broader scholarly conversation on your topic. How does it fit with, challenge, or expand existing knowledge?

By thoughtfully integrating evidence and providing in-depth analysis, you can create a nuanced and compelling EE that goes beyond mere description to offer original insights into your topic. This approach not only strengthens your argument but also showcases your critical thinking and analytical skills, essential qualities for success in the IB Diploma Programme and beyond.

The Extended Essay presents an opportunity for IB students to engage deeply with a topic of their choice. However, to effectively communicate your research and insights, your essay must be well-structured and clearly written. 

This section provides guidance on how to write and structure your EE, ensuring your work is coherent, persuasive, and academically rigorous.

Outline of the Extended Essay Structure

A well-organised structure is crucial for the readability and coherence of your EE. Typically, an Extended Essay includes the following components:

• Title Page: Displays the essay title, research question, subject the essay is registered in, and word count.
• Abstract: A concise summary of the essay, including the research question, methodology, results, and conclusion (Note: For essays submitted in 2018 and forward, the IB no longer requires an abstract, so check the most current guidelines).
• Contents Page: Lists the sections and subsections of your essay with page numbers.
• Introduction: Introduces the research question and your essay’s purpose, outlining the scope of the investigation.
• Body : The main section of your essay, divided into clearly titled subsections, each addressing specific aspects of the research question. It’s where you present your argument, supported by evidence.
• Conclusion: Summarises the findings, discusses the implications, and reflects on the research’s limitations and potential areas for further study.
• References/Bibliography: Lists all sources used in the essay in a consistent format, following the chosen citation style.
• Appendices: (If necessary) Contains supplementary material that is relevant to the research but not essential to its explanation.

Detailed Breakdown of Each Section

Introduction:

The introduction sets the stage for your research. It should clearly state your research question and explain the significance of the topic. Briefly outline the theoretical framework and methodology, and provide an overview of the essay’s structure.

The body is the heart of your essay. It should be logically organised to build your argument step by step. Each paragraph should start with a clear topic sentence, followed by evidence and analysis. Use subheadings to divide the sections thematically or methodologically, ensuring each part contributes to answering the research question.

• Developing Arguments: Present and critique different perspectives, systematically leading the reader through your analytical process.
• Using Evidence: Incorporate relevant data, quotes, and examples to support your arguments. Ensure all sources are appropriately cited.
• Analysis and Discussion: Go beyond describing your findings; analyse and interpret them in the context of your research question and theoretical framework.
• Conclusion: The conclusion should not introduce new information. Instead, it should synthesise your findings, highlighting how they contribute to understanding the research question. Reflect on the research process, acknowledging any limitations and suggesting areas for further investigation.

Importance of Coherence and Logical Flow

Maintaining coherence and a logical flow throughout your EE is essential. Transition sentences between paragraphs and sections can help link ideas smoothly, guiding the reader through your argument. A coherent structure ensures that your essay is accessible and persuasive, making a strong impression on the reader.

A well-written and structured EE is a testament to your understanding of the research process and your ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. By adhering to a clear structure and focusing on coherence and logical progression, you can craft an essay that is engaging, insightful, and academically rigorous.

A unique and integral component of the IB Extended Essay (EE) process is the Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF). The RPPF serves as a personal and academic exploration tool, guiding students through the planning, research, and writing phases of their EE. It encourages students to reflect on their learning journey, documenting insights gained, challenges encountered, and the evolution of their thinking.

The Role of Reflection in the EE Process

Reflection is at the heart of the EE, enabling students to engage critically with their own learning processes. It helps in:

• Self-Assessment: Encouraging students to consider their strengths and areas for improvement.
• Skill Development: Facilitating a deeper understanding of the research and writing skills developed during the EE process.
• Critical Thinking: Promoting an evaluative approach to the research process, allowing students to make informed decisions about their methodologies, sources, and arguments.

How to Effectively Complete the RPPF

Completing the RPPF involves three formal reflection sessions, which are crucial milestones in the EE journey:

• Initial Reflection: Focuses on the selection of the topic and formulation of the research question. Students should discuss their motivations, initial ideas, and anticipated challenges.
• Interim Reflection: Occurs midway through the process. Students reflect on the progress made, adjustments to their research plan, and any challenges they’ve faced. It’s an opportunity to reassess the direction of the EE and make necessary modifications.
• Final Reflection: After completing the EE, students reflect on their overall experience, the skills they’ve developed, and the knowledge they’ve gained. This reflection should also consider the impact of the research process on their personal and academic growth.

In each reflection, students should be honest and critical, providing insights into their learning journey. The reflections are not just about documenting successes but also about understanding the learning process, including setbacks and how they were overcome.

Examples of Reflective Questions and Insightful Responses

Initial reflection:.

Question: “What excites me about my chosen topic?”

Insightful Response: Discuss the personal or academic interest in the topic, any prior knowledge, and what you hope to discover through your research.

Interim Reflection:

Question: “What challenges have I encountered in my research, and how have I addressed them?”

Insightful Response: Describe specific obstacles, such as difficulty accessing resources or refining the research question, and the strategies employed to overcome them.

Final Reflection:

Question: “How has my understanding of the topic evolved through the research process?”

Insightful Response: Reflect on how the research challenged or confirmed initial assumptions and what was learned about the topic and the research process itself.

The RPPF is not just a formal requirement but a valuable component of the EE that enriches the student’s learning experience. By fostering reflection, the RPPF helps students to articulate their journey, offering insights into the complexities of research and the personal growth that accompanies the creation of an extended academic work.

The Extended Essay allows students to explore a topic of interest within the framework of an IB subject. The choice of academic discipline not only shapes the content and focus of the essay but also influences the methodologies and theoretical frameworks that students may employ. Understanding and adhering to the conventions and requirements of the chosen discipline is crucial for the success of the EE.

Adhering to Disciplinary Conventions and Guidelines

Each academic discipline has its own set of conventions regarding research methodologies, writing styles, and citation formats. For example, a science EE might require empirical research and quantitative analysis, whereas an essay in the humanities might focus on qualitative analysis and critical interpretation of texts.

Key considerations include:

• Methodology: The choice of methodology should align with disciplinary norms. Science EEs might involve experiments, whereas essays in history might rely on primary source analysis.
• Structure: While the basic structure of the EE remains consistent across subjects, the presentation of arguments and evidence might vary. Essays in the arts and humanities might follow a thematic structure, while those in the sciences might be organised around experimental findings.
• Citation Style: Different disciplines prefer specific citation styles. For instance, APA might be favoured in psychology, while MLA is commonly used in literature essays. Adhering to the appropriate style is crucial for academic integrity.

How Different Disciplines Influence the Approach to Research and Writing

The academic discipline not only dictates the formal aspects of the EE but also influences the approach to research and writing. For instance, an EE in Visual Arts would require a different analytical lens compared to an EE in Economics. The former might analyse the impact of cultural contexts on artistic expressions, while the latter could evaluate economic theories through case studies.

Disciplinary perspectives also affect:

• Argumentation : The way arguments are constructed and evidenced can differ. In the sciences, arguments are often built around data and logical reasoning, while in the humanities, they might be more interpretative, drawing on various theoretical perspectives.
• Critical Engagement: The extent and nature of critical engagement with sources can vary. In subjects like History or English, a critical analysis of diverse interpretations is fundamental, whereas in the Sciences, the focus might be on empirical evidence and hypothesis testing.

Examples of Disciplinary Perspectives in Extended Essay Examples

• Biology EE: An investigation into the effects of environmental changes on local biodiversity, employing scientific methods for data collection and analysis.
• Economics EE: An analysis of the impact of a specific economic policy on a local economy, using economic theories and models to interpret data.
• English Literature EE: A comparative study of the theme of alienation in two novels, using literary theories to explore the authors’ narrative techniques.

Understanding the significance of academic discipline in the EE ensures that students approach their research with the appropriate methodologies and analytical frameworks. It encourages respect for the depth and breadth of the subject area, contributing to a more nuanced and informed exploration of the chosen topic.

Writing an Extended Essay involves more than just conducting research and presenting findings; it requires careful planning, effective engagement with your supervisor, and a critical approach to your sources. Here are some best practices to help you navigate the EE writing process successfully.

Time Management and Planning

Time management is crucial in the EE process. The project spans several months, so it’s essential to break down the work into manageable stages. Create a timeline early in the process, including key milestones such as completing the research, drafting sections, and finalising the essay. Allocate time for unexpected challenges and ensure you have buffer periods for revision and feedback.

Planning Tips:

• Set Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals for each phase of your EE journey.
• Use Tools: Leverage planning tools or software to organise your tasks and deadlines.
• Regular Reviews: Periodically review your progress against your plan and adjust as necessary.

Engaging with Supervisors Effectively:Your supervisor is a valuable resource throughout the EE process. They can provide guidance on your research question, methodology, and essay structure, as well as feedback on your drafts.

Maximising Supervisor Engagement:

• Prepare for Meetings: Come to each meeting with specific questions or sections of your essay you want feedback on.
• Be Open to Feedback: Constructive criticism is essential for improvement. Listen to your supervisor’s suggestions and consider how to incorporate them into your work.
• Communicate Regularly: Keep your supervisor informed of your progress and any challenges you encounter.

Critical Engagement with Sources

A critical approach to the sources you use is fundamental to a high-quality EE. Evaluate the reliability, relevance, and bias of your sources to ensure your essay is grounded in credible evidence.

Strategies for Source Evaluation:

• Source Variety: Use a range of sources, including academic journals, books, and reputable online resources, to provide a balanced perspective on your topic.
• Critical Analysis : Don’t just summarise sources. Analyse their arguments, identify limitations, and consider how they contribute to your research question.
• Citation and Paraphrasing: Accurately cite all sources to avoid plagiarism. When paraphrasing, ensure you’re genuinely rephrasing ideas in your own words while still crediting the original author.

Good practice in EE writing is not just about adhering to academic standards; it’s about engaging deeply with your topic, embracing the research process, and developing skills that will serve you well in your academic and professional future. By managing your time effectively, leveraging the support of your supervisor, and critically engaging with sources, you can craft an EE that is not only academically rigorous but also personally rewarding.

Successfully navigating the Extended Essay process requires more than just academic skill; it demands effective project management. This encompasses planning, organising, and executing your EE from initial conception to final submission. Here are strategies to help you manage the EE process, ensuring a smooth journey and a rewarding outcome.

Planning and Time Management Strategies Specific to the EE

Develop a Detailed Plan: Start by breaking down the EE process into stages: topic selection, research, drafting, and revising. Assign deadlines to each stage based on the final submission date, allowing extra time for unforeseen delays.

Use a Calendar or Planner: Keep track of deadlines, meetings with your supervisor, and other important dates. Digital tools can be particularly useful, offering reminders and helping you stay organised.

Set Regular Milestones: Milestones offer checkpoints to assess your progress. These could be completing the research phase, finishing a first draft, or finalising your citations. Celebrate these achievements to stay motivated.

Milestones and Checklists to Keep You on Track

Create Checklists: For each phase of the EE process, develop a checklist of tasks. This could include conducting initial research, writing specific sections of the essay, or completing rounds of revision.

Regular Progress Reviews: Schedule weekly or bi-weekly reviews of your progress against your plan. Adjust your plan as needed based on these reviews.

Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adapt your plan. Research might take longer than expected, or you might decide to change your focus slightly after discussing with your supervisor.

Dealing with Challenges and Setbacks During the EE Journey

Anticipate Potential Issues: Think ahead about what might go wrong and how you would address it. Having contingency plans can reduce stress and keep you on track.

Seek Support When Needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your supervisor, peers, or other mentors if you encounter obstacles. They can offer advice, support, and perspective.

Maintain a Positive Attitude: Challenges are part of the learning process. View setbacks as opportunities to improve your problem-solving and resilience skills.

Managing the EE process effectively is about more than just completing a requirement for the IB Diploma; it’s an exercise in self-management and personal growth. By carefully planning your work, setting and celebrating milestones, and being prepared to tackle challenges, you can navigate the EE process with confidence and achieve a result that reflects your hard work and dedication.

Mastering the art of collaboration and effectively incorporating feedback are pivotal aspects of crafting a high-calibre Extended Essay (EE). These processes enrich your work, offering new perspectives and insights that can significantly enhance the depth and quality of your research and writing. Let’s delve into how to navigate these collaborative interactions and integrate feedback productively.

Effective Collaboration with Your Supervisor

Your supervisor is a key ally in your EE journey, providing guidance, support, and expert insight into your chosen topic. Building a productive relationship with your supervisor involves clear communication, active engagement, and receptiveness to their advice.

• Prepare for Meetings: Maximise the value of your meetings by preparing questions and topics for discussion. This shows initiative and helps you focus on areas where you need the most guidance.
• Be Open to Suggestions: Your supervisor brings a wealth of experience and knowledge. Being open to their suggestions can unlock new avenues of inquiry and refine your research focus.
• Follow Up: After meetings, review the guidance provided and take action. Following up on suggestions and demonstrating progress is key to a fruitful collaboration.

Incorporating Feedback Constructively

Feedback is a gift, offering you fresh eyes on your work and highlighting areas for improvement. Whether it comes from your supervisor, peers, or other mentors, constructive feedback is instrumental in elevating the quality of your EE.

• Critically Evaluate Feedback: Not all feedback will be equally applicable or helpful. Assess suggestions critically and decide which ones align with your research goals and vision for your EE.
• Implement Changes Thoughtfully: When integrating feedback, do so thoughtfully and systematically. Consider how each piece of advice enhances your argument or strengthens your analysis.
• Maintain Your Own Voice: While it’s important to consider feedback, your EE should ultimately reflect your ideas, analysis, and voice. Balance the input from others with your own scholarly insights.

Balancing Independent Research with Guidance

Navigating the balance between independent research and the guidance received is a delicate aspect of the EE process. While the EE is your project, drawing on the expertise and feedback of others can significantly enhance its depth and scope.

• Value Independence: Embrace the opportunity to conduct independent research, making your EE a true reflection of your interests and intellectual curiosity.
• Seek Guidance Wisely: Utilise your supervisor and other resources judiciously. They can provide clarity, offer new perspectives, and help you navigate complex aspects of your research.
• Synthesise Input: Integrate the guidance and feedback you receive in a way that complements your research, ensuring that your EE remains a coherent and cohesive piece of scholarly work.

The interplay between collaboration, feedback, and independent research is central to the EE process. By engaging effectively with your supervisor, thoughtfully incorporating feedback, and maintaining a balance between guidance and your own scholarly pursuits, you can craft an EE that is not only academically rigorous but also a true testament to your growth as a learner.

Plagiarism is a critical concern in academic writing, including the Extended Essay. It involves using someone else’s work without proper acknowledgment, which can compromise the integrity of your essay and result in severe penalties. Understanding what constitutes plagiarism and how to avoid it is essential for maintaining academic honesty and ensuring the credibility of your research.

Understanding What Constitutes Plagiarism

Plagiarism can take many forms, from directly copying text without quotation marks to paraphrasing someone else’s ideas without proper citation. It also includes using images, charts, or data without acknowledging the source. Even unintentional plagiarism, where sources are not deliberately misrepresented but are inadequately cited, can have serious consequences.

How to Properly Cite Sources and Paraphrase

Citing Sources : Every time you use someone else’s words, ideas, or data, you must cite the source. This not only includes quotes and paraphrases but also data, images, and charts. Familiarise yourself with the citation style recommended for your subject area, whether it be APA, MLA, Chicago, or another, and apply it consistently throughout your essay.

Paraphrasing: Paraphrasing involves rewording someone else’s ideas in your own words. It’s essential to do more than just change a few words around; you need to completely rewrite the concept, ensuring you still cite the original source. Good paraphrasing demonstrates your understanding of the material and integrates it seamlessly into your argument.

Using Plagiarism Detection Tools

Many schools and students use plagiarism detection tools to check the originality of their work before submission. These tools compare your essay against a vast database of published material and other student submissions to identify any matches. Utilising these tools can help you identify areas of your essay that need better paraphrasing or citation.

Avoiding plagiarism in the EE involves diligent research, careful writing, and thorough citation. It’s about respecting the intellectual property of others while demonstrating your own understanding and analysis of the topic. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your EE is both original and academically honest, reflecting the hard work and integrity that define the IB learner profile.

In the Extended Essay, showcasing original thought is not just encouraged; it’s a cornerstone of what makes an EE stand out. Originality in this context means more than just avoiding plagiarism; it involves presenting unique perspectives, developing novel arguments, or exploring new areas within a subject. Here’s how you can emphasise original thought in your EE.

The Value of Originality and Creativity

Originality and creativity in the EE demonstrate your ability to think independently and engage critically with your subject. It shows that you’re not just capable of summarising existing knowledge but also contributing to the conversation in your discipline. This level of engagement is what the IB looks for in assessing the EE, as it reflects a deeper understanding and application of the subject matter.

Balancing Academic Rigour with Personal Voice and Analysis

While it’s important to ground your EE in academic research and follow disciplinary conventions, finding a balance with your personal voice and analysis is key to originality. Here are ways to achieve this balance:

• Personal Insight : Inject your essay with your insights, interpretations, and conclusions based on the research. This personal engagement with the topic distinguishes your EE from a mere literature review.
• Critical Analysis: Go beyond describing what others have said. Critique the arguments, identify gaps in the research, and propose new ways of understanding the subject.
• Innovative Approach: Consider addressing less explored aspects of your topic or applying theories and methodologies from other disciplines to bring fresh perspectives.

Strategies for Developing and Showcasing Original Thought

Question Assumptions: Start by questioning the prevailing assumptions or widely held beliefs in your subject area. This critical stance can open up avenues for original analysis.

Interdisciplinary Connections: Drawing connections between different disciplines can reveal new insights and approaches that enrich your essay.

Reflect on Your Learning: Use the insights gained from your coursework and personal interests to inform your approach. Often, your unique educational and life experiences can inspire original perspectives.

Emphasising original thought in your EE is about striking a balance between demonstrating your mastery of the subject and pushing beyond the boundaries of existing knowledge. It involves a blend of thorough research, critical thinking, and creative engagement with the topic. By fostering a unique perspective and injecting your personal voice into your analysis, you can create an EE that is not only academically rigorous but also distinctly yours, leaving a lasting impression on your readers.

The culmination of the Extended Essay process includes the final presentation and the Viva Voce, a concluding interview between the student and their supervisor. These components serve not only as a summation of your EE journey but also as an opportunity to reflect on your learning and the skills you’ve developed. Understanding the significance and how to prepare for these elements is crucial for a successful EE completion.

Preparing for the Final Presentation

The final presentation is an opportunity to share the highlights of your EE journey, including your research question, methodology, key findings, and any challenges you overcame. It’s a moment to showcase the depth of your research and the personal growth you experienced throughout the process.

Key Elements to Include:

• Overview of Your Research: Briefly summarise your research question and why you chose it, highlighting your methodology and the scope of your investigation.
• Significant Findings: Share the key insights and discoveries you made during your research. This is a chance to underscore the original contributions of your EE.
• Challenges and Solutions : Discuss any significant obstacles you faced and how you addressed them. Reflecting on these challenges shows your problem-solving skills and resilience.
• Reflections on the Process: Share what you’ve learned about yourself as a learner, the skills you’ve developed, and how the EE has impacted your academic and personal growth.

Tips for a Successful Viva Voce

The Viva Voce is a short interview with your supervisor after you’ve submitted your EE. It’s an integral part of the reflection process, allowing you to discuss the successes and challenges of your research journey.

To Prepare for the Viva Voce:

• Review Your EE: Be familiar with your essay’s content, as you’ll discuss your work in detail. Be ready to explain your research decisions and reflect on your learning process.
• Anticipate Questions: Your supervisor might ask about how you selected your topic, the development of your research question, your approach to research and writing, and the skills you’ve developed.
• Reflect on Your Learning: Think about the entire EE process, including what you learned, how you’ve grown, and how the experience might influence your future academic or career goals.

How the Viva Voce Contributes to Your Overall EE Assessment

While the Viva Voce doesn’t directly affect your EE grade, it plays a crucial role in the holistic assessment of your IB Diploma. It demonstrates the authenticity of your work and your engagement with the EE process, providing insights into your approach, dedication, and intellectual growth.

The final presentation and Viva Voce are essential milestones that mark the completion of your EE journey. They offer a platform to reflect on the challenges you’ve navigated, the knowledge you’ve gained, and the skills you’ve honed. Preparing thoroughly for these elements ensures you can confidently articulate your research journey, showcasing the depth of your inquiry and your development as an IB learner.

The journey through the Extended Essay is more than an academic exercise; it’s a transformative experience that equips IB Diploma students with skills and insights that extend far beyond the programme.

Reflecting on how the EE prepares you for future academic and professional endeavours can highlight the lasting value of this rigorous project.

How the Skills Developed During the EE Can Benefit You in Future Academic and Professional Endeavours

Research and Analytical Skills: The EE demands a high level of research and analysis, teaching students how to gather, assess, and interpret data. These skills are invaluable in higher education and many professional fields, where evidence-based decision-making is crucial.

Critical Thinking: Crafting an EE requires students to evaluate sources critically, consider multiple perspectives, and develop well-reasoned arguments. This ability to think critically is highly sought after in both academia and the workplace.

Project Management: Completing an EE involves planning, organisation, time management, and problem-solving. Managing such a long-term project successfully can boost your confidence in handling complex tasks and projects in the future.

Communication: Writing the EE enhances your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively, a skill that is essential in any professional setting. Additionally, the final presentation and Viva Voce develop your verbal communication and presentation skills.

Examples of How the EE Has Helped Alumni in Their Post-IB Journeys

Many IB alumni attribute their success in university and their careers to the foundation laid by their EE experience. For instance, alumni often report that the EE made the transition to university-level research and writing much smoother. Others have found that the skills developed through the EE, such as critical thinking and project management, have set them apart in job interviews and workplace projects.

Encouragement to View the EE as a Stepping Stone to Lifelong Learning

The EE is not just a requirement for the IB Diploma; it’s an introduction to a lifelong journey of inquiry and discovery. It encourages a mindset of curiosity and a habit of continuous learning that can enrich both your personal and professional life. Viewing the EE through this lens can transform it from a daunting task into an exciting opportunity to explore your passions and develop essential skills for the future.

The Extended Essay is a hallmark of the IB Diploma Programme, embodying the essence of inquiry, critical thinking, and scholarly engagement. From selecting a topic and formulating a research question to conducting in-depth research and presenting findings, the EE challenges students to transcend the boundaries of traditional learning, fostering skills and insights that extend far beyond the confines of the classroom.

This comprehensive guide has navigated the critical aspects of the EE process, offering strategies for managing time, engaging with supervisors, and ensuring academic integrity. It has underscored the importance of original thought, the role of academic discipline, and the value of reflection, aiming to equip students with the tools they need to succeed in this rigorous academic endeavour.

The Extended Essay is a testament to your dedication, intellectual curiosity, and academic prowess. Embrace this opportunity to shine, to explore, and to make your mark on the world of knowledge.

How can we help?

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

IB Extended Essay Ideas

What’s covered:, what is the ib extended essay, extended essay examples, how is the ee scored, how does the extended essay affect my admission chances.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP or IB) is a rigorous high school program considered to be equivalent to the AP system, if not harder. Along with coursework and examinations in this two-year long program, there are expectations to write an in-depth essay on one subject of your selection, called the Extended Essay (EE). The following article is about the EE and presents ideas for topics to write about. 

The EE is an essay required to gain the IBDP and pass the course. It’s not like any regular essay, as it gives the student a chance to write a college-level research paper at an earlier point of their lives, giving them useful exposure for their future endeavors in further education. The essay is written in a single subject of your choosing, giving you six options to choose from. The EE is usually done in one of your HL classes, as it could have more scope to produce a more in-depth paper based on the increased amounts of coursework available in HL. 

The essay is expected to be around 4,000 words long, making it not only lengthy to read but time-intensive to produce. This means students must usually figure out which subject they’re writing for early, to give them time to start earlier. The process of planning a draft, along with your appointed EE supervisor, can take up most of your time in the first year of IB (11th grade). It’s common to not start the actual writing until our 2nd year, where you not only have learned enough coursework for the subject, but have also drafted enough to create a well-written essay. 

Choosing a topic for the EE can be difficult, but hopefully the ideas and examples in this article can give you some inspiration to create your own. 

Given there are 6 subject groups in IB, each with numerous options for those groups it would be nearly impossible to suggest examples for each subject, instead we will show examples for popular subjects. These examples can serve as blueprints for crafting your own ideas! 

Example EE Topic 1 – Math HL

Example Topic: Practical Applications and Implementations of the Golden Ratio

This irrational number is often represented visually as such: 

This image contains fibonacci vectors, a visual representation of the golden ratio. It’s an interesting concept because it’s a shape/ratio that our brains are seemingly wired to prefer things to take form in, a subconscious level of attraction. Many architects and artists today use this ratio to produce visually appealing works of art, but what other practical applications have risen from this mathematical concept? An EE would be a great way to learn more about this and present it in an interesting manner! 

Example EE Topic 2 – Physics SL

Topic: Build Your Own Radio

This topic requires some fundamental understanding of circuitry and electronics, a big component of physics SL and HL. Building a radio requires thorough understanding of currents, resistances and circuit design aspects that are usually best understood through practical, hands-on learning. 

This project could also demonstrate your knowledge in waves, specifically radio and microwaves required to operate the radio. If documented right throughout the whole process, this could make for not only a very extensive and interesting EE, but fun as well! 

Example EE Topic 3 – English SL/HL

Topic: The Effects Of Shakespearean Literature On Modern English

English EE topics are a bit more difficult than other subjects because it may be the least objective class to write about. That being said, it can also be the most creative EE to write for, with this topic being an ideal example. 

Shakespeare contributed lots to literature and writing, especially in the form of plays and dramas, but how can these be observed in modern day literature? Focus on how forms of comedy from Shakespeare’s plays are implemented in modern comedy, or how some forms of artistic expression from that era could be considered problematic today. 

To make this better suited for HL, try going more in depth about other forms of literature that draw from Shakespearean influence, and more specific implementations of humor, such as slapstick (just an example of many). 

Talk about how literature personally influences you, because this EE is an opportunity to not only present information through research, but to also indulge the reader about yourself and your personality! 

IB scores the EE out of 34 points, with 5 letter grades being assigned as boundaries:

EE and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) are graded together along with CAS, to form the “core” of IB which is worth a total of 3 out of 45 points. The following table details this:

The EE doesn’t have much direct influence on your chances of admission, but learning how to write a great essay through the EE can. The admissions process requires writing a great quality essay to showcase yourself to the office of admissions as best as you can. The EE not only teaches you how to write an informative essay, but a high quality one as well! More factors are also responsible for your chances of admission, and for more info on this check out CollegeVine’s admissions calculator ! This intuitive tool uses your standardized test scores, GPA and more to calculate your chances of admission into a university of your choosing!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Top Nav Breadcrumb

• Ask a question

Making the most of your extended essay: choosing a topic

Trying to get a head start on your extended essay ? DP graduate Stephanie Stan, from  Bloomfield Hills High School , USA, offers her advice on how to make the extended essay transform from just an assignment to a project that expands upon your own knowledge of a topic.  

By Stephanie Stan

The extended essay , a Diploma Programme (DP) candidates’ 4,000-word culmination of independent research and writing, is often framed by students as a dreadful experience. But the extended essay does not have to be “dreadful”. For me, the key to making the extended essay research and writing process intriguing, impactful and an incredibly enlightening experience was selecting a topic that I am passionate about. Choosing the topic of your essay might sound like a miniscule part of the writing process, but your topic (and how much you enjoy it) will make or break both your essay and your experience with it.

“I switched my topic at the start of the research process because I realized my first topic was not something I was passionate about … “

DP candidates often have the misconception that the extended essay subject area must coincide with one of their higher level (HL) or standard level (SL) courses. But, this is not true! I highly recommend selecting a subject area that interests you (especially if it is a subject area that you are not studying) and in which you can select a topic that you are interested in. I cannot stress enough how important it is to dedicate time into considering your passions and channeling them into selecting a topic that you are excited to learn more about. This will make the extended essay writing process very rewarding and one that you will learn from.

I speak from personal experience, as the only person in my cohort who seemingly loved writing the extended essay. Why was this? I switched my topic at the start of the research process because I realized my first topic was not something I was passionate about and I was having trouble motivating myself to research. I needed a topic that fueled the desire to expand my knowledge.

“If you pick a topic you love … your extended essay will not feel like an assignment.”

I love history and art; both are passions I hold on the sidelines of learning about medicine. I took time to reflect on what I was interested in and what I would love to learn about outside of class.  This led to a new and final topic — I centered my essay around the question of how treatment of degenerate art affected Adolf Hitler’s power in the Nazi regime. I had learned about this time-period in my DP history SL class, but we did not cover censorship and the control of visual arts culture. My desire to expand my knowledge in this subject area motivated my research and writing.

Once I changed my topic, the difference in my approach to the extended essay was instantly noticeable. Instead of feeling like I had to go research my topic, I wanted to continuously find more resources and information.  My advice? Select a topic that you are interested in and want to learn more about and that you may otherwise never be exposed to. Choosing a topic that interests you will have an immense impact not only on your extended essay but also on yourself.

“Take advantage of this incredible opportunity for personal growth and intellectual expansion.”

I spent hours of my summer in a nearby college library and online databases researching. I was truly interested in learning more about the subject. What at first seemed like a tedious assignment became a personal project of exploration and growth. It allowed me to get carried away with the research for my essay, compiling over 30 pages of research findings. My new topic made me love writing my extended essay.

Take advantage of this incredible opportunity for personal growth and intellectual expansion; not many high school students can say that they could self-select and direct research on an individually proposed topic for almost (if not more than) half a year. You will thank yourself and reflect positively on the experience! If you pick a topic you love, then researching, planning and writing your extended essay will not feel like an assignment; instead, it will become a self-motivated exploration and adventure that will help you grow as a student and an individual.

Here are some added tips and tactics I found helpful during the extended essay process:

• Mindset is important: Do not think of the extended essay as an assignment; think of it as a self-proposed goal and opportunity. Have fun with it! Your dedication and enjoyment will shine through your writing!
• Start your extended essay early: Give yourself time to think about your topic, plan, research and begin the writing process with less stress— give yourself time to enjoy it without being overwhelmed.
• Pace your research : Establish a timeline with mini-goals to achieve. This will help you organize your research and make incremental progress (time management).
• Create planning diagrams : Color code your research and quotes to organize your findings and map everything to its correlated section within your essay.

Stephanie Stan is a current pre-health student at the University of Michigan studying towards a B.S. in Biology, Health and Society. She joins us this year as a 2018 alumni contributor to share her experience as a DP graduate. To learn about the IB alumni network, visit  ibo.org/alumni  and read about our 50th anniversary  featured graduates  to see where other students have taken their studies and careers.

#alumnistory , Graduate Voices , Top stories

About the IB

Extended Essay (IB): Choosing a subject and topic

• The Inquiry Process
• EE Seminar 1
• EE Seminar 2
• IT Workshop 1
• EE Investigation Days
• EE Writing Days
• Choosing a subject and topic
• Developing a line of inquiry
• Finding and selecting sources
• Working with ideas
• Expressing your ideas
• Using ManageBac
• Supervisor resources
• Who can help?

For your EE you have the freedom to focus on almost any topic and you will write your own question to answer.  However, your topic must fit into a single DP subject (unless you choose to write an interdisciplinary essay, such as a World Studies EE that covers a topic “of contemporary global significance” and is likely to encompass two subject areas).

Given the academic challenge and level expected of an EE, you are strongly advised to choose a subject that you are currently studying, preferably at Higher Level.

Introduction to the Extended Essay

What is the Extended Essay?

• Compulsory element of the core, along with TOK and CAS
• Inquiry-based research project resulting in an essay of up to 4,000 words
• Topic of your choice, but must be based in a DP subject * and meet subject-specific requirements
• You are strongly encouraged to do your essay in one of your HL subjects

*It is possible, under certain circumstances, to combine two subjects and do a World Studies essay but we do not currently recommend this.

What do I need to do?

This guide is just to get your thinking started.

You are going to be spending nine months on your Extended Essay - it is very important to choose a topic that actually interests you, or it is going to be a very long nine months...

Good preparation is much more effective for finding inspiration than last minute panic!

CALVIN AND HOBBES © Watterson. Reprinted with permission of ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION.  All rights reserved.

How do I choose a subject?

• Think about your interests outside the classroom then check whether they might fit into any IB subject areas.
• Think about your IB subjects, particularly your HL subjects. Which would (and wouldn't) you enjoy exploring in more depth?
• Make a list of the topics (for one or more different subject areas) that you have enjoyed in that subject area and a list of topics you haven’t covered but wish you had. You might want to chat to your teachers or have a look in your textbooks.
• Think about any career aspirations you might have, or any ideas for further study, and they could point you in a direction.

Now have a look at the Subject Group Overviews , below, to see what an EE in that group might involve. It is worth comparing a couple of different subject groups.

Subject Group Overviews

• Group 1: Studies in language and literature
• Group 2: Language acquisition (incl. Classical Languages)
• Group 3: Individuals and societies
• Group 4: Experimental sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics
• Group 6: The Arts
• Interdisciplinary essays

• Category 1 Studies of one or more literary works originally written in the language in which the essay is presented.
• Category 2 Studies of a literary work or works originally written in the language of the essay compared with one or more literary works originally written in another language. (The work originally written in another language may be studied in translation.)
• Category 3 Studies in language based on one or more texts originally produced in the language in which the essay is presented.

Students and teachers must indicate at the point of upload which category of essay they are submitting."

From: IBO (2020) Extended Essay: Studies in language and literature

Students working on a language acquisition EE must demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the language, culture and society or literature studied. This understanding must be shown in the form of:

• an analysis of a cultural context or a specific text OR
• an analysis of trends in the culture studied and the impact of a cultural change on the form or use of the language OR
• an analysis and comparison of literary texts.

For those undertaking a classical Greek or Latin EE, the focus is on demonstrating an understanding of a relevant or significant aspect of the language, literature and civilization of ancient Greece or Rome."

From: IBO (2020) Extended Essay: Language acquisition including classical languages

Note that you may not do your EE in a language you are studying at ab initio level .

The individuals and societies EE is intended to encourage the systematic and critical study of:

• human experience and behaviour
• physical, economic and social environments
• the history and development of social and cultural institutions.

Students’ choice of topic should enable them to recognize that the content and methodologies of the subjects are contestable and that their study requires critical thinking.

Students must have sufficient grounding in the subject under which they submit their essay: reading a textbook or consulting an encyclopedia while writing the EE will not compensate for a lack of proper background knowledge."

From: IBO (2020) Extended Essay: Individuals and societies

Note: The IB considers Environmental Systems and Societies EEs to be interdisciplinary, so materials for these can be found under the Interdisciplinary essays tab, above.

"An extended essay (EE) in the sciences gives students an opportunity to apply a range of skills while researching a topic of personal interest in the field. Students working on a science EE must demonstrate an in-depth analysis of the subject matter studied, be it biology, chemistry, computer science, design technology, physics or sports, exercise and health science. This understanding must be shown in the form of a research paper involving a wellformulated research question. Students should be advised that while there is overlap between the subjects, their study should reflect one specific science area. For example:

• biology—dealing with living organisms and life processes
• chemistry—dealing with the composition, characterization and transformation of substances

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

From: IBO (2020) The Sciences: an introduction from Extended Essay: The sciences

• the applicability of mathematics to solve both real and abstract problems
• the beauty of mathematics, as in, for instance, geometry or fractal theory
• the elegance of mathematics in the proving of theorems as in, for example, number theory
• the origin and subsequent development of a branch of mathematics over a period of time, measured in tens, hundreds or thousands of years
• the links between different branches of mathematics, or the way that branch of mathematics has been born, or has flourished, as a result of technology.

Students should be advised on the importance of formulating logical and coherent reasons for selecting a particular topic for the EE, the need to identify a well-thought-out research question and the requirement to search for the mathematical problems that require a solution. Students must be advised that mathematical research is a long-term and open-ended exploration of a set of related mathematical problems that are based on personal observations. The answers to these problems connect to and build upon each other over time."

From: IBO (2020) Extended Essay: Mathematics

• a coherent analysis and interpretation of their chosen area in relation to a posed research question
• the testing and validation of the research and consideration of its effect on the practice of the investigated area of the arts
• development and exploration in a disciplined and imaginative way of an area of study specifically appropriate to the curriculum area chosen
• a link to a practical dimension.

Each subject area poses its own unique set of challenges. Therefore, the approach to the topic of investigation should reflect the particular methodology most appropriate to the arts subject being studied. Students should have logical and coherent reasons for selecting a particular topic for their essay, a well-thought out research question and an approach that allows them to develop a reasoned argument.

...While there may be overlap between the subjects in the arts and common approaches, the research topic must clearly relate to one specific arts area. If a student chooses a research area that blurs the boundaries between two arts subjects, they must ensure that their essay’s emphasis clearly lies within the arts subject for which they are submitting it. Crucially, the topic selected should reflect each student’s particular interest and enthusiasm within that subject area."

From: IBO (2020) Extended Essay: The arts

For example, in literature and performance, students focus on the nature of the relationships that occur between a chosen text and its adaptation for performance; in world studies an issue of contemporary global significance is explored through the lenses of two subjects ; and in environmental systems and societies the interaction and integration of natural environmental systems and human societies are explored

Students undertaking one of these options must demonstrate a solid understanding of their area of research, taking a fully integrated approach. This examination must be shown in the form of:

• a coherently written and structured essay that effectively addresses an area of research, taking an interdisciplinary approach
• bringing together concepts, methods and approaches from across different subjects
• the development and exploration of an area of study specifically appropriate to the interdisciplinary choice

The most critical stage in preparing for the EE is the formulation of a logical and coherent rationale for selecting a particular topic for the extended essay, a topic that offers enough scope to provide material for a substantial essay , and the development of ideas around the topic and research question that examine existing views and argue against them."

From: IBO (2020) Interdisciplinary essays: an introduction from Extended Essay: Interdisciplinary essays

We do not recommend undertaking an EE in World Studies. If you choose to do so anyway, make sure that you consider very carefully whether your topic would fit the requirements of a single subject discipline instead. It can be challenging to juggle the requirements of two different subjects while undertaking a piece of academic research like this for the first time, particularly if you do not currently study one or both of the subjects.

Note that the Treatment of the Topic section of the Subject Guide for World Studies says that:

"It is expected that students will have a good grounding in at least one of the Diploma Programme subjects used in the EE.

If they are unfamiliar with a discipline used, they must access its syllabus so that they can identify the concepts, terminology and modes of thinking required for their EE. (Many IB syllabuses contain lists of key concepts.)"

This means that whether or not you are currently studying either or both of the subject areas your World Studies EE is based in  you will need to use DP Level concepts, terminology and modes of thinking appropriate to both subject areas.

Subject Specific Guidance

Use the links below to explore the Subject-Specific Guidance for your chosen subject. Note that it is very important to use the side navigation menu to make sure you have read ALL the relevant guidance (see example for Biology, below).

You MUST read the subject-specific guidance before completing your Supervisor Application Form, and reread it before completing your Research Proposal Log. You might find it helpful to take notes using the Using the Subject-Specific Guidelines table.

Electronic versions of these can be found at the top right hand side of this page (follow links). If you wish to submit your handwritten version to ManageBac, you may upload a (legible!) photograph.

Ethical guidelines

You must address the IB ethical guidelines in your Research Proposal and follow them throughout the EE process. Some Subject Guides will contain specific ethical guidelines for that subject, but here are some general guides you might need to refer to:

Extended essays from previous years

Past essays

It can be really useful at this stage to look at essays from previous Oakham students, to see what kinds of topics they investigated and what their final essays looked like. These are upstairs in the library and can be looked at while you are here.

Please remember:

• These are all the essays from past Oakhamians and they were awarded a range of grades (which are recorded on the contents pages). They are not a set of examples of 'good' essays or even 'good' titles.
• There have been several rule changes in the past, most notably in 2018, so make sure you are aware of the current rules.

You may take photographs of individual pages (such as the contents pages). You may not photograph or photocopy whole essays.

How do I choose a topic?

Go back to your brainstormed list of topics from the first session:

• Eliminate any that you don’t really want to write about and focus on the rest.
• Use the ideas on the mind map below to examine these topics and decide which might be worth further exploration. You might choose to make a mind map like this for some of your topics.

Before deciding on a topic you should do some preliminary research to see what information is out there. Make a few brief notes as you go.

• General internet browsing: You could begin with some freestyle internet searching on a broad topic that interests you. Search for your topic online, give yourself an hour to follow links and see where they take you – keeping an EE focus, of course!
• Subscription Databases : While you will almost certainly search the databases extensively for your research once you have chosen a topic, you can also browse them to help you to chose one. See the ' Browsing our subscription databases ' box below for advice on the best ones to choose for this. Using the subscription databases to help you to choose a topic also means that you are guaranteed to be able to find high quality information on that topic.
• Talk to your teachers, friends and family

Put your notes away, forget about what you have read for a few days, then see what you remember.  This time and distance is important as it is likely that you will remember what is of most interest to you, and so the angle you should develop.

Aim to have three suggestions for topic areas you might like to explore for your EE to explore further before making a decision .

Browsing our subscription databases

You are likely to have used our databases in the past to search for information on specific topics, but many of them are also excellent when browsing for ideas. I have made some suggestions below. You will need to access them from the list on our Subscription Databases page (using the log in information given if you are not on the school network).

An excellent series of ebooks providing a short, academic introduction to a wide range of topics. Choose 'Browse by subject' from the menu bar to explore them (or use the excellent search facility if you know which topic you are interested in).

An online encyclopaedia that you can trust and cite! Choose 'Advanced' then 'Explore: Articles' to browse Britannica in a range of different subject areas.

Hodder Education Magazines

Although aimed at A-level students, browsing these Review magazines may be a good way to identify a broad topic of interest. After you log-in, you can choose to search the whole database or choose a specific subject and browse/search within it.

Other, subject-specific resources

• Art: Oxford Art
• Drama: Drama Online
• Economics: Financial Times and Gale Newspaper Collection
• English literature: Connell Guides, EBSCO Literary Reference Centre, emagazine and MASSOLIT (a video-based resource)
• Music: Naxos Music Library, Oxford Music
• Politics: Financial Times and Gale Newspaper Collection 

Using the Subject Specific Guidelines

This table will help you work with the Subject-Specific Guidelines as you choose your topic. You are not required to submit this form to your supervisor, but you might find it helpful when filling in your Supervisor Application Form and Research Proposal.

AI Prompt Catcher

• AI Prompt Catcher Example

This Prompt Catcher  must  be completed if you are using AI tools as part of your initial research.  Since examiners cannot access the exact AI-generated content subsequently, you must cite and reference the tool in your essay and include a copy of the Prompt Catcher containing the generated content and the prompt you used to generate it in an appendix.

Annotated bibliography

This resource will help you to keep track of all the different sources you find. Once you start working with each source in more detail, you will also need a tool like the Investigative Journal to organise your notes.

Head of Library and Archives

• << Previous: EE Writing Days
• Next: Developing a line of inquiry >>
• Last Updated: Apr 26, 2024 2:14 PM
• URL: https://oakham-rutland.libguides.com/ib-extended-essay

Smallbone Library homepage

Search the Library Catalogue

Access our Subscription Databases

Normal term-time Library opening hours: Mon-Fri: 08:30-21:15 Sat: 08:00-16:00 Sun: 14:00-18:00 (Summer Term only)

The IB Extended Essay: Topic ideas and research Questions

• Details of the EE
• Topic ideas and research Questions
• Subject Guides & documents you need
• Writing a research paper
• Check the list of available subjects  here
• Read the IB's criteria for your subject
• Read an exemplar essay in your subject
• Decide on a topic within this subject
• This means you will need to do some research!
• During the first meeting with your advisor, discuss the research you've done, your ideas, and the requirements for your subject.
• Your revised research question proposal is due May 16.

Adapted from O'Farrell, Finbar.  Approach your assessment the IB Way: Extended Essay.  pg. 13

Examples of marked EEs in all subjects

• From the IB website Have a look at the specific subject you plan on writing your EE for a marked example. You will be able to identify what you need to be successful.

Design Technology

• Guide on writing an EE in DT The pdf explains everything clearly and is full of ideas and topics to write about.

Question: Has the introduction of new materials improved the performance of modern racing bicycles?

  Question:  What are the most ethical and efficient methods--through current technologies--private organizations can use to make Mars habitable for Human life?

History or Geography

Question : In what ways did the Cold War impact American public education? Question:   To what extent have Maori non-violent struggles for their land been effective? Question: How could the UN intervention in the Rwandan genocide be justified?  Question :Is it politically possible for the US government to win the drugs war? (Politics)

Question:  How are the depictions of Marie Antoinette in politics and portraiture significant to the French revolution and the fall of the French Monarchy? 

Question:  To what extent was film able to further pro-Nazi sentiment in Germany during the early 1930s to mid 1940s?

Question:  To what extent were the Vietnam War and cultural shifts occurring in the 1960s and early 1970s vital factors in the development of the student activism on college campuses in the United States and abroad?

Question:  To what extent was Matthew Perry’s 1853 arrival in Edo Bay the leading motivator for Japan’s rapid modernization during the Meiji Restoration?

Question:  What made the Federal Theatre Project such a success when after only four years of operation it was disbanded by the House of un-American Activities Committee?

Question:  To what extent were Kepler’s scientific discoveries revolutionary and how did they impact the development of science in Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries?   

Question:  In what ways did the Hitler Youth organization impact the youth of Nazi Germany?

Question:  How did the works of classical Greek philosophers influence the domestic policy of Thomas Jefferson?  

Question:  How did the Bushido Code influence the meaning of tattoos in Asian culture?

Question:  In what way did the Catholic Church affect politics in the Kingdom of Spain during the Dark Ages?

Question:  What are the impacts of melting ice in the North and South Poles on the coastlines of the continental United States?

English EEs - ideas for Language and Literature

The EE Guide says the following on p 112 (EE Guide 2018, revised Jan 2017) - remember EACH subject has their own EE guides too.

   Quote The EE may relate to work students have already completed during the course, but they must also demonstrate relevant wider reading and individual study. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that the topic of their EE does not overlap with any other work they are preparing for assessment in language A—for example, the written assignment in the literature course, or the written task in the language and literature course.   

Question:  How did Eugene Gladstone O'Neill express the themes of family relationship and sadness in his work Long Day's Journey Into Night?

Question:  How does the writing of Japanese horror artist and novelist Junji Ito contrast with the writing of American horror novelist Stephen King?

Question:  How do the final movies of the Harry Potter series compare to the final book? What has been changed or depicted differently in terms of characterization and storylines?

Sport Science

Question:  How does age affect the process of instant muscle reaction?

Economics or ITGS

Question:  What impact does public healthcare have on low income households in the United States compared to those in Canada?

Question:  To what extent has deforestation influenced Indonesia's economic and environmental growth?

Physics, Chemistry or Biology Ideas

Question:  How have climate change and forestry practices contributed to the spread of the mountain pine beetle in the Pacific Northwest in recent decades, and what does the outbreak show us about the ecological intricacies of climate change? 

Question:  What evidence is there to support the theory of life on Mars?

Question:  How does the DNA sequence of a transthyretin (TTR) gene affect whether Familial Amyloidotic Polyneuropathy (FAP), Familial Amyloidotic Cardiomyopathy (FAC) or Senile Systemic Amyloidosis (SSA) form?

Arts - Visual/Performing

Question : What female stereotypes did Brecht employ in his plays, and how can these be compared and contrasted in performance, based on an analysis of a selection of Brecht's plays? Question : Picasso: individual genius or cultural thief? 

Question:  How does Rachmaninoff apply thematic development in his composition, Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini ?

Question:  How do the Peanuts comics, written by Charles Schultz, show visual language?

Question:  How did the casting of the leading lady in Cole Porter's Anything Goes affect each production on Broadway?

• << Previous: Details of the EE
• Next: Subject Guides & documents you need >>
• Last Updated: Apr 25, 2024 7:30 AM
• URL: https://disdubai.libguides.com/c.php?g=923128

• Customer Reviews
• Extended Essays
• IB Internal Assessment
• Theory of Knowledge
• Literature Review
• Dissertations
• Essay Writing
• Research Writing
• Assignment Help
• Capstone Projects
• College Application
• Online Class

English Extended Essay: The Complete Guide for IB Students

by  Antony W

March 13, 2023

Group 1 Extended Essay subjects give IB students the opportunity to conduct independent research into a topic of interest in English, Language, and Literature.

Apart from promoting creativity and intellectual discovery, the subject group helps you to appreciate the value of advanced research and improve your writing skills.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about English Extended Essay.

In particular, we will look at the definition of English EE, English EE categories, and some English Extended Essay topics to get you started.

English Extended Essay Categories

Category 1: language.

This category focuses on the analysis of some aspects of English.

Topics such as national language policies of English speaking countries, the influence of technology on English vocabulary, and use of dialects and ascents would fit into this category.

The primary sources of information for this category would be newspapers, interviews, and websites. You secondary sources would be articles and journals.

Category 2: Culture and Society

We divide Culture and Society further into two sub-categories.

In the first sub-category, the focus is on the effect of cultural change on a language in a particular issue on the use or form of the language itself.

In this case, your essay can focus on topic to do with gender, communities, or social groups.

For example:

• Does language reflect a shift in gender roles in the workplace?
• To what extend has the rise and use of slang among teenagers affected the English language?

Such are important and interesting questions that your Extended Essay can focus on if you choose to work on this sub-category.

The second sub-category focuses on artefacts. While this sub-category is general in its cultural nature, it must be specific to a country or community that speaks the language.

To research topics in this sub-category, you will have to use cultural artefacts, which can be visual documents (such as architectures and films), written documents (such as newspapers, articles, adverts, and magazines), spoken documents (such as interviews and screenplays), and fashion icons (such as food dishes or brands).

Category 3: Literature

This category of English Extended Essay is based on a specific work of literature wit text written in the English language.

How to Write English Extended Essay

Writing a 4,000-word essay takes time. You have to identify a topic of interest, develop a research question, determine what to base your research on, and find the right information to include in the essay.

In the following section, you’ll learn how to write a comprehensive English Extended Essay using an easy to follow, systematic approach – even if you think your topic of interest in the subject looks complicated.

Step 1: Pick a Topic of Meaningful Interest to You

Explore the topics and themes taught in you English class and pick one that’s not only of interest to you but also one you’d like to know more about.

Generally, the English EE topic you choose should:

• Be something you’re keen to investigate
• Allow you to formulate a relevant research question
• A subject that you can answer in 4,000 words

After identifying your area of interest and the topic that you would like to explore, it should be easy for you to develop a relevant research question to explore.

Step 2: Develop a Research Question

Many IB students fail Extended Essay because they get the research question part completely wrong. Quite too often, they choose narrow or broad topics that they can’t answer in 4,000 words.

You shouldn’t make the same mistake with your English Extended Essay. What you need is a workable research question with a clear focus that you can answer within the word limits of an Extended Essay.

To arrive at more concise topic to explore in your English Extended Essay, it’s best to employ relevant limiting factors to the broad topic.

For example, the theme “how technology and social media impact our lives” is obviously too broad because it doesn’t tell us what part or component of our lives social media affects exactly.

By applying limiting factor to this theme, we can come up with a more focused research question that will be easily to evaluate within the limits of the expected word count.

A question such as “ to what extent social media corrupted or contributed or corrupted the English language” would be an interesting and more specific topic to explore in your EE.

Step 3: Choose What to Base Your Research On

The third step to writing an English Extended Essay is to find relevant sources to support your research into the topic you selected in step 1.

Start by determine which English category you wish to base your Extended Essay on. That’s because there are minimum expectations when it comes to primary as well as secondary sourcing.

Step 4: Find More Information for Your Extended Essay

If you’ve ticked all the boxes in step one to three, schedule an appointment with your supervisor for more guidance on how to proceed further with your research project.

English Extended Essay Topics

You shouldn’t worry too much if you feel stuck on choosing the best topic for your English Extended Essay . We’ve put together a list of some topic ideas that cover different areas in literary themes, literature, and the English language.

English Extended Essay Topics for College and University

• Is the English a language of customs and traditions with no hard and fast rules unlike other languages in the world?
• How is the American English different from British English, and which one is superior to the other?
• Has globalization played a role in the development of the English language?

English Extended Essay Topics on English Poetry

• Was poetry a text of upper classes in English literature in the classical age and in the era of renaissance?
• Why are there fragmentation and lack of interconnectivity between the stanzas of poems in modern poetry?

English EE Topics on American Literature

• Do various American novels and other literary texts show how the American dream proves to be a complete failure?
• Why were slaves against the anti-slavery movement in the United States of America?

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

Extended Essay Topics: 285 IB Ideas for You

High school students typically undertake this research project as part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. With a length of 3000-4000 words, it offers an opportunity for students to delve deeply into a topic of personal interest within one of the IB subject areas. Please follow the link to learn more about the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum .

If you want to learn how to write an extended essay, begin by selecting a well-defined research question that aligns with the subject's curriculum and your interests. Conduct thorough research using various reputable sources, analyze the gathered information critically, and develop a clear argument or thesis. Structuring the essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion, students should present their findings cohesively, supported by evidence and examples. Additionally, adhere to academic conventions, including proper citations and referencing, and ensure clarity and coherence in your writing.

Finally, students should engage in regular revisions and seek feedback from teachers or peers to refine their essays into a comprehensive and academically rigorous piece of work. You’ll be pleased to know that our online paper writing service provides IB essays, too!

How to Choose an Extended Essay Topic?

Choosing an EE topic is crucial as it sets the direction for your research and impacts your overall experience. Here's a concise guide to help you select suitable IB extended essay topic ideas:

• Identify Your Interests

Start by brainstorming subjects or topics that genuinely interest you. Consider your passions, hobbies, and subjects you excel in or find intriguing.

• Review IB Subject Areas

Explore the IB subject areas you're studying and consider how your interests intersect with these disciplines. Your EE topic should align with one of these subjects.

• Consider Feasibility

Assess the feasibility of potential extended essay ideas based on available resources, access to data, and your ability to conduct research within the given timeframe.

• Narrow Down Your Focus

Once you have a broad topic in mind, narrow it down to a specific research question or area of investigation. A focused, well-defined research question will make your EE more manageable and coherent.

• Consult with Teachers

Seek guidance from your teachers or EE supervisor. They can provide valuable insights, suggest potential topics, and help you refine your research question.

• Evaluate Significance

Consider the significance and relevance of your chosen topic. Is it academically challenging? Does it offer opportunities for original research or critical analysis?

• Reflect on Personal Connection

Reflect on why this topic matters to you personally. Connecting with your topic on a deeper level can enhance your motivation and engagement throughout the research process. If you need a more hands-on approach, request our college essay writing help now.

• Pilot Research

Conduct some preliminary research to gauge the availability of sources and the depth of existing literature on your chosen topic. This will help you determine whether it's viable for your EE.

• Stay Flexible

Be open to adjusting your topic or research question as you delve deeper into the literature and gather more information. Flexibility is key to finding the right balance between academic rigor and personal interest.

• Finalize Your Topic

Once you've considered these factors, finalize your EE topic and research question. Ensure it meets the IB's requirements and aligns with your academic goals and interests. If you need a psychology essay writing service , you can easily obtain it on our website.

The Ultimate List of Extended Essay Ideas

Are you ready for a surge of inspiration that will leave you no choice but to start writing? Then, let’s do this! For your convenience, EssayService distributed the topics among nineteen areas, depending on what subject you’re going to choose. Alternatively, you can order essay online without having to spend hours on research, drafting, and proofreading.

Best Extended Essay Topics

• Social media's impact on teen mental health.
• Renewable energy policy effectiveness.
• Gender roles in contemporary literature.
• Ethics of gene editing technology.
• Diversity's effect on workplace productivity.
• Propaganda's role in wartime opinions.
• Music's influence on memory.
• Bilingual education's language benefits.
• Globalization's impact on indigenous cultures.
• Mindfulness for stress reduction.
• Socioeconomic status and academic success.
• Mental illness portrayal in media.
• Religion's role in politics.
• Climate change and biodiversity.
• Alternative medicine's efficacy in chronic illness.

Visual Arts Extended Essay Topics

• The portrayal of light in Impressionist paintings.
• Symbolism in Frida Kahlo's self-portraits.
• The evolution of cubism in Picasso's works.
• Cultural influences on Japanese woodblock prints.
• Surrealism's impact on contemporary photography.
• The use of color in Matisse's cut-outs.
• Female empowerment in contemporary street art.
• Environmental themes in Land Art installations.
• Religious symbolism in Renaissance masterpieces.
• The intersection of technology and art in digital animation.
• Abstract expressionism and emotional catharsis.
• Political commentary in Banksy's graffiti.
• Gender representation in classical sculpture.
• Art as a form of protest in the Civil Rights Movement.
• Nature as muse in the Hudson River School paintings.

Computer Science Extended Essay Topics

• Machine learning applications in predicting stock market trends.
• Encryption techniques for securing cloud-based data.
• Quantum computing's impact on cryptography.
• Cybersecurity measures against ransomware attacks.
• Artificial intelligence in personalized healthcare.
• Algorithm optimization for autonomous vehicle route planning.
• Ethical considerations in facial recognition technology.
• Blockchain in supply chain management efficiency.
• Natural language processing advancements in virtual assistants.
• The role of big data analytics in business intelligence.
• Cybersecurity challenges in the Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
• Exploring the potential of edge computing in IoT networks.
• Data privacy regulations and their impact on technology companies.
• The use of virtual reality in immersive learning experiences.
• Advancements in computer vision for image recognition tasks.

English Extended Essay Topics

• Identity exploration in contemporary literature.
• Gender dynamics in Shakespearean tragedies.
• Magical realism in Gabriel García Márquez's novels.
• Postcolonial themes in Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart."
• Symbolism in George Orwell's "1984."
• Alienation in J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye."
• The hero archetype in epic literature.
• Eco-criticism in environmental literature.
• Satire in Jonathan Swift's "Gulliver's Travels."
• Mental illness in Sylvia Plath's poetry.
• Comparative dystopian literature analysis.
• Mythology's influence on modern fantasy.
• Power dynamics in Shakespeare's "Macbeth."
• Narrator roles in postmodernist literature.
• Social commentary in Octavia Butler's science fiction.

History Extended Essay Topics

• The impact of colonialism on indigenous cultures.
• Analyzing the causes and consequences of the Great Depression.
• Women's suffrage movements around the world.
• The role of Propaganda in shaping public opinion during wartime.
• Comparing the French and American Revolutions.
• The rise and fall of ancient civilizations: A comparative study.
• Investigating the origins and consequences of the Cold War.
• The effects of globalization on indigenous communities.
• The significance of religious reformations in shaping modern societies.
• Exploring the legacy of imperialism in Africa.
• The role of technology in shaping the course of World War II.
• Resistance movements during periods of oppression.
• The impact of the Renaissance on European society and culture.
• Analyzing the causes and consequences of the Civil Rights Movement.
• The role of nationalism in the dissolution of empires.

Extended Essay Topics Human Rights

• The impact and challenges of international human rights treaties.
• Social media's influence on human rights activism.
• Refugee rights: Navigating challenges in host nations.
• Transitional justice mechanisms in post-conflict societies.
• Environmental rights amidst the climate crisis.
• Indigenous land rights: Struggles and victories.
• Accountability and justice through international criminal tribunals.
• Technology's implications for privacy rights.
• Gender-based violence in conflict regions: Addressing root causes.
• Economic sanctions: Balancing human rights and political goals.
• Corporate responsibility in global supply chains: Progress and setbacks.
• Advocating for disability rights in diverse societies.
• Examining human rights impacts of mass incarceration.
• Protecting migrant workers from exploitation.
• Education's role in promoting human rights awareness.

Extended Essay Topics English Literature

• Symbolism in "To Kill a Mockingbird."
• Character development in "Pride and Prejudice."
• Conflict resolution in "Lord of the Flies."
• Themes of isolation in Emily Dickinson's poetry.
• Literary techniques in Edgar Allan Poe's short stories.
• Cultural identity in "The Joy Luck Club."
• Gender roles in Shakespearean comedies.
• Narrative structure in "The Great Gatsby."
• The theme of love in sonnets by Elizabeth Barrett Browning.
• Imagery in the poetry of Langston Hughes.
• Symbolism in "The Catcher in the Rye."
• Social commentary in George Orwell's "1984."
• Religious motifs in "The Canterbury Tales."
• Irony in Mark Twain's "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn."
• Allegory in William Golding's "Lord of the Flies."

Math Extended Essay Topics

• Fibonacci sequences in nature.
• Sorting algorithm efficiency.
• Music and mathematics.
• Game theory in economics.
• Mathematics of cryptography.
• Fractal patterns in geometry.
• Mathematics in sports analysis.
• Chaos theory: A mathematical view.
• Quantum computing fundamentals.
• Voting systems analysis.
• Symmetry: Exploring group theory.
• Population growth modeling.
• Origami mathematics.
• Neural networks: Math in AI.
• Network theory in social sciences.

Chemistry Extended Essay Topics

• pH's effect on enzyme activity.
• Chemical reaction kinetics.
• Food preservation chemistry.
• Temperature and reaction rate.
• Nanomaterials in chemistry.
• Catalysts in reactions.
• Water treatment chemistry.
• Natural vs. synthetic polymers.
• Photosynthesis and respiration.
• Equilibrium factors in chemistry.
• Chemical pollutants and remediation.
• Medicinal drugs chemistry.
• Green chemistry principles.
• Taste and aroma chemistry of foods.
• Alternative energy chemistry.

Extended Essay Business and Management Topics

• Corporate social responsibility's impact on consumer behavior.
• Effective supply chain management in global businesses.
• Leadership styles' role in organizational success.
• Marketing strategies' effectiveness in building brand loyalty.
• Culture's influence on international business negotiations.
• Entrepreneurship's challenges and opportunities in emerging markets.
• Employee motivation's relationship with performance.
• Globalization's effects on small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
• Digital technologies' role in transforming business operations.
• Diversity and inclusion policies' impact on organizational performance.
• Change management strategies in organizations.
• Factors influencing consumer buying behavior in the digital age.
• Ethics' role in business decision-making.
• E-commerce's impact on traditional retail businesses.
• International expansion's challenges and opportunities for businesses.

Good Extended Essay Topics for Economics

• Impact of government policies on income inequality.
• Effectiveness of monetary policy in achieving price stability.
• Role of human capital in economic development.
• Effects of globalization on labor markets.
• Relationship between economic growth and environmental sustainability.
• Impact of trade liberalization on developing economies.
• Causes and consequences of financial crises.
• Effects of technological innovation on economic growth.
• Role of foreign direct investment in economic development.
• Economics of healthcare systems and universal coverage.
• Impact of income taxation on economic behavior.
• Economics of climate change mitigation and adaptation.
• Role of government intervention in market failures.
• Economics of poverty alleviation programs.
• Impact of economic incentives on consumer behavior.

Physics Extended Essay Topics

• How different surfaces affect the bounce of a ball.
• Exploring the science behind a slingshot's launch.
• The relationship between temperature and the rate of a chemical reaction.
• Investigating the factors affecting the stretch of a rubber band.
• The physics of a simple electric circuit.
• Measuring the speed of sound in different materials.
• Analyzing the effect of magnetism on the direction of a compass.
• The behavior of light through different colored filters.
• How the length of a pendulum affects its swing time.
• Investigating the relationship between mass and acceleration.
• Exploring the physics of a falling object.
• The properties of static electricity: Attraction and repulsion.
• The impact of surface area on the rate of heat transfer.
• Understanding the basics of friction: Sliding vs. rolling.
• Analyzing the effect of temperature on the volume of a gas.

Psychology Extended Essay Topics

• How music affects mood.
• Social media's impact on self-esteem.
• Color and emotion perception.
• Family dynamics and adolescent behavior.
• Nature vs. nurture in personality.
• Decision-making under pressure.
• Mindfulness meditation for stress.
• Sleep deprivation and cognition.
• Exercise and mental health.
• Psychology of addiction.
• Childhood trauma and adult mental health.
• Peer pressure and behavior.
• Motivation in academics.
• Culture's effect on cognition.
• Attachment styles in relationships.

Racism Extended Essay Topics

• Effects of racial bias in education.
• Media's role in perpetuating racial stereotypes.
• Economic disparities due to racial inequality.
• Combating racial prejudice strategies.
• Implicit bias and decision-making.
• Intersectionality of race and gender.
• Racial segregation in urban communities.
• Privilege and systemic racism.
• Racialization of immigration policies.
• Colonialism's impact on contemporary racism.
• Racial profiling in law enforcement.
• Microaggressions and their impact on minorities.
• Health disparities among different racial groups.
• Historical roots of racial discrimination.
• Representation of race in popular culture.

Global Politics Extended Essay Topics

• International efforts in addressing climate change.
• The impact of social media on political movements.
• Nuclear proliferation and global security.
• Human rights violations in conflict zones.
• Gender equality in international politics.
• The role of diplomacy in resolving conflicts.
• Economic globalization and income inequality.
• Refugee crises and humanitarian responses.
• Cybersecurity threats in the digital age.
• The rise of populism and its impact on democracy.
• Global health governance and pandemic preparedness.
• Ethnic conflicts and peacebuilding efforts.
• Environmental policies and sustainable development goals.
• Arms trade and its impact on global peace.
• The role of non-governmental organizations in global governance.

Biology Extended Essay Topics

• Effects of temperature on enzyme activity.
• Plant growth responses to light intensity.
• Genetics of flower color inheritance in plants.
• Impacts of pollution on freshwater ecosystems.
• Antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
• The role of vitamins in human health.
• Photosynthesis rates in different light conditions.
• Investigating the biodiversity of a local ecosystem.
• Cellular respiration and its environmental factors.
• Effects of caffeine on heart rate in humans.
• Genetics of blood type inheritance.
• Investigating the effects of pH on aquatic life.
• Comparative study of animal adaptations in different environments.
• Impact of pesticides on bee populations.
• Investigating the factors influencing seed germination.

Extended Metaphor Essay Topics

• Life as a Rollercoaster: The ups and downs of life's journey.
• Love as a Battlefield: Navigating the challenges and victories of love.
• Education as a Garden: Cultivating knowledge and growth.
• Friendship as a Ship: Sailing through the waters of companionship.
• Time as a Thief: How time steals moments and memories.
• Success as a Puzzle: Fitting together the pieces of achievement.
• Dreams as Stars: Reaching for the stars in pursuit of our aspirations.
• Courage as a Beacon: Guiding us through dark times with bravery.
• Creativity as a River: Flowing with endless ideas and inspiration.
• Challenges as Mountains: Conquering obstacles like scaling peaks.
• Happiness as Sunshine: Brightening our lives with joy and warmth.
• Knowledge as a Key: Unlocking doors to understanding and wisdom.
• Emotions as Weather: Ever-changing like the skies above.
• Society as a Garden: Cultivating harmony and growth within communities.
• Ambition as a Flame: Burning bright with determination and drive.

Law IB Extended Essay Topics

• Human rights and national laws.
• Digital privacy regulations.
• International criminal accountability.
• Intellectual property and innovation.
• Law, technology, and challenges.
• Cultural influences on legal systems.
• Environmental laws for sustainability.
• Gender equality in legal contexts.
• International law effectiveness.
• Artificial intelligence and legal implications.
• Corporate responsibility in law.
• Reforming criminal justice systems.
• Family law in modern society.
• Legal ethics and dilemmas.
• Law's role in global inequality.

Extended Essay Topics Language and Literature

• The role of symbolism in a selected novel.
• Cultural stereotypes in contemporary literature.
• Comparing female characters in classic and modern literature.
• Metaphors in poetry: Analysis and interpretation.
• Historical context and its influence on literary themes.
• Translation's impact on understanding literature.
• Depiction of mental health in literary works.
• Folklore's influence on modern storytelling.
• Evolution of a literary genre.
• Narrative perspective and reader interpretation.
• Power dynamics in dystopian fiction.
• Trauma and resilience in postcolonial literature.
• Satire addressing social issues in literature.
• Interplay of language and identity in literature.
• Character development in a chosen play or novel.

Being a student of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program can be a mix of excitement and nerves. With a ton of subjects and exams on the horizon, learning the ropes of academic writing is key. Luckily, there’s a handy solution – writing services. They’re like your personal support team, ready to help you craft killer essays, ace your research, and nail those tricky citations. Think of them as your secret weapon, making your IB journey smoother and helping you shine bright as you buy an essay from professional authors.

Frequently asked questions

How to narrow down extended essay topic, where to find extended essay topics, what is an extended essay.

She was flawless! first time using a website like this, I've ordered article review and i totally adored it! grammar punctuation, content - everything was on point

This writer is my go to, because whenever I need someone who I can trust my task to - I hire Joy. She wrote almost every paper for me for the last 2 years

Term paper done up to a highest standard, no revisions, perfect communication. 10s across the board!!!!!!!

I send him instructions and that's it. my paper was done 10 hours later, no stupid questions, he nailed it.

Sometimes I wonder if Michael is secretly a professor because he literally knows everything. HE DID SO WELL THAT MY PROF SHOWED MY PAPER AS AN EXAMPLE. unbelievable, many thanks

You Might Also Like

New Posts to Your Inbox!

Stay in touch

IB History Extended Essay Topics

As an IB educator and writer, I’ve seen the significant growth students experience in the IB DP History course . However, the most notable part of this development frequently happens throughout the Extended Essay writing process. The practical application of historical theory helps students to take on the role of historians. This post provides advice and recommendations on selecting a topic and writing your IB History Extended Essay.

What Is IB DP History Course?

The IB History course is a fascinating and multidimensional path through time that aims to engage students in the complexity of human history. In my perspective, the course’s strength is its comprehensive approach to comprehending the forces that have formed our world. It is more than merely knowing about the past. It is about understanding why these events happened, how they shaped the present, and how they may affect the future.

In addition, IB History encourages students to become historians. This involves learning skills valuable for historical research and other areas of life outside the classroom. Critical thinking is at the forefront of these skills, allowing students to analyze sources, weigh evidence, and draw informed conclusions about the past.

The Extended Essay, an essential part of the IB History course, shows the program’s emphasis on individual investigation and in-depth study. This task encourages students to conduct deep research on a historical topic that interests them. It’s a daunting task that requires students to apply the skills they’ve learned throughout the course: developing a research question, gathering and analyzing materials, and building a well-supported argument.

How to Choose a History Extended Essay Topic?

Finding a topic that resonates with you is crucial. Throughout the IB History course, there will undoubtedly have been moments that captured your imagination more than others. Was it the intrigue of Cold War diplomacy, the cultural revolutions of the 1960s, or perhaps the ancient civilizations of Egypt or Rome that fascinated you? Start there. Reflect on the lectures, readings, and discussions that sparked a desire to learn more.

However, passion alone isn’t enough. Your chosen topic must also align with the IB History curriculum and offer a rich field for investigation. Here are the key considerations:

• Your topic should reflect the themes, periods, and areas covered in the IB History course.
• Ensure there are ample primary and secondary sources available on your chosen topic. Reliable sources are essential for conducting thorough research.
• Your topic should allow you to formulate a specific research question. Avoid overly broad issues that cannot be covered effectively within the word limit.
• A good topic is well-defined and narrow enough to be manageable. Vague or overly broad issues can lead to superficial treatment of the subject matter.
• Consider the feasibility of your topic. Can it be thoroughly researched and addressed within the constraints of the Extended Essay format?

Lastly, strive for a topic that offers a fresh perspective or researches less commonly discussed aspects of history. Originality can make your essay stand out and demonstrate your creativity and analytical skills.

IB Extended Essay Topics: History

Here are 30 topic ideas, along with their respective research questions, to inspire your project:

• The Impact of the Cold War on Space Research . How did the Cold War rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union drive the space race, and what were its most significant outcomes?
• Women’s Suffrage Movements in the Early 20th Century . To what extent did women’s suffrage movements in Britain and the United States share common strategies and ideologies, and how did they differ?
• The Role of Propaganda in Nazi Germany . How did Nazi propaganda aim to create a unified national identity, and what methods were most effective?
• Economic Consequences of the Treaty of Versailles . What were the long-term economic impacts of the Treaty of Versailles on Germany, and how did they contribute to the rise of National Socialism?
• Decolonization and Independence Movements in Africa . How did the process of decolonization in Algeria compare with that in Kenya, and what factors contributed to the differences?
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: A Nuclear Standoff . What critical decisions did the leaders of the United States and the Soviet Union make during the Cuban Missile Crisis, and how did these decisions prevent a nuclear war?
• The Cultural Revolution in China . What were the primary goals of the Cultural Revolution in China, and to what extent were they achieved?
• Impact of the Silk Road on Cultural Exchange . How did the Silk Road facilitate cultural exchange between East and West, and what were its most significant impacts on the civilizations it connected?
• The Fall of the Roman Republic . What were the causes of the fall of the Roman Republic, and how did the transition to empire affect Roman society?
• The Vietnam War and Its Impact on American Society . How did the Vietnam War influence American public opinion on foreign policy and military engagement?
• The Development of Atomic Energy and Its Global Implications . How did the development of atomic energy during and after World War II influence global politics and the onset of the nuclear age?
• British Colonial Rule in India . What were British colonial rule’s economic, social, and political impacts on India, and how did they contribute to the Indian independence movement?
• The Influence of the Renaissance on Modern Western Thought . How did the Renaissance influence modern Western thought in art, science, and philosophy?
• The Role of Cryptography in World War II . How did the use of cryptography by Allied forces contribute to the outcome of World War II, specifically focusing on the Enigma machine?
• The French Revolution and the Rise of Napoleon . How did the French Revolution pave the way for Napoleon’s rise to power, and what were the key reforms he implemented?
• The Global Impact of the Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918 . How did the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918 affect global populations differently, and what were its long-term impacts on public health policies?
• The Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and its Role in Sparking WWI . To what extent did the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand contribute to the outbreak of World War I, considering the complex web of alliances and tensions in Europe?
• The Influence of Social Media on the Arab Spring . How did social media act as a catalyst for political and social change during the Arab Spring, and what were its limitations?
• The Partition of India: Causes and Consequences . What were the primary causes of the Partition of India in 1947, and how have its consequences shaped the current political and social climates in India and Pakistan?
• The Impact of the Gold Rush on California’s Development . How did the California Gold Rush 1849 impact the state’s economic development, demographic changes, and social structures?
• The Salem Witch Trials: A Study of Fear and Social Paranoia . What factors contributed to the outbreak of the Salem witch trials, and what does this episode reveal about the social and psychological underpinnings of early American colonial society?
• The Role of the Ottoman Empire in World War I . What was the strategic significance of the Ottoman Empire in World War I, and how did its participation affect the outcome of the war?
• The Chornobyl Disaster: A Historical Analysis of its Causes and Effects . What caused the Chornobyl nuclear disaster, and what have been its long-term environmental and health effects?
• The Development and Impact of the Transatlantic Slave Trade . How did the transatlantic slave trade develop, and how did it impact African societies and economies?
• The Cultural and Political Impact of the Beatles . How did the Beatles influence cultural and political attitudes in the 1960s, particularly regarding youth culture and anti-war movements?
• The Evolution of Espionage During the Cold War . How did espionage tactics evolve during the Cold War, and what impact did intelligence activities have on the relations between the Soviet Union and the United States?
• The Rise and Fall of the Aztec Empire . What factors led to the Aztec Empire’s rapid rise and subsequent fall, and how did the Spanish conquest alter the course of Mexican history?
• The Influence of the Enlightenment on the American and French Revolutions . To what extent did Enlightenment ideas influence the ideologies and outcomes of the American and French Revolutions?
• The Berlin Airlift: A Turning Point in the Cold War . How did the Berlin Airlift signify a turning point in the Cold War, and what does it reveal about the powers’ strategies and priorities?
• The Impact of Apartheid on South African Society . What were the social, economic, and political impacts of apartheid on South African society, and how are its effects still felt today?

It is also a good idea to consult with your teacher or advisor to refine your choices. Seek feedback from peers or mentors who can provide fresh perspectives on your work.

Don’t let the stress of the IB curriculum hold you back.

Are you struggling to come up with topic suggestions for your IB Extended Essay? Or do you need help with Internal Assessment?

Our experienced writers can help you choose the perfect topic and assist you with any assignment.

You can order an Extended Essay tailored to your specific subject and requirements.

Our experienced IB writers are always ready to help.

Simply click:

Topics to Read:

• IB Extended Essay Topics: Business and Management
• IB Extended Essay Topics: Physics
• IB Extended Essay Topics: Economics
• IB Extended Essay Topics: Sports and Health Science
• IB Extended Essay Topics: Geography
• IB Extended Essay Topics: Global Politics
• IB World Studies Extended Essay Ideas
• IB English A Extended Essay Topics
• IB Results Remark Procedure
• IB English B Extended Essay Topics
• What Is the New IB Economics Syllabus?
• IB Oral Presentation Ideas and Examples
• 70+ CAS Project Ideas for IB Students

Every part of the writing process, from selecting a fascinating topic to conducting comprehensive research and constructing a convincing argument, provides a chance to improve your historical knowledge and academic skills. Also, our experienced IB writers are always ready to help you with extended essays on any subject.

Nora Spinster

Nora Spinster is a multi-talented individual who is an educator, lawyer, youth, expert IB tutor, education activist, and language and writing enthusiast. Nora has a wealth of experience in copywriting, having worked with various organizations and businesses to craft compelling and effective copy. Nora has published articles on young learners and teenage students in the International House Journal and occasionally posts on ibwritingservice.com educational blog

• Nora Spinster https://ibwritingservice.com/blog/author/noraspinster/ Interdisciplinary Topics in Extended Essays
• Nora Spinster https://ibwritingservice.com/blog/author/noraspinster/ How to Create a Research Question for Your IB Extended Essay?
• Nora Spinster https://ibwritingservice.com/blog/author/noraspinster/ Using Extended Essay Topics That Are Already on the Internet. Is It Good?
• Nora Spinster https://ibwritingservice.com/blog/author/noraspinster/ Can Extended Essays with a Generic Topic Score Well or Do They Have to Be Quite Original?

Get hot offers and discounts for your IB Assignments

Our writing solutions cater to all disciplines within the IB program, and we specialize in crafting academic papers for students of all levels. We follow the IB criteria.

Adhering strictly to the rigorous standards set by the IB, we deploy a methodical approach to our writing process. This ensures that every piece of content we generate not only meets but exceeds the expectations set within the program.

Contact us:

[email protected]

[email protected]

Latest Articles:

Interdisciplinary Topics in Extended Essays

How to Create a Research Question for Your IB Extended Essay?

Using Extended Essay Topics That Are Already on the Internet. Is It Good?

Our services:.

• Buy Internal Assessment
• Buy Math IA
• Buy Extended Essay
• Buy TOK Essay
• Buy TOK Exhibition

IBWritingService.com is an independent academic writing aid with no official ties to the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). Our use of “IB” in the domain and title is purely for identification, and we neither claim nor imply any endorsement or partnership with the IBO. Our services aim to support students’ educational needs without violating IBO policies. Trademarks mentioned are property of their owners and do not suggest affiliations. By using our services, you acknowledge our non-affiliation with the IBO and that we’re not a substitute for IBO requirements. We deny any liability for use of our services in relation to the IBO.

ALL PAPERS WRITTEN BY OUR EXPERTS AS PART OF THIS WRITING SERVICE ARE FOR REFERENCE PURPOSES ONLY. WHEN USING CONTENT PURCHASED FROM THIS WEBSITE, IT MUST BE PROPERLY REFERENCED.

• Terms & Conditions
• Revision Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Refund Policy
• Cookie Policy

© 2023. All Rights Reserved.

Economics Extended Essay Topic Ideas for IB Students

Table of contents

• Writing Metier

The International Baccalaureate Extended Essay in Economics can cover a wide range of topics. However, the choice of topic must enable the student to apply a range of economic theories and concepts to address a research question. 

This will be a long read, but everyone will likely find a good idea of the topic and research question for their Economics extended essay.

Extended essay in Economics topic categories

The IB Economics EE is expected to demonstrate a good understanding of the subject and the application of economic theory to real-world situations .

Btw…if you need assistance, you can always count on our extended essay writing service at Writing Metier. We will help you with your Economics extended essay.

Here are 12 potential categories for IB Economics Extended Essay topics:

• Market Structures (e.g., Monopolies, Oligopolies)
• Market Failure (e.g., Externalities, Public Goods)
• Elasticity (e.g., Price Elasticity of Demand/Supply)
• Economic Cycles (e.g., Business Cycles, Economic Growth)
• Fiscal Policy (e.g., Government Spending, Taxation)
• Monetary Policy (e.g., Interest Rates, Money Supply)
• Trade Policies (e.g., Tariffs, Trade Agreements)
• Exchange Rates (e.g., Currency Fluctuations, Foreign Exchange Markets)
• Balance of Payments (e.g., Current Account, Capital Account)
• Measures of Development (e.g., GDP, HDI)
• Poverty and Inequality (e.g., Income Distribution, Poverty Alleviation Strategies)
• Sustainable Development (e.g., Environmental Sustainability, Social Sustainability)
• Consumer Behavior (e.g., Bounded Rationality, Heuristics)
• Nudge Theory (e.g., Choice Architecture, Incentives)
• Market Behavior (e.g., Bubbles, Herd Behavior)
• Wage Determination (e.g., Minimum Wage, Bargaining)
• Labor Markets (e.g., Unemployment, Labor Mobility)
• Human Capital (e.g., Education, Training)
• Resource Management (e.g., Renewable Resources, Conservation)
• Environmental Policies (e.g., Carbon Tax, Emissions Trading)
• Cost-Benefit Analysis (e.g., Environmental Impact Assessments)
• Healthcare Systems (e.g., Insurance, Public vs. Private Provision)
• Health Outcomes (e.g., Life Expectancy, Quality of Life)
• Health Policies (e.g., Regulation, Subsidies)
• Government Expenditure (e.g., Public Goods, Welfare)
• Taxation (e.g., Progressive vs. Regressive Taxes)
• Fiscal Federalism (e.g., Central vs. Local Government Finance)
• Firm Behavior (e.g., Mergers, Acquisitions)
• Market Regulation (e.g., Antitrust Laws, Competition Policy)
• Innovation and Technology (e.g., R&D, Patents)
• Financial Markets (e.g., Stock Markets, Bond Markets)
• Financial Instruments (e.g., Derivatives, Futures)
• Financial Regulation (e.g., Banking Regulation, Financial Crises)
• Economic Thought (e.g., Classical, Keynesian)
• Economic History (e.g., Historical Economic Development, Historical Crises)
• Methodological Issues (e.g., Econometrics, Qualitative vs. Quantitative Analysis)

Each of these categories can be further refined into specific research questions suitable for an extended essay . Below, I’ll be providing some ideas for your ease.

The choice of topic should be such that it allows for a systematic investigation that can be effectively analyzed using economic theories and data. 

It’s also essential to ensure that the topic is narrow enough to be addressed within the word limit and broad enough to allow for an in-depth analysis.

Economics IB EE Topic Ideas and Research Questions

Starting with Microeconomics, we’re zooming in on the nitty-gritty of individual markets and how they tick. 

Microeconomics Topics and Research Questions

We’ve got our classic battles of market structures—monopolies holding the fort, oligopolies playing chess with each other, and perfect competition being the ideal we rarely meet.

Then there’s the whole drama of market failure, where things get messy with externalities and public goods, and no one’s quite sure who should clean up the mess. 

And elasticity? It’s like the pulse check of the market, seeing how it reacts to price changes. It’s all about the small scale, the details, the fine print.

Market Structures

Topic:  The impact of local monopolies on consumer choice in rural areas.

Research Question:  How do local monopolies in rural areas affect consumer choices and prices?

Topic:  The competitive strategies of oligopolies in the smartphone industry.

Research Question:  What competitive strategies do oligopolies in the smartphone industry use to maintain market share?

Topic:  The prevalence of monopolistic competition in the fast-food industry.

Research Question:  How does monopolistic competition influence product variety in the fast-food industry?

Market Failure

Topic:  The role of government in addressing negative externalities in urban transport.

Research Question:  How effective are government interventions in reducing traffic congestion as a negative externality in urban areas?

Topic:  The effectiveness of public goods provision in rural education.

Research Question:  How does the provision of education as a public good affect educational outcomes in rural areas?

Topic:  The impact of plastic bag taxes on environmental externalities.

Research Question:  Have plastic bag taxes significantly reduced the environmental externalities associated with plastic waste?

Topic:  Price elasticity of demand for organic produce in urban markets.

Research Question:  How does the price elasticity of demand for organic produce affect consumer purchasing patterns in urban markets?

Topic:  Cross-price elasticity between electric cars and fossil fuel vehicles.

Research Question:  What is the cross-price elasticity of demand between electric cars and fossil fuel vehicles, and what does it imply for future sales?

Topic:  The elasticity of supply in the housing market during economic booms.

Research Question:  How does the elasticity of supply in the housing market respond to economic booms?

Macroeconomics Topics and Research Questions

But then we step back and look at the big picture with Macroeconomics. Here we’re talking about the economy’s heartbeat—those business cycles that keep us on our toes, wondering if we’re heading for a boom or bracing for a bust. 

Governments step in with their fiscal policies, wielding taxes and spending like surgeons trying to fix the economy without making it bleed out. 

And let’s not forget the central banks, playing with interest rates and money supply like some high-stakes game of poker.

Economic Cycles

Topic:  The impact of economic cycles on unemployment rates in industrial sectors.

Research Question:  How do different phases of economic cycles affect unemployment rates in the manufacturing sector?

Topic:  The correlation between economic growth and income inequality.

Research Question:  Is there a significant correlation between economic growth and the level of income inequality in developed countries?

Topic:  The role of technological innovation in driving economic cycles.

Research Question:  To what extent does technological innovation influence the length and magnitude of economic cycles?

Fiscal Policy

Topic:  The effectiveness of fiscal stimulus in recession recovery.

Research Question:  How effective are fiscal stimulus packages in accelerating recovery from recessions?

Topic:  The impact of taxation on small businesses and economic growth.

Research Question:  What is the impact of changes in small business taxation on economic growth?

Topic:  Government spending priorities and their impact on long-term economic growth.

Research Question:  How do government spending priorities influence long-term economic growth?

Monetary Policy

Topic:  The effects of interest rate changes on consumer spending.

Research Question:  How do changes in the central bank’s interest rate affect consumer spending patterns?

Topic:  The relationship between money supply growth and inflation.

Research Question:  What is the relationship between the growth of money supply and the rate of inflation in emerging economies?

Topic:  Central bank policies and their impact on currency exchange rates.

Research Question:  How do central bank policies in developed countries affect their currency exchange rates?

Each of these topics and research questions can be tailored to fit the specific requirements of an IB Economics Extended Essay , including the availability of data, the scope of the research, and the word count limitations. 

It’s important to conduct preliminary research to ensure that there is enough material to support the investigation.

Next stop, International Economics. This is where countries shake hands or sometimes wrestle over trade policies. 

International Economics Topics and Research Questions

Tariffs, trade agreements, and who gets the better deal—it’s like a global marketplace where everyone’s trying to haggle their way to prosperity. 

Exchange rates bounce around like ping pong balls, and the balance of payments tells us who’s spending too much on their credit card and who’s got money in the bank.

Trade Policies

Topic:  The impact of trade tariffs on the domestic automobile industry.

Research Question:  How have recent changes in trade tariffs affected the competitiveness of the domestic automobile industry?

Topic:  The effectiveness of free trade agreements in promoting economic growth.

Research Question:  What has been the impact of free trade agreements on the economic growth of member countries?

Topic:  The role of trade policies in protecting local agriculture.

Research Question:  How do trade policies affect the sustainability and profitability of local agricultural sectors?

Exchange Rates

Topic:  The effects of exchange rate fluctuations on the tourism industry.

Research Question:  How do exchange rate fluctuations impact the number of international tourists and tourism revenue?

Topic:  Currency wars and their impact on global trade.

Research Question:  What are the consequences of competitive devaluations, often referred to as ‘currency wars’, on global trade dynamics?

Topic:  The relationship between commodity prices and currency strength in exporting countries.

Research Question:  How do fluctuations in commodity prices affect the exchange rate of commodity-exporting countries?

Balance of Payments

Topic:  The impact of remittances on the balance of payments in developing countries.

Research Question:  What role do remittances play in the balance of payments of developing countries?

Topic:  Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and its effect on the current account balance.

Research Question:  How does FDI influence the current account balance of emerging economies?

Topic:  The effects of tourism on the balance of payments in small island economies.

Research Question:  What is the significance of tourism revenue in the balance of payments of small island economies?

Then we get into the meaty issues with Development Economics. 

Development Economics Topics and Research Questions

It’s all about asking, “Are we getting better?” We measure development with things like GDP and the Human Development Index, but they don’t always tell the full story. 

We’re also tackling the tough stuff like poverty, inequality, and whether we can keep growing without trashing the planet. It’s about making sure progress today doesn’t rob tomorrow.

Measures of Development

Topic:  The correlation between GDP growth and improvements in Human Development Index (HDI) scores.

Research Question:  Does GDP growth have a significant correlation with improvements in HDI scores?

Topic:  The effectiveness of Gross National Happiness (GNH) as an alternative development measure.

Research Question:  How does GNH compare to GDP as a measure of development, and what are its implications for policy-making?

Topic:  The impact of technological advancement on economic development indicators.

Research Question:  What is the impact of rapid technological advancement on traditional economic development indicators?

Poverty and Inequality

Topic:  The effectiveness of microfinance in reducing poverty in rural areas.

Research Question:  To what extent has microfinance contributed to poverty reduction in rural communities?

Topic:  Income inequality and educational outcomes in urban environments.

Research Question:  How does income inequality within urban areas affect educational outcomes?

Topic:  The role of gender inequality in economic development.

Research Question:  What is the impact of gender inequality on economic development in developing countries?

Sustainable Development

Topic:  The economic impacts of transitioning to sustainable energy sources.

Research Question:  What are the short-term and long-term economic impacts of transitioning to sustainable energy?

Topic:  The role of sustainable agriculture in promoting food security.

Research Question:  How does sustainable agriculture contribute to food security and economic development?

Topic:  The cost-benefit analysis of environmental conservation measures.

Research Question:  What are the economic benefits and costs associated with environmental conservation measures?

Behavioral Economics Topics and Research Questions

Now, let’s talk about what makes people tick with Behavioral Economics. This is where we realize that humans aren’t always the rational robots some theories make us out to be. 

We’ve got our quirks—bounded rationality, heuristics, and sometimes we follow the herd off a cliff in a market bubble. It’s fascinating because it’s about the psychology behind the economics.

Consumer Behavior

Topic:  The influence of social media on consumer purchasing decisions.

Research Question:  To what extent does social media influence consumer behavior in the fashion industry?

Topic:  The impact of brand loyalty on price elasticity.

Research Question:  How does brand loyalty affect the price elasticity of demand for consumer electronics?

Topic:  Behavioral factors influencing impulsive buying behavior.

Research Question:  What behavioral factors are most significant in influencing impulsive buying behavior in online retail?

Nudge Theory

Topic:  The effectiveness of nudges in promoting healthy eating habits.

Research Question:  How effective are nudging strategies in changing consumer eating habits in school cafeterias?

Topic:  The role of default choices in retirement savings plans.

Research Question:  What is the impact of default options on the participation rates in employer-sponsored retirement savings plans?

Topic:  The use of framing effects in environmental policy compliance.

Research Question:  How do framing effects influence compliance with environmental policies among households?

Market Behavior

Topic:  The impact of investor sentiment on stock market bubbles.

Research Question:  To what extent does investor sentiment contribute to the formation and bursting of stock market bubbles?

Topic:  Herd behavior and its influence on cryptocurrency markets.

Research Question:  How does herd behavior manifest in the trading patterns of cryptocurrency markets?

Topic:  The role of overconfidence in financial market trading.

Research Question:  What is the role of overconfidence bias in the decision-making processes of individual investors in financial markets?

Each of these topics and research questions should be carefully considered and refined to ensure that they are feasible for an extended essay , with a clear focus and available data for analysis.

Labor Economics Topics and Research Questions

Shifting gears to Labor Economics, we’re in the world of work. Wages aren’t just about money; they’re about bargaining power, fairness, and sometimes just sticking to the minimum. 

The labor market’s a tough crowd, with unemployment and the quest for the right job in the right place. 

And human capital reminds us that it’s not just about filling positions but nurturing talent through education and training.

Wage Determination

Topic:  The impact of minimum wage increases on small business employment levels.

Research Question:  What is the effect of minimum wage increases on employment levels in the small business sector?

Topic:  Wage bargaining and gender pay disparity in the technology sector.

Research Question:  How does wage bargaining contribute to the gender pay gap in the technology industry?

Topic:  The influence of trade unions on wage determination in the automotive industry.

Research Question:  What role do trade unions play in shaping wage determination in the automotive industry?

Labor Markets

Topic:  The effects of automation on unemployment rates in manufacturing.

Research Question:  How has the increase in automation impacted unemployment rates in the manufacturing sector?

Topic:  Labor market flexibility and its impact on economic resilience during recessions.

Research Question:  How does labor market flexibility affect a country’s economic resilience to recessions?

Topic:  The role of labor mobility in regional economic development.

Research Question:  What is the impact of labor mobility on economic development in economically depressed regions?

Human Capital

Topic:  The return on investment in higher education for various fields of study.

Research Question:  What is the comparative return on investment in higher education across different fields of study?

Topic:  The impact of vocational training programs on employability in the service sector.

Research Question:  How do vocational training programs affect employability and income levels in the service sector?

Topic:  The correlation between educational attainment and labor productivity.

Research Question:  How does the level of educational attainment correlate with labor productivity in the tech industry?

Breathing in some fresh air, we move to Environmental Economics. 

Environmental Economics Topics and Research Questions

Here’s where we figure out how to play nice with nature. Managing resources, setting up environmental policies like carbon taxes, and doing the math to see if the benefits of saving a forest are worth the cost. 

It’s economics going green.

Resource Management

Topic:  The economic viability of renewable energy sources in rural communities.

Research Question:  What are the economic challenges and benefits of adopting renewable energy sources in rural communities?

Topic:  The impact of water resource management on agricultural productivity.

Research Question:  How does effective water resource management influence agricultural productivity and economic sustainability?

Topic:  The effects of conservation policies on the forestry industry.

Research Question:  What economic impact do conservation policies have on the forestry industry?

Environmental Policies

Topic:  The effectiveness of carbon taxes in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Research Question:  How effective have carbon taxes been in achieving their intended reductions in greenhouse gas emissions?

Topic:  The economic impacts of emissions trading schemes on heavy industries.

Research Question:  What are the economic consequences of emissions trading schemes for heavy industries?

Topic:  The role of environmental regulations in shaping the automotive industry.

Research Question:  How have environmental regulations influenced innovation and economic outcomes in the automotive industry?

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Topic:  The cost-benefit analysis of urban green space preservation.

Research Question:  What are the economic costs and benefits of preserving urban green spaces?

Topic:  The economic evaluation of flood defense systems in coastal cities.

Research Question:  From an economic perspective, how do the costs and benefits of flood defense systems in coastal cities compare?

Topic:  The financial implications of biodiversity conservation programs.

Research Question:  What are the economic trade-offs associated with biodiversity conservation programs?

Health Economics Topics and Research Questions

Health Economics brings us to the crossroads of wealth and well-being. Healthcare systems are complex beasts, and we’re trying to tame them so that they can heal without causing financial heartache. 

We’re measuring health outcomes and life quality, all while navigating through the maze of health policies.

Healthcare Systems

Topic:  The economic effects of public versus private healthcare provision on quality of care.

Research Question:  How does the mode of healthcare provision (public vs. private) affect the quality of care and economic efficiency?

Topic:  The impact of insurance coverage on healthcare utilization rates.

Research Question:  How does the level of insurance coverage influence healthcare utilization rates among different socioeconomic groups?

Topic:  The cost-effectiveness of universal healthcare systems.

Research Question:  From a cost-effectiveness standpoint, how do universal healthcare systems compare to multi-payer systems?

Health Outcomes

Topic:  The economic burden of chronic diseases on healthcare systems.

Research Question:  What is the economic impact of the rising prevalence of chronic diseases on healthcare systems?

Topic:  The relationship between socioeconomic status and health outcomes.

Research Question:  How does socioeconomic status affect health outcomes across different regions?

Topic:  The impact of mental health services on workplace productivity.

Research Question:  What is the economic impact of providing mental health services on workplace productivity?

Health Policies

Topic:  The economic implications of pharmaceutical regulation on drug prices.

Research Question:  How do pharmaceutical regulations affect drug prices and the availability of new medications?

Topic:  The cost-benefit analysis of preventive healthcare measures.

Research Question:  What are the long-term economic benefits of investing in preventive healthcare measures?

Topic:  The effects of subsidies on the consumption of health-related goods.

Research Question:  How do subsidies for health-related goods (e.g., gym memberships, healthy foods) affect consumption patterns and health outcomes?

Public Sector Economics Topics and Research Questions

Public Sector Economics is where we see how the government tries to steer the ship. They’re spending on public goods and welfare, trying to keep the economy afloat without springing too many leaks. 

Taxation is a hot topic—progressive, regressive, who’s paying their way, and who’s getting a free ride? And with fiscal federalism, it’s a tug-of-war between local needs and central control.

Government Expenditure

Topic:  The impact of government spending on public goods on economic growth.

Research Question:  How does government expenditure on public goods such as infrastructure contribute to economic growth?

Topic:  The effectiveness of welfare programs in reducing poverty.

Research Question:  What has been the impact of welfare programs on poverty levels in developed countries?

Topic:  The economic consequences of military spending.

Research Question:  How does military expenditure affect the allocation of government resources and economic growth?

Topic:  The economic effects of progressive taxation on income distribution.

Research Question:  Does progressive taxation lead to a more equitable distribution of income?

Topic:  The impact of value-added tax (VAT) on consumer spending.

Research Question:  How does the implementation of VAT affect consumer spending patterns?

Topic:  The role of tax incentives in promoting renewable energy investments.

Research Question:  How effective are tax incentives in encouraging investment in renewable energy projects?

Fiscal Federalism

Topic:  The challenges of fiscal coordination between central and local governments.

Research Question:  What are the main challenges in achieving fiscal coordination between different levels of government?

Topic:  The impact of fiscal decentralization on local economic development.

Research Question:  How does fiscal decentralization affect economic development at the local level?

Topic:  The role of intergovernmental transfers in balancing regional disparities.

Research Question:  How do intergovernmental transfers help to address regional economic disparities?

Industrial Organization Topics and Research Questions

We’re watching firms and their power moves—mergers, acquisitions, and the regulatory hoops they have to jump through. 

It’s about keeping the market fair and innovative, making sure the big fish don’t eat all the little ones and that new ideas get a chance to grow.

Firm Behavior

Topic:  The economic rationale behind mergers and acquisitions in the tech industry.

Research Question:  What economic factors drive mergers and acquisitions in the technology sector?

Topic:  The impact of corporate governance on firm performance.

Research Question:  How does the quality of corporate governance affect firm performance and economic outcomes?

Topic:  The effects of vertical integration on market competition.

Research Question:  Does vertical integration by large firms lead to less competition in the market?

Market Regulation

Topic:  The effectiveness of antitrust laws in promoting fair competition.

Research Question:  How effective are antitrust laws in maintaining competitive markets?

Topic:  The economic impacts of deregulation in the airline industry.

Research Question:  What have been the economic outcomes of deregulation in the airline industry?

Topic:  The role of competition policy in fostering innovation.

Research Question:  How does competition policy influence the rate and direction of innovation in high-tech industries?

Innovation and Technology

Topic:  The relationship between R&D investment and economic performance in pharmaceuticals.

Research Question:  How does R&D investment correlate with economic performance in the pharmaceutical industry?

Topic:  The economic implications of patent laws on innovation.

Research Question:  What is the impact of patent laws on the rate of innovation in renewable energy technologies?

Topic:  The role of government subsidies in technological advancement.

Research Question:  How do government subsidies affect technological advancement in emerging industries?

Financial Economics Topics and Research Questions

Financial Economics is where the money’s at—literally. Stock markets, bond markets, the exotic world of derivatives—it’s all about the flow of money. 

And with financial regulation, we’re trying to keep the party responsible so that the financial hangover doesn’t hit too hard.

Financial Markets

Topic:  The impact of stock market volatility on economic decision-making.

Research Question:  How does stock market volatility influence corporate investment decisions?

Topic:  The role of bond markets in public debt management.

Research Question:  What role do bond markets play in the management of public debt?

Topic:  The effects of quantitative easing on financial markets.

Research Question:  How has quantitative easing affected financial markets post-2008 financial crisis?

Financial Instruments

Topic:  The use of derivatives in risk management by corporations.

Research Question:  How do corporations use derivatives to manage financial risk?

Topic:  The impact of futures trading on commodity price stability.

Research Question:  Does futures trading contribute to the stability of commodity prices?

Topic:  The role of cryptocurrency in the financial portfolio diversification.

Research Question:  How do cryptocurrencies affect the diversification of financial portfolios?

Financial Regulation

Topic:  The effectiveness of banking regulation in preventing financial crises.

Research Question:  How effective have banking regulations been in preventing another financial crisis?

Topic:  The economic effects of capital adequacy requirements on banks.

Research Question:  What are the economic effects of increased capital adequacy requirements for banks?

Topic:  The impact of international financial reporting standards on market transparency.

Research Question:  How do international financial reporting standards improve market transparency and economic outcomes?

Economic Methodology and History Topics and Research Questions

Lastly, we’ve got Economic Methodology and History. It’s a bit like time travel, seeing how past thinkers shape our current policies and how historical events steer us towards new economic shores. 

And methodology? It’s the toolbox that helps us figure out if what we’re doing actually makes sense, with all the number crunching and case studies that help us understand the why behind the what.

Economic Thought

Topic:  The influence of Keynesian economic policies on modern fiscal strategies.

Research Question:  How have Keynesian economic principles shaped contemporary fiscal policy-making?

Topic:  The relevance of classical economics in today’s market economy.

Research Question:  To what extent are the principles of classical economics applicable in the current market economy?

Topic:  The impact of behavioral economics on traditional economic models.

Research Question:  How has behavioral economics challenged the assumptions of traditional economic models?

Economic History

Topic:  The economic consequences of the 1970s oil shocks.

Research Question:  What were the long-term economic consequences of the oil shocks of the 1970s?

Topic:  The role of economic policies in the Great Depression.

Research Question:  How did economic policies contribute to the onset and duration of the Great Depression?

Topic:  The economic impacts of the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

Research Question:  What were the economic impacts of the dissolution of the Soviet Union on Eastern European countries?

Methodological Issues

Topic:  The application of econometrics in evaluating fiscal policy.

Research Question:  How can econometric models be used to evaluate the effectiveness of fiscal policy?

Topic:  The challenges of qualitative analysis in economic research.

Research Question:  What are the main challenges associated with using qualitative analysis in economic research?

Topic:  The comparison of case study and statistical methods in economic analysis.

Research Question:  How do case study methods compare to statistical methods in the analysis of economic phenomena?

So, there you have it—a whirlwind tour through the interconnected world of economics extended essay topics. 

Each piece of the cake tells part of the story, and it’s only when you put them all together that you see the full tasty picture. What’s your take on all this?

If you need some other IB EE topic options, we also have many other articles with various extended essay topic ideas . Do not miss a chance to check some that may interest you.

Conclusion 

I would have continued with other options, but I believe this list of Economics extended essay topic ideas are quite enough for today. Good luck with your RQ selection, research and writing .

If you find a better article that provides more comprehensive and detailed suggestions for Economics extended essay topic ideas, share it with me 😉

If you need topic suggestions with outlines or assistance with writing a custom IB Economics EE, our IB experts at Writing Metier are always ready to assist you.

Simply contact us using our contact form or fill out the order form with details to your economics extended essay and our IB experts will land you a hand.

Free topic suggestions

Vasy kafidoff.

Vasyl Kafidoff is a co-founder and CEO at WritingMetier. He is interested in education and how modern technology makes it more accessible. He wants to bring awareness about new learning possibilities as an educational specialist. When Vasy is not working, he’s found behind a drum kit.

Similar posts

100+ ib extended essay topic ideas for your ease.

One of the very important requirements of an IB diploma is the extended essay. This really helps bring up the total score. And one problem students face here is gathering ideas for their IB extended essay. Here is some guiding information that can help with extended essay topics.

Mathematics Extended Essay Topics for IB

Explore a meticulously curated selection of IB Math Extended Essay topics, each crafted to cater to various levels of expertise. Whether you're seeking a straightforward challenge or a deep mathematical conundrum, this guide is designed to ignite your curiosity, showcase your skills, and help you stand out in the world of IB mathematics. Dive into this realm with enthusiasm and precision

What Are Some Good Psychology Extended Essay Topics?

Explore the fascinating world of Psychology with our comprehensive list of IB Extended Essay topics. From the mysteries of the mind to the dynamics of social interactions, find the perfect subject for your academic exploration. Dive into psychology with us and bring your insights to life!

What is IB Extended Essay RPPF?

The IB program mandates that students complete an extended essay, along with a form called the RPPF or reflections on planning and progress form. Some students have difficulty understanding the concept of reflecting on their work and may feel overwhelmed by the task.

May 2024 TOK Essay Prompts | IB Experts Guide + Examples

Discover the comprehensive breakdown of the May 2024 TOK essay prompts. Our expert analyses and tailored approaches for each title ensure you're well-prepared to tackle the IB criteria with confidence and clarity.

Extended Essay Grading in the IB Program

Check the latest nuances of the IB Extended Essay with Writing Metier. From grading insights to firsthand experiences, we've got your EE queries covered. Let our seasoned team guide you to unlock success in your Extended Essay.

IB Physics Extended Essay Topics for IB

Struggling to find the right topic for your IB Physics Extended Essay? Our comprehensive list of over 100 ideas is here to inspire your scientific exploration. Discover a range of topics from quantum physics to astrophysics, tailored to ignite your curiosity and academic ambition.

We rely on cookies to give you the best experince on our website. By browsing, you agree to it. Read more