Download - Introduction to IB extended essay
The IB Extended Essay
What is it?• An in-depth study of a specific topic
• The topic is of your own choice
• Has to be within a single Diploma Programme subject
• Maximum 4000 words
• Structured essay
What do I have to do?• Choose a topic that requires the gathering and
analysis of information from a number of sources
• Engage in a genuine intellectual challenge
• Do independent research and practice critical thinking
• Present your arguments in a formal and structured manner
What is expected of me?
• To formulate and answer a research question
• To analyze and evaluate effectively
• To give qualified arguments
• To communicate coherently
• To meet high standards of academic presentation (formal langiage, correct referencing, bibliography and abstract)
How much time do I get?
• Recommended: 40 hours work in total
• Work is done outside regular class work
• Includes consultation sessions with supervisor
• Internal deadlines: – Topic, Research question and disposition due in
June, rough draft in August 2013– Final draft due in November 2013
Where can I get help?• Supervisor and subject teacher
• Libraries! school library, research library. For instance: – School library - ask librarian for help– Kungliga Biblioteket– University of Stockholm
• Extended Essay Guide (on managebac)
• Internet reliable sites!
How will my extended essay be assessed?
• Externally assessed - grade boundary scale 0-36
• Grade from A (excellent) to E (elementary)
• Generic assessment criteria (A-K)
• Combined with TOK essay gives max. 3 points
• “Viva Voce”interview with supervisor(10-15 min)
Assessment Criteria:A. Research question (maximum 2 points)
B. Introduction (maximum 2 points)
C. Investigation (maximum 4 points)
D. Knowledge and understanding of the topic studied (max. 4 points)
E. reasoned argument (maximum 4 points)
F. application of analytical and evaluative skills (maximum 4 points)
G. use of language (maximum 4 points)
H. conclusion (maximum 2 points)
I. formal presentation (maximum 4 points)
J. abstract (maximum 2 points)
K. holistic judgement (maximum 4 points)
(they were the same in 2011)
Academic honesty• Give a clear indication of sources used
• NO plagiarism, collusion or duplication This is malpractice!!
• When detected disqualification from Diploma
• “Viva Voce”-interview with supervisor (10-15 min) (the last thing you do)
Definition of Malpractice
• Plagiarism = the representation of ideas or work of another person as the candidate’s own
• Collusion = supporting malpractice by another candidate, as in allowing one’s work to be copied or submitted for assessment by another
• Duplication of work = presentation of the same work for different assessment components and/or diploma requirements
• Any other behavior which gains an unfair advantage for a candidate or which affects the results of another candidate
What must I do this term?• Think about a topic within a subject that you are
really interested in.
• Consult with your teachers about the feasibility of the topic.
• When approved write a formal disposition with Research Question, outline, and list of sources.
• By June you should be in the process of researching an approved topic.