how to write a world studies extended essay

IB World Studies EE examples

Filter exemplars, to what extent will reliance's investment in bioenergy for the production of hydrogen as a biofuel through biomass gasification india influence its capacity to maintain both economic and environmental sustainability, an investigation into the economical and medical pros and cons derived from the growth of human gene editing, want to get full marks for your ee allow us to review it for you 🎯, to what extent does the outbreak of covid-19 pandemic increase the inequality in the distribution of income within malaysia and what does the malaysian government do to help the lower income people , how do psychological factors and neural correlates contribute to radicalization to violence, specifically jihadism, to what extent do the government's initiatives of loan moratorium and the wage subsidy programme help the penang’s citizens financial burdens and employment of the tourism industry due to covid-19, fast track your coursework with mark schemes moderated by ib examiners. upgrade now 🚀, to what extent can optimisation of a business allow for sustainable use of resources relating to the fashion industry, to what extent are the national security policies of the usa and pakistan similar or different in the areas of economic security and terrorism, to what extent has the usage of bitcoin and its practices impacted the economy and environment of kazakhstan, what gender discriminatory factors are responsible for the disproportionate rate of hiv infection among adolescent females in the region of sub-sahran africa, how does regulation in road transport engineering—traffic signals specifically—improve or deteriorate traffic safety in the netherlands and the us, to what extent is the impact of lead biomagnification in local food supply on the people in selangor, malaysia, how does the increase in water pollution impact the economic and ecological sustainability of the kolleru lake in andhra pradesh, economics + ess: [32/34] “what impact did investment in renewable energy have on gujarat’s environmental sustainability and economic development since 2015”, how does pharmaceutical pollution by the discharge of drugs: diclofenac and propranolol, ecotoxicologically affect blue mussels (mytilus edulis) in himmerfjärden bay, sweden in the baltic proper, to what extent does diet and conformity cause japan's lower obesity rates compared to the usa, global politics and economics - a critical analysis on the rana plaza case study: to what extent are worker’s rights and standard labour conditions a priority in the ready-made garments sector of bangladesh, history and english: how have artists’ representations of the french revolution in media responded to transforming individuals and societies from 1789 - 2021, to what extent can the increased production of alternative proteins aid in achieving food security and economic growth in singapore, how do the cognitive biases of a consumer affect their behaviour in tourism flow in bali, how did the loss of the gene patent case surrounding the discovery of the brca1 and brca2 by myriad impact the various stakeholders related to brca testing in the us, to what extent did youth unemployment in post recession spain impact youths and what observed youth mental health issues surfaced during the same period, to what extent did the interim budgets implemented by the singapore government aid in the survival of food & beverage businesses during the pandemic in the year 2020, to what extent are genetically modified (gmo) sugarcane crops effective and sustainable in combating the sugarcane borer (diatraea saccharalis) and how do they affect the sugar and ethanol industry of brazil, environmental and/or economic sustainability: chemistry + ess - to what extent does the incorrect disposal of hexavalent chromium impact platanista gangetica gangetica in the river ganges, and does this pose an immediate threat to humans as well, what impact could the establishment of a potato-based biofuel industry have on bangladesh’s environmental and socioeconomic development.

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

IB World Study Extended Essay: Global Themes And Topics

by  Antony W

January 14, 2023

This is a complete guide to the IB World Extended Essay.

In this post, you’ll learn what World Study Extended Essay is, the right disciplinary approach to take, example topics, as well as how to write the essay. Our goal in this guide is to equip you with the knowledge necessary to get full marks in your World Study Extended Essay.

What is IB World Study Extended Essay?

The IB World History Extended Essay requires you to conduct a detailed investigation into an issue of global significance. The essay must be 4,000 words long and meet all the IB Extended Essay requirements .

World Study Extended Essay requires you to focus on one or two contexts, and you have to examine with great depth.

Since the interdisciplinary investigation addresses complex issues such as migration, global health crisis, global financial crisis, and infringement on human rights, you need to bring together aspects of a number of disciplines to address your topic.

Instructions given by the IB Program requires that you use two subjects in your WSEE investigation. Given the flexibility of the subject, you don’t have to address the topic in full complexity . Instead, aim to demonstrate knowledge that’s new to you.

A comprehensive World Study Extended Essay should be:

• Integrative: It should bring together forms of communication, concepts, and methods from two or more subjects.
• Purposeful: Your World Study Essay should either connect different disciplines to solve real world problems or help to address more complex issues in a new way.
• Grounded: The Extended Essay should demonstrate a clear rooting in disciplinary knowledge and understanding.

The Right Approach to World Study Extended Essay

Pick a theme from the six global themes in World Study Extended Essay and then find a topic that fits a general research area.

Select two of the most suitable disciplines, such as Biology and Economics. You will need these to explore your research topic.

Develop possible research questions and identify possible sources of relevant data. Your goal here is to determine if there are enough sources that allow you to explore the research your research question.

IB Extended Essay Example Topics

The following are some examples of potential topics that you can cover in your World Study Extended Essay:

• Worldwide financial crisis
• Global health concerns
• Disaster rehabilitation and relief
• Energy migration
• Infringement on human right
• Disadvantaged groups
• Civil unrest and protest

Global Themes in Word Study Extended Essay

There are six global themes in World Study Extended Essay.

• Conflict, peace, and security
• Culture, language, and identity
• Environmental and/or economic sustainability
• Equality and inequality
• Health and development
• Science, technology and society

How to Write a World Study Extended Essay

Before you start writing a World Study Extended Essay, make sure the topic you intend to investigate and the arguments you’ll present are of global significance. Issues such as energy security, cultural exchange, racism, malnutrition, and globalization are some of the most interesting topics linked to the six global themes in WSEE.

Step 1:  Choose a Topic and Develop Your Research Question  

The topic you choose to explore should be an issue you are passionate about in the context of World Study Extended Essay.

It can also be about an interesting subject you’ve read lately or a topic you’re willing to investigate extensively.

Research the topic. Look through a variety of sources to find as many ideas and scope for your research as possible. Share your ideas with your EE supervisor, and don’t hesitate to ask them for advice.

Using the topic you’ve selected, develop a relevant research question for your investigation. Don’t worry if you don’t get the best research question right away. Look at your topic, write as many draft research questions as possible, and then pick one that makes the most sense.

Regardless of how many times you tweak your research question, it must reflect the contexts of what you’ll be investigating. So it helps to make sure your RQ is not only specific but also straight to the point.

Step 2: Choose 2 IB Subjects

Depending on the topic you choose to explore in your interdisciplinary investigation, your supervisor expects you to choose two IB subjects with a close correlation.

Say you choose to explore an issue on maternal malnutrition . In such a case, Biology and Economics would be the most suitable subjects to choose. Biology is a good fit because it’s a subject that allows you to explore nutrition and its impact on the development of the fetus. Economics, on the other hand, allows you to examine whether the lack of enough funding contributes to maternal malnutrition.

Look at the topic and the research question you selected in the first step and use them to select the most appropriate IB subjects. The subject you choose must be in the IB curriculum. Again, you can pick a topic from SL (Standard Level) or HL (Higher Level) in IB.

If you feel confused about what subjects would be suitable for your topic, don’t hesitate to consult your supervisor.

Step 3: Research the Topic

This is an important step in your World Study Extended Essay investigation. Because you’ll use the internet for your research, get information from reliable and trustworthy sources such as government websites, university repositories, research articles, and academic journals.

Look for relevant books from the local libraries for additional information. Many of these books have references in the bibliographies of many college and university papers, so they can be useful for your Extended Essay.

If your school allows, you can ask your supervisor to look into the sources you have selected and advice you whether they would be suitable for your interdisciplinary investigation.

Step 4: Write Your World Study Extended Essay

Writing your World Study Extended Essay shouldn’t be hard if you have done your research well.

Just like other types of Extended Essays , your WSEE should have an introduction, a body section, and a conclusion.

In the introduction, explain you chose to investigate the topic and state why you have a strong conviction that it’s the best topic to explore. State your research question, mention the scope of the essay in relation to the two subjects (picked in step 2), and explain how the subjects will help you answer the research question.

Follow this with an abstract. The word limit is 300, so you don’t have the space to include irrelevant information in the document. The information you include should be clear, concise, and direct to the point.

Write the body section of the essay well. Here, provide as much relevant information as possible to answer your research question. Write a strong conclusion, which should tie everything you have written in the body section.

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.

Choose Your Test

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

International Baccalaureate (IB)

IB students around the globe fear writing the Extended Essay, but it doesn't have to be a source of stress! In this article, I'll get you excited about writing your Extended Essay and provide you with the resources you need to get an A on it.

If you're reading this article, I'm going to assume you're an IB student getting ready to write your Extended Essay. If you're looking at this as a potential future IB student, I recommend reading our introductory IB articles first, including our guide to what the IB program is and our full coverage of the IB curriculum .

IB Extended Essay: Why Should You Trust My Advice?

I myself am a recipient of an IB Diploma, and I happened to receive an A on my IB Extended Essay. Don't believe me? The proof is in the IBO pudding:

If you're confused by what this report means, EE is short for Extended Essay , and English A1 is the subject that my Extended Essay topic coordinated with. In layman's terms, my IB Diploma was graded in May 2010, I wrote my Extended Essay in the English A1 category, and I received an A grade on it.

What Is the Extended Essay in the IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Extended Essay, or EE , is a mini-thesis you write under the supervision of an IB advisor (an IB teacher at your school), which counts toward your IB Diploma (learn more about the major IB Diploma requirements in our guide) . I will explain exactly how the EE affects your Diploma later in this article.

For the Extended Essay, you will choose a research question as a topic, conduct the research independently, then write an essay on your findings . The essay itself is a long one—although there's a cap of 4,000 words, most successful essays get very close to this limit.

Keep in mind that the IB requires this essay to be a "formal piece of academic writing," meaning you'll have to do outside research and cite additional sources.

The IB Extended Essay must include the following:

• A title page
• Contents page
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References and bibliography

Additionally, your research topic must fall into one of the six approved DP categories , or IB subject groups, which are as follows:

• Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
• Group 2: Language Acquisition
• Group 3: Individuals and Societies
• Group 4: Sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics
• Group 6: The Arts

Once you figure out your category and have identified a potential research topic, it's time to pick your advisor, who is normally an IB teacher at your school (though you can also find one online ). This person will help direct your research, and they'll conduct the reflection sessions you'll have to do as part of your Extended Essay.

As of 2018, the IB requires a "reflection process" as part of your EE supervision process. To fulfill this requirement, you have to meet at least three times with your supervisor in what the IB calls "reflection sessions." These meetings are not only mandatory but are also part of the formal assessment of the EE and your research methods.

According to the IB, the purpose of these meetings is to "provide an opportunity for students to reflect on their engagement with the research process." Basically, these meetings give your supervisor the opportunity to offer feedback, push you to think differently, and encourage you to evaluate your research process.

The final reflection session is called the viva voce, and it's a short 10- to 15-minute interview between you and your advisor. This happens at the very end of the EE process, and it's designed to help your advisor write their report, which factors into your EE grade.

Here are the topics covered in your viva voce :

• A check on plagiarism and malpractice
• Your reflection on your project's successes and difficulties
• Your reflection on what you've learned during the EE process

Your completed Extended Essay, along with your supervisor's report, will then be sent to the IB to be graded. We'll cover the assessment criteria in just a moment.

We'll help you learn how to have those "lightbulb" moments...even on test day!  

What Should You Write About in Your IB Extended Essay?

You can technically write about anything, so long as it falls within one of the approved categories listed above.

It's best to choose a topic that matches one of the IB courses , (such as Theatre, Film, Spanish, French, Math, Biology, etc.), which shouldn't be difficult because there are so many class subjects.

Here is a range of sample topics with the attached extended essay:

• Biology: The Effect of Age and Gender on the Photoreceptor Cells in the Human Retina
• Chemistry: How Does Reflux Time Affect the Yield and Purity of Ethyl Aminobenzoate (Benzocaine), and How Effective is Recrystallisation as a Purification Technique for This Compound?
• English: An Exploration of Jane Austen's Use of the Outdoors in Emma
• Geography: The Effect of Location on the Educational Attainment of Indigenous Secondary Students in Queensland, Australia
• Math: Alhazen's Billiard Problem
• Visual Arts: Can Luc Tuymans Be Classified as a Political Painter?

You can see from how varied the topics are that you have a lot of freedom when it comes to picking a topic . So how do you pick when the options are limitless?

How to Write a Stellar IB Extended Essay: 6 Essential Tips

Below are six key tips to keep in mind as you work on your Extended Essay for the IB DP. Follow these and you're sure to get an A!

#1: Write About Something You Enjoy

You can't expect to write a compelling essay if you're not a fan of the topic on which you're writing. For example, I just love British theatre and ended up writing my Extended Essay on a revolution in post-WWII British theatre. (Yes, I'm definitely a #TheatreNerd.)

I really encourage anyone who pursues an IB Diploma to take the Extended Essay seriously. I was fortunate enough to receive a full-tuition merit scholarship to USC's School of Dramatic Arts program. In my interview for the scholarship, I spoke passionately about my Extended Essay; thus, I genuinely think my Extended Essay helped me get my scholarship.

But how do you find a topic you're passionate about? Start by thinking about which classes you enjoy the most and why . Do you like math classes because you like to solve problems? Or do you enjoy English because you like to analyze literary texts?

Keep in mind that there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing your Extended Essay topic. You're not more likely to get high marks because you're writing about science, just like you're not doomed to failure because you've chosen to tackle the social sciences. The quality of what you produce—not the field you choose to research within—will determine your grade.

Once you've figured out your category, you should brainstorm more specific topics by putting pen to paper . What was your favorite chapter you learned in that class? Was it astrophysics or mechanics? What did you like about that specific chapter? Is there something you want to learn more about? I recommend spending a few hours on this type of brainstorming.

One last note: if you're truly stumped on what to research, pick a topic that will help you in your future major or career . That way you can use your Extended Essay as a talking point in your college essays (and it will prepare you for your studies to come too!).

#2: Select a Topic That Is Neither Too Broad nor Too Narrow

There's a fine line between broad and narrow. You need to write about something specific, but not so specific that you can't write 4,000 words on it.

You can't write about WWII because that would be a book's worth of material. You also don't want to write about what type of soup prisoners of war received behind enemy lines, because you probably won’t be able to come up with 4,000 words of material about it. However, you could possibly write about how the conditions in German POW camps—and the rations provided—were directly affected by the Nazis' successes and failures on the front, including the use of captured factories and prison labor in Eastern Europe to increase production. WWII military history might be a little overdone, but you get my point.

If you're really stuck trying to pinpoint a not-too-broad-or-too-narrow topic, I suggest trying to brainstorm a topic that uses a comparison. Once you begin looking through the list of sample essays below, you'll notice that many use comparisons to formulate their main arguments.

I also used a comparison in my EE, contrasting Harold Pinter's Party Time with John Osborne's Look Back in Anger in order to show a transition in British theatre. Topics with comparisons of two to three plays, books, and so on tend to be the sweet spot. You can analyze each item and then compare them with one another after doing some in-depth analysis of each individually. The ways these items compare and contrast will end up forming the thesis of your essay!

When choosing a comparative topic, the key is that the comparison should be significant. I compared two plays to illustrate the transition in British theatre, but you could compare the ways different regional dialects affect people's job prospects or how different temperatures may or may not affect the mating patterns of lightning bugs. The point here is that comparisons not only help you limit your topic, but they also help you build your argument.

Comparisons are not the only way to get a grade-A EE, though. If after brainstorming, you pick a non-comparison-based topic and are still unsure whether your topic is too broad or narrow, spend about 30 minutes doing some basic research and see how much material is out there.

If there are more than 1,000 books, articles, or documentaries out there on that exact topic, it may be too broad. But if there are only two books that have any connection to your topic, it may be too narrow. If you're still unsure, ask your advisor—it's what they're there for! Speaking of advisors...

Don't get stuck with a narrow topic!

#3: Choose an Advisor Who Is Familiar With Your Topic

If you're not certain of who you would like to be your advisor, create a list of your top three choices. Next, write down the pros and cons of each possibility (I know this sounds tedious, but it really helps!).

For example, Mr. Green is my favorite teacher and we get along really well, but he teaches English. For my EE, I want to conduct an experiment that compares the efficiency of American electric cars with foreign electric cars.

I had Ms. White a year ago. She teaches physics and enjoyed having me in her class. Unlike Mr. Green, Ms. White could help me design my experiment.

Based on my topic and what I need from my advisor, Ms. White would be a better fit for me than would Mr. Green (even though I like him a lot).

The moral of my story is this: do not just ask your favorite teacher to be your advisor . They might be a hindrance to you if they teach another subject. For example, I would not recommend asking your biology teacher to guide you in writing an English literature-based EE.

There can, of course, be exceptions to this rule. If you have a teacher who's passionate and knowledgeable about your topic (as my English teacher was about my theatre topic), you could ask that instructor. Consider all your options before you do this. There was no theatre teacher at my high school, so I couldn't find a theatre-specific advisor, but I chose the next best thing.

Before you approach a teacher to serve as your advisor, check with your high school to see what requirements they have for this process. Some IB high schools require your IB Extended Essay advisor to sign an Agreement Form , for instance.

Make sure that you ask your IB coordinator whether there is any required paperwork to fill out. If your school needs a specific form signed, bring it with you when you ask your teacher to be your EE advisor.

#4: Pick an Advisor Who Will Push You to Be Your Best

Some teachers might just take on students because they have to and aren't very passionate about reading drafts, only giving you minimal feedback. Choose a teacher who will take the time to read several drafts of your essay and give you extensive notes. I would not have gotten my A without being pushed to make my Extended Essay draft better.

Ask a teacher that you have experience with through class or an extracurricular activity. Do not ask a teacher that you have absolutely no connection to. If a teacher already knows you, that means they already know your strengths and weaknesses, so they know what to look for, where you need to improve, and how to encourage your best work.

Also, don't forget that your supervisor's assessment is part of your overall EE score . If you're meeting with someone who pushes you to do better—and you actually take their advice—they'll have more impressive things to say about you than a supervisor who doesn't know you well and isn't heavily involved in your research process.

Be aware that the IB only allows advisors to make suggestions and give constructive criticism. Your teacher cannot actually help you write your EE. The IB recommends that the supervisor spends approximately two to three hours in total with the candidate discussing the EE.

#5: Make Sure Your Essay Has a Clear Structure and Flow

The IB likes structure. Your EE needs a clear introduction (which should be one to two double-spaced pages), research question/focus (i.e., what you're investigating), a body, and a conclusion (about one double-spaced page). An essay with unclear organization will be graded poorly.

The body of your EE should make up the bulk of the essay. It should be about eight to 18 pages long (again, depending on your topic). Your body can be split into multiple parts. For example, if you were doing a comparison, you might have one third of your body as Novel A Analysis, another third as Novel B Analysis, and the final third as your comparison of Novels A and B.

If you're conducting an experiment or analyzing data, such as in this EE , your EE body should have a clear structure that aligns with the scientific method ; you should state the research question, discuss your method, present the data, analyze the data, explain any uncertainties, and draw a conclusion and/or evaluate the success of the experiment.

#6: Start Writing Sooner Rather Than Later!

You will not be able to crank out a 4,000-word essay in just a week and get an A on it. You'll be reading many, many articles (and, depending on your topic, possibly books and plays as well!). As such, it's imperative that you start your research as soon as possible.

Each school has a slightly different deadline for the Extended Essay. Some schools want them as soon as November of your senior year; others will take them as late as February. Your school will tell you what your deadline is. If they haven't mentioned it by February of your junior year, ask your IB coordinator about it.

Some high schools will provide you with a timeline of when you need to come up with a topic, when you need to meet with your advisor, and when certain drafts are due. Not all schools do this. Ask your IB coordinator if you are unsure whether you are on a specific timeline.

Below is my recommended EE timeline. While it's earlier than most schools, it'll save you a ton of heartache (trust me, I remember how hard this process was!):

• January/February of Junior Year: Come up with your final research topic (or at least your top three options).
• February of Junior Year: Approach a teacher about being your EE advisor. If they decline, keep asking others until you find one. See my notes above on how to pick an EE advisor.
• April/May of Junior Year: Submit an outline of your EE and a bibliography of potential research sources (I recommend at least seven to 10) to your EE advisor. Meet with your EE advisor to discuss your outline.
• Summer Between Junior and Senior Year: Complete your first full draft over the summer between your junior and senior year. I know, I know—no one wants to work during the summer, but trust me—this will save you so much stress come fall when you are busy with college applications and other internal assessments for your IB classes. You will want to have this first full draft done because you will want to complete a couple of draft cycles as you likely won't be able to get everything you want to say into 4,000 articulate words on the first attempt. Try to get this first draft into the best possible shape so you don't have to work on too many revisions during the school year on top of your homework, college applications, and extracurriculars.
• August/September of Senior Year: Turn in your first draft of your EE to your advisor and receive feedback. Work on incorporating their feedback into your essay. If they have a lot of suggestions for improvement, ask if they will read one more draft before the final draft.
• September/October of Senior Year: Submit the second draft of your EE to your advisor (if necessary) and look at their feedback. Work on creating the best possible final draft.
• November-February of Senior Year: Schedule your viva voce. Submit two copies of your final draft to your school to be sent off to the IB. You likely will not get your grade until after you graduate.

Remember that in the middle of these milestones, you'll need to schedule two other reflection sessions with your advisor . (Your teachers will actually take notes on these sessions on a form like this one , which then gets submitted to the IB.)

I recommend doing them when you get feedback on your drafts, but these meetings will ultimately be up to your supervisor. Just don't forget to do them!

The early bird DOES get the worm!

How Is the IB Extended Essay Graded?

Extended Essays are graded by examiners appointed by the IB on a scale of 0 to 34 . You'll be graded on five criteria, each with its own set of points. You can learn more about how EE scoring works by reading the IB guide to extended essays .

• Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum)
• Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum)
• Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum)
• Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum)
• Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum)

How well you do on each of these criteria will determine the final letter grade you get for your EE. You must earn at least a D to be eligible to receive your IB Diploma.

Although each criterion has a point value, the IB explicitly states that graders are not converting point totals into grades; instead, they're using qualitative grade descriptors to determine the final grade of your Extended Essay . Grade descriptors are on pages 102-103 of this document .

Here's a rough estimate of how these different point values translate to letter grades based on previous scoring methods for the EE. This is just an estimate —you should read and understand the grade descriptors so you know exactly what the scorers are looking for.

Here is the breakdown of EE scores (from the May 2021 bulletin):

How Does the Extended Essay Grade Affect Your IB Diploma?

The Extended Essay grade is combined with your TOK (Theory of Knowledge) grade to determine how many points you get toward your IB Diploma.

To learn about Theory of Knowledge or how many points you need to receive an IB Diploma, read our complete guide to the IB program and our guide to the IB Diploma requirements .

This diagram shows how the two scores are combined to determine how many points you receive for your IB diploma (3 being the most, 0 being the least). In order to get your IB Diploma, you have to earn 24 points across both categories (the TOK and EE). The highest score anyone can earn is 45 points.

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

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

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

40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme

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

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

What's Next?

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

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

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

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

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

Student and Parent Forum

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

Ask a Question Below

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

Improve With Our Famous Guides

• For All Students

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

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

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

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

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

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

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

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

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

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

Extended Essay: World Studies EE's

• General Timeline
• Group 1: English Language and Literature
• Group 2: Language Acquisition
• Group 3: Individuals and Societies
• Group 4: Sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics
• Group 6: The Arts
• Interdisciplinary essays
• Brainstorming
• Pre-Writing
• Research Techniques
• The Research Question
• Paraphrasing, Summarising and Quotations
• Writing an EE Introduction
• Writing the main body of your EE
• Writing your EE Conclusion
• Six sub-categories for WSEE
• IB Interdisciplinary EE Assessment Guide
• Sources: Finding, Organising and Evaluating Them
• Conducting Interviews and Surveys
• Citing and Referencing
• Check-in Sessions
• First Formal Reflection
• Second Formal Reflection
• Final Reflection (Viva Voce)
• Researcher's Reflection Space (RRS) Examples
• Information for Supervisors
• How is the EE Graded?
• EE Online Resources
• Stavanger Public Library
• Exemplar Essays
• Extended Essay Presentations
• ISS High School Academic Honesty Policy

Everything you need to know about the WSEE

The chosen topic for the World Studies Extended Essay (WSEE) must address both a local and a global issue of significance, and invite an interdisciplinary approach, meaning that two approved IB subjects should be used as an interdisciplinary critical lens to answer the research question. The most successful topics reveal connections between specific and/or local places, people, phenomena or experiences, and the larger global framework in which they take place (IBO 2010). 

Interdisciplinary research

• Global issues often invite an interdisciplinary approach.
• Different individuals and groups bring different perspectives, areas of expertise, and interests to the same topic. 
• Spending time thinking about an issue and exploring a wide variety of sources will provide a deeper and richer research experience. 
• In a WSEE, crafting a research question does not begin with the subject, but with the issue. 

World Studies Extended Essays MUST fall within one of the following six categories:

• Science, technology and society
• Culture, language and identity
• Conflict, peace and security
• Equality and inequality
• Health and development
• Environmental and/or economic sustainability

Click here to learn more about the WSEE sub-categories. 

From the ib:, introduction to the world studies extended essay (wsee).

The WSEE invites students to conduct an in-depth,  interdisciplinary  investigation into an issue of contemporary global importance (maximum 4,000 words). 

Here are some examples of potential topics include:

Interdisciplinary approach

The perspective of just one subject may not be adequate to address complex issues like those in the list above. The WSEE therefore requires students to bring together aspects of different disciplines to illuminate their chosen topic. 

Students should use two Diploma Programme subjects. It is strongly recommended that students are undertaking a course of study in at least one of the subjects chosen for their essay.

Students are not expected to address the topic in its full complexity, but should aim to generate understandings that are new to them. 

The aims of the WSEE are to enable students to:

• frame and understand complex contemporary world problems for in-depth study
• gather and synthesize insights from two different disciplines to better understand the issue 
• develop global consciousness—a disposition to recognize and understand local and global relationships in dynamic interaction 
• view themselves as interpreters of and actors in an increasingly interconnected world.

Students are encouraged to focus on just  one or two contexts  in some depth, for example: 

• The student examines two geographical case studies to explore whether religious beliefs affect attitudes towards HIV/AIDS in Oslo and Mombasa. 
• The student examines one or two events to evaluate relief efforts after natural disasters, and suggests ways to make these more responsive. 
• The student examines one or two interventions to investigate what determines the success or failure of sanctions imposed by the United Nations. 

Students can refer to other places and events beyond the primary context(s) when relevant to the argument. In fact, the IB encourages this as it displays global consciousness. However, a detailed contextualized study of these additional cases is impossible within the 4,000-word limit.

WSEE Examiners follow special guidelines that are specific to interdisciplinary essays.  Click  here  to view a pdf of the published IB page that outlines these specific guidelines.  

• << Previous: Writing your EE Conclusion
• Next: Six sub-categories for WSEE >>
• Last Updated: Apr 3, 2024 10:42 AM
• URL: https://isstavanger.libguides.com/c.php?g=695888

DP World Studies Extended Essay: Introduction

• Introduction
• Getting Started
• Global Themes
• Interdisciplinary Research
• What Makes Up a "Discipline"?
• Evaluating the Insights of Academic Disciplines
• Multiple Forms of Integration
• Evaluating Your Essay
• Common Stumbling Blocks
• Examples of Globally Conscious Students
• World Studies Exemplars
• List of IB Subjects
• Examiner Reports

World Studies EE Overview

The world studies extended essay (wsee).

The World Studies Extended Essay (WSEE) has to meet all the presentation requirements of the IB Extended Essay , including having a maximum length of 4,000 words.  

See the Extended Essay guide for more details.  WSEE documents are in the box to the right.

Examples of potential topics include:

Interdisciplinary Approach

The IB recommends that you use two IB Diploma Programme subjects, one of which you must be studying. 

You're not expected to address the topic in its full complexity, but you should aim to generate understandings that are new to you.

It would be very easy for you to rely on common-sense understanding of a global issue or more informal insights. However, the academic nature of the EE requires you to understand a global issue through disciplinary lenses.

• An examination of two geographical case studies exploring whether religious beliefs affect attitudes towards HIV/AIDS in Oslo and Mombasa. 
• An examination of one or two events evaluating relief efforts after natural disasters, with suggestions of ways to make these more responsive. 
• An examination of one or two interventions investigating what determines the success or failure of sanctions imposed by the United Nations. 

You can refer to other places and events beyond the primary context(s) when relevant to the argument.  This can demonstrate global consciousness in your writing. However, a really detailed study of these additional cases would not be possible given the 4,000-word limit.

WSEE Documents

• IB EE Subject Guide - World Studies, 2018
• Making Meaningful Connections Use this worksheet to help you think about your research plans: the concepts or methods your will be using, the global topic you're focusing on, and the academic disciplines you will be using.
• Sample Prompts for the WSEE RRS What should you write in your RRS? Use these questions and prompts to help you think through the various stages of the research for your WSEE: your initial ideas, your thoughts and reflections during the process, and your conclusions.
• RRS Example B - World Studies

RPPF (Researcher's Planning and Progress Form) examples:

• RPPF Example 5 - World Studies
• RPPF Example 7 - World Studies

IB Extended Essay Guide

Check the Extended Essay guide for specific guidance on completing the various steps in the research and writing process of the EE, and  these documents:

• Next: Getting Started >>
• Last Updated: Nov 22, 2023 11:14 AM
• URL: https://aism-mz.libguides.com/worldstudies

Extended Essay: World Studies

• Introduction to the EE
• Step 1 - Choose a subject

World Studies

• Step 3 - The Researchers Reflection Space
• Identify Sources
• Tools for Note Taking
• Video Guides
• Step 5 - Creating Research Questions
• Step 6 - Outlines and Plans
• Step 7 - Citing
• Criteria E - 3 Reflections
• Know Your Criteria
• Criteria D - Check your Formatting
• 4000 words final hand in

This is not for the faint hearted. To embark on a World Studies extended essay means you have to really focus across two or more subject areas. It is very easy to do this badly, but if you succeed it is a very worthy assignment. Note also that it is a new area so it is something that you will have to do a lot of reading around yourself to make sure you are on track. if you have any doubts, turn back now.

If you choose to move forward - start by doing the following:

1. Read from the IBO.

Examples -  Go into and reading the exemplars in  this folder.

There have been a large number of examples added to the  ib website  recently., examiners comments are also very very useful: , world studies  subject report 2018, world studies subject report 2021, very useful document:  step by step guide to a world studies ee (source isb), how to fill in a proposal for a world studies essay.

Task 1. Look at the example above - You will practice reverse engineering a World Studies EE first doing  these tasks  and looking at some examples of EEs in World Studies.

Task 2: Look at some more examples of EE's that have been done in the past in World Studies

Task 3: Look again at the themes and examples - write a list of possible themes and wider topics you would want to look at.

Task 4: Do some reading and refine what you might want to do.

Task 5: Now put forward proposals - choose a range if you want

Presentation

New examples 2021.

There have been a large number of examples added to the IB website recently.

Look at them - even if they have a lower grade - look at why they might have got this.. Was it due to the choice of topic/ research question?

video resources

Video Resources

Both provided by ISB - Thanks

• << Previous: Group 6
• Next: Step 3 - The Researchers Reflection Space >>
• Last Updated: Mar 10, 2024 10:40 PM
• URL: https://cis.libguides.com/extendedessay

Gr. 11-12 Extended Essay

• Reflections
• Choose a Subject
• Choose a Topic
• Draft a Research Question
• Develop Your Search Strategy
• Computer Science
• Visual Arts
• World Studies

World Studies EE Overview

Recommended databases, website sources.

• Introduction
• Academic Integrity
• Common Questions
• For Supervisors
• EE Examples
• Introduction to the World Studies EE
• World Studies Extended Essays Guidance
• World Studies EE: Workflow and Expectations
• Intro to World Studies EE

World Studies EE examples

• << Previous: Visual Arts
• Next: Write Your Essay >>
• Last Updated: Feb 21, 2024 10:03 AM
• URL: https://yorkschool.libguides.com/extendedessay

OGC Extended Essay: World Studies

• Computer Science
• Design Technology
• Global Politics
• Language Acquisition
• Mathematics
• Sports Science

World Studies

• Notes & Outlines
• Works Cited Page
• In-Text Citations
• Reflections
• Supervisor Info
• Library This link opens in a new window

• Requirements

Research Questions

• Past Papers

Writing an EE in World Studies: READ CAREFULLY!

The World Studies paper examines a Global Issue in a LOCAL Context through the lens of TWO Subject areas .

This essay is very different from all other options, so read over the resources below VERY carefully and consult your teachers early and often.

Specific Requirements for a World Studies EE

The Subject-Specific Guidance page  for your chosen subject is THE KEY to ensuring your paper meets the requirements. Print, highlight, and annotate this page and pin it above your desk!

• Choose two of your DP Subjects that can both connect to one of THESE THEMES
• Subject-Specific Guidance

Use the Command Terms  common in the two SUBJECTS as much as possible

The Subject Reports  give an overview of what EXAMINERS have said  about makes a successful paper in the subject. It's smart to read these over to know what the examiners are  looking  for.

World Studies  subject report 2018

World studies  subject report 2021.

See the Focused Topics below:

A Step-by-Step Guide  to writing a World Studies EE (Print & Pin)

Review the questions below

• Which ones will be most successful?
• What ideas do the questions spark for you?

Sample World Studies Research Questions

Physics & Geography

• To What Extent is the Design of the Standard Houses that Gawak Kalinga Builds Able to Withstand the Seismic Hazards Present in Manila?

Economics & Music

• To what extent is electronic music’s economy expanding?

Psychology & Geography

• How do the combined effects of Socioeconomic Status and Diabetes increase prevalences of Alzheimer’s Disease in different regions within China (PRC)?

History & Economics

• To what extent did the LGBTQ community contribute to making attractive neighborhoods in the US and why are they pushed to leave them now?

History & Literature

• What aspects of the anti-vaccination movement, and “The Crucible” relate to mass hysteria during the Salem Witch Trials?

Economics & Politics

• To what extent has the political decision to host the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro affected Brazils’ economy and the financial welfare of its citizens?

Biology & Economics

• How does mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) ecotourism support and strengthen local economies while ensuring the mountain gorillas’ health and survival?

Past Papers: Why Read Them?

• See  common structures, methodologies, use of command terms  and other subject-specific vocabulary
• Notice the difference  between successful papers AND papers that were less successful
• Read the  examiner comments  on scored papers and their reflections to note what worked and what didn't
• 12 World Studies papers, scored with reflection s, via the IBO

World Studies Example 1

World Studies Example 2

World Studies Example 3

World Studies Example 4

World Studies Example 5

World Studies Example 6

World Studies Example 7

World Studies Example 8

World Studies Example 9

World Studies Example 10

World Studies Example 11

World Studies Example 12

World Studies Example 13

World Studies Example 14

World Studies Example 15

World Studies Example 16

World Studies Example 17

World Studies Example 18

• UN Sustainable Development Goals: Click the goal you want to learn more about. See examples of the "Goals in Action"
• UN SDG's knowledge platform Learn about the progress and targets for each goal
• << Previous: Sports Science
• Next: Lessons >>
• Last Updated: Apr 4, 2024 10:50 AM
• URL: https://oberoi-is.libguides.com/OGC-EE

Extended Essay 专题论文: World Studies EE

• STEP 1. Start Early and RRS
• Identify Keywords and Terms
• Background Reading
• Refine and Narrow the Topic
• Question Starters
• Command terms & key concepts for the subjects
• STEP 4. First Formal Reflection Session
• STEP 5. Outline and Methods
• STEP 6. EE Café & First Draft
• Assessment Criteria
• How to create and edit sources
• How to use Quick Cite
• How to create Notecards
• How to Create In-text Citations
• How to Export Source Citations
• How to share a Project with Your Teacher
• Getting Started
• Subject-specific Rules and Considerations
• World Studies Global Themes
• Interdisciplinary Study
• Disciplinary Lenses
• Making Meaningful Connections
• Nurturing Global Consciousness
• WSEE Learning Demands and Expectations
• Common Problems
• Resources for Supervisors

Introduction

To get started, it's important to understand that the world studies extended essay (WSEE) invites students to conduct an in-depth,  interdisciplinary  investigation into an issue of contemporary global importance in a maximum of 4,000 words. 

Why write a WSEE?

Writing an interdisciplinary extended essay (EE) gives students an opportunity to undertake an in-depth and independent investigation into a topic of their choice that considers the relationship between subjects and allows for meaningful connections to be made in relation to their chosen area of research. 

The aims of the WSEE are to enable students to:

• frame and understand complex contemporary world problems for in-depth study
• gather and synthesize insights from two different disciplines to better understand the issue
• develop global consciousness —a disposition to recognize and understand local and global relationships in dynamic interaction
• view themselves as interpreters of and actors in an increasingly interconnected world.

In line with the  IB’s mission , the world studies EE seeks to advance students’ emerging global consciousness . This comprises:

• a sensitivity to local phenomena as manifestations of broader developments on the planet
• the capacity to think in flexible and informed ways in understanding issues of global significance
• a developing perception of the student’s own identity (self) as a global actor and member of humanity , capable of making a positive contribution to the world.

This WSEE guide is adapt from IBO World studies extended essay guidance .  

Examples of potential topics include:

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

Interdisciplinary approach

The perspective of just one subject may not be adequate to address complex issues like these. The WSEE therefore requires students to bring together aspects of different disciplines to illuminate their chosen topic.

Students should use two Diploma Programme subjects. It is strongly recommended that students are undertaking a course of study in at least one of the subjects chosen for their essay.

Students are not expected to address the topic in its full complexity, but should aim to generate understandings that are new to them.

Students are encouraged to focus on just  one or two contexts  in some depth, for example:

• The student examines two geographical case studies to explore whether religious beliefs affect attitudes towards HIV/AIDS in Oslo and Mombasa.
• The student examines one or two events to evaluate relief efforts after natural disasters, and suggests ways to make these more responsive.
• The student examines one or two interventions to investigate what determines the success or failure of sanctions imposed by the United Nations.

Students can refer to other places and events beyond the primary context(s) when relevant to the argument. In fact, the IB encourages this as it displays global consciousness. However, a detailed contextualized study of these additional cases is impossible within the 4,000-word limit.

Quick Links

• Interdisciplinary learning—from the what and why, to the how (part 1)

• Interdisciplinary learning—from the what and why, to the how (part 2)
• << Previous: How to share a Project with Your Teacher
• Next: Getting Started >>
• Last Updated: Mar 27, 2024 2:53 PM
• URL: https://huilieducation.libguides.com/EE

Extended Essay

• Mathematics
• Studies in language and literature
• World studies extended essay
• Visual arts
• Language Acquisition

World studies: Sample A

World studies: sample b, world studies: sample c.

• Last Updated: Oct 14, 2021 3:31 PM
• URL: https://keystoneacademy-cn.libguides.com/extended-essay

What is the extended essay

The extended essay is a required component of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP). 

It is an independent piece of research, culminating with a 4,000-word paper.

What is the significance of the extended essay?

The extended essay provides:

• practical preparation for undergraduate research
• an opportunity for students to investigate a topic of personal interest to them, which relates to one of the student's six DP subjects, or takes the interdisciplinary approach of a World Studies extended essay.

Through the research process for the extended essay, students develop skills in:

• formulating an appropriate research question
• engaging in a personal exploration of the topic
• communicating ideas
• developing an argument. 

Participation in this process develops the capacity to analyze, synthesize and evaluate knowledge.

An extended essay can also be undertaken in world studies , where students carry out an in-depth interdisciplinary study of an issue of contemporary global significance, across two IB diploma disciplines.

How is study of the extended essay structured?

Students are supported throughout the process of researching and writing the extended essay, with advice and guidance from a supervisor who is usually a teacher at the school.

Students are required to have three mandatory reflection sessions with their supervisors. The final session, a concluding interview, is also known as viva voce .

The extended essay and reflection sessions can be a valuable stimulus for discussion in countries where interviews are required prior to acceptance for employment or for a place at university.

How is the extended essay assessed?

All extended essays are externally assessed by examiners appointed by the IB. They are marked on a scale from 0 to 34.

The score a student receives relates to a band. The bands are:

• 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.

Find out how points awarded for the extended essay contribute to a student’s overall diploma score .

We use cookies on this site. By continuing to use this website, you consent to our use of these cookies.   Read more about cookies

Extended Essay Guide: Criteria, Format, Sample EEs

• Criteria, Format, Sample EEs
• Annotated Bibliographies
• DP Research Process
• Databases & Academic Journals
• Evaluate Sources
• Academic Integrity
• MLA Citation Format
• CSE Citation Format (Science & Math)
• Video Tutorials 2024

The Assessment Crtiteria in Detail!

• Criterion A: Focus and method
• Criterion B: Knowledge and understanding
• Criterion C: Critical Thinking
• Criterion D: Presentation
• Criterion E: Engagement
• EE_How to maximize marks for different subjects?

• Criterion C: Critical thinking

Notes from the IB

RE: Research Question and Title of Extended Essay

Please note the statement below from the EE curriculum manager regarding the need to have both a title and a RQ for all subjects. Previous versions of the EE Guide indicated that the title and the RQ should be the same for History, Business Management and Mathematics. This is no longer the case.  All essays, regardless of the subject, need to have both a RQ and a title.

Hi Kathy, 

To answer your question, I am going to quote directly from a response John Royce provided, on this forum, in October in response to a very similar question: (it was a question about using Spanish sources - hence the mention of Spanish)

It is certainly  permissible to use sources which are not in the language of the essay, but translation into the target language is required , one cannot assume that the reader understands the original language.

It is usual to quote the original as well as presenting the translation.  [Do not put quotation marks around your translation, just around the original]

Umberto Eco argues ("in Mouse or rat?") that direct translation may lose meaning, paraphrase or use of different idioms may be required to get the ideas across. Paul Bellos ("Is that a fish in your ear?") makes a similar argument - direct translation may confound meaning... Direct translation may not be ideal - meaning and understanding are preferred - so, not to worry that your student with her good Spanish cannot present a direct translation.

What  must be made clear is that the translations are those of the student;  these are her understandings. Readers can make of that what they will - and if unsure, are presented with the original - they can seek another translation.  A note in the acknowledgements and/or in the introduction to the effect that all translations are those of the writer is ... essential.

In response to the question about the  Bibliography/Works cited, my preference would be to list the source in its original Thai version, but perhaps with the English in brackets, to help the examiner.

Your bibliography will have the entries in Thai characters first in the document. Any in-text citation to Thai sources will be in (Thai characters [English translation]).

Citation in Thai [English translation]

Works Cited Example:

วงษ์ปัญญา, ธนกร [Wongpunya, Thanakorn]. “โรงงานยาสูบรวยแค่ไหน และเอาเงินไปทำอะไรบ้าง.”  [How rich is the Thailand Tobacco Monopoly and where does the money go?] (candidate translation). The Standard, The Standard, 30 Aug. 2018, thestandard.co/thailand-tobacco-monopoly/.

Format of the Extended Essay

Required Formatting

The extended essay should be written in a clear, correct and formal academic style, appropriate to the subject from which the topic is drawn. Given that the extended essay is a formally written research paper, it should strive to maintain a professional, academic look. 

To help achieve this, the following formatting is  required:

• 12-point, readable font (Calibri or Times New Roman);
• double spacing throughout entire Essay;
• page numbering - top right corner;
• no candidate or school name or supervisor name on the title page or page headers.

Submitting the extended essay in the required format will help set the tone of the essay and will aid readability for on-screen assessment by examiners.

Required S tructure

The structure of the essay is very important. It helps students to organize the argument, making the best use of the evidence collected. 

There are six required elements of the final work to be submitted. More details about each element are given in the  “Presentation”  section. Please note that the order in which these elements are presented here is not necessarily the order in which they should be written. 

Six required elements of the extended essay:

• Contents page
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References and bibliography -- if MLA "Works Cited" if CSE "References"

1. Required Title Page  

The title page should include  only  the following information: 

• the title of the essay
• the research question
• the subject the essay is registered in (if it is a language essay also state which category it falls into; if a world studies essay also state the theme and the two subjects utilized) 

The upper limit is 4,000 words for all extended essays. 

2. Required Contents Page

A contents page must be provided at the beginning of the extended essay and all pages should be numbered. Please note that an index page is not required and if included will be treated as if it is not present.

3. Required Introduction

The introduction should tell the reader what to expect in the essay. The introduction should make clear to the reader the focus of the essay, the scope of the research, in particular an indication of the sources to be used, and an insight into the line of argument to be taken. 

While students should have a sense of the direction and key focus of their essay, it is sometimes advisable to finalize the introduction once the body of the essay is complete.

4. Required Body of the Essay  (research, analysis, discussion, and evaluation)

The main task is writing the body of the essay, which should be presented in the form of a reasoned argument. The form of this varies with the subject of the essay but as the argument develops it should be clear to the reader what relevant evidence has been discovered, where/how it has been discovered and how it supports the argument. In some subjects, for example, the sciences, sub-headings within the main body of the essay will help the reader to understand the argument (and will also help the student to keep on track). In structuring their extended essay, students must take into consideration the expected conventions of the subject in which their extended essay is registered. 

Once the main body of the essay is complete, it is possible to finalize the introduction (which tells the reader what to expect) and the conclusion (which says what has been achieved, including notes of any limitations and any questions that have not been resolved). 

Any information that is important to the argument  must not  be included in appendices or footnotes/endnotes. The examiner  will not  read notes or appendices, so an essay that is not complete in itself will be compromised across the assessment criteria.

5. Required Conclusion

The conclusion says what has been achieved, including notes of any limitations and any questions that have not been resolved. While students might draw conclusions throughout the essay based on their findings, it is important that there is a final, summative conclusion at the end. This conclusion(s) must relate to the research question posed.

6.  Required References & Bibliography

Students should use their chosen style of academic referencing as soon as they start writing. That way they are less likely to forget to include a citation. It is also easier than trying to add references at a later stage. For more information on this, refer to the guidelines in the IB document  Effective citing and referencing.

Writing the essay takes time but if students have used their Researcher's reflection space and reflection sessions in a meaningful way they should be well prepared to develop their arguments.

Extended Essay - Examples & Exemplars

• Essays from May 2018 with IB marks and commentaries
• Assessed Student Work & Commentary IB-provided. "Student sample extended essays, corresponding marks and comments from senior examiners are available for the following Diploma Programme disciplines. Please note that in light of not having authentic RPPFs to accompany these essays, they are marked against criteria A – D only, for a total of 28 possible marks. Following the first assessment session in 2018, exemplars will be refreshed with authentic sample material." more... less... Biology English Economics History Studies in language and literature Language acquisition Mathematics Psychology Visual arts World studies extended essay (WSEE)
• Excellenet Extended Essays Concordian GoogleDoc
• EngA1_Othello EE Othello 2018 From inThinking.net Click the link to see the score and evaluation.
• Fifty (50) More Excellent Extended Essays DVD by International Baccalaureate Call Number: HS DVD 808.4 ISBN: 9781906345600 Publication Date: 2011 1 DVD-ROM (1:33 min.)

Past CIS Extended Essays

Available in the library behind the desk are file folders of past Extended Essays by Concordian students and IB EE Exemplars. Feel free to browse the papers which must be kept in the library.

• << Previous: EE Home
• Next: Annotated Bibliographies >>
• Last Updated: Feb 27, 2024 8:42 AM
• URL: https://concordian-thailand.libguides.com/ee

Brad Cartwright

Effectively supervising the world studies extended essay.

Teacher-to-Teacher Workshop

Soon Available On-Demand!

SAVE YOUR SPOT!

Filling the Gap!

Filling the gap between what the IB expects us to do and how to actually do it in the classroom!

- Workshop Details -

The Mark Scheme - The answers are all in the mark scheme--and thus the mark scheme is the foundation of our understanding the what the World Studies Extended Essay actually "needs to do".

Subject Specific Guidance - Here in lies the keys to the task in every World Studies Essay! As Extended Essay Supervisors we must know the World Studies Subject Specific Guidance thoroughly and completely.

World Studies Extended Essays: Sample Papers - Included in the Workshop Resource Module is access to 35 Student Sample Papers that received either and A or B from an IB Examiner.

The Reflections - This is a critical piece of an Extended Essay! We will dig deep to understand how to guide students to effectively write evaluative reflections.

The Four Key Elements - Each one of us will take an in depth look at the Four Key Elements of a World Studies Extended Essay that will ensure that we understand how to properly support our Advisees.

Creating a Four Step Student Action Plan - The culminating moment of the workshop will be where each of us constructs a unique Four Step Action Plan that will guide our students over the multi-month Extended Essay process at our own individual schools.

The Promise - You will finish the workshop with a thorough understanding of what being an effective World Studies Extended Essay Supervisor involves by taking control of your own individual situation!

Plan to register more than five teachers? Reach out for a group discount.

- IB Teacher Workshop Testimonials -

Hear it straight from IB Teachers and IB Coordinators who attended previous workshops!

“I have been to a great many IB trainings, both MYP & Diploma Programme. This is the first training I walked away from feeling re-invigorated and excited about making changes for our program. This training was practical, applicable, and relevant. I am looking forward to a customized training experience!”

“This was undeniably one of the most informative, well organized and applicable IB trainings that I have encountered. It also has many useful resources that you can access after the workshop! The Q&A cumulative session was a wonderful bonus! Thanks Brad and Kurt for sharing your wealth of knowledge and experience! ”

“I am so glad that I attended Brad Cartwright’s IB Extended Essay Workshop, since it was insightful, informative, and useful. His practical, specific, and encouraging approach really outlined the role of the supervisor and how to guide the student to his/her best abilities. Thank you for showing us “what and how” we can bridge the objectives of the tasks and the mark scheme. I would absolutely recommend this, and all of his other workshops, whether you are a new or experienced IB teacher. ”

“Best value for money IB course in the market. If you are realtively new in delivering the IB Economics course, your students will see a marked improvement in your delivery of the content from week 1 and will thank you for taking the course! Also, a great opportunity to meet fellow IB Economic teachers from around the world who are committed to improving the classroom learning experience of Economics for their students, as well as help foster a life long interest in the subject.”

“As a new Economics teacher, I was struggling to find the right pace while trying to fill the gap between what IB wanted students to know and what I needed to do as a teacher to facilitate this so my students would be well prepared for their exams. I had many questions - do I teach everything? how do I support my students so they not only know the content, the diagrams, the facts but have those critical skills to be able to analyse and evaluate with conviction? how do I know my IA marking is on par with the IB examiners? Not only I got answers to these questions, during the workshop I've also gained valuable skills and resources to teach confidently. Thanks to Brad, I feel my students are now well supported to not only succeed in their exams but become knowledgeable and critical thinker economists. ”

“The Launching the School Year workshop was immensely helpful in ramping up for the school year. Having never taught IB DP Economics before, I entered the course not knowing where to begin or what to focus on. I felt like I learned, in four weeks, what it might otherwise take me three years to figure out on my own. The workshop not only laid out a clear architecture for thinking about the course; it also gave me ways to think and talk about and plan for the course that I could put to use with my students immediately. ”

“I thoroughly recommend Brad’s workshops both for teachers new to IB economics and for those with a few years under their belt. The workshops are well organised and allow for active participation by participants. I have come away with fresh ideas of how to organise the material and have implemented many of them already. ”

“This is an ideal course for anyone who is starting to teach IB economics, whether they are familiar with the IB and not Economics, or familiar with Economics but not the IB. Brad covers every aspect of the course. Gives very useful and practical advice on how to teach, allocate time according to the topics and skills.”

“This workshop wasn’t “extra” for my professional development, I would say it was ESSENTIAL! As someone new to the IB curriculum and to teaching Economics the workshop covered all of the vital concepts I needed to know to survive my first semester of teaching. Your workshop contained high quality content that was delivered with passion and a genuine desire to share your knowledge and to present it in a way that becomes useful to teachers even with varying levels of experience. In terms of what we covered and were able I am so glad that I attended Brad Cartwright’s IB Extended Essay Workshop, since it was insightful, informative, and useful. His practical, specific, and encouraging approach really outlined the role of the supervisor and how to guide the student to his/her best abilities. Thank you for showing us “what and how” we can bridge the objectives of the tasks and the mark scheme. I would absolutely recommend this, and all of his other workshops, whether you are a new or experienced IB teacher. to achieve in only 2 days, the workshop exceeded all of my expectations. The pace was fast but reasonable. You answered every question with grace, simplicity, and absolute competence demonstrating your mastery in the field. I loved your energy, passion, and generosity as a facilitator- and it is clear that it is your mission to help us become the best teachers we can be. ”

“your level of experience teaching IB Economics. The biggest problem that the majority of us face as IB teachers is the lack of certainty of what and how to guide the EE process. Brad’s style of delivery is clear and well paced, and he provided us with solid strategies and resources to guide our students through the Extended Essay process. Another thing that Brad did was that he assumed zero prior knowledge. I loved this, because as a new IB Economics teacher I have felt a bit overwhelmed in the other workshops I’ve attended. The fact that he explained each area of the Extended Essay process in a non-judgemental way made it easy for everyone to ask any question that they wanted. Finally, it comes clear as day that Brad really cares. IB teachers need support, understanding and guidance, not judgement and ridicule. I got so much peace of mind from this workshop and left feeling empowered to guide my students. ”

“Brad’s workshop was just what I needed when teaching Market Power. He clearly explained IB expectations, had great teaching strategies, and shared resources that I immediately used in the classroom. Plus, it was super enjoyable, because Brad is a remarkable person and dedicated professional. I highly recommend his teacher workshops and all of his online materials -- they are very helpful! ”

“The most helpful part of Brad’s workshop was the clarity on the structure of the Internal Assessment and the best type of articles to use to get the most out of the IA commentary. I was very grateful for Brad’s continuous ability to answer my questions throughout to ensure that I fully understood what was being communicated and could challenge some of my current practices. Even though the workshop was full, the session was very interactive and felt almost personalized. ”

“I can say without reservation that this was the best IB workshop I have ever attended. Not only was it completely beneficial in meeting my needs, but Brad’s relaxed and enthusiastic approach allayed many of the concerns I have as a first year IB Economics teacher. ”

“The best part of Brad’s Internal Assessment workshop was the practical and easily actionable step-by-step approach he took us through. It was very much a “how to” workshop that cut through unnecessary material and explained to us exactly how to guide students through the Internal Assessment process. It was a very powerful and empowering workshop. I highly recommend any of Brad’s teacher workshops! ”

World Studies Extended Essay: Interdisciplinary Study

• Introduction
• Getting Started
• Global Themes
• Interdisciplinary Research
• What Makes Up a "Discipline"?
• Evaluating the Insights of Academic Disciplines
• Multiple Forms of Integration
• Evaluating Your Essay
• Common Stumbling Blocks
• Examples of Globally Conscious Students

What is interdisciplinary study?

In interdisciplinary study, students incorporate knowledge and modes of thinking from two or more disciplines to gain a deeper understanding of an issue. Most importantly, they would not have been able to gain this understanding if they only looked at the issue from the perspective of one of the disciplines.

The interdisciplinary essay

A strong interdisciplinary essay exhibits the following characteristics:

Clear purpose  -  The writer seeks to describe, explain, compare or offer solutions to a problem that is best examined in an interdisciplinary way. The writer has a sense of the significance of the research.

Disciplinary grounding  - The writer draws on knowledge, theories, concepts, perspectives, methods, tools and forms of communication from two or more disciplines.

Productive integration  - The writer incorporates disciplinary perspectives in ways that advance understanding. The writer understands the illuminating connections among/between disciplines.

Thoughtfulness  - The writer reflects on the significance, power and limitations of his or her findings.

See the other pages in this section for information on:

Interdisciplinary research Examples of interdisciplinary research

WSEE Documents

WSEE Subject Guide and worksheets

• IB EE Subject Guide - World Studies, 2018
• Making Meaningful Connections Use this worksheet to help you think about your research plans: the concepts or methods your will be using, the global topic you're focusing on, and the academic disciplines you will be using.

RRS (Researcher's Reflection Space)

• Sample Prompts for the WSEE RRS What should you write in your RRS? Use these questions and prompts to help you think through the various stages of the research for your WSEE: your initial ideas, your thoughts and reflections during the process, and your conclusions.
• RRS Example B - World Studies

RPPF (Researcher's Planning and Progress Form) examples:

• RPPF Example 5 - World Studies
• RPPF Example 7 - World Studies

IB Extended Essay Guide & Timeline

Check the Extended Essay guide for specific guidance on completing the various steps in the research and writing process of the EE, and  these documents:

• << Previous: Global Themes
• Next: Interdisciplinary Research >>
• Last Updated: Sep 19, 2022 9:16 AM
• URL: https://libguides.westsoundacademy.org/wsee

Ultimate Guide to Writing Your College Essay

Tips for writing an effective college essay.

College admissions essays are an important part of your college application and gives you the chance to show colleges and universities your character and experiences. This guide will give you tips to write an effective college essay.

Want free help with your college essay?

UPchieve connects you with knowledgeable and friendly college advisors—online, 24/7, and completely free. Get 1:1 help brainstorming topics, outlining your essay, revising a draft, or editing grammar.

Writing a strong college admissions essay

Learn about the elements of a solid admissions essay.

Avoiding common admissions essay mistakes

Learn some of the most common mistakes made on college essays

Brainstorming tips for your college essay

Stuck on what to write your college essay about? Here are some exercises to help you get started.

How formal should the tone of your college essay be?

Learn how formal your college essay should be and get tips on how to bring out your natural voice.

Taking your college essay to the next level

Hear an admissions expert discuss the appropriate level of depth necessary in your college essay.

Student Stories

Student Story: Admissions essay about a formative experience

Get the perspective of a current college student on how he approached the admissions essay.

Student Story: Admissions essay about personal identity

Get the perspective of a current college student on how she approached the admissions essay.

Student Story: Admissions essay about community impact

Student story: admissions essay about a past mistake, how to write a college application essay, tips for writing an effective application essay, sample college essay 1 with feedback, sample college essay 2 with feedback.

This content is licensed by Khan Academy and is available for free at www.khanacademy.org.