Writing an Extended Essay (EE) is a mandatory requirement for students pursuing the IB Diploma Program. The EE is a self-directed research paper typically consisting of around 4000 words, where students can choose a topic of their interest from one of the six subjects they've opted for in the diploma.
When embarking on writing an extended essay, candidates must carefully formulate their research question. The International Baccalaureate (IB) expects students to engage in a personal exploration of the problem and demonstrate their research and findings through clear, concise writing skills. The essay should maintain a sense of logical argument and analysis throughout, serving as a measure of the student's analytical and comprehensive skills in research.
Throughout the writing process, students are required to have three mandatory reflection sessions with their supervisor. However, the final extended essay is externally assessed by an examiner appointed by the IB, and students receive a grade ranging from excellent to mediocre to elementary level.
To write a correct EE, especially in Mathematics, there are some fundamental principles to follow:
Choose a concise and focused topic: The topic should be clear and objective, avoiding broad or general subjects. It's essential to select a topic that the student is comfortable with and where the supervisor can provide guidance.
Expand beyond the curriculum: The EE should extend the knowledge base beyond what's covered in the mathematics curriculum of the Diploma course, demonstrating the student's ability to learn and apply mathematics.
Present correct arguments and reasoning: The methodology used must be elaborated, and the language should be technical, with a clear and continuous flow of ideas that grips the reader until the conclusion.
Incorporate relevant visuals: Graphs, tables, and diagrams should be included at appropriate places to enhance understanding without disrupting the continuity of the essay.
Additionally, our IB Extended Essay Tutors provide some tips and topic suggestions for Mathematics EE:
- Social Network Analysis
- Graph Theory
- Differential and Integral Calculus
- Algebra and Linear Algebra
- Discrete Mathematics
- Numerical Methods
- Geometry
- Statistics
- Vector Calculus
- Miscellaneous topics like Fourier Series, Cryptography, Non-Linear Dynamics, etc.
The structure of the EE typically includes sections such as the title page, content page, introduction, body of the essay, conclusion, bibliography, and appendix. It's crucial to prepare in stages and develop drafts progressively to ensure clarity and originality in the content.
Finally, students are advised to seek inspiration from existing extended essays, utilize online resources, and consult with professors or experts in the field to enhance the quality and originality of their work. Diligent effort and thorough preparation are key to succeeding in writing an extended essay that meets the IB standards and earns a favorable grade. For further assistance, students can reach out to our IB Extended Essay Tutors for guidance and support throughout the writing process.
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