100 IB Extended Essay Topic Ideas!

extended essay topics 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 !

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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.

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International Baccalaureate (IB)

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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:

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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.

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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?

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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...

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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!

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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.

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

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

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

40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme

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

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

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Extended Essay Topics: 50+ Examples for Subject in EE

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by  Antony W

July 30, 2022

extended essay topics ideas

This is the complete list of Extended Essay topics on different EE subject areas. We’ve packed this guide with as many topic ideas as possible.

So if you’re just getting started with the IB extended essay assignment and you’re already stuck on topic selection, this post might help you to get unstuck.

What is an Extended Essay?

Abbreviated as EE, the Extended Essay is a required component of the IB Diploma Program for all students, regardless of the disciplines they are studying.

The objective of the Extended Essay is to offer students the chance to conduct research on a topic of their choice and demonstrate knowledge and reading beyond the classroom curriculum. The essay also provides students with the opportunity to develop abilities necessary for researching and writing in advanced learning institutions.

Students often begin working on their essay during the second term of their first year of the IB Diploma Program. They will require a manager (one of the teachers at their school) with whom they will meet on a regular basis to help them outline their research questions and lead them through the writing process.

The IB diploma program allows you to prepare and submit one draft to the supervisor for input, followed by a second, final draft. As for the length of the extended essay, you want to make sure the assignment doesn’t exceed 4,000 words .

Getting Extended Essay Help

Owing to the very nature of the IB program, searching for an extended essay topic and getting the task completed can be an involving task. If you feel like the whole process would end up rather overwhelming, you can take advantage of our extended essay writing service and we’ll help you get the task done. 

For just $19.09/page, you can get the professional writing help and advice required to score a 34 in your Extended Essay. The pricing is standard regardless of the topic you would like to work on.

Extended Essay Topics

If you’re confident that you can write an extended essay yourself, and you should, you need to start with selecting the right topic for the assignment. Here are some topic ideas to get you started: 

1. English Extended Essay Topics

The following are some of the best examples of topic ideas to consider if you choose to write an Extended Essay in the English subject.

  • How the heroic couplets of the neoclassical period differed from those of the romantic period, and why classical poetry had so many rules.
  • How many different styles of poetry can we observe from the English Renaissance through modernism and postmodernism?
  • Does colonialism have an effect on modern poetry and the manner in which it evolves during the many eras of colonial rule?
  • Why has euphemism been so prominent in the English language for so long and how does this affect the lexicon and structure of the language?
  • Can we argue that, unlike other languages of the globe, English is a language of conventions and traditions with no hard and fast rules?
  • What function does slang play in the English language, and how are slang terms now preserved in official and academic dictionaries?
  • What are the primary causes of the gradual shift in the spelling of English words through time?
  • Impact of globalization on the evolution of the English language as it becomes the universal language.

We encourage you to read more about English Extended Essay for further insights.

2. Biology Extended Essay Topics

  • How do age and gender influence the photoreceptor cells in the human retina?
  • What effects does climate change have on the appearance of coral reefs?
  • An analysis of how antioxidants function in the human body?
  • Which of hand sanitizer, hand soap, or antibacterial wipes inhibits the development of E. coli the most effectively?
  • How does population density between X and X’s population size relate?
  • What is the link between the growth hormone indoleacetic acid and the growth of X?

You can read more about Biology EE here.

3. Business Management Extended Essay Topics

We put together an in-depth guide on IB Business Management EE to give you more insight about the subject.

In addition to teaching you exactly how to write an EE in this subject, the post includes some interesting topic ideas as well as their respective research questions.

Remember to check it out to learn more.

4. Chemistry Extended Essay Topics

  • What effect does acid rain have on the trees, plants, and public gardens in your neighborhood?
  • Analyze the chemical composition of various types of lava and magma rocks from across the world.
  • What kinds of chemical components are responsible for the majority of food allergies?
  • Examine the chemistry of MDMA and other “nightclub” or designer drugs in users of various ages.
  • Examine how chemical experiments and the knowledge gained from them have altered the globe.
  • How has the usage of fluoride in the community’s water supply benefited and harmed the community?
  • What chemical difference does choosing organic foods vs pesticide-treated foods have on our bodies?
  • What impact have big cosmetics manufacturers made on our contemporary understanding of chemistry?
  • What type of chemistry is involved in making generic medications cheaper than brand-name pharmaceuticals?

You can read more about Chemistry Extended Essay in this post.

5. Computer Science Extended Essay Topics

  • In what way are support vector machines more accurate in predicting ATP tennis matches than artificial neural networks?
  • To what extent are Java-generated pseudo-random numbers more predictable than C#-generated numbers?
  • How much more effectively does MP3 encoding reduce quality loss and file size than OGG in terms of algorithmic efficiency and encoded file quality?
  • How well does the binary search algorithm locate specific values among variable-sized data sets?
  • How much more efficient is Depth First Search than Breadth First Search for path finding in artificial intelligence and robot motion planning?
  • To what degree is hashing a more appropriate and efficient method than binary search for locating specific values in different-sized data sets?
  • How do Password Length and Character Variation Influence the Entropy of a Password?
  • How much more space-efficient is the AES symmetric encryption method compared to the Blowfish symmetric encryption technique when encrypting data of varied sizes and types?

6. Economics Extended Essay Topics

  • What is the connection between unemployment and economic contraction?
  • Is Alcohol Consumption Regulation Beneficial to the Stock Market?
  • Trucking Companies and the Effects of Sanctions and Trade Embargoes
  • Analysis of the Effects of Increasing Taxes on Multinational Corporations and Religious Organizations
  • What Negative Effects Will a “Hard” Brexit Have on Scotland and Wales?
  • How Will the Substitution of Fossil Fuels with Solar Power Affect the Economies of Middle Eastern Nations?
  • In Sub-Saharan Africa, deforestation and man-made disasters are the leading causes of poverty.

We’ve written an in-depth guide on Economics Extended Essay, and we encourage you to check it out to learn more about the subject.

7. Environmental Systems and Societies EE Topics

The following are some interesting topics on the Environmental Systems and Societies. The X is a variable, which can be a name of any city or country you’d wish to investigate in your ESS.

  • What forest and woodland restoration strategies exist in Siberia, Russia, and one is the most effective?
  • How can human meddling in X city/country/continent produce ecological imbalances?
  • What effect does urbanization have on the bee population in X city?
  • What are the distinctions between Yosemite National Park (California, USA) and Lake District National Park (United Kingdom) in terms of dialogue efforts?
  • How much have healthcare policies in nation X affected its human population curve?
  • What impact has X’s landfill had on the surrounding terrestrial ecosystem?

You can read our ESS guide to learn more about this subject before you start working on your Extended Essay assignment.

8. Film Extended Essay Topics  

  • Relationship between IMDB ratings and several national and international film honors
  • The current transformation of masculinity as represented in Fight Club
  • Varieties of timeline modification methods in cinematography
  • Sci-fi film portrayals of scientists and the scientific method are grossly inaccurate.
  • Moving camera – inventive approaches (such as those utilized in The Matrix or Guy Ritchie’s film)
  • How can filmic approaches depict the evolution of Disney princesses from 1937 to 2012?
  • How are transgender characters portrayed in two films from distinct periods?

9. Geography Extended Essay Topics

  • What socioeconomic and urban design elements contribute to high vandalism rates in Eindhoven’s neighborhoods?
  • How does the quality of life of Filipina Foreign Domestic Workers in Downtown Singapore compare to that of Filipinas in the Philippines?
  • An inquiry examining whether Singapore qualifies as a sustainable city
  • To what degree do migratory patterns and motivations in the northern area of Thailand correspond to predicted migration movements in an LDC?
  • Comparative analysis of the provision of public services in Warsaw’s districts

Check out our complete guide on Geography EE to learn more about the subject. Make sure you check the assessment criteria part, so you can write the kind of an EE that earns you top grades – if not a 34.

10. Global Politics EE

  • The legitimacy of the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq; to what extent was the invasion justified? (2021)
  • How media depictions and government information can diverge
  • How the success of a political party in one nation may affect the results in another.
  • Comparing the influence of global political trends on two countries reveals contrasting results.
  • The effect of a single crisis on the political ties between two countries

We’ve put together a more comprehensive guide on Global Politics Extended Essay . So we encourage you to check that out to learn more.

11. History Extended Essay

  • The consequences of dropping nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki
  • You can investigate the economic, ethnic, social, and even environmental consequences of conflict diamonds.
  • The evolution of military technology during the American Civil War
  • The post-apartheid work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Southwest Africa
  • The rise and collapse of the Ottoman Empire and its economic influence

You can get more topic ideas on this subject from this post .

12. Math Extended Essay

  • How can mathematics be used to determine the ideal distance from the try line for positioning the ball for a rugby union conversion kick?
  • In the sliding tile problem, what is the graph structure of m x n?
  • How long does it take to travel around the whole Singapore MRT network? (2015)
  • Modeling mathematics – An examination of the Richardson arms race model (2020)
  • Real-world applications of a study of differential equations of the second order
  • A mathematical examination of shock absorbers’ damped harmonic motion

Our IB Math EE guide has more insights worth checking out. So we recommend going through the guide before you start writing an extended essay on this subject.

13. Physics Extended Essay Ideas  

  • How may the design of an airplane’s wings affect its aerodynamic performance?
  • Why is it required for the wing of an aircraft to have an ‘angle of attack’? Is it impossible for the aircraft to behave the same without the angle of attack?
  • If landing gears are a cause of drag during flight, how is a Cessna able to deliver a sufficient amount of force to overcome drag?

14. Psychology EE Ideas  

  • What do we know about the connection between stress and bodily disease, and can we utilize this information to manage stress?
  • To what degree can psychology offer plausible explanations for altruistic behavior?
  • Which strategies are most effective in assisting autistic youngsters in improving their everyday functioning?
  • The difficulty of identifying particular genetic variables that might indicate an autism risk
  • How well biological (or sociocultural) variables explain the origin of homosexuality.
  • To what degree does parental discipline affect the temperament of their children?
  • Are Montessori schools, which utilize a humanistic approach to education, also consistent with cognitive theory?

We’ve put together a complete guide on Physics Extended Essay. So, check that out to learn more about the subject. 

15. Visual Arts

  • What role did national themes have in the creative activity of Russian avant-garde artists associated with the Knave of Diamonds society?
  • How did men and women’s clothes communicate National Socialist ideals?
  • How does Yinka Shonibare’s work represent the evolving importance of African art in a global society?
  • What are the origins of Romanesque architecture in Arles?
  • Are there pop art elements in the design of Pakistani trucks?

Check out this post to learn more about the topic. 

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.

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The Complete Extended Essay Guide | 100 Topics & Examples

Published by Ellie Cross at November 3rd, 2021 , Revised On July 10, 2023

One of the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme’s mandatory requirements is to produce a 4,000 words long extended essay, which should be submitted as an independent piece of research.

All IB students must complete the extended essay assignment regardless of the subjects they are taking because, together with CAS and TOK, it is a core module of the IB programme.

An extended essay allows students to choose any suitable topic of their choice and demonstrate their knowledge and capability beyond what they learn in the classroom. This assignment sets the stage for students to hone their research and writing skills for Bachelor’s and Master’s level coursework.

Students write an extended essay in the second term of the IB program’s first year. All students are expected to work closely with their supervisor to finalise the essay topic and the research questions.

The project involves submitting one extended essay draft to get the supervisor’s feedback before submitting the second and final version. A short viva voce must be included at the end of the essay.

Extended Essay Facts

  • The length of the essay should not be more than 4,000 words.
  • The project is expected to be completed over a period of one year.
  • Significance of the extended essay
  • In 2019 – approximately 200,000 students took the IB Programme exam
  • International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is for students in the age group of 16 to 19 years.

Significance of Extended Essay

So how significantly does the extended essay assignment contribute towards the overall grade?

The extended essay is of critical importance for the following reasons:

  • It allows students to polish their skills for undergraduate and Masters’s level essay assignments.
  • They can independently explore the topic of their interest, which relates to one of the six modules of the IB Programme.
  • Students learn to conduct desk-based research to find appropriate and manageable topics.
  • They learn the basics of how to formulate research questions
  • They learn to develop an argument.
  • Successful completion of this assignment enhances their ability to analyse and assess information critically.

If you choose to undertake the extended essay in world studies, you will be required to conduct extensive interdisciplinary research on an issue of global significance.

Extended Essay Assessment Criteria

Extended essays are marked on a scale from 0 to 34 by external examines chosen by the IB itself. The score you will achieve in the assignment will relate to one of the following bands:

  • A – work of an excellent standard.
  • B- work of a good standard.
  • C – work of a satisfactory standard.
  • D- work of a mediocre standard.
  • E- work of an elementary standard.

Please click here to check how your grade in the extended essay assignment affects the overall diploma score. Here is the breakdown of EE scores (from the May 2019 bulletin)

How to Select a Topic for the Extended Essay?

Selecting an enjoyable and manageable topic for the extended essay is perhaps the most exciting yet challenging part of the whole process. In a nutshell, you will be required to research a topic in one of the six subjects you are undertaking for the IB Programme. The selection criteria are based on the analysis of an issue of global significance in a specific context. For example, you can investigate technological, environmental, medical, or cultural trends from the local perspective. Here are some tips for choosing the best extended essay topic:

  • It should neither be too broad nor too narrow.
  • Choose a topic you are passionate about.
  • Are there any global trends you are curious to explore and understand?

Choosing the topic can often be overwhelming. Think about the issues you enjoy the most, and more specifically, why you want to learn about them. This will help you develop many ideas that you can review, compare, and pick from. Note: The IBO approves the proposed topic.

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How to Formulate Research Questions for the Extended Essay?

Once the topic has been approved, you can proceed to formulate the research questions (s). A poorly planned research question can cause complications at a later stage, so make sure to take your time to develop a question that would genuinely add value to the existing literature.

The answer to the formulated research question should not be a simple yes or no. It should instead provide valuable information in a larger context. The research question should be focused and relevant to the title. If the research question includes a hypothesis, then there is no obligation on your part to provide it right or wrong. Your job is to test the hypothesis and reveal the facts only.

The question should not necessarily start with words like “Is”, “Will”, “Should”, “Why”, “How”, or “Does”. Merely asserting that “yes, this is correct”, or “no, this is not correct” is inappropriate.

The highest-scoring essays usually address a research question that starts with broader phrases such as, “An investigation of”, “Exploring the idea”, “An analysis of”, “To what extent”, “A review of”, or “Examining the role”. Or it could simply be a hypothesis statement that you aim to test.

If you set out to answer a research question without contemplating the resources required to address it, then you are making a fatal mistake. Whether the essay research is primary or secondary, we cannot understate the importance of a well-thought-out plan to gather relevant supporting academic sources.

However, in most cases, it is only possible to base your essay on secondary data because conducting primary research can involve time and money. But make sure to state your reasons for choosing one research method over another.

Finally, if you cannot find a sufficient number of sources for your research question, you can alter it with your supervisor’s help.

Also read: Mental health essay topics

Choosing the Supervisor

Here are some suggestions on how to choose an advisor

  • If you are unsure about who you would like to work with, create a list of potential advisors.
  • The supervisor should be familiar with your topic.
  • Pick an advisor who would get the best out of you.
  • An advisor who is patient with you would not mind reviewing several drafts of your essay and providing feedback.
  • It would be best if you were comfortable discussing ideas with them.
  • The supervisor should know you well personally because their assessment will contribute towards your final EE score. A teacher who does not know you well may not assess you fairly.
  • Simply having your favourite teacher as an advisor may not be a good idea because they may not be familiar with the topic.
  • Check whether your school requires the advisor to sign a consent form and make the necessary arrangements.

Structure of an Extended Essay

The extended essay follows the standard essay structure , including the introduction , main body , and conclusion. However, always check with your supervisor about the structure you must follow to avoid complications later.

Your supervisor will provide the necessary guidance and advice to support you throughout the research and writing process.

The project includes up to three reflection rounds with the assigned supervisor, with the final round consisting of an interview, also known as the viva voce.

The extended essay and the reflection meetings provide a much-needed impetus, especially to those required to pass an interview assessment for a place at university and before acceptance for employment.

There are six required components of an extended essay structure:

The title page is where you state the research question you set out to address, the subject you are studying, your school name, your name, total word count of the essay, and category (for language essays).

Contents Page

This is where you must list the heading and the subheadings with corresponding page numbers. All pages should be numbered using the Microsoft page numbering feature.

Introduction

The extended essay’s introduction should provide a brief background to the research question, thesis statement , and the central argument presented in the essay.

This is where you present your arguments, evaluation, comparison, discussion, and analysis of the subject matter. This section’s structure varies according to the subject of the essay, but the supporting evidence should accompany every piece of information.

The conclusion section should relate to the thesis statement, the overall scope of the research, and the line of argument taken. It should also reflect any open questions, research limitations, and unexplained problems.

References and Bibliography

A list of academic sources used is provided in the required citation style at the end of the essay. The citation style you need to follow varies subject to subject, but make sure you consistently use it throughout the essay.

The deadline you Need to Meet

Your school will let you know the deadline for the extended essay assignment. Each school has a different official IB deadline. You will have a year to complete the essay, but unfortunately, most students leave their essay to the last week before the deadline.

Careful planning can help you complete the task promptly and avoid a last-minute crunch. Many students make the fatal mistake of giving too much time to research and reading and with very little time to write an essay .

Most schools set their deadlines for different project milestones to help students stay on schedule. Keep in regular contact with your advisor and management to ensure each section is completed in due time.

The viva voce Interview

The viva voice interview allows students to demonstrate the significance of the research results. More specifically, students can provide details of the challenges and the successes of their research during the interview.

For example, you could tell your supervisor about the problem you faced during the data collection process, the strategies you used to overcome them, and how the exercise helped improve your writing skills.

Free Extended Essay Topics

Here are some amazing topic ideas in various subjects that you can consider for your extended essay.

Biology Extended Essay Topics

  • Investigate the relationship between indole acetic acid, a growth hormone, and the growth of X (a crop).
  • To examine the relationship between the population size of X and population density between X.
  • How significantly do live cultures in dairy products such as milk, yoghurt, and cheese reduce the concentration of lactose present for a 2 hour incubation period at x °C?
  • Discuss the relationship between the production process of plants and the climate.
  • To examine the possibility of manufacturing flowers.
  • An investigation into the idea of planting healing a disease.
  • The impact of various drugs on the functioning of the human brain
  • Does the change of habitat affect the life of an organism?
  • Investigate the process of storing cow’s milk safely.
  • The relationship between the photoreceptor cells in the human retina and “the age and gender”.
  • Examining the growth of an X plant when the climate changes
  • Neadderthalian DNA in people who have European ancestors

Psychology Extended Essay Topics

Discuss the relationship between violent acts and viewing the violence shown on social media platforms.

  • Can drug therapy heal bipolar disorder?
  • Can General Anxiety Disorder be healed through meditation?
  • Examining the relationship between cognitive environment and social variables such as educational setting, poverty, culture, parenting, and more
  • How do our relationships evolve? Why causes a relationship to an end?
  • Investigate the effects of domestic violence on the human brain.
  • Discuss the causes of depression from a psychological perspective.
  • Different between female and male schizophrenia.
  • The relationship between General Anxiety Disorder and stress
  • The relationship between stress and bulimia medical condition
  • The relationship between obesity and our social media-oriented lifestyle
  • What causes suicide? How do suicidal behaviours develop over time?

English Extended Essay Topics

  • The importance of learning English literature in the modern world
  • Examine the importance of the literary function of the English language.
  • Explore the relationship between politics and social Darwinism.
  • Sexual and ethnic identity in the twenty-first century
  • The impact of the English language on any other language of your choice
  • Comparing English learning bend with other languages
  • The distinct patterns of the United States English phonetics.
  • Identifying the use of the Sanskrit language in English
  • Tracing the differences between British English and American English in a systematic way
  • Identify the English phrases and words embraced by other Hindi and Urdu languages during the British Raj
  • The influence of the French language on the evolution of the English language.

Literature Extended Essay Topics

  • Examine the significance of different Noble prize winners in the literature on the stylistic evolution.
  • An analysis of the controversy surrounding Bob Dylan’s Noble prize award
  • The Role of Emile Zola’s “J’accuse” in the Dreyfus Affair.
  • Analysing Jane Austen
  • Jame’s Baldwin’s illustration of Racism.
  • The evolution of an ideal woman in English literature
  • The traits of the Islamic religious text
  • Emma by Jane Austen and the importance of Dance
  • An investigation of Severus Snape’s character in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and Harry Potter and the Chambers of Secret. What are the similarities and differences between J.K Rowling’s characterization of Severus in the two novels?
  • The evolution of the character of Bilbo Baggins from Lord of the Rings to the Hobbit Sequel

Economics extended essay topics

  • The impact of Covid-19 on the global airline industry
  • How Covid-19 has forced car manufacturers around the work to redesign its economic model
  • The growing importance of the role of India in the world economy
  • China’s plans to take over the world economy by 2050 – How valid is this statement?
  • The role of the road infrastructure in the development of a growing country such as Afghanistan
  • The relationship between an increase in exports and empowerment of the local farmers in an agricultural country like India
  • Tax handling in a world dominated by multinationals.
  • The impact of an ageing population on Japan’s economy
  • Offshore tax havens and the corruption of politicians. How can this trend be stopped?
  • The impact of Brexit on the UK’s economy. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages from the UK’s perspective.

Movie and Film Extended Essay Topics

  • The elements of social protest in Charlie Chaplin’s films
  • How modern have computer capabilities revolutionized conventional cinematography?
  • Avoiding the “soap opera” effect – why movies stay at 24 frames per second (including future predictions)
  • Moving camera – revolutionary ideas (for example, as depicted in the Matrix and the Tenet)
  • Correlation between IMDB marks and differing nationwide and film that is international
  • Metamorphosis of masculinity in our contemporary world as depicted in battle club
  • Kinds of timeline manipulation approach to paper writing service cinematography
  • Massively distorted scientist or systematic technique depiction in Sci-Fi films

History Extended Essay Topics

  • The rise of the Ottoman Empire – An analysis of the role of King Salman-II
  • How significant was the battle of Vienna in European history?
  • The implications of the British Raj on the Indian Subcontinent
  • Discuss the reasons that caused the Arabs to lose in six days against resurging Israel?
  • The treatment of women in India of the 1950s vs India of 2000s
  • The history behind the animosity between two nuclear-armed neighbours – India and Pakistan
  • An investigation of the events led to Hitler’s rise to power in Germany.
  • The simultaneous invasion of Poland by the USSR and Nazi Germany in the second world war
  • An examination of the pearl harbour attack from the Japanese perspective
  • What caused the abnormal expansion of the Islamic empire between the 8 th century and the 10 th

Geography Extended Essay Topics

  • The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) significance for Chinese economic domination
  • An analysis of the current climate change trends and their impact on our oceans
  • Discuss and evaluate the various strategies used to prevent power outages caused by solar storms.
  • India’s improving fertility rate’s relationship with women empowerment and improved women education environment
  • To what extent is biodiversity being managed in Regent’s Park in London.
  • The relationship between obesity risk and parameters such as educational environment, gender, genes, and social settings
  • Examine the affectivity of the environmental sustainability programme initiated by company X.
  • Compare a country with no access to the sea with the one that has access to it.
  • An analysis of the agricultural revolution impact on the world’s environment
  • Does geography influence the social relationships between people?

Mathematics and Physics Extended Essay Topics

  • General functions of the theory of partitions
  • General relativity and cosmology
  • Symmetries of plane tessellations
  • Egyptian forces in arithmetic
  • A review of the various methodological approaches employed by academic researchers
  • Why do planets move the way they do? What causes their circular motion?
  • An investigation into the string theory
  • How quantum physics has the potential to change the rules of science?
  • The basics of dynamics – forces and motion
  • Discuss the different types of forces, including magnetic force, quantum force, and physical
  • The quantum movement of particles
  • How much of an influence does the quantum slit experiment have on traditional Newtonian physics?
  • The nature and behaviour of light
  • The cosmic patterns of stars and planets
  • Gravitational waves – generation, propagation rules, detection on Earth?
  • Is there scientific proof of the existence of another intelligent species in the universe like humans?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an extended essay.

The Extended Essay is a research-based academic project undertaken by International Baccalaureate (IB) students. It allows them to investigate a topic of interest in depth, develop critical thinking skills, and produce a 4000-word essay.

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Technology has evolved at a lightning pace over the last few decades. Advancements in this area and the potential for the future appear to be endless. However, the growth of technology has also created uncertainty and fear among some people.

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extended essay topics ideas

How to Choose an IB Extended Essay Topic

What’s covered:, what is the ib extended essay, what makes a good extended essay topic, narrowing down your focus, how is the extended essay scored.

  • How Does The Extended Essay Affect My Admissions Chances?

The International Baccalaureate Program (IB) curriculum requires students to go above and beyond typical academic standards for most high school students. One of the required tasks is writing the extended essay. To further understand the extended essay, we need to understand what IB’s core is, which is related to the 45 points one can achieve in IB . Out of 45 points, three of these points come from the core, which is made up of the extended essay (EE), theory of knowledge, and CAS. Performing well in the EE is critical to doing well in IB, because passing the core is a necessary component of earning the diploma. 

The EE is one of the mandatory components of the IB curriculum, and it’s a practical way of preparing students to write undergraduate-level research papers in the form of a 4000 word essay. You would choose which subject to write your EE on in relation to the subject sets you take when in IB, so you have six choices. If you were to ideally timeline the extended essay and plan all the work out early, you’d start planning a topic the first semester of your junior year (or IB year 1).

Starting early to pick a topic is an advantage many students miss, because the phase of the EE in which most students get stuck on is just finalizing a solid topic to write about. While picking a topic shouldn’t be too stressful, it is important to pick one you could enjoy writing about, as lack of interest is apparent in an essay and will come across to your examiner. 

Searching for ideas to create a topic can come from different sources, but for most people it usually begins with the subjects you’re already taking. For example, let’s say you chose to write an EE in Physics HL or SL, then it does not matter too much. You’d use the topics discussed in class content, ranging from textbooks to lectures as source material for inspiration to create a topic for yourself. 

Perhaps you found yourself particularly interested in planetary physics – you could then read more into that unit of the course and hopefully find bits of information to help create a topic. 

After finding a source of inspiration for your topic, structuring your ideas in a specific format to create a topic is important. 

On the idea of physics, a great topic would be:

Physics EE on Aerodynamics: What is the relationship between frequency and surface area against lift of the propeller of a toy helicopter?

The reason this topic is great is because we can instantly tell how specified and narrowed down the central focus of the paper is just off a glance. Narrowing down your focus in your topic allows you, as the writer, to stay on track throughout the entirety of the paper. Derailing from your topic and going out of its bounds can lead to irrelevant information, making the content of your paper essentially useless. Keep your topic narrow and make sure to follow the topic throughout the entire paper, so you end up with a concise paper that actually can conclude with a solution to whatever your paper seeks to solve. 

Additionally, using keywords in your topic that give the examiner an idea of what they’re going to read is important. In this case, the writer used “frequency” and “surface area,” telling us they’re writing a paper related to mechanics as well. 

Understanding that the topic is the skeleton of your essay, make sure to refer back to it every time you make a finding or reveal data directly relevant to answering the topic’s question. Using data and evidence that isn’t relevant to your narrowed down topic will also cause you to lose points, simply because of the lack of use for it. 

The EE is scored out of 34 total points, with grade boundaries being assigned to associated letter grades with it. The following table lists the grade boundaries with their respective letter grades:

As mentioned earlier, the EE is part of a larger component of the IB curriculum, the core of IB. The core has its own grading scheme that also determines whether or not you pass and earn the diploma. It goes by the following table:

How Does the Extended Essay Affect My Admissions Chances?

While the EE has no direct impact on your college admissions, it does impact your total IB grade. However, even though your IB grade has little impact on your college admissions, being part of IB demonstrates proof of taking rigorous classes, which will positively impact your college admissions. 

That being said, writing the EE will also make you a much better essay writer, and this could later help you in writing essays for college admissions! For more information on how your chances of college admissions look, use CollegeVine’s admissions calculator ! This tool takes into account GPA, test scores, classes, and more to calculate your admissions chances at your dream schools!

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extended essay topics ideas

Guide to the IB Extended Essay in 2024

January 24, 2024

IB extended essay, topics, rubric

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

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Christina Wood

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

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629 Extended Essay Topics & Good Ideas

18 January 2024

last updated

Extended essay topics refer to a variety of subjects, each with its unique requirements and scopes. In the realm of English Literature, topics may involve analyzing themes or characters in specific texts. Science subjects, like Biology or Chemistry, may investigate hypotheses through laboratory work. In History, students may examine past events or societies. Mathematics may include proving a complex theory, while Computer Science may require developing a new algorithm. Economics topics may study market trends, while those in Arts may critique famous works. In turn, an extended essay is a comprehensive research project that demands deep engagement with the chosen topic. The key is to choose something both challenging and fascinating.

Best Extended Essay Topics

  • Interpreting Dreams: An Analysis of Freud’s Theories
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Comparative Study of Intervention Strategies
  • Quantum Mechanics’ Role in Advancing Computer Science
  • Shakespeare’s Influence on Contemporary Drama
  • Exploring the Role of Propaganda in World War II
  • Impacts of Climate Change on Coral Reefs
  • Architecture’s Evolution in Post-Colonial Africa
  • Decoding Hieroglyphics: Understanding Ancient Egyptian Civilization
  • Influence of Picasso on Abstract Art
  • Origins of Blues Music: Cultural and Historical Context
  • Examination of Feminism in Virginia Woolf’s Literature
  • Cryptocurrency and Its Implications on Global Economy
  • Astrophysics and the Mystery of Black Holes
  • Cybersecurity in a Digitally Dependent Society
  • Human Genome Project: Revolutionizing Biomedical Research
  • Climate Change Policies: Comparative Study Between Europe and Asia
  • Roles of Drones in Modern Warfare
  • Implications of Veganism on Environmental Sustainability
  • Examination of Greek Mythology in Modern Cinema
  • Historical Evolution of the Olympic Games
  • Deciphering Dystopia: Analysis of Orwell’s “1984”
  • Fast Fashion Industry: Environmental Impact and Sustainability
  • Plastic Pollution: Threat to Marine Biodiversity
  • Quantum Computing: Potential Impact on Cybersecurity
  • Cryptocurrency Regulation: A Comparative Study
  • Exploring the Socio-Cultural Impact of Anime

Extended Essay Topics & Good Ideas

Easy Extended Essay Topics

  • Interpretation of Impressionist Paintings: Monet’s Masterpieces
  • Biotechnology in Agriculture: Advancements and Ethical Implications
  • Leonardo da Vinci: Intersect of Art and Science
  • Behavioral Patterns in Primates: A Comparative Study
  • Socio-Economic Consequences of the French Revolution
  • Big Data and Artificial Intelligence: Transforming Business
  • Mysteries of the Bermuda Triangle: Scientific Theories
  • Concept of Time Travel in Science Fiction Literature
  • Neurological Aspects of Deja Vu Phenomenon
  • Paranormal Phenomena: A Psychological Perspective
  • History of Alchemy: From Pseudo-Science to Chemistry
  • Climate’s Impact on the Development of Ancient Civilizations
  • Examining Social Hierarchy in Ant Colonies
  • Genetic Engineering: Evaluating Its Ethical Implications
  • Understanding Solar Flares and Their Impact on Earth
  • Role of Puppets in Traditional Japanese Theatre
  • Renaissance Architecture’s Influence on Modern Urban Planning
  • Invasive Species: Impacts on Ecosystem Diversity
  • Virtual Reality: Future of Entertainment and Education
  • Analyzing the Artistic Styles in Manga and Comic Books
  • Decoding Symbology in Da Vinci’s Artwork
  • Psychological Impact of Social Media on Teenagers
  • Roles of Probiotics in Human Gut Health
  • Machine Learning and Its Applications in Finance

Interesting Extended Essay Topics

  • Impacts of Pandemics on Global Economy: A Historical Perspective
  • Cultural Significance of Fairy Tales in Child Development
  • Examination of Bioluminescence in Deep Sea Creatures
  • Postmodern Literature: Deconstruction and Interpretation
  • Effects of Deforestation on Amazonian Indigenous Tribes
  • Analysis of Women’s Representation in Classic Literature
  • Exploring the Origins and Evolution of Jazz Music
  • Nanotechnology’s Potential in Cancer Treatment
  • Examination of Historical Accuracy in Hollywood’s War Films
  • Impacts of the Industrial Revolution on European Society
  • Understanding the Philosophical Themes in Nietzsche’s Works
  • Social Impacts of Mass Surveillance: A Global Perspective
  • Music Therapy and Its Effect on Mental Health
  • Comparative Analysis of Democratic Systems in Different Countries
  • Roles of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Transportation
  • Evolution of Special Effects in Cinema
  • Decoding the Socio-Political Themes in Banksy’s Art
  • Effects of Genetically Modified Crops on Agricultural Practices
  • Historical Evolution of Cryptography: From Caesar Cipher to Quantum Cryptography
  • Roles of Symbiotic Relationships in Ecosystem Stability
  • Exploration of Existential Themes in Kafka’s Novels
  • Evaluating the Influence of the Spanish Conquest on Aztec Culture
  • Urbanization and Its Effect on Biodiversity in Metropolitan Cities
  • Analyzing the Concept of Heroism in Greek Mythology

International Baccalaureate (IB) Extended Essay Topics

  • Influences of Climate Change on Coral Reefs and Their Biodiversity
  • Rethinking Nuclear Energy: An Examination of Its Economic Implications
  • Roles of Women in Shaping the Renaissance Art
  • Analyzing the Impact of Digitalization on Global Marketing Strategies
  • Exploring Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering in Medicine
  • Effect of Globalization on Cultural Identity: A Case Study of Japan
  • Dynamics of Migrant Labor in the Global Economy
  • Cybersecurity Measures and Their Efficacy in Preventing Data Breaches
  • Impacts of the Spanish Flu Pandemic on Early 20th-Century Literature
  • Understanding Gender Representation in Disney Animated Movies
  • Evolution of Hip Hop: Social and Political Influences
  • Architectural Innovations in Ancient Roman Civil Engineering
  • Cryptocurrencies’ Influence on Modern Financial Systems
  • Exploration of Quantum Computing: Potential and Challenges
  • Sustainability in Fashion: Analyzing the Shift Toward Eco-Friendly Practices
  • Revolutions in Modern Robotics and Their Effect on Manufacturing Industries
  • Religious Symbolism in William Blake’s Poetry
  • Mathematical Modeling in Predicting Climate Change Impacts
  • Comparing the Democratic Transitions: South Africa and Spain
  • Artificial Intelligence and Its Implications on Privacy
  • Jazz: Tracing Its Roots and Cultural Significance
  • Assessing Health Impacts of Air Pollution in Urban Areas
  • Understanding the Development of the English Language Over Centuries
  • Rise of eSports: Societal Impact and Future Prospects

Anthropology Extended Essay Topics

  • Impacts of Globalization on Indigenous Cultures: A Case Study
  • Evolution of Human Language: Tracing Linguistic Diversities
  • Analyzing Gender Roles in Prehistoric Societies
  • Intersection of Anthropology and Genetics: Human Variation
  • Comparative Study of Kinship Systems Across Cultures
  • Matriarchal Societies: An Exploration in Anthropological Perspectives
  • Paleolithic Art as a Window into Early Human Behavior
  • Ritualistic Practices: Investigating Their Societal Implications
  • Anthropological Insights into Urbanism and City Planning
  • Dynamics of Religion and Spirituality in Ancient Cultures
  • Traditional Medicine and Its Role in Societal Health
  • Cultural Adaptation to Climate Change: Historical Examples
  • Examination of Societal Hierarchies in Ancient Civilizations
  • Migration Patterns and Their Influence on Cultural Identity
  • Roles of Folklore in Preserving Cultural Heritage
  • Taboos and Social Norms: A Cross-Cultural Examination
  • Cultural Impacts of Colonialism: A Multi-Region Analysis
  • Symbolism in Ritualistic Artifacts Across Various Cultures
  • Analyzing the Evolution of Marriage Institutions Across Societies
  • Deciphering Power Structures through Anthropological Lenses
  • Body Modifications and Their Cultural Significance: A Comparative Study
  • Influence of Economy on the Development of Societies: An Anthropological Analysis

Biology Extended Essay Topics

  • Genetic Influence on Human Behavior: An In-Depth Study
  • Mitochondrial DNA: Unraveling Maternal Lineage
  • Impact of Environmental Changes on Coral Reefs
  • Phylogenetic Analysis: Uncovering Species Evolution
  • Ecosystem Diversity in Tropical Rainforests
  • Understanding Pathogenesis in Prion Diseases
  • Roles of Bioluminescence in Marine Creatures
  • Cross-species Viral Transmission: Factors and Risks
  • Photosynthesis Efficiency in C3 and C4 Plants
  • Epigenetics: Exploring the Effects of Lifestyle
  • Symbiotic Relationships: Unearthing Mutualism in Nature
  • Proteomics: Decoding Protein Function and Structure
  • Resilience of Mangroves to Climate Change
  • Pollinators and Floral Diversification: A Co-Evolution Study
  • Antibiotic Resistance: Evaluating Threats to Global Health
  • Cellular Senescence and Aging: A Comparative Study
  • Microbiome Impact on Human Immune Response
  • Neuroplasticity: Influence of Experience and Learning
  • Zoonotic Diseases: Investigating the Role of Wildlife Trade
  • Roles of Biotechnology in Sustainable Agriculture
  • Bioinformatics: Mining Genomic Data for Insights

Business & Management Extended Essay Topics

  • Analyzing Corporate Social Responsibility’s Impact on Brand Image
  • Exploring the Role of Leadership Styles in Organizational Efficiency
  • Effects of Digital Marketing Strategies on Consumer Behavior
  • Profitability Assessment of Renewable Energy Investments
  • Roles of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Business Decisions
  • Implications of Remote Work Policies on Employee Productivity
  • Impacts of Cultural Diversity on Team Performance in Multinational Corporations
  • Case Study: Crisis Management Strategies During the COVID-19 Pandemic
  • Factors Influencing the Adoption of Sustainable Practices in Small Businesses
  • Assessment of the Gig Economy’s Effect on Traditional Employment Models
  • Evaluating Supply Chain Efficiency in the E-Commerce Sector
  • Influence of Government Regulations on Startup Ecosystems
  • Analysis of Gender Equality Policies in Fortune 500 Companies
  • Disruption in Retail: The Rise and Impact of Direct-to-Consumer Brands
  • Strategies for Managing Employee Turnover in High-Stress Industries
  • Privacy Concerns in Data-Driven Business Models: A Risk Analysis
  • Examination of Mergers and Acquisitions Strategies in the Tech Industry
  • Investigation Into the Success Factors of Family-Owned Businesses
  • Decoding the Psychology of Consumer Loyalty in the Digital Age
  • Ethical Considerations in Marketing: Case Studies in the Cosmetics Industry
  • The Intersection of Corporate Strategy and Environmental Sustainability

Chemistry Extended Essay Topics

  • Analyzing the Impact of Temperature Variation on Reaction Rates
  • Exploring Chiral Molecules and Their Importance in Pharmaceutical Drugs
  • Investigating Quantum Mechanics and Its Role in Chemical Bonding
  • Breakdown of Petroleum: Chemical Processes and Environmental Impacts
  • Nanotechnology’s Role in Modern Chemistry: An In-Depth Analysis
  • Nuclear Chemistry: Unraveling the Secrets of Radioactivity
  • Fingerprinting Hydrocarbons: Environmental Implications of Oil Spills
  • Synthetic Materials: Innovations in Polymer Chemistry
  • Deciphering the Complexity of Enzyme Kinetics
  • Quantum Tunneling: Its Crucial Role in Biochemical Reactions
  • Corrosion Prevention Techniques: An Electrochemical Perspective
  • Superconductors: Unveiling Their Unique Chemical Properties
  • Color Chemistry: Unraveling the Mystery Behind Pigmentation
  • Examination of Metal-Alloy Interactions in the Production of Coins
  • Roles of Catalysts in Industrial Chemical Processes
  • Green Chemistry: Its Impact on Sustainable Development
  • Influence of Solvent Polarity on Spectroscopic Measurements
  • Advanced Battery Technologies: A Chemical Analysis
  • Nature’s Chemistry: Unraveling Biochemical Processes in Plants
  • Hydrogen Fuel Cells: The Chemistry Behind Clean Energy

Computer Science Extended Essay Topics

  • Quantum Computing: Exploring the Potential for Revolutionizing Computer Science
  • Ethical Considerations in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
  • Evaluating Blockchain Technology: Implications for Data Security
  • Unveiling the Complexity Behind Search Algorithms
  • Comparing Programming Languages: Performance Analysis of Python vs. Java
  • The Impact of Data Mining on E-Commerce Business Models
  • Cybersecurity: Strategies for Combating Phishing Attacks
  • Machine Learning’s Role in Predictive Analytics
  • Exploring Virtual Reality: The Future of Human-Computer Interaction
  • Cloud Computing: Assessing Risks and Benefits for Small Businesses
  • Optimization Techniques in Database Systems
  • The Role of Neural Networks in Image Recognition
  • Application of Genetic Algorithms in Problem-Solving
  • Cryptography: The Mathematics Behind Secure Communications
  • Biometrics: Exploring the Balance Between Security and Privacy
  • IoT Devices: Assessing Vulnerabilities and Security Measures
  • Deep Learning’s Influence on Natural Language Processing
  • Scalability Challenges in Distributed Systems
  • Analysis of Memory Management in Operating Systems
  • Software Engineering: The Impact of Agile Development Methods
  • Augmented Reality: Unleashing New Possibilities in Education

Economics Extended Essay Topics

  • Exploring the Economic Consequences of Aging Populations in Developed Nations
  • Income Inequality: Investigating Its Impact on Education Accessibility
  • Analyzing the Role of Technology in Reducing Unemployment Rates
  • Sustainable Development: Economic Considerations in Renewable Energy Adoption
  • Fast-Fashion Industry: Unveiling the Hidden Costs of Cheap Clothing
  • Economic Repercussions of Pandemics: A Case Study of COVID-19
  • Unraveling the Socio-Economic Impacts of Autonomous Vehicles
  • Influence of Trade Wars on International Supply Chains
  • Internet Access and Its Correlation With Economic Development
  • Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Labor Market Dynamics
  • Investigating the Interplay Between Cultural Factors and Economic Growth
  • Global Tourism: Evaluating the Economic Impact of Over-Tourism on Local Communities
  • Assessing the Economic Viability of Space Commercialization
  • Analyzing the Impact of Universal Basic Income on Poverty Reduction
  • Child Labor in Developing Economies: Long-Term Consequences and Solutions
  • Understanding the Economic Implications of Water Scarcity in Arid Regions
  • Foreign Aid Effectiveness: A Comparative Study of Recipient Economies
  • Digital Divide: Its Economic Ramifications on Rural Communities
  • Interpreting the Economics of E-Waste Management and Recycling
  • Unpacking the Relationship Between Corruption and Economic Development
  • Sports Events and Their Economic Impact: A Case Study of the Olympic Games

English Extended Essay Topics

  • Exploration of Symbolism in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird”
  • Societal Impacts Revealed Through Charles Dickens’ “Great Expectations”
  • Critical Examination of Gender Roles in “Pride and Prejudice”
  • Tracing Transformation in Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”: From Ambition to Disillusionment
  • Imagery and Foreshadowing in William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies”
  • Empowerment and Oppression: The Dichotomy in “The Handmaid’s Tale”
  • The Influence of Romanticism on Wordsworth’s Poetry
  • Comparative Analysis of Propaganda Techniques in George Orwell’s “1984” and “Animal Farm”
  • Unveiling the Psychological Depths in Edgar Allan Poe’s Short Stories
  • Manifestation of Social Class Struggle in Jane Austen’s “Emma”
  • Linguistic Evolution: A Study of Shakespeare’s Early and Later Plays
  • Dystopian Societies: The Reflection in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
  • Examining Racism and Prejudice in Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”
  • Stephen King’s “The Shining”: A Journey Into Human Psyche and Horror
  • Absurdism and the Search for Meaning in Albert Camus’ “The Stranger”
  • Childhood and Morality: The Innocence Lost in J.D. Salinger’s “The Catcher in the Rye”
  • Articulating Feminism: Role and Representation in Virginia Woolf’s “To the Lighthouse”
  • Illusion vs. Reality: A Study of Tennessee Williams’ “A Streetcar Named Desire”
  • Tracing Cultural Identity in Zora Neale Hurston’s “Their Eyes Were Watching God”
  • Analyzing Existential Themes in Franz Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis”
  • Contrasting Interpretations of Redemption in Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment”

Environmental Systems & Societies Extended Essay Topics

  • Climate Change: Assessing the Shifts in Arctic Ecosystems
  • Effectiveness of Sustainable Farming Techniques in Developed Countries
  • Evaluating the Consequences of Plastic Waste on Marine Life
  • Energy Efficiency: Analysis of Solar Power Systems in Desert Climates
  • Assessing the Role of Green Infrastructure in Urban Heat Island Mitigation
  • Impacts of Deforestation: A Study on Amazon Rainforest
  • Analyzing the Ecological Footprint of Vegan Diets vs. Omnivorous Diets
  • Influence of Ocean Acidification on Coral Reef Systems
  • Natural Disasters: The Relationship Between Climate Change and Increasing Hurricane Frequency
  • Assessing the Sustainability of Electric Vehicles in Reducing Carbon Emissions
  • Roles of Wetlands in Maintaining Ecosystem Balance
  • The Link Between Population Growth and Water Scarcity in Arid Regions
  • E-Waste Management: Strategies and Impacts on the Environment
  • Investigating the Environmental Benefits of Vertical Farming Practices
  • Biofuels: Evaluating the Feasibility as a Sustainable Energy Source
  • Oceanic Plastic Pollution: Exploring Microplastic Accumulation in Seafood
  • Impacts of Tourism on Coastal Ecosystems: A Case Study
  • Light Pollution: Effects on Nocturnal Wildlife and Possible Mitigation Strategies
  • Analysis of Air Quality Variations and Their Implications on Public Health
  • Nuclear Power: Evaluation of Risks and Benefits for the Environment
  • Sustainable Architectural Practices: Evaluating the Impact on Urban Environments

Ethics Extended Essay Topics

  • Balancing Privacy and National Security: An Ethical Perspective
  • Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering: Redefining Human Evolution
  • The Morality of Capital Punishment: An Ongoing Controversy
  • Euthanasia Debate: Assessing the Right to Die with Dignity
  • Animal Rights: Evaluating Ethical Questions in Animal Experimentation
  • Consumerism and Ethics: The Moral Implications of Overconsumption
  • Medical Ethics: Analysis of Informed Consent in Patient Care
  • The Ethical Landscape of Artificial Intelligence: Potential Risks and Rewards
  • Environmental Ethics: Interrogating the Moral Considerations in Climate Change
  • Unraveling the Ethics of War: Just War Theory in Contemporary Conflicts
  • Corporate Social Responsibility: Business Ethics in the 21st Century
  • Ethics of Journalism: Truth, Objectivity, and the Public’s Right to Know
  • Dissecting the Ethics of Philanthropy: Altruism vs. Self-Interest
  • Technological Advances: Ethical Questions Surrounding Biohacking
  • Deconstructing the Ethical Dimensions of Climate Change Mitigation
  • Human Rights: The Moral Implications of Immigration Policies
  • Plagiarism in Academia: An Ethical Dilemma in Intellectual Property
  • Cybersecurity and Ethics: Navigating Privacy in the Digital Age
  • Societal Standards: The Ethics of Beauty and Body Image in Media
  • Globalization: Analyzing the Ethics of International Trade Practices
  • Wealth Inequality: The Moral Implications of Income Disparity
  • Racial Profiling: An Examination of Ethical Dilemmas in Law Enforcement

Film Extended Essay Topics

  • Analyzing Visual Storytelling Techniques in Quentin Tarantino’s Cinematic Universe
  • Aestheticization of Violence in Stanley Kubrick’s “A Clockwork Orange”
  • Pioneering Special Effects: Evolution in “Star Wars” Franchise
  • Socio-Cultural Impact of Bollywood Cinema on Indian Society
  • Iconography of Federico Fellini: Surrealism in Italian Cinema
  • French New Wave: A Paradigm Shift in Film Aesthetics
  • Pervasive Propaganda: Politics and Cinema During the Cold War
  • Animated Storytelling: Disney’s Influence on Children’s Perception of Gender Roles
  • Documentaries as Social Commentary: An Analysis of Michael Moore’s Works
  • Realism and Romanticism: Dichotomy in Jane Austen Film Adaptations
  • Postmodernism in David Lynch’s Films: “Mulholland Drive” as a Case Study
  • Depiction of Artificial Intelligence in Sci-Fi Movies: Exploring “Ex Machina”
  • Changing Portrayal of Vampires in Cinema: From “Nosferatu” to “Twilight”
  • Influence of German Expressionism on Tim Burton’s Stylistic Approach
  • Transhumanism Explored in the “Matrix” Trilogy: A Philosophical Investigation
  • Cinematic Interpretation of Mental Illness: A Study of “A Beautiful Mind”
  • Juxtaposing Reality and Fiction: “The Truman Show” and Media’s Power
  • Music’s Role in Enhancing Narrative Drama: A Study on “Amadeus”
  • Technological Evolution in Cinema: Impact on Movie Experience
  • Superheroes and Society: A Critical Look at the Marvel Cinematic Universe
  • Ethical Dilemmas in Bioethics Films: Dissecting “Gattaca”
  • Silence as a Narrative Device: Examining “A Quiet Place” and Its Sequel

Gender Studies Extended Essay Topics

  • Dissecting the Gender Wage Gap: Causes and Solutions
  • Queer Theory: Intersectionality and Identity Politics
  • Patriarchy and Power: Examining Their Symbiotic Relationship
  • Cyberfeminism: The Internet as a Platform for Gender Equality
  • Biological Determinism: Challenging Traditional Gender Notions
  • Implications of Single-Sex Education on Gender Development
  • Gender Stereotypes in Advertising: Impact on Society
  • Masculinity in Crisis: Modern Conceptions and Their Consequences
  • Sport’s Roles in Shaping Gender Identity
  • Influence of Parenting Styles on Gender Socialization
  • Reassessing Gender Biases in Language
  • Sexuality Education: Navigating Through a Gender Spectrum
  • Reproductive Rights: A Battle Ground of Gender Politics
  • LGBTQ+ Representation in Literature: Advancement or Stereotype?
  • Toxic Masculinity: Its Origins and Impact on Society
  • Feminist Movements: Catalysts for Global Gender Equality
  • Domestic Roles: Evolution and Gender Associations
  • Women in Leadership: Barriers and Breakthroughs
  • Fashion Industry’s Role in Reinforcing Gender Norms
  • Men’s Rights Movement: Controversial Claims and Their Validity
  • Sexual Harassment: A Perennial Issue of Gender Inequality

Geography Extended Essay Topics

  • Urbanization’s Effect on Local Biodiversity in Developed Countries
  • Understanding the Relationship Between Soil Composition and Crop Yield
  • Geopolitical Consequences of Melting Polar Ice Caps
  • Impact of Desertification on Sub-Saharan African Nations
  • Migration Patterns: Influence of Economic Inequality on Population Shifts
  • Roles of Monsoons in South Asian Agriculture
  • Spatial Analysis: Technological Advancements in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  • Sustainable Development: Strategies to Balance Urban Growth and Environmental Preservation
  • Geothermal Energy’s Potential: Iceland as a Case Study
  • Climate Change’s Effect on Australian Bushfires: A Detailed Investigation
  • Analysis of the Physical Features Influencing Japan’s Isolation
  • Roles of Rivers in Shaping Ancient Civilizations
  • Urban Sprawl and its Ecological Impact on American Cities
  • Depletion of the Amazon Rainforest: Causes and Consequences
  • Comparative Study on Coastal Management Techniques Around the World
  • Seismic Activity Patterns: Evaluating Earthquake-prone Zones Globally
  • Deforestation’s Impact on Indigenous Communities in the Amazon Basin
  • Hydroelectric Power and Its Environmental Impact: Canada’s Experience
  • Geographic Factors Influencing Wine Production in French Vineyards
  • Impacts of Climate Change on Traditional Farming Practices in Peru
  • Geographic Investigation into the Distribution of Rare Earth Minerals

Health & Nutrition Extended Essay Topics

  • Sugary Drinks: Consequences for Adolescent Health
  • Assessing the Nutritional Significance of Organic Foods
  • Ketogenic Diet: Evaluating Its Effects on Weight Loss
  • Childhood Obesity: An Examination of Underlying Causes
  • Iron Deficiency: Unveiling the Hidden Global Impact
  • Meditation’s Influence on Physical and Psychological Health
  • Superfoods: Understanding Their Role in Preventing Chronic Diseases
  • Nutrigenomics: Decoding Personalized Nutrition for Optimal Health
  • Benefits of Hydration: Unraveling the Science Behind Water Intake
  • Sleep Quality: Its Relationship With Nutritional Factors
  • The Link Between Mental Stress and Nutrient Absorption
  • Microplastics in Seafood: Gauging the Health Implications
  • Antioxidants: A Detailed Review of Their Role in Aging
  • Gluten-Free Diets: Evaluating Benefits Beyond Celiac Disease
  • Genetically Modified Foods: Analyzing Potential Health Risks
  • Dairy Consumption: Its Impact on Bone Health
  • Dangers of Processed Foods: A Comprehensive Study
  • Phytonutrients: Uncovering Their Impact on Human Immunity
  • Salt Intake: Assessing Its Relationship With Hypertension
  • Whole Grains: Exploring Their Influence on Digestive Health

History Extended Essay Topics

  • Unveiling the Mysteries of the Mayan Civilization: An In-Depth Analysis
  • Comparing the Imperial Policies: British Empire vs. Spanish Empire
  • The Paris Commune of 1871: Catalyst for Revolutionary Movements
  • Roman Influence on Modern Western Architecture: A Comprehensive Study
  • Reformation Movements: Shaping the Modern Christian Faith
  • Influence and Legacy of Napoleon Bonaparte in European Politics
  • African Cultures: A Study on Pre-Colonial Kingdoms
  • Shogunate Rule: The Feudal System of Japan
  • Enlightenment Philosophers: Revolutionizing European Thought
  • Rise of the Ottoman Empire: Factors and Consequences
  • Evolution of Warfare: A Study From the Middle Ages to World War I
  • French Revolution: Causes, Impacts, and Lessons
  • American Civil War: Interpreting Slavery’s Role
  • Silk Road Influence on East-West Cultural Exchange
  • Decoding the Holocaust: Analyzing Its Global Repercussions
  • Mongol Empire’s Impact on Eurasian Trade and Communication
  • Exploration of Mesoamerican Cultures: Aztecs, Mayans, and Incas
  • Witch Trials in Europe: A Reflection of Fear and Superstition
  • Cold War: Unraveling the Ideological Tensions Between East and West
  • Korean War: Assessing Its Long-Term Effects on the Korean Peninsula
  • Vietnam War: Evaluating the Domestic Uprisings in the United States
  • World War II: Dissecting the Causes and Global Impact

Literature Extended Essay Topics

  • Examining the Role of Femininity in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”
  • Comparing the Depiction of War in Ernest Hemingway’s “Farewell to Arms” and Erich Maria Remarque’s “All Quiet on the Western Front”
  • Exploration of the Hero’s Journey in J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings”
  • Insights Into Absurdism Through Albert Camus’s “The Stranger”
  • Assessment of Revenge Themes in Alexandre Dumas’s “The Count of Monte Cristo”
  • Interpretation of Colonialism in Joseph Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness”
  • Gothic Elements in Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”: A Thorough Investigation
  • Analyzing the American Dream Through F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
  • Uncovering Identity Conflicts in Alice Walker’s “The Color Purple”
  • Influences of Victorian Society on Charles Dickens’s “Great Expectations”
  • Analyzing Magical Realism in Gabriel García Márquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude”
  • Exploring Environmental Themes in Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring”
  • Thematic Analysis of Isolation in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”
  • Examination of Satire in Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels”
  • Dissecting Themes of Racism in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird”
  • Investigating Futurism in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
  • Studying the Role of Individualism in Ayn Rand’s “Atlas Shrugged”
  • Evaluating Paranoia Themes in George Orwell’s “1984”
  • Scrutinizing the Dystopian Elements in Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale”
  • The Symbolism of Nature in Emily Bronte’s “Wuthering Heights”
  • Decoding Absurdist Elements in Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot”
  • Assessing the Role of Love in William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”

Mathematics Extended Essay Topics

  • Fractal Geometry: Exploring Patterns in Nature
  • Game Theory: Predictive Models in Economics and Politics
  • Evolution of Calculus: Integral Role in Scientific Developments
  • Knot Theory: Mathematical Implications for DNA Structures
  • Probability Theory: Influence on Decision-Making Processes
  • Quantum Computing: Role of Linear Algebra
  • Hyperbolic Geometry: Implications for Theoretical Physics
  • Topology: Mathematical Basis of M.C. Escher’s Artworks
  • Mathematical Logic: Gödel’s Incompleteness Theorems
  • Fibonacci Sequence: Presence and Significance in Natural Phenomena
  • Graph Theory: Applications in Social Network Analysis
  • Chaos Theory: Predicting Weather Patterns
  • Number Theory: Exploring Twin Prime Conjecture
  • Complex Numbers: Quantum Mechanics Applications
  • Euler’s Formula: Linking Five Fundamental Mathematical Constants
  • Riemann Hypothesis: Consequences for Prime Number Distribution
  • Mathematical Modelling: Predicting Population Dynamics
  • Set Theory: Examining the Continuum Hypothesis
  • Lie Groups: Role in Particle Physics
  • Non-Euclidean Geometry: Revolutionizing Perception of Space
  • Algebraic Topology: Insights Into Data Analysis

Media Studies Extended Essay Topics

  • Digital Divide: Socio-Economic Impacts on Information Access
  • Deepfake Technology: The Challenge to Media Authenticity
  • Print to Digital: Evolution of Newspapers in the 21st Century
  • Artificial Intelligence in Journalism: Benefits and Pitfalls
  • Film Adaptations: Interpretation vs. Original Text
  • Cyberbullying: The Dark Side of Social Networks
  • Body Image: Media Representation and Its Impact on Adolescents
  • Fake News Phenomenon: The Influence on Public Opinion
  • Memes and Virality: The New Language of Digital Media
  • Reality Television: Exploration of Cultural Impact
  • Cinematic Representations of Historical Events: Accuracy vs. Dramatization
  • Podcasting Boom: Rise and Influence in Modern Media
  • Streaming Wars: The Impact on the Television Industry
  • Photojournalism Ethics: The Power of Images in News Media
  • Music Piracy: Effect on the Music Industry in the Digital Age
  • Animation as an Art Form: Impact and Acceptance in Mainstream Media
  • Advertising Psychology: Subliminal Messages in Modern Marketing
  • LGBTQ+ Representation in Television: Progress and Backlash
  • Roles of Women in Film: Progress in Gender Equality
  • Video Games as Storytelling Medium: Narrative and Player Interaction
  • Comic Book Culture: From Niche to Mainstream Media
  • Influence of Western Media on Global Pop Culture: The Hollywood Impact

Music Extended Essay Topics

  • Classical Compositions: Influence of Bach’s Techniques on Modern Music
  • Psychoacoustic Effects: Music’s Influence on Human Behavior
  • Sonic Landscaping: The Use of Atmospherics in Ambient Music
  • Lyrics’ Roles: Expressing Social Issues Through Hip-Hop
  • Beethoven’s Symphonies: Revolutionary Techniques and Their Influence
  • Harmonization in Jazz: Unpacking Coltrane’s Unique Approaches
  • Vivaldi’s Four Seasons: Examination of Baroque Music Style
  • Sonic Influence: Music’s Role in Cinematic Narratives
  • Opera’s Evolution: Tracing the Shift From Baroque to Romantic Period
  • Cross-Cultural Influences: Examining Salsa’s African and European Roots
  • K-Pop Phenomenon: Analyzing Its Global Impact
  • Musical Iconography: Symbolism in Mozart’s Operas
  • Dissecting Punk: Deconstructing Its Socio-Political Messages
  • Rhythm Development: West African Influence on American Blues
  • Genre Fusion: Exploration of Reggae’s Influence on Hip-Hop
  • Melodic Intricacies: Debussy’s Revolutionary Approach to Music
  • Grunge Revolution: Examination of Seattle’s Music Scene in the 90s
  • Mystical Allure: The Role of Spirituality in Gospel Music
  • Compositional Innovations: Understanding Schoenberg’s Atonality”
  • Artistry Unveiled: The Impact of Visual Elements in Album Art
  • Technology’s Role: The Emergence and Impact of Electronic Dance Music

Philosophy Extended Essay Topics

  • Significance of Nietzsche’s Will to Power: A Deep Exploration
  • Descartes and the Philosophy of Mind: An Analytical Approach
  • Aristotle’s Virtue Ethics: A Modern Appraisal
  • Unveiling the Metaphysical Implications of Quantum Physics
  • Phenomenology and the Essence of Human Experience
  • Kant’s Categorical Imperative: Critical Re-Evaluation
  • Embodying Freedom: Sartre’s Existentialism and Its Relevance Today
  • Dialectics of Hegel: Deciphering Complexities
  • Simulacra and Simulation: Baudrillard’s Postmodern Reality
  • Unraveling Wittgenstein’s Language Games: A Thorough Analysis
  • Schopenhauer’s Concept of Will: An In-Depth Study
  • Quandaries of Free Will: Revisiting Determinism
  • Spinoza’s Pantheism and Its Contemporary Implications
  • Habermas’ Communicative Action: A Practical Appraisal
  • Uncovering Rawls’ Theory of Justice: A Critical Review
  • Political Power and Machiavelli’s “The Prince”: An Exploration
  • Utility and Morality: Assessing Bentham’s Utilitarianism
  • Exploring Heidegger’s Being and Time: Existentialism and Ontology
  • Stoicism in the Modern World: A Comprehensive Analysis
  • Feminism Through the Lens of Simone de Beauvoir
  • Epistemology Unveiled: Understanding Locke’s Theory of Knowledge
  • Poststructuralism: Decoding Derrida’s Deconstruction

Physics Extended Essay Topics

  • Analyzing Black Holes: Their Formation, Structure, and Effects on Space-Time
  • Quantum Entanglement: Unveiling the Intricacies of Particle Relationships
  • The Higgs Boson: Its Role and Significance in the Standard Model
  • Exploration of Dark Matter: Implications for Galactic Formations
  • Light Speed Variability: Investigating Possible Factors and Consequences
  • Stellar Evolution: A Detailed Study of Star Lifecycles
  • Effects of Quantum Tunneling on Microscopic Scales
  • Thermodynamics in Isolated Systems: Deepening the Understanding
  • Relativity Theory: Delving Into Its Consequences on Space Travel
  • Solar Flares: Their Impact on Earth’s Magnetic Field
  • Neutrino Oscillations: Dissecting Their Quantum Mechanical Phenomena
  • Fusion Energy: Examining Its Feasibility and Potential Impact
  • Electromagnetism in Quantum Optics: Unraveling the Relations
  • Tidal Forces: Their Role in Celestial Body Interactions
  • Plasma Physics: Analyzing the Fourth State of Matter
  • Gravitational Waves: Their Detection and Implications
  • String Theory: Evaluating Its Contribution to Modern Physics
  • Bose-Einstein Condensate: Investigating Its Unique Properties
  • Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation: Decoding the Echoes of the Big Bang
  • Nanotechnology: The Role of Physics in Its Evolution
  • Quantum Gravity: Scrutinizing the Unification of Quantum Mechanics and General Relativity

Politics Extended Essay Topics

  • Evaluating the Political Consequences of Climate Change Policies
  • Dissecting the Impact of Brexit on European Union Stability
  • Unearthing the Causes of Political Apathy Among Millennials
  • Cybersecurity Threats and Their Influence on Global Politics
  • Immigration Policies: Evaluating Their Socio-Political Impact
  • Intersectionality and Its Effect on Contemporary Political Discourse
  • Trade Wars: Unraveling Their Economic and Political Implications
  • Roles of Women Leaders in the Pursuit of Global Peace
  • Impacts of Corruption on Developing Economies’ Political Stability
  • Scrutinizing the Role of Lobbying in American Politics
  • Influence of Religion on Middle Eastern Politics
  • Investigating the Political Aftermath of Major Terrorist Attacks
  • The Nexus Between Climate Justice and Political Activism
  • Effects of Political Satire on Public Perception of Politicians
  • Decolonization and Its Long-Term Political Impact in Africa
  • Analyzing the Relationship Between Military Spending and International Relations
  • Diplomacy in the Nuclear Age: Assessing Its Efficacy
  • Unpacking the Political Implications of the Rise of Artificial Intelligence
  • Evaluating the Consequences of Resource Scarcity on International Politics
  • Political Autonomy Movements: Exploring Their Causes and Effects

Psychology Extended Essay Topics

  • Perception of Reality: Influence of Social Media on Adolescents
  • Cognitive Development: The Role of Play in Early Childhood
  • Emotional Intelligence: An Examination of Its Impact on Leadership
  • Biopsychology: Understanding the Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Mental Health
  • Cultural Variations: Impact on Interpersonal Communication Styles
  • Parenting Styles: Their Consequences on Child Behavior and Development
  • Depression in Adolescents: Exploring the Impact of Social Isolation
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Efficacy of Different Treatment Approaches
  • Behavior Analysis: Autism Spectrum Disorder and Applied Techniques
  • Music Therapy: Evaluating Its Effectiveness in Managing Anxiety
  • Bystander Effect: Analysis of Underlying Psychological Mechanisms
  • Psycholinguistics: The Role of Language in Cognitive Processes
  • Understanding the Psychology of Eating Disorders: Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia
  • Psychotherapy Approaches: Exploring Efficacy in Treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
  • Humanistic Psychology: Examining Its Applications in Modern Psychotherapy
  • Consequences of Chronic Pain: A Study on Psychological Adaptation
  • Stereotypes and Prejudice: Exploring Their Origins and Effects
  • Memory: How Traumatic Events Influence Recall
  • Nature vs. Nurture: The Debate in Personality Development
  • Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Unpacking Its Psychological Impact
  • Influences of Environment and Genetics on Intelligence Quotient (IQ)
  • Romantic Relationships: Understanding Attachment Styles and Their Effects

Sociology Extended Essay Topics

  • Globalization’s Influence on Traditional Cultural Practices
  • Assimilation versus Multiculturalism: An Exploration in Contemporary Societies
  • Intersectionality and Its Role in Modern Feminism
  • Educational Inequality: The Socio-Economic Factors at Play
  • Effects of Income Inequality on Community Health Outcomes
  • Cyberbullying’s Pervasiveness and Its Societal Consequences
  • Pop Culture’s Shaping of Youth Identity
  • Urbanization’s Effect on Community Structure and Social Interaction
  • Racial Stereotypes in Media: A Comprehensive Analysis
  • Deviance and Crime: Sociological Perspectives on their Roots
  • Marriage Patterns Among Different Socio-Economic Classes
  • The Role of Religion in Structuring Modern Societies
  • Refugees’ Integration Into Host Societies: Barriers and Facilitators
  • Disparity in Healthcare Access: The Underlying Social Causes
  • The Digital Divide: Exploring Socio-Economic Factors and Consequences
  • LGBTQ+ Rights Movement: Progress and Remaining Challenges
  • Changing Gender Roles in the 21st Century
  • Post-Industrial Society’s Influence on the Family Structure
  • Media Representation of Marginalized Groups: Impact and Implications
  • Ethnic Identity Formation within Diaspora Communities
  • Prison System’s Effect on Social Stratification

Visual Arts Extended Essay Topics

  • Interpreting Symbolism in Renaissance Portraiture
  • Dissecting Minimalism: Impact on Contemporary Visual Art
  • Cubism’s Influence on Modern Design Aesthetics
  • Photorealism: Technique, Challenges, and Impact
  • Juxtaposing Abstract and Realism in Visual Art
  • Byzantine Mosaics: Preservation and Symbolism
  • Impressionism: Affecting Viewer Perception Through Brushwork
  • Mural Graffiti: Socio-Political Messages in Street Art
  • Surrealism’s Roles in Challenging Reality Perception
  • Ephemeral Art: Exploring Its Transience and Significance
  • Pop Art’s Reflection on Consumer Culture
  • Stained Glass: Religious Iconography and Aesthetics
  • Postmodernism’s Critique of Traditional Art Theories
  • Disruptive Power of Dadaism in the Early 20th Century
  • Pointillism’s Manipulation of Optical Mixing
  • Kinetic Sculpture: Dynamic Movement in Static Forms
  • Fauvism’s Bold Use of Color and Form
  • Romanticism’s Depiction of Nature and Emotion
  • Neoclassicism: Celebrating Antiquity Through Visual Art
  • Feminist Art: Challenging Patriarchy and Stereotypes
  • Video Art: Exploring Temporality and Narration
  • Indigenous Art: Preservation of Cultural Heritage Through Visual Expression

World Religion Studies Extended Essays Topics

  • Analyzing Confucianism’s Impact on Chinese Social and Political Structures
  • The Intersection of Spirituality and Mental Health: Perspectives From Various Religious Traditions
  • The Role of Rituals in Indigenous African Religions: An Anthropological Approach
  • Liberation Theology: Examining Christianity’s Influence on Social Justice Movements
  • Afterlife Concept in Ancient Greek and Norse Mythology
  • Exploring the Symbolism of Mandalas in Tibetan Buddhism
  • Religious Syncretism in Latin America: Blending Indigenous and Catholic Beliefs
  • Significance of Pilgrimage in Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism
  • The Impact of Taoism on Traditional Chinese Medicine
  • Music and Chanting in Religious Rituals: Comparative Analysis
  • Sufism: Mystical Dimensions of Islam
  • Karma in Hinduism and Buddhism: A Comparative Study
  • Religious Iconography’s Influence on Artistic Expression
  • Cultural Identity Fostered by Religious Festivals
  • Historical Development of Sikhism and Its Teachings
  • Animal Rights Ethics: Perspectives From Different Religions
  • Prophecy in Abrahamic Religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
  • Rites of Passage: Comparative Analysis of Coming-of-Age Ceremonies
  • Evolution of Religious Tolerance in Western Societies
  • Influence of Zen Buddhism on Japanese Tea Ceremony
  • Divine Love in Christianity, Hinduism, and Sufism

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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

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IB World Studies Extended Essay Ideas

writing world studies ee

Reflecting on my IB Diploma Program experience, I typically recall how exciting it was to write the extended essay in World Studies. This one-of-a-kind component encourages students to think critically and internationally by bringing disciplines together to investigate topics of worldwide relevance. Today, I’m here to share insights and inspiration with a selection of engaging World Studies Extended Essay topics.

Understanding the World Studies Extended Essay

To further understand the World Studies Extended Essay , it’s essential to recognize that this IB Diploma Program component examines global issues’ interconnectedness through an interdisciplinary perspective. Below are several points that every student should consider.

Interdisciplinary Focus

The essay is special in that it requires an interdisciplinary approach. You must use at least two IB topics to investigate your selected issue. For example, Economics may be integrated with Environmental Systems and Societies to explore the economic consequences of climate change policy. This strategy broadens your perspective while also enriching your analysis.

Global Significance

Your topic must be globally relevant. It should address challenges that cross national lines and affect people worldwide. Whether the issue is the impacts of global warming, the expansion of digital culture, or the ethics of genetic engineering, it should have apparent global implications.

Research and Analysis

A substantial portion of the essay consists of completing extensive research and delivering a detailed analysis. In my experience, your research’s depth and insight clarity may truly differentiate your article. It entails gathering data, critically analyzing it, and reaching intelligent conclusions.

Personal Engagement

According to general IB criteria, the essay should reflect a high degree of personal engagement with the topic. It means choosing a subject you are genuinely interested in and curious about. From my path through the IB, I can attest that passion for your topic can significantly enhance the quality of your work.

Reflection on Global Awareness

Finally, the World Studies extended essay is an opportunity to demonstrate your global awareness. It’s a chance to show how you can apply academic knowledge to real-world problems, offering potential solutions or new ways of understanding these issues.

World Studies Extended Essay: Ideas for Research

Amid your research, it’s crucial to focus on areas that resonate with the complexities of our interconnected world. Here’s a concise list of domains that have consistently proven to be fertile ground for in-depth investigation:

  • Environmental Sustainability . From the repercussions of climate change to the search for renewable energy sources, this area invites a rich analysis of how we can safeguard our planet for future generations.
  • Economic Stability and Development . Investigate the dynamics of globalization, the impact of microfinance, or the sustainability of tourism, exploring implications for global economic health.
  • Cultural Exchange and Identity . This domain allows for examining how migration, digital media, and globalization affect cultural identities and practices.
  • Conflict, Peace, and Security . Dig into the effectiveness of peacekeeping missions, cybersecurity challenges, or the complexities of managing refugee crises.
  • Health and Development . Topics can range from global health initiatives to mental health awareness across cultures, highlighting efforts to improve well-being worldwide.

In my experience, these fields allow students to contribute to meaningful global conversations. The secret to creating a compelling paper is approaching your chosen topic with a critical eye and a commitment to finding nuanced insights.

Topics to Read:

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IB Extended Essay Topics: Geography

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World Studies Extended Essay Topics for Inspiration

These topics can inspire us to explore global issues from an interdisciplinary perspective, combining methodologies and theories from different IB subjects:

  • The Impact of Social Media on Cultural Identity in Teenagers Across Different Countries . How do social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook influence teenagers’ cultural identity and self-image in diverse cultural settings?
  • The Global Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic . A Comparative Study. How have different countries’ health systems’ responses to the COVID-19 pandemic affected the rate of virus containment and population health outcomes?
  • Sustainable Agriculture Practices and Their Impact on Food Security in South America . How do sustainable agriculture practices impact South American countries’ food security and economic stability?
  • The Influence of Globalization on Indigenous Cultures: A Case Study of the Amazonian Tribes . How has globalization affected the preservation or transformation of cultural practices among Amazonian tribes?
  • The Effectiveness of International Peacekeeping Missions in Africa . How effectively have United Nations peacekeeping missions maintained peace and security in African conflict zones?
  • Cybersecurity Threats and Their Impact on Global Economic Stability . What are the implications of rising cybersecurity threats for global economic stability and international trade?
  • The Role of Green Technology in Promoting Environmental Sustainability in Urban Areas . How can green technology be implemented in urban areas to promote environmental sustainability and improve quality of life?
  • The Psychological Effects of Climate Change on Communities in Vulnerable Regions . What are the psychological effects of climate change on individuals and communities in regions most vulnerable to environmental changes?
  • Plastic Pollution and International Environmental Policies: A Study of Effectiveness . How effectively are international policies combating plastic pollution in the world’s oceans?
  • Cultural Exchange Through International Education: Benefits and Challenges . What are the benefits and challenges of cultural exchange programs in international education settings?
  • The Economic and Environmental Impact of Electric Vehicles in Developed vs. Developing Countries . How do electric vehicles impact developed countries’ economic and environmental landscapes compared to developing countries?
  • Mental Health Awareness and Treatment Accessibility in Asia vs. Europe . How does accessibility to mental health treatment and awareness vary between Asian and European countries?
  • The Impact of Digital Education on Traditional Learning Methods Across Continents . To what extent has digital education transformed traditional learning methods in countries across different continents?
  • Water Scarcity and Its Effects on Gender Equality in Sub-Saharan Africa. How does water scarcity impact gender equality and women’s access to education and employment in Sub-Saharan Africa?
  • Comparative Analysis of Refugee Integration Policies in Canada vs. Europe . How do Canada’s refugee integration policies compare to those of European countries in terms of effectiveness and social outcomes?
  • The Role of Social Enterprises in Addressing Homelessness in Urban Centers Globally . To what extent do social enterprises contribute to solving the problem of homelessness in global urban centers?
  • Impact of Fair Trade Practices on Rural Development in Latin America . How have fair trade practices impacted rural development and farmer livelihoods in Latin American countries?
  • Globalization and Its Impact on Traditional Crafts and Industries . How does globalization impact the preservation and sustainability of traditional crafts and industries?
  • Eco-Tourism as a Sustainable Development Tool in Small Island Developing States . Can eco-tourism be considered an effective tool for sustainable development in Small Island Developing States (SIDS)?
  • The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing Global Health Care Systems . How can artificial intelligence (AI) be utilized to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of healthcare systems globally?
  • Urbanization and Its Impact on Air Quality and Public Health in Mega Cities . What are the implications of rapid urbanization for air quality and public health in the world’s megacities?
  • The Effect of International Sanctions on the Civilian Population of North Korea . How have international sanctions affected the daily lives and human rights of the civilian population in North Korea?
  • Cultural Implications of Climate Change for Indigenous Peoples in the Arctic . What are the cultural implications of climate change for indigenous peoples living in the Arctic regions?
  • Youth Unemployment and Its Relation to Political Stability in the Middle East . How does youth unemployment contribute to political unrest and instability in Middle Eastern countries?
  • The Impact of Cryptocurrency on Global Financial Systems and Regulations . What impact does the rise of cryptocurrency have on global financial systems and regulatory frameworks?
  • Sustainable Fashion: Changing Consumer Behaviors in Europe and Asia . How are sustainable fashion initiatives changing consumer behaviors in Europe compared to Asia?
  • The Role of International Cooperation in Addressing Space Debris . How critical is international cooperation in mitigating the risks associated with space debris for future space exploration and satellite operations?
  • The Impact of Digital Divide on Educational Equity in Remote Areas . How does the digital divide affect educational equity and access to information technology in remote and rural areas globally?
  • Sustainable Urban Development: A Comparison of Green Space Policies in Global Cities . How do green space policies in global cities contribute to sustainable urban development and the well-being of their inhabitants?
  • The Influence of Global Trade Agreements on Small-scale Farmers in Developing Countries . What impact do global trade agreements have on the livelihoods and sustainability of small-scale farmers in developing countries?
  • Cultural Heritage Preservation Amidst Political Conflict: Case Studies from the Middle East . How are efforts to preserve cultural heritage impacted by ongoing political conflicts in the Middle East?
  • The Role of Youth Activism in Shaping Climate Change Policies . To what extent has youth activism influenced the development and implementation of climate change policies at the international level?

Each topic encourages multifaceted research on global issues, requiring students to integrate knowledge and methodologies from various disciplines.

Don’t let the stress of the IB curriculum hold you back.

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Our experienced writers can help you choose the perfect topic and assist you with any assignment.

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This Extended Essay provides a fantastic opportunity to connect with the world’s intricacies. You may offer significant insights into global conversations by selecting a topic that interests you and tackling it with curiosity and determination. So, start your study with an open mind and a determined heart, and remember that our IB professionals are always available to help you with Extended Essay writing.

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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/ IB Extended Essay Topics: Global Politics
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  • Nora Spinster https://ibwritingservice.com/blog/author/noraspinster/ IB Extended Essay Topics: Sports and Health Science
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Splendid Ideas for Extended Essay Topics

As opposed to ordinary essays, extended essays require more factual backup. Therefore, writing a solid extended essay requires considerably more dedication and research, as well as more critical thinking and experimentation. When writing an extended essay, it is crucial to keep in mind all the existing relevant theories and keep all the facts you refer to substantiated.

Here are some examples of possible topics in various fields of study for a splendid extended essay for you to choose from:

  • How photosynthesis can take place without sunlight
  • How does a plant grow differently when it has to share its habitat with others
  • How to store cow milk safely
  • How does change of habitat affect an organism
  • How are land plants different from aquatic ones
  • Is remote pollination possible
  • How various drugs affect human brain
  • How plants can heal disease
  • Can flowers be manufactured
  • How climate affects the reproduction process of plants
  • Trade policies in different countries
  • What does the industrial policy mean
  • The overall influence of fiscal policy on the economy
  • Expansionary fiscal policy and when it can be used
  • Taxes and Spending: The tools to make it more effective
  • How big is the government sector in economy and is it justified
  • Why does personal income tax go to the federal budget
  • How do transfer payments work
  • How does the business cycle cause instability in the labor market
  • Why does recessionary gap occur
  • Racial Conflict and racism throughout the 20th century
  • Spirituality Attitudes of People
  • Ethnic and sexual identity in the 1990s
  • How ideas of social Darwinism got translated into politics
  • The significance of the literary function of a language
  • How does media portrayal influence everyday life
  • Female empowerment in Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings
  • Why is it important to learn English literature
  • John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars
  • Sarah Dessen’s Just Listen
  • Lisa Kleypas’s Devil In Winter
  • The Importance of Dance in Emma by Jane Austen
  • Possible parallels between Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein monster and Gregor Samsa from Franz Kafka’s Metamorphosis
  • Noblemen and noble traits. Illustrated by three exemplary characters
  • Religion and religious imagery in Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights
  • Racism as illustrated by James Baldwin
  • Exploring Jane Austen
  • Inanimate objects in Sylvia Plath’s Bell Jar
  • How did the continents come to their present-day location
  • What factors influence the location of industries
  • The impact of economic development on the environment
  • Levels of cultural interaction between the neighboring nations
  • How geography affects the relationships between people
  • Does gendered economy have any connection to geography
  • How are nations with access to the sea different from the ones without
  • Oceanography and its significance for preserving the quality of water
  • How the knowledge of the terrestrial crust has evolved in the past 100 years
  • Why is it important to explore the seabed

extended essay topics

  • Why did the USSR fall apart
  • The bias in the Salem witch trials
  • The Treaty of Versailles and its significance
  • Cuban missile crisis and its consequences
  • The pact between Stalin and Hitler and its realization
  • Why was Pearl Harbor a game-changing checkpoint in the 2nd World War
  • The evolution of perception of opium as a rural culture
  • Political motives in Shakespeare's drama
  • The reasons for the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki
  • How the Roman Empire conquered Britain
  • Spirograph and curves
  • Using color polynomials to distinguish knots
  • Voting polynomials and fairness of constitution
  • Methodology employed by statistics
  • Why planets move the way they do
  • Egyptian forces in arithmetic
  • Symmetries of plane tessellations
  • General relativity and cosmology
  • Egyptian fractions and their significance for arithmetic
  • General functions of the theory of partitions
  • Understanding the terminology of physics
  • The basics of dynamics: forces and motion
  • How energy can be conserved
  • The phenomenon of heat
  • The nature of electricity and electrical energy
  • The nature of magnetism and magnetic force
  • Particles and their interactions
  • The nature and behavior of light
  • Main stages in the development of the physical thought
  • The scientific methods employed by modern physics
  • How parental negligence leads to child obesity
  • Why are we so obsessed with fast food
  • How narcissist mother influences her child
  • How is television connected to obesity
  • Preterm delivery and adjacent stress
  • Types of suicidal behaviors and how they develop
  • How not to allow an abortion damage the mental health
  • Violence and other abuse among teenage couples
  • Difference between male and female schizophrenia
  • Psychological reasons causing depression
  • Intelligent machines essay
  • How global food crisis affects our everyday lives
  • How to tell that an issue is of global significance
  • How local factors influence the developing expressions
  • How to make globally appreciated contributions
  • How global climate changes affect our view of the world
  • Global terrorism: Its causes and consequences
  • Why energy security is necessary
  • Health safety precautions every traveler should know
  • The importance of ongoing cultural exchange
  • Immigration and emigration: Causes and consequences

There are your ultimate topics for extended essays in English, History, Mathematics, and other subjects. The final word of advice while choosing an extended essay topic on any of those subjects would be to pick something that you feel passionate about. And, of course, you have to make sure that the scope of your topic meets the number of pages you have to write. Say, for example, you are a high school student, and you are supposed to write a 3-page essay. Obviously, you will not be able to dig into many details; so choose accordingly.

If you are feeling uncertain that you can write an excellent grade extended essay yourself, you are welcome to employ our assistance in this issue. We cooperate only with top experts with a Ph.D. degree or higher in the topic that they are to write about, and being an English native speaker is another key requirement, so our writers writing skills are also unsurpassed. So, if there is any reason why you cannot have your extended essay written on time yourself, all you need to do is place your order on our website, and leave the rest to us! If you are curious how to write a definition essay feel free to explore our blog.

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extended essay topics ideas

Extended Essay

Extended Essay Topics

Nova A.

Get Inspired: 110 Unique Extended Essay Topics and Ideas

14 min read

Published on: May 7, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

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Are you struggling to choose an interesting topic for your extended essay? Do you feel overwhelmed by the vast array of options and the pressure to excel in your research?

Students often struggle with finding a good, researchable topic for their extended essays. But don't worry!

This blog offers 110 best extended essay topics and ideas, along with expert tips for success. With this read, you can easily get started on your extended essay. 

So, read on and discover a wide range of topics!

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IB Extended Essay Topics

IB extended essay topics are diverse, interdisciplinary, and self-directed. They can be chosen from a wide range of subjects and must be grounded in academic research. 

The topics are broad but feasible for in-depth research and writing. Writing an extended essay develops students' skills in critical thinking, and research, and prepares them for the future.

Here are extended essay topics categorized by subjects.

Biology Extended Essay Topics 

Here is a list of extended essay topics biology:

  • Investigating the effectiveness of different types of natural insecticides on pest control.
  • Analyzing the effect of X diet on gut microbiome composition and health.
  • Examining the role of gut microbiota in human health and disease.
  • Studying the genetic basis of addiction and its implications for treatment.
  • Exploring the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing for disease prevention and treatment.
  • Analyzing the effects of different types of stress on the human body and mind.
  • Examining the impact of X medication on the functioning of the Y organ system.
  • Investigating the potential of stem cells in regenerative medicine.
  • The effects of X substance on the behavior of Y cell type.
  • Analyzing the ecological impact of invasive species on native ecosystems.

English Extended Essay Topics

Here are some extended essay topics English literature:

  • Analyzing the use of symbolism in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter.
  • Investigating the role of gender in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.
  • How does Shakespeare use the theme of fate in Romeo and Juliet?
  • Examining the impact of colonialism in Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart.
  • Analyzing the Theme of Power in J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings.
  • How does F. Scott Fitzgerald critique the American Dream in The Great Gatsby?
  • Investigating the representation of race in Toni Morrison’s Beloved.
  • Analyzing the use of narrative structure in Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude.
  • How does George Orwell use satire to critique totalitarianism in Animal Farm?
  • Examining the use of magical realism in Isabel Allende’s The House of the Spirits.

Psychology Extended Essay Topics 

Check out this list of extended essay topics psychology:

  • Investigating the impact of childhood trauma on adult mental health.
  • Analyzing the relationship between personality traits and career success.
  • Investigating the effects of social media on adolescent self-esteem and body image.
  • Analyzing the impact of X drug on brain chemistry and behavior.
  • Analyzing the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating anxiety disorders.
  • Examining the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety disorders.
  • Investigating the relationship between X personality trait and addiction.
  • Investigating the role of nature vs. nurture in the development of sexual orientation.
  • Examining the effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance and mood.
  • Investigating the impact of X's environmental factor on the development of Y's mental health condition.

Economics Extended Essay Topics 

Here is a list of extended essay topics in economics:

  • Exploring the relationship between government policies and income inequality in a particular country.
  • Investigating the relationship between X income inequality and economic growth.
  • Evaluating the effects of trade protectionism on domestic industries and consumers.
  • The impact of X technology on employment and labor markets.
  • Investigating the relationship between taxation and corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices.
  • Examining the role of innovation and entrepreneurship in driving economic growth.
  • The effectiveness of X price discrimination strategy in increasing firm revenue.
  • Exploring the role of corporate mergers and acquisitions in industry consolidation and market power.
  • Investigating the relationship between X tax policy and small business growth.
  • Assessing the impact of government regulation on the growth and development of emerging technologies.

Chemistry Extended Essay Topics

  • Investigating the effects of different types of sunscreen on UV radiation protection.
  • Analyzing the efficiency of different types of water filtration systems in removing contaminants.
  • Exploring the chemistry behind the flavors and aromas of different types of wine.
  • What are the chemical reactions involved in food preservation techniques?
  • Assessing the impact of different types of fertilizers on soil pH and plant growth.
  • Examining the chemistry of fermentation and its applications in the production of different types of alcoholic beverages.
  • What is the impact of air pollution on atmospheric chemistry and climate change?
  • Analyzing the chemical properties of different types of plastics and their environmental impact.
  • What is the chemistry behind the synthesis and properties of superconductors?
  • Studying the chemistry of batteries and their applications in energy storage.

Physics Extended Essay Topics

Here are some extended essay topics for physics:

  • Investigating the physics of fluid dynamics and its applications in aerodynamics.
  • Exploring the properties and applications of different types of superconductors
  • The effect of X wavelength on the speed of light in a medium.
  • The physics of magnetic levitation and its applications in transportation.
  • Investigating the relationship between X surface area and the rate of evaporation.
  • Exploring the properties and applications of different types of lasers.
  • Investigating the physics of nuclear fusion and its potential as a clean energy source.
  • Studying the relationship between the X spring constant and the period of oscillation of a mass-spring system.
  • Exploring the physics of quantum computing and its potential applications in computing and cryptography.
  • Analyzing the efficiency of heat engine technology.

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Extended Essay Topics Business

Here is a list of business management extended essay topics:

  • Examining the Relationship Between Corporate Culture and Employee Motivation
  • Assessing the Effects of Social Media Marketing on Consumer Behavior and Brand Awareness
  • Investigating the Factors that Contribute to Successful International Joint Ventures
  • Evaluating the Effectiveness of Talent Management Strategies in Recruiting and Retaining Top Employees
  • Analyzing the Impact of E-Commerce on Traditional Retail Business Models
  • Studying the Role of Emotional Intelligence in Effective Leadership and Team Management
  • Exploring Strategies for Managing Workplace Diversity and Inclusion
  • Investigating the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Job Displacement and Workforce Development
  • Exploring the Benefits and Challenges of Strategic Partnerships for Business Growth and Innovation
  • Analyzing the Effects of Government Regulations on Business Operations and Profitability.

History Extended Essay Topics 

Here is some extended essay topics history:

  • Analyzing the Impact of the Opium Wars on China's Relationship with the West
  • Studying the Factors that Contributed to the Fall of the Roman Empire
  • Examining the Legacy of the Haitian Revolution and its Influence on Global Anti-Colonial Movements
  • Evaluating the Role of Women in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States
  • What Were the Causes and Consequences of the Spanish Civil War
  • Investigating the Factors that Led to the Rise of Fascism in Italy
  • The Impact of the American Indian Movement on Indigenous Rights in the United States
  • Evaluating the Success and Failures of the United Nations in Promoting International Peace and Security
  • What Became The Causes and Consequences of the Partition of India in 1947
  • Investigating the Role of Propaganda in Shaping Public Opinion during World War II.

Extended Essay Topics Computer Science

  • Enhancing Cybersecurity with Artificial Intelligence: An Investigation
  • Social Media Algorithms and User Behavior: An Analysis of Political Polarization
  • Ethical Implications of Facial Recognition Technology: An Examination
  • Detecting Financial Fraud with Machine Learning Algorithms: An Evaluation
  • Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management: A Study
  • Quantum Computing and Cryptography: An Investigation into Data Security
  • Computer Science and Sustainable Energy Technologies: A Review
  • Predictive Analytics for Healthcare: A Comparative Study of Data Mining Techniques
  • Autonomous Vehicles: An Exploration of Ethical and Social Implications
  • Assistive Technologies for People with Disabilities: A Critical Assessment of Computer Science Contributions.

Extended Essay Topics Global Politics

  • Assessing the effectiveness of UN peacekeeping missions in resolving conflicts
  • The impact of social media on political activism and social movements in the digital age
  • The role of international organizations in promoting human rights and humanitarian aid
  • The influence of neoliberalism on global economic policies and its impact on developing countries
  • Investigating the root causes of terrorism and strategies for combating it in the modern world
  • The impact of climate change on global politics and the role of international cooperation in addressing it
  • An Evaluation of China's Belt and Road Initiative and its impact on global economic and political power dynamics
  • The Role of soft power in shaping international relations and Diplomacy
  • Analyzing the ethical implications of drone warfare and targeted killings in contemporary warfare
  • The challenges and opportunities of refugee resettlement policies in developed countries.

Extended Essay Topics Geography

  • The relationship between tourism and environmental conservation in a specific region or national park.
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of different methods for managing and reducing plastic waste in coastal cities.
  • The impact of sea level rise on coastal communities and infrastructure in a particular location.
  • Comparing the effectiveness of different renewable energy sources for powering a specific region or country.
  • Assessing the impact of deforestation on the water cycle and water availability in a particular region.
  • Examining the impact of urbanization on the microclimate of a specific city or urban area.
  • Studying the potential impact of a future earthquake or volcanic eruption on a particular region or city.
  • What is the effectiveness of various adaptation strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change on agriculture in a particular region or country?
  • Investigating the relationship between air pollution and respiratory health in a specific urban area or region.
  • Assessing the impact of mining on the environment and local communities in a particular region or country.

Research Questions for Extended Essay 

Here is a list of research questions for extended essays:

  • To what extent has social media impacted political participation and activism among young people?
  • How does the representation of mental illness in literature reflect changing societal attitudes toward mental health over time?
  • What is the impact of the use of technology in the classroom on student learning outcomes?
  • To what extent do cultural factors shape perceptions of beauty and body image, and what are the potential negative effects of these perceptions on individuals and society?
  • How has the #MeToo movement impacted the legal and social responses to sexual harassment and assault?
  • What are the ethical implications of using artificial intelligence to make decisions in fields such as medicine or finance?
  • How has globalization impacted economic inequality both within and between countries?
  • To what extent do historical events such as colonization continue to shape contemporary social and economic disparities in certain regions or countries?
  • What is the psychological impact of exposure to violent or graphic media on children and adolescents?
  • How do cultural attitudes towards mental health differ across different regions or countries, and what are the implications of these differences for the treatment of mental illness?

Good Vs. Bad Research Questions

When creating research questions, it's important to know that they're not the same as essay topics. Good research questions have certain qualities that make them effective, while bad ones can lead to unsuccessful research. 

Let's talk about how to tell the difference!

Characteristics of a Good Extended Essay Topic

Choosing a good extended essay topic is crucial to the success of your project. Here are some characteristics to keep in mind:

  • Personal interest: Select a topic that you find interesting and fascinating. This will make the research and writing process much more enjoyable.
  • Feasibility: Choose a topic that is feasible within the given time and resource constraints. Consider factors such as access to information and availability of sources.
  • Originality: Aim for a topic that is original and unique. Avoid choosing a topic that is too broad or generic.
  • Significance: Select a topic that is significant and relevant to the subject area. The topic should have relevance beyond the extended essay itself.
  • Research potential: Choose a topic that has ample scope for research and analysis. This will ensure that you have enough material to write a comprehensive essay.

By considering these characteristics, you can select an extended essay topic that will result in a rewarding project.

How to Choose an Extended Essay Topic?

The extended essay is an opportunity to explore a topic of personal interest and develop research skills while demonstrating its understanding.

Here are some things IB students should consider when choosing an EE topic:

Understand the EE Guidelines

To choose an appropriate topic for your extended essay, you must first familiarize yourself with the requirements set by the IB program. 

You can refer to an extended essay guide for this. This will ensure that your chosen topic is within the scope of the program and meets the necessary academic standards.

Brainstorm and Narrow Down Options

Brainstorming is a crucial step in selecting an extended essay topic. Start by generating a list of ideas based on your interests and passions. 

Narrow down options by considering feasibility, resources, and research questions.

Consider Personal Interests

Selecting a topic that matches your interests can enhance your extended essay research and writing process.

Consider your strengths and weaknesses when choosing a topic to ensure successful completion of the project.

Evaluate the Feasibility and Scope of Topic

It is essential to evaluate the feasibility and scope of your chosen topic before committing to it fully. 

Consider factors such as the availability of resources, potential research questions, and the time and effort required to complete the project. Make sure that your chosen topic is manageable and realistic within the given timeframe.

By carefully picking the right topic, you can take the first step towards ensuring a good extended essay grade.

With the list of topics provided and the tips on how to choose, you are well-equipped to begin your extended essay journey. 

However, if the process still seems overwhelming, don't hesitate to reach out to our college essay-writing service for help. 

Our AI essay writer can write your extended essay on any topic you need.

Also, our writers can guide you in choosing a topic, conducting research, and crafting a well-structured essay that meets the requirements. 

With our extended essay writing service , you’ll get a top-quality essay that earns you the grade you deserve. 

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

What is a good extended essay topic.

A good extended essay topic is one that aligns with your personal interests and passions, and allows for in-depth research and analysis.

What is the easiest extended essay topic?

There is no one "easiest" extended essay topic, as the level of difficulty can vary based on individual strengths and weaknesses. However, selecting a topic that you have a strong background knowledge in can make the process easier.

Is it easy to get an A in an extended essay?

It is possible to get an A in an extended essay, but it requires a strong understanding of the chosen topic, thorough research, and well-structured writing that meets all the requirements.

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Biology EE Topics | 40 Ideas

Biology EE Topics

Luke MacQuoid

There are many potential topics for a biology Extended Essay (EE) in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

Topic Ideas

Some possibilities include the following:

  • The effects of pollution on a particular species or ecosystem.
  • The genetic basis of a specific disease or trait.
  • The comparative physiology of a specific mammal and bird.
  • The effects of climate change on a particular species or ecosystem.
  • The impact of human activity on the evolution of a species.
  • The physiology of a specific plant species.
  • The efficacy of a specific medicinal plant.
  • The comparison of the anatomy and physiology of a specific animal species in captivity and in the wild.
  • The impact of a specific invasive species on an ecosystem.
  • The effect of different fertilizers on the growth and development of a specific plant species.
  • The study of the symbiotic relationship between specific species.
  • The effect of different light conditions on the growth and development of a specific plant species.
  • The impact of different temperature conditions on the physiology of a specific microorganism.
  • The study of the genetic diversity within a specific species.
  • The study of the effects of different pH levels on the growth and development of a specific plant species.
  • The impact of human activity on the population dynamics of a specific species.
  • The study of the effects of different soil types on the growth and development of a specific plant species.
  • The study of the impacts of different pesticides on the physiology of a specific species.
  • The study of the effects of different water conditions on the growth and development of a specific plant species.
  • The study of the impact of ocean acidification on the physiology of a specific marine species.
  • Studying the Effects of Acid Rain on Local Flora.
  • The Role of Gut Microbiota in Obesity.
  • Influence of Insecticides on Honey Bee Population Decline.
  • The Effects of Microplastics on Aquatic Food Chains.
  • The Role of Genetics in Determining Human Lifespan.
  • Influence of Habitat Loss on the Genetic Diversity of a Specific Species.
  • The Effects of Light Pollution on Nocturnal Animals.
  • A Comparative Study of Photosynthesis Rates in Different Plant Species.
  • The Impact of Noise Pollution on Avian Communication.
  • Analysis of Biological Controls for Invasive Species.
  • The Effects of Diet on the Gut Microbiota.
  • Understanding the Effect of Climate Change on Disease Vectors.
  • Exploring the Role of Genetics in Athletic Performance.
  • Effects of Pharmaceuticals on Aquatic Ecosystems.
  • The Impact of Urbanization on Local Bird Species.
  • Understanding the Relationship Between Sleep and Immune Function.
  • Studying the Effects of Air Pollution on Lichen Species.
  • The Role of Epigenetics in Aging.
  • The Effect of Vegan and Vegetarian Diets on the Human Body.
  • Investigating the Biological Mechanisms of Meditation and Mindfulness.

It’s important to note that these are just examples of topics for your IB EE in Biology . You should choose a topic that interests you and that you can find enough information on.

extended essay topics ideas

Need help with your Biology extended essay?

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

Additionally, it’s essential to consult with your supervisor to make sure the topic meets the requirements of the Extended Essay and that you have access to the necessary resources to complete the research.

Students can use these themes in their essays by researching and analyzing the specific topic, providing evidence and examples to support their claims, and discussing the implications and potential solutions to the issue at hand.

For example, in an essay on the effects of pollution on a particular species or ecosystem, a student could research the specific pollutants that are affecting the species or ecosystem, analyze the effects those pollutants are having, and discuss potential solutions to mitigate the pollution and its effects.

These are experiments students can use for Biology EE topics:

  • Looking at how pollution impacts a certain type of animal or plant: This would involve checking out pollution levels in a specific place, then watching to see how it affects your chosen species.
  • Understanding how certain genes affect a disease or characteristic: This would mean doing genetic tests to identify the genes involved, and potentially using genetic engineering techniques to change those genes and see what happens.
  • Comparing how a mammal and a bird work: You’d do experiments to see how your chosen mammal and bird are similar or different. You could look at things like brain structure, behaviour, and thinking abilities.
  • Exploring how climate change impacts a certain animal, plant, or ecosystem: This could involve experiments to see how changes in temperature, rain patterns, or CO2 levels affect your chosen species or ecosystem.
  • Studying how people’s actions affect how a species evolves: This might mean looking at how things like habitat destruction, hunting, or pollution impact a species’ genetic diversity and population.
  • Looking at how a certain plant works: You’d do experiments to see how the plant responds to things like light, temperature, or water.
  • Studying how well a medicinal plant works: You’d do experiments to see how good the plant is at killing or slowing the growth of microbes, or reducing pain or inflammation.
  • Comparing a certain animal in captivity and in the wild: You’d look at how being in captivity affects the animal’s body and how it works, and how it behaves.
  • Seeing how an invasive species affects an ecosystem: You’d study how your chosen invasive species impacts the growth, reproduction, and health of native species.
  • Studying how different fertilizers affect a plant: This could involve testing different types of fertilizers to see how they affect the plant’s growth rate, leaf size, and health.
  • Looking at how certain species interact: You’d do experiments to understand the relationship between the species. This could involve seeing what happens when you remove one species, or how different environments affect the relationship.
  • Studying how light affects a plant: This might mean doing experiments to see how different light conditions affect the plant’s growth, leaf size, and health.
  • Looking at how temperature affects a microorganism: You’d do experiments to see how different temperatures impact the microorganism’s growth rate, metabolism, and health.
  • Studying genetic diversity in a species: This could involve using genetic markers to identify genetic variations in the species, and then seeing how these variations affect the organism.
  • Looking at how pH levels affect a plant: You’d do experiments to see how different pH levels impact the plant’s growth, leaf size, and health.
  • Studying how people’s actions affect a species’ population: This might mean looking at how things like habitat destruction, hunting, or pollution impact the species’ population size, growth rate, and health.
  • Looking at how soil types affect a plant: This could involve doing experiments to see how different types of soil affect the plant’s growth, leaf size, and health.
  • Studying how pesticides affect a species: This might mean doing experiments to see how different pesticides impact the species’ growth, reproduction, and health.
  • Looking at how water conditions affect a plant: You’d do experiments to see how different water conditions (like availability, salt levels, or temperature) affect the plant’s growth, leaf size, and health.
  • Studying how ocean acidification affects a marine species: This could involve doing experiments to see how increasing acidity levels impact the species’ growth, reproduction, and health.

Additionally, in an essay on the comparative psychiatry of a specific mammal and bird, a student could research and compare the brain structures, behaviors, and cognitive abilities of the two species and discuss any similarities and differences found.

A student can ask for help from a writing service if they need assistance with their essay. This can bring several benefits to the student, such as:

  • Professional guidance . Writing services often have experienced writers and editors who can provide guidance on the essay topic and structure, as well as help with research and editing.
  • Improved quality . A writing service can help improve the overall quality of the essay, including grammar, punctuation, and formatting.
  • Better grades . With the help of a writing service, a student’s essay is likely to be of higher quality, which can lead to better grades.
  • Time-saving . A writing service can help save time as the student can focus on other responsibilities while the writing service works on the essay.
  • Customization . Writing services can also provide a customized service that can be tailored to the student’s specific needs and requirements.
  • Originality . Professional writers will provide original work that is free from plagiarism, which is important in academic writing.

It is important to note, however, that a student should always ensure that the writing service they use is reputable and that they review and understand the work they receive before submitting it as their own.

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

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Economics Extended Essay Topic Ideas for IB Students

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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.

economics extended essay topics

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. 

economics extended essay ideas

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.

extended essay topics ideas

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.

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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.

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