The Extended Essay is composed of independent, self-directed research, culminating in a 4,000-word research paper. Students demonstrate their intellectual initiative either through an in-depth inquiry within the boundaries of a Diploma Programme (DP) subject, or by investigating a topic using an interdisciplinary approach combining two DP subjects. Students normally choose a topic from one of their six chosen subjects for those taking the IB diploma, or a subject that a course student has a background in.
Key features of the extended essay
- Compulsory for all students taking the DP and is an option for course students
- A formal piece of academic writing, no more than 4,000 English words (or 4,800 Chinese characters), accompanied by a reflective statement of no more than 500 English words (or 600 Chinese characters) on the RPF (Reflection and Progress Form)
- Students must choose a subject for their essay from the list of available DP subjects announced by the EE coordinator for the examination session in question
- Work under the guidance of a designated supervisor in the school, who is usually one of the student's subject teachers
- Besides informal meetings and ‘check-ins’, students meet with their supervisor for three formal sessions. Ends with a Viva Voce, the third and final reflection session
- The EE and RPF are externally assessed by an IB examiner for 30 marks
- Grade boundaries are applied to convert marks into letter grades. The letter grade from the EE is combined with the letter grade from Theory of Knowledge (TOK) to award up to 3 points toward the Diploma
- Must achieve a D grade or higher to be awarded the Diploma
- Candidates should spend approximately 40 hours working on their essay
- Supervisors recommended to spend between 3-5 hours supervising each candidate
- Helps to prepare students for the research-driven environment of university or college
