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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.


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

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


A	10.1%
B	24.4%
C	40.8%
D	22.5%
E	1.4%
N (No Grade Awarded)	0.7%

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

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Extended Essay (IB): Choosing a subject and topic

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

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

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

On this page you will find guidance including:

As well as resource boxes containing:

Introduction to the Extended Essay

What is the Extended Essay?

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

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

What do I need to do?

This guide is just to get your thinking started.

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

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

How do I choose a subject?

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

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

Subject Group Overviews

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From: IBO (2020) Extended Essay: Mathematics

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

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

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

From: IBO (2020) Extended Essay: The arts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subject Specific Guidance

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

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

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

Ethical guidelines

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

Extended essays from previous years

Past essays

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

Please remember:

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

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

How do I choose a topic?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Browsing our subscription databases

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

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

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

Hodder Education Magazines

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

Other, subject-specific resources

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

Using the Subject Specific Guidelines

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

AI Prompt Catcher

AI Prompt Catcher Example

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

Annotated bibliography

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

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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:

A – Excellent	27 to 34
B – Good	21 to 26
C – Satisfactory	14 to 20
D – Mediocre	7 to 13
E – Elementary	0 to 6

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:

	Theory of Knowledge
Extended Essay		Excellent (A)	Good (B)	Satisfactory (C)	Mediocre (D)	Elementary (E)	Not Submitted
	Excellent (A)	3	3	2	2	1 + Failing Condition	N
	Good (B)	3	2	1	1	Failing Condition	N
	Satisfactory (C)	2	1	1	0	Failing Condition	N
	Mediocre (D)	2	1	0	0	Failing Condition	N
	Elementary (E)	1 + Failing Condition	Failing Condition	Failing Condition	Failing Condition	Failing Condition	N
	Not Submitted	N	N	N	N	N	N

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!

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)


A	10.9%
B	23.5%
C	38.0%
D	25.1%
E	1.5%
N (No grade awarded)	1.0%

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.

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.

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

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

Extended Essay Topics

Get Inspired: 110 Unique Extended Essay Topics and Ideas

14 min read

Published on: May 7, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

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 Hawthorneâs The Scarlet Letter.
Investigating the role of gender in Jane Austenâs Pride and Prejudice.
How does Shakespeare use the theme of fate in Romeo and Juliet?
Examining the impact of colonialism in Chinua Achebeâs 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 Morrisonâs Beloved.
Analyzing the use of narrative structure in Gabriel Garcia Marquezâs 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 Allendeâs 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!


Clarity and Specificity	What are the long-term effects of childhood exposure to secondhand smoke on respiratory health?	How does smoking affect health?
Relevance and Significance	How does the use of technology in the classroom impact student learning outcomes?	What is the impact of stuff in classrooms on students?
Feasibility	What are the most effective strategies for reducing plastic waste in urban areas?	How can we create a perpetual motion machine?
Focused and Narrow	How does the portrayal of mental illness in film impact public perception of mental health issues?	What is the relationship between the number of blades on a wind turbine and energy production?
Testable and Measurable	How does the use of mindfulness meditation impact stress levels in college students?	What is the meaning of life?

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 , youâll 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.

Nova A. (Literature, Marketing)

As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.

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Top Hottest Prompts On How to Write an Extended Essay

Extended Essay Topics: How to choose the best one for your academic paper?

Creating a brilliant academic paper often appears to be difficult. Moreover, there are certain types of essays that require even more time and effort. These ones will make your head-dizzying when choosing the topics, picking up a perfect structure, and dropping facts in the most effective way. An extended essay takes the leading position among the most challenging assignments you can get during your studies. Fortunately, we are ready to give you a helping hand with learning the basics of this type of academic papers, as well as provide you with various extended definition essay examples. So, get ready to dive into the world of rules for writing essays and get the highest scores with our handy hints.

What is an extended essay? The basics you need to know

To create a successful academic paper, it is necessary to understand its basic concepts and goals. So, what is an extended essay? This is one of the most popular types of papers designed for students enrolled in the IB program. This type of paper involves implementing superior research and analysis skills. Moreover, it is vital to pick up a proper structure of the paper when writing a solid extended essay. As a rule, you are expected to create a 4,000 words paper that will be completely unique, correct, and readable. Looks complicated? With our tips, your job is likely to be done two times easier.

Extended essay format: How to write your paper?

When it comes to writing your academic paper , you will definitely find lots of extended essay examples online beforehand. However, all of them are totally different and might make you feel confused with diverse formatting and style. What is the best way to write your paper?

Make your academic paper as precise as possible. Avoid messing around, as well as using too wordy sentences and paragraphs.
Use various sources. The higher the number of sources used in your extended essay, the better. This will help you get a better vision of the chosen topic.
Mention the importance of the topic. When making the research and exploring extended definition essay examples, don’t forget to write that your particular topic is significant.
Make it logical. Being consistent and argumentative is vital for creating a brilliant academic paper. Your essays should be readable and understandable, while your extended essay format shouldn’t contain any serious issues.
Understand your topic. There should be no doubtful moments or unclear facts when creating your academic paper. In case you can’t cope with the chosen field, it is better to look for another option among the other extended essay topics.
Avoid using passive voice. It is better to grab the readers’ attention with striking arguments and valuable facts.
Proofread. Reviewing the essay is a must for even the most diligent students. It will help you avoid tons of misprints and mistakes.

How to write an extended essay outline?

When creating an outstanding extended essay, it is also necessary to pay extra attention to the outline. There are thousands of great extended essay topics, but all of them will fail with a weak outline. Here are a few methods on how you can craft a perfect one with minimum efforts.

The most popular way to create a sharp outline is to use a post-it note method of writing. The main idea is to make a summary of each of your paragraphs and then write its main idea in a single line.

Another effective way of creating an effective outline is to split the paragraphs into several parts. For example, you can determine the main idea, the explanation, and the examples in each paragraph. After that, you will get a clear picture of how your essay will look like and will be able to rearrange and edit sections with no need to rewrite the entire document.

How to make an introduction to your extended essay unforgettable?

When analyzing various extended essay examples, you will definitely notice that all the introductions have lots of things in common. First of all, they describe what the readers should expect from a particular extended essay. The second thing you will find at the beginning of most academic papers of this kind is the author’s writing goal. In most cases, there are also the grasp of the argument and a few sentences about the main sources used for creating an essay. To put it short, you will need to provide the readers with the direction of your academic paper and make some hints on what you are going to write about.

Extended essay format: Creating an excellent main part

There is nothing new that writing a solid and well-turned extended essay requires creating a brilliantly polished main part. Here, you will need to describe all facts and arguments, as well as develop your topic. Focus on the main idea and include a single argument in each of your paragraphs. You can also freely make quotes in your extended essay.

The most effective way to create a conclusion

In this part of your academic paper, you will need to summarize all the facts you’ve described in the main part of your paper. In most cases, students find it the easiest part of creating an extended essay. You can come up with the results of your study, write down the achievements, and provide the readers with the final message. If you are skilled enough to represent a classy conclusion, you will surely get a higher grade for your assignment.

It is necessary to make your conclusion neat and brief. No new facts are allowed, as well as all the questions need to be answered before you reach a conclusion. Furthermore, your final part of the academic paper should have tight connections with your introduction. As you can see, the rules for writing the final part are similar for most types of essays.

Extended essay topics: tips to choose the best one for your needs

What is an extended essay? It is one of the most tricky types of essays when it comes to choosing the topic. To succeed in creating this type of academic paper, it is vital to pick up the best possible topic. The most important thing here is to choose the broad term for your essay. This way, you will be able to cover it from different sides and describe various approaches to the same subject. Play with different opinions, support the chosen definitions, and come up with a versatile paper. These are the most popular niches to choose the best extended essay topics:

History, Governance
Abstract terms
Disputed issues

Extended essay examples: the easiest subjects to write about

Students have different preferences and might be good at various subjects. Someone can easily write on political issues, while others might find this topic completely failing. However, we’ve collected the number of the best examples of universal topics that are affordable for most young learners. Click here and get more topics about races and racism

How to become a good team player?
What features are important for a leader?
Ambitions: why do people need this feature?
The future of business
Smart predictions for e-commerce platforms
The future of electronic devices
The reasons why racism should be stopped globally
The female leaders and their role in global politics
Best ways to improve the corporate culture
The advantages of the healthy way of life
The prime factors to get a good job
The issues of learning foreign languages
Top skills for a well-educated person
The parameters for achieving personal success
The necessity of having a college degree in a modern world
Top conditions for establishing democracy
Finding a balance between a family and a career
Importance of Internet security measures
The consequences of terrorism
The benefits of cultural exchange
Most common reasons for immigration
The rules for the safe traveling
The reasons for and consequences of the global food crisis
How climate changes affect the daily lives of people
The most common reasons for poverty
Pessimism and optimism as the basic character models for people
The role of teachers in our lives
The problem of the dependency in the modern world

In case you still don’t like the topics above, feel free to choose any from hundreds of other extended essay examples or come up with your own creative idea.

110 Extended Essay Topics

To test a student’s independent research, writing, and critical thinking skills, teachers will assign an extended essay writing assignment.

This type of essay will be one of the most detail-oriented essay writing formats, akin to writing a research paper. Not only do students need to choose a topic that is interesting to them and within the scope of their course work, but they also need to conduct in-depth research and analyze the information they find in regards to their topic.

To do so requires time and patience, as well as a solid understanding of not only writing an essay within specific parameters but also how to use writing styles such as MLA formatting and APA format.

Additionally, the format of an extended essay requires that it be at least 4000 words long. Anything under may risk a poor grade on the assignment, and anything too far over may do the same.

How to Write an Extended Essay

Students assigned an extended essay often feel frustrated before the writing or research process has even begun. Because of the required word count and the level of critical analysis that must go into the work, it is no easy task.

But with careful planning and execution, as well as a clear understanding of what is expected of them, students can complete this assignment with flying colors.

The following are some tips for completing an extended essay:

1) Choose a Topic

When choosing a topic for an extended essay, it is important to begin with a topic already familiar to the student.

This will make it easier for them to find information and conduct research on said topic. It also helps students who may not be as adept at critical thinking or conducting research from the beginning.

Choosing a topic that is too broad can lead to confusion when trying to frame a thesis statement and can ultimately result in a lower quality grade.

Most teachers will provide students with topics to choose from, but if they do not, it may be wise for the student to research popular or trending topics and then narrow down one that is interesting to them.

2) Conduct Research

Once the topic has been chosen, it is time for the student to conduct their research. There are several ways that students can do this, including using databases or access to books through a local library.

The key here is to use reliable sources to avoid leading the student astray with false information or data.

The research that is conducted needs to be relevant to the topic at hand so that it can be analyzed correctly in the essay.

3) Write a Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is one of the most critical aspects of an extended essay. It acts as a guide for the rest of the paper and shows that the student can effectively think and write critically about their chosen topic.

The thesis statement should be a clear and concise sentence that states the position of the essay.

4) Draft the Body of the Essay

With a good understanding of the topic, reliable research, and a strong thesis statement, the student can begin drafting their essay’s body.

This will be where they put their thoughts and analysis into writing. The structure of the essay should mirror that of a research paper, with an introduction, body, and conclusion.

5) Edit and Revise

The final step before submitting the essay is to edit and revise it. This is where the student can clean up any grammar, punctuation, and spelling mistakes.

They can also further improve the flow and structure of the essay as well as strengthen their argument. The following checklist will help students ensure that they have met all of the requirements of writing an extended essay:

Does my essay have a strong opening “hook” statement?
Are the relevant terms and background information present in the introduction?
Does my introduction end with a strong thesis that introduces my main argument?
Does each of my body paragraphs start with a clear topic sentence that leads to the point of the section?
Is each topic sentence of my body paragraph supported with factual evidence that I can cite?
Does each body paragraph end with a transition statement that ties up the overall point and moves into the next paragraph.
Does my conclusion restate my thesis in a new way?
Does my conclusion contain an overall summarization of my main points without introducing new content?
Does my conclusion wrap itself up with a thought-provoking statement, opinion, or piece of advice?
Are all of the citations included and formatted correctly in my bibliography?
Is there anything else in my essay that could be improved, such as grammar, punctuation, or spelling mistakes?
Does my essay have a minimum of 4000 words?

If the answer to any of the above questions is a ‘no,’ the writer will need to go back and perform revisions so that each of these considerations is met.

Although it may seem like a lot of work, if the student follows these simple steps, they can be assured that they are on their way to writing a high-quality extended essay.

If you are struggling with finding a suitable topic that can be covered in at least 4000 words, here is a list of 110 extended essay topics that will help you.

Extended Essay Topics About History

The role of women in the French Revolution
The impact of the Black Death on European society
The effects of the Industrial Revolution on child labor
The rise and fall of the Roman Empire
The causes and consequences of World War I
The origins and effects of the Cold War
The causes and effects of the French Revolution
The causes and effects of World War II
The process of industrialization in Victorian England
The impact on African Americans from Jim Crow laws
Impact of the French and Indian War on Native Americans
The reasons for the Crusades

Extended Essay Topics About Literature

Literary analysis essay on a poem by John Donne
The theme of death in Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Compare and contrast the two versions of Cinderella
The use of satire in Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift
The psychological effects of isolation in The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The role of women in Japanese society as depicted in The Tale of Genji
The impact of war on the individual in All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque
The effects of betrayal in Oedipus Rex by Sophocles
The power of love in Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

Extended Essay Topics About Psychology

The nature vs. nurture debate with regards to intelligence
Schizophrenia: its causes and symptoms
The effects of different parenting styles on a child’s development
The link between caffeine and anxiety
The impact of video games on behavior
The benefits of positive reinforcement in the classroom
The use of hypnosis as a form of therapy
How to deal with stress and anxiety
The different schools of thought in psychology

Extended Essay Topics About the Sciences

The impact of climate change on marine life
The effects of pollution on plant life
How does the human body fight infection?
What is photosynthesis, and what are its benefits?
The challenges of space exploration
Genetic editing: pros and cons
The benefits of vaccinations
The history of forensic science
The effects of a changing environment on life expectancy
Why outer space is considered to be a vacuum

Extended Essay Topics About Business and Economics

How different types of incentives affect performance in the workplace
The relationship between inflation and unemployment in the economy
How does the stock market function?
The decision-making process in business
What are different career paths available to someone with a degree in economics?
Who were some of the famous economists throughout history?
Market structure and pricing strategies of monopolies, monopolistic competition, and perfect competition
The effects of globalization on trade
The reasons for imports and exports
Government influence on economic growth

Extended Essay Topics About Education

The effects of homework on academic success
Does standardized testing actually work?
How does the structure of an educational system affect student performance?
Student discipline in the classroom: its effectiveness and alternatives
How does one become a teacher?
What is an alternative to global education?
The contributions of famous philosophers to the educational system
Teaching styles: their effects on student learning
Why is the Common Core important for students?
How can creativity be nurtured in the classroom?

Extended Essay Topics About Religion

The effects of religious beliefs on morality
The different types of religious affiliations
What are some common misconceptions about certain religions?
How do other cultures view Christianity?
What is the relationship between science and religion?
Who were some of the most influential religious figures throughout history?
The similarities and differences between the three Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
The reasons for religious extremism
How is religion used as a form of identity?
How can faith be reconciled with reason?
Why does something need to be believed without evidence?
How do different religions portray Heaven and Hell?
How has the use of Hell become less popular in certain religions?
What does the concept of God mean in different religious traditions?
The impact of religious literacy on empathy
How has atheism become more acceptable in society?
The origins of human morality according to religion, science, and philosophy
What is the relationship between moral behavior and self-interest?

Extended Essay Topics About Health

The health benefits and risks of using social media
How does the human body fight disease?
What are the different stages of cell development?
What are the causes and symptoms of anxiety and depression?
How does stress affect the body?
What is an Eating Disorder?
What are the benefits of using aromatherapy?
How does physical activity improve mental health?
What is the relationship between sleep and mental health?
The benefits and risks of using supplements
How does genetics affect human health?
What are the side effects of taking medications?
The impact of drugs on the human body
The reasons for organ donations and transplants
How does obesity affect health?
What are some common side effects of prescription drugs?
What are some natural remedies used to treat asthma?
The effects of electronic cigarettes on human health
The relationship between sleep and diabetes in humans
Can someone be a vegetarian or vegan and still get all of their essential nutrients?
How do different cultures view health differently?

Extended Essay Topics About Math

The different types of numbers and their properties
The history of mathematics
What is the difference between a function and a relation?
Is math discovered or invented?
What are some famous geometric shapes?
What is the golden ratio?
How do fractals relate to Chaos Theory?
Non-Euclidean geometry
The four basic operations and their properties
How do algorithms work?
What is the difference between a prime number and a composite number?

With any of these 110 Extended essay topics, students can start developing a researched-based piece of writing that will demonstrate their ability to write well, think critically, and engage in complex intellectual inquiry.

120 Argumentative Essay Topics
200 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
60 Abortion Essay Topics
145 Classification Essay Topics
130 Problem Solution Essay Topics

Undergraduate	Studying for 1st degree
Master	Studying for Master’s degree
PhD	Pursuing Doctoral degree

Testimonials

Literature Extended Essay Topics for IB Students

Writing your Literature Extended Essay is a significant milestone in your IB Diploma Programme . Having gone through this process myself, I’ve gained valuable insights along the way. Now, I’m eager to offer guidance that can help you succeed. Choosing the ideal topic is crucial; it can transform this assignment from a basic requirement into fascinating personal academic research.

Understanding the Literature Extended Essay

Let’s look at what the Literature Extended Essay involves. According to the general IB criteria, this assignment offers an excellent opportunity to engage in a literary analysis or investigation of genuine interest. It is a unique platform to showcase your analytical skills, ability to construct a compelling argument, and, most importantly, your passion for literature. In my extensive experience, I’ve found that students who choose topics that resonate with them write perfect works and find the research process deeply satisfying and enlightening.

The nature of the Literature Extended Essay is not simply to fulfill a requirement. This paper encourages you to become a critical thinker, to question and analyze the narratives and voices that have shaped literary discourse. Whether it’s investigating the intricate layers of character development, the nuanced use of symbolism and theme, or the impact of historical and cultural contexts on literature, the Extended Essay challenges you to go far from just reading. It invites you to actively participate in the literary conversation, bringing your insights and interpretations.

In addition, the Literature Extended Essay is an exercise in academic rigor and discipline. It requires you to hone your research skills, critically examine multiple sources, and synthesize your findings into a coherent and persuasive argument. This process is beneficial not only to your academic growth but can also help to develop skills invaluable in real life: analytical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to engage with complex ideas critically.

So, this paper is an opportunity to leave your mark on the literary world and add your voice to the ongoing dialogue about what it means to be human, as reflected in literature.

IB Literature Extended Essay Topics and Research Questions

Below are a few topics with accompanying research questions that span various literary genres, periods, and themes. These ideas may inspire you to think critically about literature and its myriad interpretations:

The Evolution of the Tragic Hero in Classical vs. Modern Literature . How has the concept of the tragic hero evolved from classical Greek tragedies to contemporary literature?
Gender Dynamics in 19th Century Literature . How do Jane Austen’s novels critique the gender dynamics and societal expectations of the 19th century?
The Influence of Colonialism on Postcolonial Literature . How does Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart” depict the impacts of colonialism on traditional African society?
The Representation of Mental Illness in Modernist Literature . How do Virginia Woolf’s novels reflect the modernist perspective on mental illness and its social implications?
The Role of Nature in Romantic Poetry . How do William Wordsworth’s poems portray nature, and what role does it play in expressing romantic ideals?
Dystopian Visions: A Comparison of 20th vs. 21st Century Literature . How do the dystopian visions in George Orwell’s “1984” compare with those in Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale”?
The Quest for Identity in Adolescent Literature . How is the quest for personal identity depicted in J.D. Salinger’s “The Catcher in the Rye”?
Magic Realism and Cultural Identity . How does Gabriel García Márquez use magic realism in “One Hundred Years of Solitude” to research themes of cultural identity?
The Gothic Tradition: Fear and Morality . In what ways does Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” use gothic elements to depict themes of morality and human fear?
Satire and Social Commentary in “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” How does Mark Twain use satire in “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” to comment on the social issues of his time?
The Symbolism of the Travelling in Literature . How is the travel motif used symbolically in Homer’s “The Odyssey” and its significance in the context of ancient Greek society?
Feminism and the Subversion of Gender Roles in Literature . How do the works of Charlotte Perkins Gilman, specifically “The Yellow Wallpaper,” subvert traditional gender roles?
The Concept of Justice in “To Kill a Mockingbird.” How does Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” show the concept of justice within the context of racial inequality in America?
The Impact of War on the Human Spirit in Hemingway’s Works . How do Ernest Hemingway’s wartime experiences influence his portrayal of the human spirit in “A Farewell to Arms”?
Literary Devices in Depicting Cultural Clash in “The Joy Luck Club.” What literary devices does Amy Tan use in “The Joy Luck Club” to depict the clash of cultures between Chinese immigrant mothers and their American-born daughters?
The Depiction of the American Dream in 20th Century American Literature . How is the American Dream portrayed and critiqued in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”?
The Role of the Supernatural in Shakespeare’s Plays . How does William Shakespeare use supernatural elements in “Macbeth” to influence characters and advance the plot?
The Concept of Freedom in Post-War American Literature . How do Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road” and other Beat Generation works depict the theme of freedom in post-war America?
The Research of Existentialism in European Literature . How is existentialism represented in Albert Camus’ “The Stranger”?
The Representation of Race and Identity in Contemporary African American Literature . How does Toni Morrison’s “Beloved” show the complexities of race and identity in post-Civil War America?
The Use of Mythology in Modern Fantasy Literature . How does J.R.R. Tolkien incorporate Norse and Anglo-Saxon mythology elements in “The Lord of the Rings” series?
The Literary Portrayal of Women during the Victorian Era . How do the female characters in Charlotte Brontë’s “Jane Eyre” challenge Victorian-era norms and expectations?
The Impact of Digital Culture on Contemporary Literature . How do novels like Dave Eggers’ “The Circle” reflect societal concerns about digital culture and privacy?
The Psychological Depth in the Characters of Chekhov’s Short Stories . How does Anton Chekhov use psychological realism to develop complex characters in his short stories?
The theme of Isolation in 20th-Century Poetry . How do the poems of T.S. Eliot, particularly “The Waste Land,” convey themes of isolation and alienation in the 20th century?
The Evolution of the Bildungsroman Genre in European Literature . How does “The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling” by Henry Fielding exemplify the evolution of the Bildungsroman genre?
The Depiction of Political Upheaval in Latin American Literature . How is political upheaval and its impact on individuals depicted in Isabel Allende’s “The House of the Spirits”?
The Influence of the French Revolution on British Romantic Poetry . How did the French Revolution influence the themes and styles of British Romantic poets such as William Blake and William Wordsworth?
The Use of Satire in Dystopian Literature . How is satire used to critique societal norms in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”?
The Depiction of Artificial Intelligence in Science Fiction Literature . How does Philip K. Dick’s “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” depict the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and what it means to be human?
The Representation of Urban Landscapes in Modernist Poetry . How do poets like T.S. Eliot and Ezra Pound depict urban landscapes to reflect the complexities of modern life?
Family Dynamics in Contemporary Drama . How do modern playwrights like Tracy Letts use family dynamics to explore themes of dysfunction and reconciliation?
The Influence of Fairy Tales on Modern Fantasy Literature . How have traditional fairy tales influenced the narrative structures and themes in J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series?
The Literary Portrayal of Historical Revolutions . How is the French Revolution depicted in Charles Dickens’ “A Tale of Two Cities”?
Religion and Morality in Medieval Literature . How are themes of religion and morality intertwined in Dante Alighieri’s “The Divine Comedy”?
The Evolution of the Female Protagonist in 20th Century Literature . How have female protagonists in literature evolved from the early to late 20th century, particularly in works by Virginia Woolf and Toni Morrison?
Cross-Cultural Conflicts in Immigrant Literature . How do authors like Amy Tan and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie portray cross-cultural conflicts in their narratives?
The Role of Dreams in Symbolic Literature . How are dreams used as a symbolic element in Franz Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis”?
The Depiction of Suburban Life in American Literature . How does John Cheever use the setting of the American suburbs to critique societal norms and values?
The Influence of Classical Literature on Modern Dystopian Works . How are themes from classical literature reinterpreted in modern dystopian novels like Suzanne Collins’ “The Hunger Games”?
The Role of Silence in Dramatic Literature . How is silence used as a dramatic tool in Harold Pinter’s plays?
The Literary Treatment of Exile and Displacement . How does Salman Rushdie address themes of exile and displacement in “Midnight’s Children”?
Satirical Techniques in 21st-Century Political Novels . What satirical techniques are used in Gary Shteyngart’s “Super Sad True Love Story” to critique political and cultural issues?
The Portrayal of Rural Settings in Southern Gothic Literature . How do rural settings enhance the themes of decay and grotesqueness in Flannery O’Connor’s stories?
Mental Health Themes in Contemporary Young Adult Literature . How is mental health portrayed in John Green’s novels?
The Role of the Sea in Literature . How is the sea used as a symbol in Ernest Hemingway’s “The Old Man and the Sea”?
The Depiction of War in Children’s Literature . How is the theme of war depicted in Michael Morpurgo’s “War Horse”?
The Concept of Heroism in Epic Poetry . How is the concept of heroism explored in Homer’s “Iliad”?
The Impact of Globalization on Contemporary Literature . How does globalization affect cultural identity in Zadie Smith’s “White Teeth”?
The Representation of Time and Memory in Magical Realism . How do authors like Isabel Allende in “The House of the Spirits” use magical realism to depict themes of time and memory?

Feel free to discuss your ideas with your advisor or peers. In my experience, feedback at the idea stage is precious, offering new perspectives and helping to refine your focus.

Tips for Choosing Literature Extended Essay Topics

Here are some tips from years of guiding students and my experiences to help you choose the best possible topic.

1. Start with Your Passions

Firstly, reflect on the works of literature that have moved you, intrigued you, or left you with questions. Your enthusiasm for a topic will make the research process more enjoyable and shine through in your writing. Essays grounded in genuine interest and passion are more compelling and insightful.

2. Research Broadly at First

Before narrowing down your topic, research a wide range of literature. This broad initial sweep is crucial for uncovering hidden gems and unexpected angles that might not be immediately obvious.

3. Consider the Scope

A common pitfall is choosing a topic that is too broad (or too narrow). The perfect topic is one that allows you to investigate in-depth without being overwhelmed by too much information or, conversely, struggling to find enough. Formulating a focused research question early on can help maintain the right balance.

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4. Check the Availability of Resources

Before committing to a topic, ensure access to the necessary resources (primary texts, scholarly articles, and other academic works). As I know too well, there’s nothing more frustrating than choosing a topic only to find that the resources you need are inaccessible.

5. Consider Relevance

Consider how your topic connects to broader themes, contexts, or issues. According to general IB criteria, essays that demonstrate an understanding of the broader significance of the studied literature tend to score higher. I think these connections in your essay make it more impactful.

Topics to Read:

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Choosing the right Literature Extended Essay topic allows you to engage deeply with texts, develop your analytical skills, and contribute to literary discussions. I’ve learned that passion, perseverance, and a critical eye are your best tools for this task. So, choose a topic that resonates and start writing your best work.

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200 Extended Essay Topics, the Essay’s Layout, and Additional Info

Updated 21 May 2024

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an educational foundation with worldwide outreach founded in 1968 and which offers education programs to students or pupils 3 to 19 years old. In 2017, more than 4,650 schools worldwide taught International Baccalaureate programs – this corresponds to roughly 1.4 million IB students in 152 countries. Out of all schools, 1700 are located in the US alone.

An important International Baccalaureate Program (one of the four tracks available) is the Diploma Program aimed at students between 16 and 19 years old – in 2016, roughly 150,000 students worldwide took an IB Diploma Program exam. One of the mandatory IB Diploma requirements is to write an extended essay, which contributes significantly to the total score. Below, we provide some guiding information and a selection of extended essay topics to help you learn how to write an extended essay .

Definition and Purpose

The IB extended essay is part of the core requirements/curriculum of an IB Diploma Program and involves focused independent research by the IB student on a chosen theme. Resulting papers have a typical length of up to 4000 words long (they should tend to reach this, although writing 3500 words can still be acceptable). A low score (E) for the extended paper and/or Theory of Knowledge essay revokes the right to receive an IB Diploma. By contrast, good marks contribute to the overall score, which could impact a student’s college application success.

While submission deadlines for extended essays are set by the IB, schools are free to set their own internal deadlines. Preparation and work on this assignment spans several academic terms – this includes choosing extended essay topics, submitting proposals, designating supervisors, information gathering (e.g. sources from local libraries), writing a draft (for instance, over a summer break), receiving feedback from supervisors, etc.

IB Extended Essay Layout

There are six required elements in an extended essay layout:

Title page – should include the title, research question (e.g. “How did phenomenon A cause phenomenon B?”), subject it is registered in, category (for language essays), essay theme and subjects used (for world studies), total word count.
Contents page – should be at the beginning listing headings and subheadings along with corresponding page numbers these can be found on (all pages should be numbered).
Introduction – should describe the focus and scope of this research, used sources, line of argument to be presented.
Essay body – this is the main section where research, analysis, discussion, and evaluation is being performed. The structure might vary from subject to subject but it is essential that evidence and argument development is presented clearly and in appropriate order.
Conclusion – conclusions state what has been accomplished through this research, but also potential limitations, unsolved issues, open questions.
References and bibliography – students should adhere to a chosen academic citation style and use it consistently (different citations styles might be required depending on the discipline).

A methodology section or other sections might also be appropriate. Also, there might be an Appendices section if you have supplementary material to add (this is not included in the total word count). Also note that starting with 2018, no abstract is needed – adding it will unnecessarily steal roughly 300 words from the total word count, which will almost certainly prove detrimental (so it’s wise to skip it).

How to Choose a Good Topic

IB students must take six subjects, one from each subject group (there are 6 in total) with the exception that no subject from the sixth group (Arts) is mandatory and can be substituted with a subject from any of the other five groups. IB extended essay topics are normally chosen so that they are related to subjects picked by the student but they must fall into a course belonging to any of the following six subject groups (categories):

Group 1: Studies in language and literature – this includes subjects like student's native language, Language and Literature, Literature and Performance (interdisciplinary).
Group 2: Language acquisition – this includes an additional language (either deepening existing knowledge or starting one from zero).
Group 3: Individuals and societies – includes humanities and social science courses such as Economics, Geography, History, Business Management, Information Technology in a Global Society (ITGS), Psychology, Philosophy, Social and Cultural Anthropology and Global Politics, Environmental Systems and Societies, World Religions (interdisciplinary).
Group 4: Experimental sciences - Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Design Technology, Computer Science, Sport, Exercise and Health Science, Environmental Systems (interdisciplinary), Societies and Nature of Science (interdisciplinary).
Group 5: Mathematics. Mathematical Studies, Mathematics, Further Mathematics.
Group 6: Arts – Dance, Music, Theatre, Foreign Languages, Visual Arts, and Film.

It is highly recommended you choose a topic that interests and motivates you – after all, you’ll be working on and perfecting your extended paper over several months. Some challenge (e.g. unfamiliar fields) is also fine but risks should be reasonable. Choose issues that are narrow enough to be explored and covered comprehensively in 4000 words – attempting to do this with a very broad theme, would look very unprofessional.

In order to pick an interesting topic, it might be very useful to have brainstorm sessions on your own (this will help you focus on your interests) but also to browse the web or other resources for lists of potential themes (especially if you feel confused or stuck) – it could very well happen that one such topic would inspire you to choose a related one, which would be even better adjusted to your interests and goals.

Choosing a topic is not the only challenge encountered while writing an extended essay – writing up in a clear, organized manner and using correct language is also a must. Even if you proofread your extended paper several times, there might still be errors you can skip (occasional comas, wrong spellings, etc.).

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200 IB Extended Essay Topic Ideas

Below is a list of IB extended essay topic ideas sorted by subject that might help you identify a favorite.

Biology extended essay topics

The effects of urban pollution on local flora species diversity.
Analyzing the impact of climate change on coral reef ecosystems.
Investigating the role of genetics in resistance to antibiotics.
The influence of soil pH on plant growth and nutrient uptake.
A comparative study of carnivorous plants: Mechanisms and efficiency of prey capture.
The impact of invasive species on native biodiversity in a specific region.
Examining the symbiotic relationship between fungi and plant roots in nutrient-poor soils.
The role of epigenetics in the development of certain human diseases.
Investigating the effects of microplastics on marine life fertility rates.
The efficiency of different natural pesticides on crop pests.
Analyzing the genetic diversity of a local endangered species to aid conservation efforts.
The impact of deforestation on the genetic variation of isolated populations.
Studying the behavioral patterns of a specific animal species in response to habitat fragmentation.
The role of gut microbiota in human health and disease.
Investigating the biochemical processes involved in the bioremediation of oil spills.
The effects of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis.
Analyzing the impact of GMO crops on surrounding natural plant populations.
The role of plant hormones in root development and growth.
Investigating the mechanisms of aging at the cellular level.
The impact of ocean acidification on shellfish calcification processes.

Read also: 170 Interesting Biology Research Paper Topics

Psychology extended essay topics

The effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in treating depression.
Investigating the psychological impact of social media on teenagers' self-esteem.
The role of personality traits in workplace success.
Analyzing the effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance.
The impact of parental styles on children's emotional development.
Investigating the psychological effects of bullying on adolescents.
The influence of cultural background on perception and decision-making.
Analyzing the role of psychological resilience in coping with chronic illness.
The effectiveness of art therapy in reducing anxiety in adults.
Investigating the relationship between exercise and mental health.
The impact of childhood trauma on adult psychological disorders.
Analyzing the psychological factors influencing consumer behavior.
The role of implicit bias in social interactions and judgments.
Investigating the effects of virtual reality on phobia treatment.
The impact of peer pressure on adolescent risk-taking behaviors.
Analyzing the psychological aspects of addiction and recovery.
The role of emotional intelligence in personal and professional relationships.
Investigating the effects of music therapy on stress reduction.
The impact of social isolation on elderly mental health.
Analyzing the role of genetics and environment in the development of personality.

English extended essay topics

The portrayal of women in Victorian literature.
Analyzing the use of symbolism in "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee.
The impact of colonialism on literature: A case study of post-colonial African literature.
Investigating the theme of identity in "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger.
The evolution of the tragic hero in Shakespeare's plays.
Analyzing the representation of dystopian societies in modern young adult literature.
The role of nature in Romantic poetry.
Investigating the use of unreliable narrators in modern American literature.
The impact of the First World War on British poetry.
Exploring the theme of racial discrimination in "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison.
The influence of Greek mythology on modern literature.
Analyzing the portrayal of mental illness in "The Bell Jar" by Sylvia Plath.
The use of stream of consciousness technique in Virginia Woolf's novels.
Investigating the theme of existentialism in "The Stranger" by Albert Camus.
The depiction of the American Dream in "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Exploring the concept of feminism in "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë.
The role of the supernatural in Gothic literature.
Analyzing the theme of redemption in "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens.
The portrayal of childhood in "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding.
Investigating the use of satire in "Animal Farm" by George Orwell.

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Literature extended essay topics

The exploration of the American Dream in John Steinbeck's "The Grapes of Wrath."
The use of magical realism in Gabriel García Márquez's "One Hundred Years of Solitude."
The depiction of female empowerment in Charlotte Perkins Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper."
The theme of isolation in Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein."
The impact of societal expectations on individual identity in Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice."
The exploration of existentialism in Albert Camus's "The Plague."
The portrayal of war and its aftermath in Erich Maria Remarque's "All Quiet on the Western Front."
The concept of love and sacrifice in Emily Brontë's "Wuthering Heights."
The critique of totalitarianism in George Orwell's "1984."
The exploration of racial inequality in Toni Morrison's "Beloved."
The representation of childhood and coming of age in J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye."
The use of the journey motif in Homer's "The Odyssey."
The depiction of mental illness in Sylvia Plath's "The Bell Jar."
The role of nature in the poetry of William Wordsworth.
The exploration of gender roles in Virginia Woolf's "Orlando."
The impact of colonialism on identity in Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart."
The portrayal of the artist in James Joyce's "A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man."
The theme of revenge in William Shakespeare's "Hamlet."
The exploration of social class and morality in Charles Dickens's "Great Expectations."
The depiction of dystopian society in Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale."

Read also: Literary Analysis Essay Topics for Students

Geography extended essay topics

The effects of climate change on coral reef ecosystems in the Caribbean.
Urban sprawl and its impact on the environment in a specific metropolitan area.
The role of sustainable agriculture in promoting food security in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The impact of tourism on natural resources in a national park.
The relationship between population density and air quality in major cities.
The effects of deforestation on biodiversity in the Amazon rainforest.
The impact of renewable energy projects on rural communities.
Water scarcity and its effects on agriculture in the Middle East.
The role of green spaces in urban environments on mental health.
The impact of sea-level rise on coastal communities.
The geographical factors influencing the spread of diseases.
The effects of industrial pollution on river ecosystems.
The role of geographical information systems (GIS) in disaster management.
The impact of glacier retreat on water resources in the Himalayas.
The relationship between soil erosion and agricultural practices.
The effects of urbanization on wildlife habitats.
The impact of mining activities on local communities and the environment.
The role of ecotourism in conservation efforts.
The geographical patterns of renewable energy adoption.
The impact of landfills on groundwater quality.

History extended essay topics

The impact of the Treaty of Versailles on the Weimar Republic.
The role of women in the French Resistance during World War II.
The influence of the Silk Road on the cultural exchange between East and West.
The causes and consequences of the Cuban Missile Crisis.
The impact of the Industrial Revolution on urbanization.
The role of propaganda in Nazi Germany.
The effects of the Great Depression on American society.
The influence of Mahatma Gandhi on the Indian independence movement.
The causes and effects of the fall of the Roman Empire.
The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on racial equality in the United States.
The role of the Catholic Church in medieval Europe.
The consequences of the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire.
The impact of the Cold War on space exploration.
The effects of colonialism on Africa.
The role of the samurai in feudal Japan.
The causes and outcomes of the Korean War.
The impact of the discovery of the New World on European societies.
The influence of the Renaissance on art and science.
The consequences of the Chernobyl disaster on Soviet society.
The role of espionage during the Cold War.

Physics extended essay topics

The principles and applications of quantum entanglement.
The impact of black holes on theories of space and time.
The role of dark matter in the universe.
The physics of climate change: Analyzing the greenhouse effect.
The principles of superconductivity and its potential applications.
The effects of solar flares on Earth's magnetic field.
The physics behind renewable energy sources.
The principles of aerodynamics in sports.
The impact of technological advancements on space exploration.
The role of physics in understanding ocean currents and their effects on climate.
The principles of sound waves and their applications in medical imaging.
The physics of electric vehicles and their impact on the environment.
The role of particle accelerators in modern physics research.
The principles of nuclear fusion and its potential as an energy source.
The physics of earthquakes and seismic waves.
The application of thermodynamics in everyday life.
The role of optics in modern communication technologies.
The principles of electromagnetism in electrical engineering.
The physics of sports equipment design.
The impact of nanotechnology on future technological developments.

Film extended essay topics

The evolution of special effects in cinema and their impact on storytelling.
The representation of historical events in films: Accuracy vs. artistic license.
The influence of film noir on modern cinematography and narrative styles.
The role of music in shaping the emotional landscape of films.
The portrayal of gender roles in Hollywood movies from the 1950s to today.
The impact of independent films on the global film industry.
The cultural significance of foreign films in promoting global awareness.
The evolution of the superhero genre in cinema.
The depiction of artificial intelligence in science fiction films.
The influence of directors' personal styles on the development of film genres.
The role of propaganda films in shaping public opinion during wartime.
The impact of censorship on film content and its reception by audiences.
The representation of mental illness in films and its impact on societal perceptions.
The evolution of animation techniques and their impact on storytelling.
The portrayal of race and ethnicity in contemporary cinema.
The influence of streaming platforms on film production and distribution.
The role of documentaries in raising awareness about social and environmental issues.
The impact of the French New Wave on contemporary filmmaking techniques.
The depiction of futuristic societies in dystopian films.
The role of film festivals in promoting independent and international cinema.

Economics extended essay topics

The impact of globalization on small businesses in developing countries.
The effectiveness of monetary policy in controlling inflation.
The role of technology in shaping consumer behavior and market trends.
The impact of Brexit on the UK's economic relationship with the EU.
The effects of minimum wage laws on employment rates.
The role of microfinance in promoting entrepreneurship in developing countries.
The impact of trade tariffs on international relations and global markets.
The effects of the gig economy on traditional employment models.
The role of sustainable development in economic planning.
The impact of cryptocurrency on traditional banking and financial markets.
The economics of climate change: Costs and benefits of environmental policies.
The role of foreign direct investment in economic development.
The impact of income inequality on economic growth.
The effects of agricultural subsidies on global trade.
The role of consumer confidence in economic recovery post-recession.
The impact of internet advertising on consumer spending habits.
The economics of renewable energy and its impact on fossil fuel industries.
The role of government regulation in preventing financial crises.
The impact of demographic changes on economic growth strategies.
The effects of corporate social responsibility on brand loyalty and profitability.

World religion studies extended essays topics

The role of religious rituals in strengthening community bonds.
The impact of secularism on religious practices and institutions.
The influence of Buddhism on modern mindfulness and meditation practices.
The role of women in leadership positions within different religious traditions.
The impact of globalization on the spread and adaptation of religions.
The ethical implications of religious beliefs on medical decisions.
The role of religion in conflict and peacebuilding efforts.
The influence of religious education on moral development.
The impact of religious tourism on holy sites and local communities.
The role of religion in shaping cultural identity.
The evolution of Hinduism in the context of contemporary India.
The influence of religion on art and architecture throughout history.
The role of religious texts in shaping ethical and moral codes.
The impact of interfaith dialogue on religious tolerance.
The role of animism and indigenous religions in environmental conservation.
The influence of the Reformation on the development of modern Christianity.
The role of religious leaders in social and political movements.
The impact of religious dietary laws on food culture and industry.
The role of pilgrimage in different religious traditions.
The influence of mysticism and esoteric practices within major world religions.

Need Some Expert Help?

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Our writers could come up with a topic or pick your favorite one, do all related research, and provide you with a final proofread paper. Our policies guarantee as many free revisions as necessary until you are satisfied with your paper (only after this, money is released to your writer). So if you need help with any writing task, don’t hesitate to contact our services.

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Extended Essay: Step 1. Choose a Subject

Extended Essay- The Basics
Step 1. Choose a Subject
Step 2. Educate yourself!
Using Brainstorming and Mind Maps
Identify Keywords
Do Background Reading
Define Your Topic
Conduct Research in a Specific Discipline
Step 5. Draft a Research Question
Step 6. Create a Timeline
Find Articles
Find Primary Sources
Get Help from Experts
Search Engines, Repositories, & Directories
Databases and Websites by Subject Area
Create an Annotated Bibliography
Advice (and Warnings) from the IB
Chicago Citation Syle
MLA Works Cited & In-Text Citations
Step 9. Set Deadlines for Yourself
Step 10. Plan a structure for your essay
Evaluate & Select: the CRAAP Test
Conducting Secondary Research
Conducting Primary Research
Formal vs. Informal Writing
Presentation Requirements
Evaluating Your Work

Choosing a Subject for Your Extended Essay

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WSA students are encouraged to choose one of the following Diploma Programme subjects for their Extended Essays:

Global Politics
Literature and Performance
Mathematics
Studies in Language and Literature
Theatre
Visual Arts

Need help in deciding which subject to choose for your EE?

See Step 2. Educate Yourself! for: EE guides for each subject, along with IB Subject Concepts for EE writers and Subject Command Terms lists. You can also find other important IB documents giving guidance for researching and writing your essay.

WSA students wishing to write an Extended essay in a different IB subject, or a World Studies Extended Essay , need to complete an Individual EE Proposal - Request for Alternate Subject Form and submit it to the EE Coordinator, Susan Trower.

Twelve-step Plan for Researching the Extended Essay - Step 1

1. Choose an available Diploma Programme subject for the extended essay for the session in question.

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Next: Step 2. Educate yourself! >>
Last Updated: May 8, 2024 3:48 PM
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English Extended Essay Topics: 30+ Examples for Inspiration

by Antony W

July 30, 2022

You learned quite a lot about English extended essays so far. You know about the English EE categories as well as how to write a comprehensive essay for the subject. In the following section, we put together a list of some of the best English extended essay topics that you can focus on if you choose to write an extended essay on an English subject.

English Extended Essay Writing Help

Do you have a hard time finding a topic for your English extended essay? Maybe you’re running out of time already and have no idea where to start? Click here to take advantage of your extended essay writing help and we’ll have our expert IB writers help you get the work done fast.

Best English Extended Essay Topics

The following are examples of the best English EE topics:

English Extended Essay Topics on American Literature

When we read Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, we can observe the opposition to the abolition of slavery in America via the slaves.
How can the American aspirations, as depicted in numerous American novels and other literary works, out to be a complete failure?
How can death and a love of the outdoors manifest themselves in American literature?
What are the key works of American literature that illuminate the failure of the American dream, absurdity, and environmental destruction?
How does the American author Cormac McCarthy’s novel The Road show the destruction of nature caused by weaponry, which alludes indirectly to the American armaments industry?
How can we witness the resistance of slaves to slavery in America via numerous literary works?

English Extended Essay Topics on the Age of Romanticism

How did people go from urbanization back to the villages and countryside during the romantic period?
Why are there hints of modernism in the age’s literary masterwork, Kubla Khan, authored by Samuel Taylor Coleridge?
How does the English romantic period of literature vary from the American romantic period?
How does S.T. Coleridge defend nature during the Romantic Era through the poem The Rime of the Ancient Mariner?
Which poetry embodies the romantic period’s themes, such as nostalgia, escapism, and naturalism?
Which circumstances led to romanticism’s rebellion against classical literature?

English Literature Extended Essay Topics

What does Samuel Johnson’s poem about the futility of human desires from the classical age of literature convey?
Why did classical poetry during the neoclassical period contain heroic couplets and rhyme schemes?
Can we regard The Rape of the Lock by Alexander Pope to be the quintessential epic of the neoclassical period?
Why did novels and plays suddenly become prominent in post-classical literature with the development of the European middle class?
How does the American classic literature vary from the European classic literature? Justify the modern works of literature that are significant.
Can we argue that modernism and romantic poetry were written in straightforward language and do not reflect the upper class?
How poetry used to be a marker of class in the classic era of literature, and why lower-class individuals had no relationship to poetry.
Why do individuals begin to adhere to defined norms of poetry and prose when the neoclassical period begins in English literature?

English Extended Essay Topics on Renaissance

How does the renaissance bring about a radical shift in people’s attitudes toward literature?
Why William Shakespeare is regarded one of the best dramatists, poets, and playwrights of all time.
Is the notion of universality in William Shakespeare’s work the cause for his international popularity?
What role did the printing press play in the huge growth of literature during that era?
What were the sociopolitical and economic conditions of the Renaissance era? Which writings best portray them?
Why the Renaissance is the ideal time for the flourishing of literature, and how did contemporaneous queens and monarchs support literary figures and their art.
What indications can be found in the literature of the Renaissance that demonstrate the growth in commerce following the invention of the printing press?
How is the Renaissance period linked to both metaphysical poetry and contemporary man? Can we comprehend it through the poetry of John Donne and the drama Dr. Faustus by Christopher Marlow?

Poetry Extended Essay Topics

How poetry was the text of the higher classes in English literature during the Renaissance and Classical periods.
Why did the form of English poetry change significantly from Shakespearean sonnets to Alexander Pope’s The Rape of the Lock and John Milton’s Paradise Lost?
How the heroic couplets of the neoclassical period differed from those of the romantic period, and why classical poetry had so many rules.
At the conclusion of the romantic period, when there was a fad for prose like novels among the general populace, what caused the dramatic decline in the significance of poetry?
Can we claim that novae rich was the reason for this dynamic movement in poetry that is reflected in literature?
Why does modernist poetry have fragmentation and no interconnection between the distinct stanzas?
From the English Renaissance through modernism and postmodernism, how many different styles of poetry can we observe?
Does colonialism have an effect on modern poetry and the manner in which it evolves during the many eras of colonial rule?

Extended Essay Topics on Language Development

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.

Writing an English extended essay doesn’t have to be difficult after all. From our experience, English is an easy subject on which an extended essay is easy write. As long as you start working on the assignment early and attend all the reflection sessions, you should score top marks if not a 34.

If you feel like writing the extended essay is a difficult task, especially because it’s a long, 4,000-word document with a strict structure, consider hiring our extended essay writing help to get experts to work on the subject on your behalf.

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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How to Structure an Essay

Essay writing is a fundamental skill, a basic task, that is expected of those who choose to pursue their undergraduate and master’s degrees. It constitutes a key requirement for students to complete a given course credit. However, many students and early career researchers find themselves struggling with the challenge of organizing their thoughts into a coherent, engaging structure. This article is especially for those who see essay writing as a daunting task and face problems in presenting their work in an impactful way.

Writing an essay: basic elements and some key principles
Essay structure template
Chronological structure
Problem-methods-solutions structure
Compare and contrast structures
Frequently asked questions on essay structure

Read on as we delve into the basic elements of essay writing, outline key principles for organizing information, and cover some foundational features of writing essays.

Writing an essay: basic elements and some key principles

Essays are written in a flowing and continuous pattern but with a structure of its own. An introduction, body and conclusion are integral to it. The key is to balance the amount and kind of information to be presented in each part. Various disciplines may have their own conventions or guidelines on the information to be provided in the introduction.

A clear articulation of the context and background of the study is important, as is the definition of key terms and an outline of specific models or theories used. Readers also need to know the significance of the study and its implications for further research. Most importantly, the thesis or the main proposition should be clearly presented.

The body of the essay is therefore organized into paragraphs that hold the main ideas and arguments and is presented and analyzed in a logical manner. Ideally, each paragraph of the body focuses on one main point or a distinct topic and must be supported by evidence and analysis. The concluding paragraph should bring back to the reader the key arguments, its significance and food for thought. It is best not to re-state all the points of the essay or introduce a new concept here.

In other words, certain general guidelines help structure the information in the essay. The information must flow logically with the context or the background information presented in the introductory part of the essay. The arguments are built organically where each paragraph in the body of the essay deals with a different point, yet closely linked to the para preceding and following it. Importantly, when writing essays, early career researchers must be careful in ensuring that each piece of information relates to the main thesis and is a building block to the arguments.

Essay structure template

Introduction
Provide the context and share significance of the study
Clearly articulate the thesis statement
Body
Paragraph 1 consisting of the first main point, followed by supporting evidence and an analysis of the findings. Transitional words and phrases can be used to move to the next main point.
There can be as many paragraphs with the above-mentioned elements as there are points and arguments to support your thesis.
Conclusion
Bring in key ideas and discuss their significance and relevance
Call for action
References

Essay structures

The structure of an essay can be determined by the kind of essay that is required.

Chronological structure

Also known as the cause-and-effect approach, this is a straightforward way to structure an essay. In such essays, events are discussed sequentially, as they occurred from the earliest to the latest. A chronological structure is useful for discussing a series of events or processes such as historical analyses or narratives of events. The introduction should have the topic sentence. The body of the essay should follow a chorological progression with each para discussing a major aspect of that event with supporting evidence. It ends with a summarizing of the results of the events.

Problem-methods-solutions structure

Where the essay focuses on a specific problem, the problem-methods-solutions structure can be used to organize the essay. This structure is ideal for essays that address complex issues. It starts with presenting the problem, the context, and thesis statement as introduction to the essay. The major part of the discussion which forms the body of the essay focuses on stating the problem and its significance, the author’s approach or methods adopted to address the problem along with its relevance, and accordingly proposing solution(s) to the identified problem. The concluding part offers a recap of the research problem, methods, and proposed solutions, emphasizing their significance and potential impact.

Compare and contrast structures

This structure of essay writing is ideally used when two or more key subjects require a comparison of ideas, theories, or phenomena. The three crucial elements, introduction, body, and conclusion, remain the same. The introduction presents the context and the thesis statement. The body of the essay seeks to focus on and highlight differences between the subjects, supported by evidence and analysis. The conclusion is used to summarize the key points of comparison and contrast, offering insights into the significance of the analysis.

Depending on how the subjects will be discussed, the body of the essay can be organized according to the block method or the alternating method. In the block method, one para discusses one subject and the next para the other subject. In the alternative method, both subjects are discussed in one para based on a particular topic or issue followed by the next para on another issue and so on.

Frequently asked questions on essay structure

An essay structure serves as a framework for presenting ideas coherently and logically. It comprises three crucial elements: an introduction that communicates the context, topic, and thesis statement; the body focusing on the main points and arguments supported with appropriate evidence followed by its analysis; and a conclusion that ties together the main points and its importance .

An essay structure well-defined essay structure enhances clarity, coherence, and readability, and is crucial for organizing ideas and arguments to effectively communicate key aspects of a chosen topic. It allows readers to better understand arguments presented and demonstrates the author’s ability to organize and present information systematically.

Yes, while expert recommend following an essay structure, early career researchers may choose how best to adapt standard essay structures to communicate and share their research in an impactful and engaging way. However, do keep in mind that deviating too far from established structures can hinder comprehension and weaken the overall effectiveness of the essay, By understanding the basic elements of essay writing and employing appropriate structures such as chronological, problem-methods-solutions, or compare and contrast, researchers can effectively organize their ideas and communicate their findings with clarity and precision.

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The Vital Role of the Outgoing CEO

Rebecca Slan Jerusalim

Though they’re frequently overlooked, incumbent CEOs are central to ensuring drama-free successions. An in-depth study of 30 departing CEOs shows that when they have strong relationships with the board, are actively engaged in choosing their replacements, and have positive views of the process, handoffs are much more successful. But if they experience ambivalence or regret or feel excluded, transitions can become tumultuous.

Drawing on extended interviews with outgoing executives, this article discusses the five psychological crossroads that leaders face when they step down and offers advice on what boards and CEOs can do to navigate each one more deftly.

Everybody focuses on what the new boss needs to do. But what the departing one does can make all the difference.

All boards aspire to a drama-free CEO succession—to one that not only is proactive and strategic but also positions the organization for future success. The best practices for handling this process are well understood: start early, identify and develop multiple internal candidates, assess their fit with organizational needs, choose the right person, and then thoughtfully onboard the chosen successor.

Choosing the company’s next leader is one of the most crucial decisions a board makes. Yet directors, incumbents, and incoming leaders routinely underestimate how tricky the transition at the top can be. Here’s a guide to making it go smoothly.

Rebecca Slan Jerusalim , Ph.D., is a licensed organizational psychologist and executive director at Russell Reynolds Associates. She serves as an advisor to boards and executives by helping them optimize their key talent now and for the future.
Navio Kwok , Ph.D., is a leadership adviser, specializing in organizational psychology, at Russell Reynolds Associates. He is committed to advancing the science of leadership and translating it into actionable advice. Connect with him on LinkedIn , where he shares insights on the world of work.

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The Extended Essay Step-By-Step Guide 4: The Question

Welcome back to our step-by-step guide to the Extended Essay! So far in this series, we’ve covered how to choose your topic and get on with your research . Here in Part 3, I want to talk all about how to make sure you have the perfect question.

I know. I’ve mentioned the question before. Some of you might have had a version of a question before you even started the research phase. But I want to go into more depth now because I think the research question is something that a lot of IB students underestimate.

It’s tempting to get excited at this point and to dive straight from the high, high ladder of research and into the pool of planning the essay. But how do you know you’re going to hit the water smoothly?

So let’s take this opportunity to pause, reassess, and make sure you’re absolutely, ABSOLUTELY certain your question will help you to sail all the way through to Extended Essay success.

1. To start: draft your question

“The title should provide a clear indication of the focus of the essay. It should be precise and not necessarily phrased in the form of a question” – Extended Essay Guide

The only way to work out if your question is good enough is to have a question to begin with. So if you haven’t yet tried to formulate your topic into a research question, do this now. Don’t worry about writing the perfect question down yet. Just think of it as a draft.

If you aren’t sure what a research question should look like, use the Guide and past examples of titles to help you. We can see from the way that the EE Guide defines the question that the important things to consider are:

b) precision

Examples of essay titles include:

How are the distribution and growth of lichens affected by sulfur dioxide and ozone levels in the atmosphere?

Will the recent policy of cutting bakery prices lead to increased revenue for the Safeway supermarket in Ryde, Sydney?

Themes and stylistic devices from Dante in T.S. Eliot’s The Waste Land and Four Quartets.

All of these are very specific, very detailed and very concise. In other words, clear and precise.

Exercise 1: draft three different versions of your question. If there are different angles you could take in the question and different words you could use to express it, write each option down. Keep these three options to hand throughout the rest of the process, but for now, just pick the one which you think is clearest and the most precise.

2. What is your question actually about?

“A good research question is one that asks something worth asking” – Extended Essay Guide

It can be easy, after digging through mountains of research and writing an elegantly worded question, to forget what the original point of your topic was. It’s also easy to let the research and information take you far away from your original intention. This is absolutely fine, and even to be expected; often in-depth research and thinking take us to a more interesting place than we ever could have reached originally. Except that it’s important to take a step back from all of that work and really question whether the place you have ended up is what you want to be writing about.

The first step is to know what your question is really about, beneath the fancy words and clever ideas.

The second step is to ask yourself if your question is truly interesting. Does it present a possibility that intrigues you?

If you either can’t pin down the point of your question, or you admit to yourself that actually that point is rather boring, it’s time to reassess. A good way to refine your question in a way that will solve this, without throwing away all the work that you have done, is to start picking the question apart. Work out the different elements being addressed in the question so that you will be able to dig as deeply as you can into the situation being examined. If this feels like an effort, the thing to remember is that a good question will make it a lot easier to score points when you are answering the question in your essay.

Exercise 2: take your draft question and pick out the keywords. Combined, do they make a good summary of your topic? More importantly, do they point towards just one topic? The keywords of your question should encompass all the main things you will address in your essay, so keep these to-hand throughout the writing process and use them as a guide for what you should and shouldn’t include in your plan.

3. Is your question specific enough?

“The Extended Essay is an in-depth study of a focused topic” – Extended Essay Guide

Your question should define its own limits. In other words, it should be specific enough that you can answer it in 4,000 words. And any IB graduate will tell you that 4,000 words are not a lot. It’s okay if some aspects of your question need further explanation, and in fact, the Guide itself recommends that you analyse your title during the essay. However the key is to choose which variables you leave open. There is no point in wasting time explaining a phrase or word in your essay when a simple change of word would solve everything. And if every word could mean two different things, this means there are two different essays you could be writing and the essay will feel unfocused as a result.

Different types of words that create ambiguities include:

Subjective words such as success, failure, influence, significant

Words that could refer to multiple things such as novels, lichens, lower-middle class

Words that you’ll need to define such as themes, soul, tradition

A good Extended Essay question should contain just a few of these ambiguities.

Exercise 3: Identify all the possible variables in your question, and write down all of the possible things that it could mean. Then, write down ways that you could eliminate some of the variables. For example, an analysis of reduced prices in a supermarket can be narrowed down to the reduced prices of bakery items only.

4. Can you answer your question?

“Structure a reasoned argument in response to the research question on the basis of the material gathered” – Extended Essay Guide

When writing the essay y

You’ll need to make sure that every idea you include links back to the question. You’ll need to show over and over again how each paragraph digs that little bit deeper into the question you laid out at the beginning. With that in mind, it’s a good idea, now you’ve done your research, to really make sure that the material, ideas, and information you will be using are still answering the question that you set out to answer.

For example, imagine that you’d originally wanted to compare the pH levels of rainwater in London and in Spain. Perhaps during your background research phase, you realised that there is very little second-hand information that could help you answer this question, but there is a ten-year-old study about the pH levels of rainwater in London compared with Scotland. A possible option could be that you change your investigation to look at whether the pH levels of rainwater throughout the UK has changed in the past ten years. Alternatively, maybe you have already begun your first-hand research but couldn’t collect any rainwater during your trip to Spain. In this scenario, a ‘plan B’ might be to compare the pH levels of rainwater in different parts of London.

Exercise 4 : Write down a super rough plan for what you will cover in your answer to the question. This isn’t the outline (I’ll go into way more depth on this in a later post) but just a way to make sure you know how the question will work. Write one sentence, or better yet one word, for every paragraph in your essay. Don’t worry about the order of the paragraphs yet, but do make sure that you have enough to talk about that relates directly to the question.

5. Will the IB examiner approve?

Your question can score up to 2 marks out of the total 36 points. This might sound like a lot, but consider that this is over 5% of your total score which you can earn before you write a single word of your essay. With this in mind it’s important to go back to the Extended Essay Guide to check that your question is doing everything that they want it to.

Exercise 5: Double-check that your question is fulfilling every criteria that it can. And to make this as easy as it can possibly be for you, we’ve made a handy checklist right here:

Is it specific?
Can you answer it?
Can you address any variables?
Can you justify any assumptions that it makes?
Do you have enough research to back up your investigation?
Is it interesting?

Once you’ve made certain your question is as brilliant as it can be, the next step is to start planning the essay itself! Watch this space for our next post in the series all about creating the perfect plan and structure.

Read Part 5: Structure and Planning

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IB Extended Essay

The Extended Essay Step-by-Step Guide

From setting the research question to submitting the Extended Essay, here is an easy-to-follow guide for IB EE students to follow, along with personal anecdotes with tips to apply critical thinking techniques and find success. Before I started the IB, the thing I was most worried about was the extended essay. I’m pretty sure the […]

25 Unique EE Ideas

The extended essay is possibly the most exciting part of the IB. You get to fully nerd out on a subject that fascinates you. The endless possibilities could leave you in a state of choice paralysis! Because of that, we have thrown out a list of 25 unique EE ideas as a lifeline, so you do […]

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The Complete IB Extended Essay Guide: Examples, Topics, and Ideas
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.
Making the most of your extended essay: choosing a topic
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.
100 IB Extended Essay Topic Ideas!
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.
Extended Essay (IB): Choosing a subject and topic
Choosing a subject and topic. For your EE you have the freedom to focus on almost any topic and you will write your own question to answer. However, your topic must fit into a single DP subject (unless you choose to write an interdisciplinary essay, such as a World Studies EE that covers a topic "of contemporary global significance" and is likely to encompass two subject areas).
How To Write The Extended Essay (With Topics and Examples)
The Extended Essay has several key objectives: To provide students with the chance to engage in an in-depth study of a question of interest within a chosen subject. To develop research, thinking, self-management, and communication skills. To introduce students to the excitement and challenges of academic research.
How to Choose an IB Extended Essay Topic
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.
The Extended Essay Step-by-Step Guide 2: Your Topic
It is a way for you to explore something you are passionate about, and to express that passion in writing. The key is to feel confident that you will be able to offer your own perspective. In other words, have faith in your brain. Exercise 3: Write down at least three questions that dig deeper into your chosen topic.
Extended Essay Topics: 50+ Examples for Subject in EE
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.
The Complete Extended Essay Guide
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 ...
The Extended Essay Step-By-Step Guide: The Research
The Extended Essay Step-By-Step Guide 3: The Research. IB Extended Essay. The Easter Break is nearly upon us. Ten years ago this might have been a cue to eat more chocolate than you can handle. But if you're in DP1 of the IB that small thing called the Extended Essay will be hovering on the horizon. You know that you should think about it ...
How to choose your Extended Essay Topic
When it comes to selecting the topic for your Extended Essay, roughly speaking, you have three options: you could place your trust in your school; you could focus on your supervisor; or you could believe me. While the choice may seem obvious to you, there are some things to consider before finalising your EE topic.
Extended Essay: Step 4. Choose a Topic
Choose a topic and undertake some background reading in it. Twelve-step Plan for Researching the Extended Essay A list of the steps necessary in order to carry out the research required for writing the IB Extended Essay - choosing the subject and topic, doing the required reading of IB rules and guidelines, writing the initial research question ...
English A Extended Essay Topics: Ideas & Inspiration
In this article, we present a selection of thought-provoking topics for your English A Extended Essay, designed to pique your curiosity and challenge your analytical skills. ... Choose a topic that resonates with you. Your engagement with the subject matter can significantly influence your essay's depth of inquiry and the quality of analysis.
Best 200 Extended Essay Topics: Ideas, Examples, Writing Tips
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 ...
110 Inspiring Extended Essay Topics for Research
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.
Extended Essay Topics: How to choose the best one for your academic
Make your academic paper as precise as possible. Avoid messing around, as well as using too wordy sentences and paragraphs. Use various sources. The higher the number of sources used in your extended essay, the better. This will help you get a better vision of the chosen topic. Mention the importance of the topic.
110 Extended Essay Topics
The following are some tips for completing an extended essay: 1) Choose a Topic. When choosing a topic for an extended essay, it is important to begin with a topic already familiar to the student. This will make it easier for them to find information and conduct research on said topic. It also helps students who may not be as adept at critical ...
Literature Extended Essay Topics: Guide for IB Students
Choosing the right Literature Extended Essay topic allows you to engage deeply with texts, develop your analytical skills, and contribute to literary discussions. I've learned that passion, perseverance, and a critical eye are your best tools for this task.
The Extended Essay Step-By-Step Guide
The extended essay (often called the EE) is a 4000-word structured essay on a topic of your choice which can take many different forms. Ultimately what your EE ends up looking like depends on the topic you choose. Some students choose to write their extended essay about literature or history, which means they write a more traditional academic ...
200 Extended Essay Topics for Students
Preparation and work on this assignment spans several academic terms - this includes choosing extended essay topics, submitting proposals, designating supervisors, information gathering (e.g. sources from local libraries), writing a draft (for instance, over a summer break), receiving feedback from supervisors, etc. IB Extended Essay Layout
Extended Essay: Step 1. Choose a Subject
Choose a subject and topic that interests you - something you're personally invested in - so you'll stay motivated throughout the EE process.You should be able to explain and identify to others what you're interested in and why. WSA students are encouraged to choose one of the following Diploma Programme subjects for their Extended Essays:
English Extended Essay Topics: 30+ Examples for Inspiration
You learned quite a lot about English extended essays so far. You know about the English EE categories as well as how to write a comprehensive essay for the subject. In the following section, we put together a list of some of the best English extended essay topics that you can focus on if you choose to write an extended essay on an English subject.
How to Structure an Essay
1. What is an essay structure? An essay structure serves as a framework for presenting ideas coherently and logically. It comprises three crucial elements: an introduction that communicates the context, topic, and thesis statement; the body focusing on the main points and arguments supported with appropriate evidence followed by its analysis; and a conclusion that ties together the main points ...
The Vital Role of the Outgoing CEO
Drawing on extended interviews with outgoing executives, this article discusses the five psychological crossroads that leaders face when they step down and offers advice on what boards and CEOs ...
The Extended Essay Step-By-Step Guide 4: The Question
1. To start: draft your question. "The title should provide a clear indication of the focus of the essay. It should be precise and not necessarily phrased in the form of a question" - Extended Essay Guide. The only way to work out if your question is good enough is to have a question to begin with. So if you haven't yet tried to ...
Rethinking English essay scores: The argument for ...
To get high scores at essay writing tests, learners of English as a foreign language need to focus on good arguments more than on complex grammar. The finding challenges conventional approaches to ...

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IB Extended Essay: Why Should You Trust My Advice?

What Is the Extended Essay in the IB Diploma Programme?

What Should You Write About in Your IB Extended Essay?

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

#1: Write About Something You Enjoy

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

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

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

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

#6: Start Writing Sooner Rather Than Later!

How Is the IB Extended Essay Graded?

How Does the Extended Essay Grade Affect Your IB Diploma?

40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme

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Extended Essay (IB): Choosing a subject and topic

Introduction to the Extended Essay

What do I need to do?

How do I choose a subject?

Subject Group Overviews

Subject Specific Guidance

Ethical guidelines

Extended essays from previous years

How do I choose a topic?

Browsing our subscription databases

Using the Subject Specific Guidelines

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Annotated bibliography

Head of Library and Archives

What are your chances of acceptance?

Your chancing factors

How to Choose an IB Extended Essay Topic

How Does the Extended Essay Affect My Admissions Chances?

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The Complete Extended Essay Guide | 100 Topics & Examples

Extended Essay Facts

Significance of Extended Essay

Extended Essay Assessment Criteria

How to Select a Topic for the Extended Essay?

Fear of failing the essay? Get help from an expert!

How to Formulate Research Questions for the Extended Essay?

Choosing the Supervisor

Structure of an Extended Essay

Contents Page

Introduction

References and Bibliography

The deadline you Need to Meet

The viva voce Interview

Free Extended Essay Topics

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Movie and Film Extended Essay Topics

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Geography Extended Essay Topics

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Frequently Asked Questions

Splendid Ideas for Extended Essay Topics

Get Inspired: 110 Unique Extended Essay Topics and Ideas

IB Extended Essay Topics

Biology Extended Essay Topics

English Extended Essay Topics

Psychology Extended Essay Topics

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