language and literature extended essay topics

Extended Essay: Language and Literature

• Step 1 - Choosing a Subject
• Step 2 - Choosing a Topic
• Step 3 - Draft a Research Question
• Step 4 - Finding Sources
• Step 5 - Evaluating Information
• Step 6 - Bibliography & Citation
• Step 7 - Organizing Information
• The Arts: Visual Arts
• Individuals & Societies: Business Management
• Individuals & Societies: History
• Individuals & Societies: Psychology
• Language Acquisition

Language and Literature

• Sciences: Biology
• Sciences: Sports, Exercise, and Health Sciences
• Interdisciplinary Papers: World Studies
• Assessment Criteria
• Research Questions
• Investigation

Extended Essays in Language and Literature

Choosing a topic.

• Categories 1 & 2

Categories 1 & 2

***Category 2 essays are the same as category 1, but they analyze works not written in English***

Language and Literature papers in categories 1 and 2 are focused on one or more literary works and can focus on original literary analysis, a particular literary topic, and/or established literary criticism.  

be a work you studied in class

Marriage in the novels of George Eliot	The portrayal of marriages as imperfect in   by George Eliot
Comedy in Shakespeare’s plays	The use of comic characters to explore serious issues in Shakespeare’s   and
Autobiographical details in	The role of autobiographical techniques and their effects on the reader in   by Nelson Mandela
A comparison of the main characters in   and	The importance of satire in the travels of the main characters in   and
A comparison of Shakespeare’s sonnets and   by Pablo Neruda	The treatment of the theme of love in a selection of Shakespeare’s sonnets and   by Pablo Neruda

NB: When investigating a film in category 2, the film must be analyzed for its literary value, not filmic. Filmic analysis is allowed in category 3.

Category 3 papers also analyze works, however they are not restricted to literary works! Topics in Category 3 emphasize the production and reception of texts in social, historical and/or cultural contexts. Essays that simply offer a general overview of a topic are not appropriate.

The influence of the media in shaping the view of female beauty	The use of language and image by UK fashion and beauty magazines  ,   and   to construct a particular body image for women
Successful political campaigns	The use of language and other persuasive techniques to confront the ideology of the United States by Malcolm X and other civil rights activists
Humor in	The use of humor by Kehlman in   to bridge the distance between the present day reader and his historic subject matter
Argentine protest marches	The use of different reporting methods by various newspapers to cover Argentine protest marches

Approaches to Research

Categories 1 and 2

**Category 2 essays are the same as category 1, but analyze works not written in English**

Primary research in Language and Literature may require close reading of one or more texts. Secondary research may also be necessary for information like historical context, biographical information,  and established literary criticism. Students should consider things like the effect of the work, the devices it uses, or the way it is written.

	Students can study a philosophical, political or social issue in a work of literature. However, the major focus of their essay should be the literary treatment of the issue.  Students should not use the essay solely as a vehicle for their own thoughts on the issue. Students must focus first on their analysis of the presentation of the author’s ideas. Then they can present their personal views on the way the author has treated the subject.
	Students should aim include existing literary criticism and their original ideas. An essay that simply repeats the views of established literary critics will not receive a high mark.

	The treatment of prejudice in  and		The portrayal of childhood in novels
	How far are the approaches to prejudice and discrimination different in   and  ?		In what ways, and to what purposes, do Nabokov’s   and Proust’s   evoke memories of childhood?
	The identification of types of prejudice in the novels and the selection of detailed incidents for close analysis. Some background research into 1950s America and Afghanistan between 1970 and the mid-1990s may be helpful in establishing a context for the argument and a comparative element to the discussion.		A close analysis of both works, with reference to existing literary criticism of both works, and others, as appropriate, some secondary sources for historical context, and some comparative element to the discussion

Students should give a focused analysis of the texts being considered. The approach should be balanced, coherently argued, use relevant examples to illustrated the point.

Examples of language in a cultural context

	Gender
	How has the portrayal of men in male grooming products changed from the 1980s to date?
	A careful analysis of the contexts and the devices employed in at least two specific advertising campaigns in the target language culture, with some comparative element to the discussion.

Examples of language and mass communication

	The use of persuasive language in motivational speeches
	By what means do Steve Jobs and Martin Luther King seek to inspire their particular audiences?
	A careful analysis of the contexts and the rhetorical devices employed in Steve Jobs’ Stanford University commencement speech (2005) and Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech (1963), with some comparative element to the discussion.

Language and Literature Sources

Even students doing primary research will still need to reference secondary sources. These may include established literary interpretations or criticisms, biographical and/or historical information.

databases offer topic pages and the Topic Finder search feature.  This video will show you  .
databases have two features to help you find search words as well as topics and sub-topics. Use the "subject guide search" feature in   databases to help you find good search terms. . Use the "topic finder" to help you find good topics and sub-topics
Encyclopedia Britannica has lots of information, like any encyclopedia, but it also has a lot of information about sports and recreation, specifically.			Britannica also offers an extensive database of biographical information that is searchable based on era, nationality, field of work, and gender.
(vol. 311, 2012)	Provides biographical details on thousands of modern novelists, poets, playwrights, nonfiction writers, journalists and scriptwriters. Includes current writers as well as the most-studied literary figures of the early 20th century and authors from around the world. Information is provided by the authors themselves or drawn from published interviews, feature stories, book reviews and other materials provided by the authors/publishers.	(vol. 221, 2012)		A biographical and bibliographical guide to current writers in all fields including poetry, fiction and nonfiction, journalism, drama, television and movies. Includes the most recent data on the world's most-popular authors. Profile sketches are entirely revised and completely replace the original Contemporary Authors entries. Each volume contains approximately 250 writers.
(multiple volumes)	Provides critical overviews of the most-studied plays of all time periods, nations, and cultures. Includes discussions of themes, characters, critical reception, dramatic devices and traditions as well as cultural and historical context.	(multiple volumes)		Provides critical overviews of novels from various cultures and time periods. Includes discussions of plot, characters, themes and structure as well as the work's cultural and historical significance.
(multiple Volumes)	Provides critical overviews of short stories from all cultures and time periods. Includes discussions of plot, characters, themes and structure as well as the story's cultural and historical significance.	(vol. 92, 2021)		Provides biographical profiles of the important and influential persons of African American and/or black heritage. Covers persons of various nationalities in a wide variety of fields, including architecture, art, business, dance, education, fashion, film, industry, journalism, law, literature, medicine, music, politics and government, publishing, religion, science and technology, social issues, sports, television, theater, and others.

Essay Types

An extended essay in language and literature gives students an opportunity to do independent research into a topic of special interest to them within the subject. It is intended to promote advanced research and writing skills, intellectual discovery and creativity.

The essay is open to students who are writing in a language that they would be capable of offering as a language A

Studies in language and literature EEs are divided into three categories:

Studies of one or more literary works  papers are the same as Category 1, but use literary works written in a language other than English.

Studies in language based on one or more texts. Texts can be compared with a translated text originally written in another language.

Assessed Student Work

• An exploration of an aspect of the narrative voice in Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita
• How did the World State government in Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World impact the individuality of the citizens residing in it?
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The Complete IB Extended Essay Guide: Examples, Topics, and Ideas

International Baccalaureate (IB)

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

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

IB Extended Essay: Why Should You Trust My Advice?

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

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

What Is the Extended Essay in the IB Diploma Programme?

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

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

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

The IB Extended Essay must include the following:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the topics covered in your viva voce :

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

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

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

What Should You Write About in Your IB Extended Essay?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1: Write About Something You Enjoy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don't get stuck with a narrow topic!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#6: Start Writing Sooner Rather Than Later!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The early bird DOES get the worm!

How Is the IB Extended Essay Graded?

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

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

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

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

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

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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The IB Extended Essay: Topic ideas and research Questions

• Details of the EE
• Topic ideas and research Questions
• Subject Guides & documents you need
• Writing a research paper
• Check the list of available subjects  here
• Read the IB's criteria for your subject
• Read an exemplar essay in your subject
• Decide on a topic within this subject
• This means you will need to do some research!
• During the first meeting with your advisor, discuss the research you've done, your ideas, and the requirements for your subject.
• Your revised research question proposal is due May 16.

Adapted from O'Farrell, Finbar.  Approach your assessment the IB Way: Extended Essay.  pg. 13

Examples of marked EEs in all subjects

• From the IB website Have a look at the specific subject you plan on writing your EE for a marked example. You will be able to identify what you need to be successful.

Design Technology

• Guide on writing an EE in DT The pdf explains everything clearly and is full of ideas and topics to write about.

Question: Has the introduction of new materials improved the performance of modern racing bicycles?

  Question:  What are the most ethical and efficient methods--through current technologies--private organizations can use to make Mars habitable for Human life?

History or Geography

Question : In what ways did the Cold War impact American public education? Question:   To what extent have Maori non-violent struggles for their land been effective? Question: How could the UN intervention in the Rwandan genocide be justified?  Question :Is it politically possible for the US government to win the drugs war? (Politics)

Question:  How are the depictions of Marie Antoinette in politics and portraiture significant to the French revolution and the fall of the French Monarchy? 

Question:  To what extent was film able to further pro-Nazi sentiment in Germany during the early 1930s to mid 1940s?

Question:  To what extent were the Vietnam War and cultural shifts occurring in the 1960s and early 1970s vital factors in the development of the student activism on college campuses in the United States and abroad?

Question:  To what extent was Matthew Perry’s 1853 arrival in Edo Bay the leading motivator for Japan’s rapid modernization during the Meiji Restoration?

Question:  What made the Federal Theatre Project such a success when after only four years of operation it was disbanded by the House of un-American Activities Committee?

Question:  To what extent were Kepler’s scientific discoveries revolutionary and how did they impact the development of science in Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries?   

Question:  In what ways did the Hitler Youth organization impact the youth of Nazi Germany?

Question:  How did the works of classical Greek philosophers influence the domestic policy of Thomas Jefferson?  

Question:  How did the Bushido Code influence the meaning of tattoos in Asian culture?

Question:  In what way did the Catholic Church affect politics in the Kingdom of Spain during the Dark Ages?

Question:  What are the impacts of melting ice in the North and South Poles on the coastlines of the continental United States?

English EEs - ideas for Language and Literature

The EE Guide says the following on p 112 (EE Guide 2018, revised Jan 2017) - remember EACH subject has their own EE guides too.

   Quote The EE may relate to work students have already completed during the course, but they must also demonstrate relevant wider reading and individual study. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that the topic of their EE does not overlap with any other work they are preparing for assessment in language A—for example, the written assignment in the literature course, or the written task in the language and literature course.   

Question:  How did Eugene Gladstone O'Neill express the themes of family relationship and sadness in his work Long Day's Journey Into Night?

Question:  How does the writing of Japanese horror artist and novelist Junji Ito contrast with the writing of American horror novelist Stephen King?

Question:  How do the final movies of the Harry Potter series compare to the final book? What has been changed or depicted differently in terms of characterization and storylines?

Sport Science

Question:  How does age affect the process of instant muscle reaction?

Economics or ITGS

Question:  What impact does public healthcare have on low income households in the United States compared to those in Canada?

Question:  To what extent has deforestation influenced Indonesia's economic and environmental growth?

Physics, Chemistry or Biology Ideas

Question:  How have climate change and forestry practices contributed to the spread of the mountain pine beetle in the Pacific Northwest in recent decades, and what does the outbreak show us about the ecological intricacies of climate change? 

Question:  What evidence is there to support the theory of life on Mars?

Question:  How does the DNA sequence of a transthyretin (TTR) gene affect whether Familial Amyloidotic Polyneuropathy (FAP), Familial Amyloidotic Cardiomyopathy (FAC) or Senile Systemic Amyloidosis (SSA) form?

Arts - Visual/Performing

Question : What female stereotypes did Brecht employ in his plays, and how can these be compared and contrasted in performance, based on an analysis of a selection of Brecht's plays? Question : Picasso: individual genius or cultural thief? 

Question:  How does Rachmaninoff apply thematic development in his composition, Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini ?

Question:  How do the Peanuts comics, written by Charles Schultz, show visual language?

Question:  How did the casting of the leading lady in Cole Porter's Anything Goes affect each production on Broadway?

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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.

Wondering about the expenses involved in creating an Extended Essay? Our latest article provides a precise cost analysis to help you budget effectively.

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.

Don’t let the stress of the IB curriculum hold you back.

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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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• IB World Studies Extended Essay Ideas
• IB English A Extended Essay Topics
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• 70+ CAS Project Ideas 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. So, choose a topic that resonates and start writing your best work.

By the way, our team of professional writers is always ready to help you with an Extended Essay so you can spend more time preparing for your exams.

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Guide to the IB Extended Essay in 2024

January 24, 2024

If you’re an International Baccalaureate student getting ready to write your IB Extended Essay, you might be experiencing some very understandable trepidation. But have no fear—we’re here to help you understand what’s required of you, how to plan ahead (IB extended essay topics), and how you’ll be graded (IB extended essay rubric). Keep reading for a good dose of preparation and confidence before you begin the journey. In this article, we’ll cover:

What is the IB Extended Essay?

The ib extended essay—required content, ib extended essay topics.

IB Extended Essay—Sample Essays

IB Extended Essay Tips

Ib extended essay rubric, ib extended essay—more resources.

The IB Extended Essay is a 4,000-word paper that asks you to immerse yourself in research and academic writing. A required part of the IB program, the Extended Essay is a chance to dig deep into a topic that fascinates you.

Although it’s no small task, the IB Extended Essay is an opportunity to gain practical research and writing skills that will come in handy again in college. As you write, you’ll learn how to:

• Identify credible sources
• Formulate a research question and limit your scope of research
• Communicate ideas to an audience
• Develop a well-supported argument

The IB Extended Essay is largely an independent, self-directed project, but don’t worry—the IB program doesn’t throw you into the deep end. You do get to select a mentor (usually a teacher at your school) to help guide you through the process. As you write, you’ll be required to meet with your mentor three times. As part of your final evaluation, your mentor will interview you in a final reflection section called a viva voce . During the viva voce, your mentor will check for plagiarism and malpractice, ask you to reflect on challenges and difficulties, and prompt you to discuss what you’ve learned through the research and writing process. Your mentor will then generate a report that factors into your final grade.

Your final essay must include the following:

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

For this essay, it will be up to you to generate a topic; the International Baccalaureate does not provide prompts. However, your essay will need to fit within one of six provided subject areas . You’ll choose from the following list of IB Extended Essay Topics:

• Language and literature
• Language acquisition
• Individuals and societies
• Mathematics

IB Extended Essay Topics (Continued)

At a glance, the subject areas might look limited, but the topics you can choose to write about are actually wide-ranging. The “Individuals and societies” category includes social science topics like economics, history, world religions, and philosophy. And, if you’re leaning toward “Science,” you can choose from classic subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics, or related topics like environmental systems or health science, among others.

The IB also offers a special “World Studies” option for students interested in researching global issues. This subject would allow you to center your writing on global issues such as migration, global health, cultural exchange, or climate change.

Wondering what an outstanding IB Extended Essay looks like? The International Baccalaureate provides quite a few sample student essays online . Here are five essays that earned A grades.

Language and literature: An exploration of an aspect of the narrative voice in Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita

Environmental Systems and Societies: The economic impact of the 1995 reintroduction of grey wolves to Yellowstone National Park

Psychology: To what extent do social networking sites (SNS) usage lead to experience of anxiety in adolescents?

Music: Composition techniques in the 1st movement of Johannes Brahms’s Symphony No. 2, Op. 73

Business Management: Corporate Culture at Oracle

1) Pick something you’re passionate about

As you can see from the titles above, the IB Extended Essay is a great place to delve into a niche topic that fascinates you. Since you’ll be spending many months on this essay, you’ll want to pick a topic you genuinely enjoy spending time learning about. It’s also smart to choose something you’ve already learned about in your IB classes so that you have a strong foundation of knowledge to start with. In music class, do you love pondering why music makes us feel a certain way? Maybe an essay about music theory will keep your gears turning. Do you come alive trying to solve seemingly impossible problems in physics class? Now’s your chance to put those equations into action.

Since this essay is all about your academic interests, it’s also a good idea to pick a topic that’s relevant to what you plan to study in college. Selecting a relevant topic will provide you with significant exposure to the field and will also give you something meaningful to talk about in your college admissions essays.

2) Limit your scope

What’s the meaning of life? Why do wars happen? What is time? Some questions are just way too big to answer, and your IB Extended Essay is not a good place to tackle expansive, philosophical questions. Instead, think of this essay as a place to investigate one piece of a big question. If, let’s say, you’re generally interested in what helps women reach positions of leadership in business, this is a good place to examine how one or a few companies approach this issue. Or, if you’re interested in studying what inspires surrealist painters, you’ll want to pick one or a few painters to research, likely all from the same time period. For both these topics, you’d need a whole textbook to tackle the full question, but limiting your scope will make it much easier to write a clear and cohesive 4,000 words.

On the other hand, it’s possible to narrow your focus too much. It would be impossible, for example, to write 4,000 words about a single sentence in a novel. Make sure you talk about scope early and often with your mentor. Together, you can find the perfect Goldilocks scope for your project that’s not too big and not too small.

3) Choose a good mentor

Speaking of mentors, choosing wisely will help you enormously as you embark on your IB Extended Essay. You’ll want to make sure you choose someone with existing knowledge in your research topic. Your English teacher may be able to give you great writing advice, for example, but they won’t be able to guide your research and scope if you’re writing about marine animals or modern dance.

Before you approach a teacher, make sure you have at least one topic idea (or even a few ideas) in mind so that you can make sure they’ll be a good fit to supervise your project. When you meet with them, find out what their mentorship style is like. Make sure they’ll have time to read several drafts of your essays, meet with you a few times, and give you feedback. Some IB schools will require your IB Extended Essay mentor to sign an agreement form too, so make sure you find out what paperwork is required in advance.

4) Get organized, way organized

The IB Extended Essay is not something you can crank out the night before it’s due. The essay is meant to be a substantive, in-depth, thoughtful, and thoroughly researched analysis, and Rome simply isn’t built in a day. This might be the longest paper you’ve written to date, and this project might require more research than you’ve been asked to do before. Timelines vary by school, but you’ll likely spend between eight months and a year working on your IB Extended Essay. So, how will you pull it all off? For these 8-12 months, organization will be your guiding light. We recommend you:

• Get started early. If your essay is due November of your senior year, start generating topic ideas during your junior year right after winter break.
• Create a long-view schedule for yourself. What will you accomplish each month of your process?
• Give yourself deadlines. Once you choose a mentor, suggest 2-3 draft deadline dates so that you will be held accountable throughout the writing process.
• Find a note-taking system that works for you. You’ll be reading many articles and books and it’s hard to keep track of all your sources. Create a document or spreadsheet where you keep track of the sources you’ve found and check them off as you read. As you finish reading a text, type up important quotes and a few notes explaining how it connects to your topic and to your other texts.

5)Write a messy first draft

Writing never comes out perfect the first time, even for New York Times bestselling authors and the most experienced researchers. In your first draft, give yourself permission to get all your thoughts out, no matter how unstructured or rambling they are. Call this your brainstorming draft. When you’re ready to revisit it, see what patterns emerge, what common ideas you can group together, what beginning buds of ideas you can make bloom into full-fledged analysis.

6) Communicate for an audience

When you’re used to producing writing that only your teacher reads, it can be hard to remember to write for an audience. But at the end of the day, writing is communication , and the best writing is clear and thorough communication that anyone could pick up and read. For your IB Extended Essay, you’ll want to remember that many people will be reading your final essay, and not all of them will be experts in the niche topic you choose to study. Ask yourself: how can I explain my research to an audience who doesn’t already agree with my analysis?

To communicate to an audience, you’ll want to:

• Provide lots of general background information on your topic.
• Don’t assume your reader is familiar with your sources. Introduce them as if they’re guest speakers about to walk up to a podium and deliver a lecture.
• After including quotes, facts, and figures, be sure to explain what those sources mean in your own words and how they connect to your bigger-picture argument.
• Don’t assume your arguments are self-evident. In this essay, communicating for an audience means supplying ongoing interpretation and analysis, even if it feels like you’re explaining the obvious. Your reader isn’t on your research journey with you, so your points might not be so obvious to your reader.

Although your IB Extended Essay provides a report that factors into your grade, your essay will also be assessed by external examiners the IB. Per the IB Extended Essay Rubric , essays are graded on a scale from 0 to 34 based on 5 different criteria:

• 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)

As you can see, Critical Thinking is the most significant rubric category. This means that the IB wants to see you arrive at your own unique analysis of your topic, drawing connections between sources and data, and making well-supported arguments. This means they want a lot of you: your ideas, your interpretations, your thoughts. Make sure you emphasize that in your essay, but of course don’t forget the other categories.

The score a student receives corresponds to a letter grade scale that is slightly different than what we’re accustomed to in the U.S. Here’s the letter grade to numerical score breakdown:

Total Points Earned	Letter Grade	Descriptor
30-34	A	Excellent
25-29	B	Good
17-24	C	Satisfactory
9-19	D	Mediocre
0-8	E	Elementary

You must earn a D or higher to receive your IB Diploma. To learn more about the different criteria included in the IB Extended Essay Rubric, you can explore the IB’s full guide to the Extended Essay .

We hope you found our look at the IB extended essay rubric and IB extended essay topics to be helpful. Ready to dive into research? You may want to read our 10 Expert Tips for Improving Reading Comprehension before you hit the books.

And if you’re a high school student in the process of mapping out your pathway to college, take a look at a few other useful guides:

• IB vs AP—Which Classes are Best for College Admission?
• How to Earn College Credit in High School
• High School Course Requirements for College Admission
• SAT Score Calculator
• ACT Score Calculator 
• High School Success

Christina Wood

Christina Wood holds a BA in Literature & Writing from UC San Diego, an MFA in Creative Writing from Washington University in St. Louis, and is currently a Doctoral Candidate in English at the University of Georgia, where she teaches creative writing and first-year composition courses. Christina has published fiction and nonfiction in numerous publications, including The Paris Review , McSweeney’s , Granta , Virginia Quarterly Review , The Sewanee Review , Mississippi Review , and Puerto del Sol , among others. Her story “The Astronaut” won the 2018 Shirley Jackson Award for short fiction and received a “Distinguished Stories” mention in the 2019 Best American Short Stories anthology.

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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!

CALVIN AND HOBBES © Watterson. Reprinted with permission of ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION.  All rights reserved.

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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Extended Essay Essentials

• Individuals and Societies
• Interdisciplinary
• Mathematics

Contact Your Librarian

Trish Pearson

she/her/hers

[email protected]

What's in this guide?

In this guide, you will find essential documents for writing the EE in the following subjects

• Language and Literature

Language Acquisition

Essential documents include Subject Specific Guidelines and Sample Essays for each of the Languages essays.

Language & Literature

• Language and Literature Subject Specific Guidelines - A short guide on how to write the Language and Literature EE
• Score Reports - See what students did (and did not do well) in these short reports from the chief examiner.
• Sample Papers - Read sample EE papers provided by IB and see how they scored.

Introduction to the EE in Language and Literature

From the Guide:

An extended essay (EE) in studies in language and literature gives students an opportunity to undertake independent research into a topic of special interest to them within the subject. It is intended to promote advanced research and writing skills, intellectual discovery and creativity. The essay is open to students who are writing in a language that they would be capable of offering as a Language A. It must be written in the language for which it is registered. Students must  not  submit a Group 1 EE in their Group 2 language.

Studies in language and literature EEs are divided into three categories:

• 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. Texts can be compared with a translated text originally written in another language.

For more detailed information about the Language and Literature EEs see Studies in language and literature: An introduction . This document contains information on:

• Topic Selection
• Literature Review
• The Research Question
• Research Methods
• A Framework for the EE in Language and Literature

Other essential documents for the EE in Language and Literature:

• Language and Literature Subject Specific Guidelines  - A short guide on how to write the Language and Literature EE
• Score Reports  - See what students did (and did not do well) in these short reports from the chief examiner.
• Sample Papers  - Read sample EE papers provided by IB and see how they scored.
• Language and Literature Subject Specific Guidelines
• 2021 Language and Literature Score Report - English A
• 2018 Language and Literature Score Report - English A
• 2021 Language and Literature Score Report - Chinese A
• 2018 Language and Literature Score Report - Chinese A

• Language Acquisition Subject Specific Guidelines - A short guide on how to write the Language Acquisition EE
• Sample Papers   - Read sample EE papers provided by the IB and see how they scored.

Introduction to the EE in Language Acquisition

And extended essay (EE) in language acquisition gives students an opportunity to:

• develop their awareness and knowledge of the target language they are studying
• demonstrate their understanding of the culture associated with their target language.

The essay requires students to carry out research based on:

• texts (taken to be any meaningful piece of spoken or written language, e.g. an article, a book, a play, a poem), or
• specific cultural artifacts, e.g., works of fine art, architecture, films, radio or television programmes, or lyrics from popular music.

The essay is intended for students who are studying a second modern language. It must be written in the language for which it is registered (the target language) and focus on matters related to the target culture. Students may  not  write a language acquisition EE in a language that they are studying for the Diploma as a language A literature, or language A studies in language and literature. Students are assessed on the basis of their skills in research and analysis, not their language proficiency.

For more detailed information about the Language Acquisition EEs see Studies in Language Acquisition . This document contains information on:

• A Framework for the EE in Language Acquisition.
• Language and Literature Subject Specific Guidelines  - A short guide on how to write the Language Acquisition EE
• Language Acquisition Subject Specific Guidelines
• 2021 Language Acquisition Score Report - English B
• 2018 Language Acquisition Score Report - English B
• 2021 Language Acquisition Score Report - Chinese B
• 2018 Language Acquisition Score Report - Chinese B
• 2021 Language Acquisition Score Report - Spanish B
• 2018 Language Acquisition Score Report - French B
• 2021 Language Acquisition Score Report - German B
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Extended Essay

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

Studies in language and literature Sample A

Extended Essay: Exemplar Commentary
Subject	English	If applicable, theme for WSEE
If applicable, category for language essays	Cat 1	If applicable, subjects used for WSEE
Title of essay	How is light used to depict the course of the Wingfield family’s hope in Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie?
Essay number	A	Examination session
Assessment of extended essay
Criteria	Mark awarded	Commentary
A: Focus and method [6]	6	The essay is a good example of work which meets the requirements of the top level (5-6) of achievement in this criterion. The research topic is effectively communicated and the purpose and focus of the research is clear. In addition, the candidate has made an effective selection of source material in support of her answer (especially the inclusion of the lighting photos, gleaned from various stage productions and reproduced in color in the appendices). The methodology of the essay is firmly focused on an exploration of dramatic technique used by Williams and how this is used to support both the meaning of the events of the play and intensify its tragic outcome. This sophisticated approach in particular justifies the mark of “6” for this criterion.
B: Knowledge and understanding [6]	6	Knowledge and understanding of the way lighting techniques are used by Williams to represent and/or symbolize both hope and the lack of hope is excellent, and sources are used effectively and with understanding throughout the discussion. Subject-specific terminology—especially important in an essay of this nature—is confidently employed to support the points made, and includes references to concepts such as “plastic theatre” coined by Williams himself to describe his stagecraft techniques. The candidate’s confidence in selecting examples from the text to illustrate her ideas and demonstrate her understanding merit a mark of “6” here also.
C: Critical thinking [12]	10	The research is analysed effectively and remains clearly focused on the research question. Conclusions to individual points of analysis are effectively supported by the evidence—for example, when “tracking” the upsurge of hope, or conversely, the regression into despair and disillusionment in a particular scene. A clearly structured and reasoned argument is supported by a strong final conclusion. The importance of Williams’s stage directions is acknowledged and the candidate pays careful attention to the fact that through these, Williams controlled the lighting scheme to eg reproduce the effect of a religious painting “where the figures are radiant in an atmosphere that is relatively dusky.” The essay as a whole merits a place in the top band of achievement for this criterion (10-12). However, a few further examples or quotations from the play and, in places, a more detailed discussion of context would have helped the candidate to explore her topic still further, and thus a mark of 10 has been awarded.
D: Presentation [4]	4	The formal presentation is good and the structure and layout support the reading, understanding and evaluation of the EE. Full color copies of the stills from the stage productions are helpfully supplied as appendices and provide visual aids to the discussion.
E: Engagement [6] (not included)	3	The reflections are quite pedestrian compared to the quality of the essay. There is some recognition of skills development but overall is quite descriptive.
Total marks awarded	26/34	An excellent example of a candidate who really examines the play as a play, with careful attention being paid to a key element of the staging and its contribution to the meaning of the theatrical experience. There are well-argued and expressed ideas throughout.

Studies in language and literature Sample B

Extended Essay: Exemplar Commentary
Subject	English	If applicable, theme for WSEE
If applicable, category for language essays	Cat 2	If applicable, subjects used for WSEE
Title of essay	To what extent were women’s rights marginalized through the misuse of religious texts by the theocracies present in the novels Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi and A Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood?
Essay number	B	Examination session
Assessment of extended essay
Criteria	Mark awarded	Commentary
A: Focus and method [6]	5	The research question is clear and there is some evidence of an informed selection of sources. The structure of the essay, however, means that these are not always appropriately used in the sub-headings, and this hinders the effective communication of the issue as a consequence (see further comment under criterion D, below). Thus, whilst the essay achieves the overall standard for the top mark band, it merits a “5” rather than a “6” under this criterion.
B: Knowledge and understanding [6]	5	The selection of source material is clearly relevant and applicable to the research question. A sound knowledge of the topic under discussion is demonstrated, although more direct quotation from both texts would have provided more detailed evidence for this. In terms of genre, some acknowledgement that as a graphic novel, Persepolis relies heavily on its illustrations—and therefore the candidate is not comparing “like-with-like” as if the texts chosen were both novels—would also have been appropriate here (see further comment below). Persepolis can also be regarded as a memoir, rather than a completely fictional work such as A Handmaid’s Tale. Because of these reservations, once again the appropriate mark would be a “5” rather than a “6” under this criterion. The use of subject-specific terminology is good.
C: Critical thinking [12]	8	A mark in the middle of the 7-9 mark band seems appropriate here. The research is analysed in a way that is clearly relevant to the Research question and conclusions to individual points are supported by the evidence, although, once again, more direct references to the texts would have illustrated this in more depth. The essay clearly shows the manipulation of women through male-dominated groups, with some religious relevance. The essay occasionally shows “misuse of texts”, but this could have been strengthened by better, more directly apposite use of the religious epigraphs, whose purpose is not always clearly identified or explained. As indicated above, examples of the graphics used in Persepolis, especially in the discussion of Islamic strictures on dress (and as compared to Offred’s red uniform as a handmaid), would have added to the candidate’s argument. The final conclusion is consistent with the evidence presented in the essay, which has been critically evaluated.
D: Presentation [4]	3	The formal presentation is good and the structure and layout generally support the reading, understanding and evaluation of the EE. As mentioned above, the use of religious epigraphs is not always clearly explained, and thus the focus of the chapters are unclear, hindering the reader’s ability to “navigate” through the essay in terms of following the argument, and meriting the award of a “3” rather than the top mark of “4” for this criterion.
E: Engagement [6] (not included)		The assessment of an accompanying RPPF will affect the overall mark awarded and the grade achieved.
Total marks awarded	21/28	Although the candidate has chosen to concentrate largely on the two primary texts and relevant extracts from religious texts despite a range of critical reading being available on her chosen topic, her discussion is nevertheless both interesting and informed. Relevant aspects of the primary texts are compared and contrasted directly (rather than the essay being structured to deal with one, and then the second, as discrete entities) and as a result the analysis sheds new light on the issue of the manipulation of women as portrayed in both theocracies. Overall, the essay can be placed securely in the middle of the 19-23 grade band. Please note: as a result of modifying existing extended essays for illustrative purposes, not all exemplars have an accompanying RPPF for assessment under criterion E (this is a mandatory element for all essays as of 2018). As a result, this essay has been marked out of 28 rather than 34.

Studies in language and literature Sample C

Extended Essay: Exemplar Commentary
Subject	English	If applicable, theme for WSEE
If applicable, category for language essays	Cat 3	If applicable, subjects used for WSEE
Title of essay	To what extent do the confessions of public figures have the purpose of using language and structure to manipulate audience response?
Essay number	A	Examination session	May 2014
Assessment of extended essay
Criteria	Mark awarded	Commentary
A: Focus and method [6]	6	The introduction offers a clear rationale for the exercise. The research question is clear and addresses an original and intriguing area of research into a specific type of public address. The purpose and focus of the exercise are both confidently explained and an interesting range of academic sources and methods has been employed (see further comments below). The essay satisfies all three strands at the 5-6 level of achievement, and merits the higher mark in this band.
B: Knowledge and understanding [6]	6	Academic and other sources are used in an appropriate blend, including the theories of Benoit and Todorov concerning the structure and audience of the speech under discussion. Subject specific terminology is employed confidently throughout and overall an excellent knowledge and understanding of the candidate’s chosen topic is demonstrated. Once again, a mark at the higher end of the third level of achievement can be awarded.
C: Critical thinking [12]	12	The speeches are analysed effectively, maintaining the focus on the use of emotive language and other linguistic “tricks” and devices to elicit sympathy (or other emotional responses) from the audience. In addition, the results of the word-choosing exercise in Appendix 2 and the production of the word clouds in Appendices 3 and 4  support the effective analysis of the research and provide evidence for the candidate’s conclusions to individual points of analysis within the essay. The summative conclusion reflects the evidence presented, and the research has been critically evaluated. A different approach – but one obviously discounted by the candidate at his planning stage  – might have been taken, referring in addition to the body language of Clinton and Woods in their respective broadcasts and audience/ press response to their apologies. Within the chosen scope of this essay, however, it is difficult to see how the critical thinking could have been bettered; as a research paper produced by an 18-year-old it merits the top mark in the 10-12 achievement level.
D: Presentation [4]	4	The formal presentation is good and the structure and layout support the reading, understanding and evaluation of the EE. The transcript of the two speeches (including the candidate’s working notes) in appendix 5 was a helpful addition for the reader.
E: Engagement [6] (not included)		The assessment of an accompanying RPPF will affect the overall mark awarded and the grade achieved.
Total marks awarded	28/28	Summative comment A really interesting, well written essay demonstrating some serious research, a strong sense of engagement with the topic and an excellent application of skills from the Language and Literature course. Instead of selecting texts from the more usually-chosen area of inspirational speeches, the candidate has cleverly changed the focus to situations where a speaker might employ rhetoric to very different effect; public confessions are – as stated in the introduction – “a novel exercise in audience manipulation”. The use of language is lucid and articulate throughout.   Please note: as a result of modifying existing extended essays for illustrative purposes, not all exemplars have an accompanying RPPF for assessment under criterion E (this is a mandatory element for all essays as of 2018). As a result this essay has been marked out of 28 rather than 34.

Studies in language and literature example

• Studies in language and literature exampleA_RPPF
• Studies in language and literature sample A
• Studies in language and literature sample B
• Studies in language and literature sample C
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100 IB Extended Essay Topic Ideas!

One of the biggest keys to the Extended Essay is choosing which subject you want to write your work in and developing that crucial research question. Read on to find inspiration for topics across a wide range of subjects.

Extended Essay: The Love/Hate aspect of the IB

One of the biggest keys to the Extended Essay is choosing which subject you want to write your work in and developing that crucial research question. Annoyingly, coming up with that idea and research question can be the toughest part of the entire process. Writing 4,000 words about something you are interested in is a big ask and it often feels impossible to narrow down your thoughts. To make everything super clear, here are 100 Extended Essay Topics for you to draw inspiration from! Use these as a springboard to create your own research question !

Get Support from A Top Tutor Today

At Lanterna we have over 300 tutors who smashed their Extended Essay. They know exactly how to get an A in your EE and can give you tips and tricks on how you can do the same. What are you waiting for? Get your own tutor today !

How to Begin Your IB Extended Essay

To make everything super clear, here are 100 Extended Essay Topics for you to draw inspiration from! Use these as a springboard to  create your own research question !

Get Support from a Top Tutor Today

At Lanterna, we have over 300 tutors who smashed their Extended Essay. They know exactly how to get an A in your EE and can give you tips and tricks on how you can do the same. What are you waiting for? Get your own tutor today!

10 Steps to Writing an Extended Essay

Before we look at specific topics for your essay, let’s recap the 10-steps you’ll need to follow to complete your extended essay.

1. Define the Topic and Draft the Research Question

2. Create a Timeline

3. Identify and gather Sources

4. Set Deadlines

5. Plan the structure according to the total word count

6. Evaluate

7. independent Research

8. Write the extended essay draft

10. Present

By following the steps above, you should be able to produce a logical and coherent rationale to follow when writing the extended essay for your IB diploma programme.

By starting with a solid research question, you’ll be able to put an extended essay of global significance together, from the research and writing process all the way through to your final submission with a favourable extended essay grade.

Below, we’re sharing 10 topics across 10 subjects to inspire your next IB extended essay.

1. How the change of habitat affects an X organism?

2. How does climate affect the growth of X plant?

3. Can photosynthesis take place without sunlight?

4. What is the effect of age and gender on the photoreceptor cells in the human retina?

5. How is climate change impacting the appearance of coral reefs?

6. An evaluation of how  antioxidants  work in our bodies?

7. Does hand sanitizer, hand soap or antibacterial wipes have the greatest ability to inhibit the growth of E. Coli?

8. To what extent do live cultures in yogurts/milk/other dairy products reduce the concentration of lactose present over the course of a 2 hour incubation period at x°C?

9. What is the relationship between  population density  between X and population size of X?

10. What is the relationship between indoleacetic acid, a growth hormone, and the growth of X (a crop)?

11. How does human influence impact an aquatic ecosystem?

12. How can one organize a pollution check along a X canal in X?

13. What is the effect of the increased ecological footprint in the  Amazon ?

14. What are the forest and woodland restoration in Siberia, Russia and which one is most effective?

15. How does human interference cause ecological imbalances in an X city/country/continent?

16. What is the impact of urban development on the  bee population  in X city?

17. What are the differences in the conversation efforts in Yosemite National Park (California, USA) and the Lake District National Park (UK)?

18. To what extent have healthcare policies in X country influenced their human population curve?

19. How have changes in environmental systems influenced the value system of X country?

20. How has X landfill site affected the surrounding terrestrial ecosystem?

21. What is the profitability of  airline companies ?

22. How does unemployment affect the market?

23. Why did X recession occur?

24. How did the financial Policy affect the economy in X?

25. How effective are government policies in reducing overconsumption of alcohol (specifically hard liquor)?

26. To what extent are public buses and subways substitute goods in a country?

27. How did the tax reform in country x affect its growth and development? (many countries to choose from)

28. To what extent was weak government policy responsible for the Latin American financial crisis of 1997?

29. How effective is the  Big Mac Index  in measuring purchasing power parity?

30. To what extent would the UK suffer from leaving the European Customs Union if Brexit happens?

31. Is there an association between viewing violence on television and the display of violent acts?

32. What motivational climate should a coach employ in order to achieve optimal performance in athletes?

33. How does  X hormone affect human behavior ?

34. Compare theories explaining altruism in human behaviour

35. Discuss short-term and long-term consequences of exposure to violence

36. Why do relationships change or end?

37. Discuss how  social variables (poverty, parenting, educational environment) may the affect cognitive environment.

38. To what extent do mirror neurons play a role in empathy? (2014)

39. To what extent does Mindfulness help people cope with General Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

40. To what extent is drug therapy effective in the treatment of bipolar disorder?

41. Does the British Parliamentary reforms act of 1832 deserve its title as the great reform act?

42. To what extent are there similarities in Hitler and Mussolini’s Rise to Power?

43. To what extent did Mao’s tackle the problems which he faced?

44. Was Tsar Alexander II of Russia reforms a success or failure?

45. To what extent was the bombing of Dresden in 1945 justifiable?

46. To what extent can  Sweden be considered neutral during WWII ?

47. The impact of structural economic weakness on the collapse of the Soviet Union.

48. How were women treated differently in 1920s and 1950s Great Britain?

49. Why did Israel win the  Six Day War  of 1967?

50. What role did economics play in the unification of Germany from 1834 to 1871?

English Literature

51. What are the Compare and Contrast Jane Austen Books?

52. How does Joseph Conrad’s portray Racism in A Heart of Darkness?

53. How does Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman critique today’s capitalist society? The American Dream?

54. To what extent does Chris McCandless in Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild escape familial influence?

55. What are the similarities and differences between J.K. Rowling’s characterization of Severus Snape in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows?

56. How does Yaa Gyasi use structure in her novel Homegoing to portray the evolution of time?

57. What is the impact of the social context on Holden Caufield and Huckleberry Finn?

58. How does Sylvia Path’s use of Inanimate objects in Bell Jar?

59. How is the empowerment of Feminine portrayed in the Lord of the Rings?

60. Compare the political rhetoric as used in the inaugural addresses of George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump.

61. The design, construction and calibration of an apparatus for measuring lipid concentration in milk.

62. What is the effect of a change in the optimal lift on the horizontal gliding distance of an aircraft?

63. How does the sugar concentration affect the refractive index of water?

64. How does temperature affect the viscosity of X juice/soda?

65. Is the relationship between temperature and conductivity and insulators and conductors?

66. What is the Oberth Effect?

67. What is the temperature dependence of work performed on an AA battery?

68. How can the rotational frequency of a fan driven by a flame measure distance?

69. Do wine bottles of different shapes behave as Helmholtz resonators?

70. How does the diameter of a wheel affect stability in different weather conditions?

71. What factors influence the location of industries in country/city X?

72. An investigation into the significance of preserving the quality of water in a continent/country/city?

73. An investigation into the degree to which City X can be considered a Sustainable City/Community.

74. To what extent is Biodiversity being managed successfully in city X?

75. To what extent does the education and employment of women affect Country x’s fertility rate?

76. To what extent do gender, educational attainment, and working parameters influence obesity risk?

77. To what extent has urban development affected human thermal comfort levels in Country/city x (a country/city that has developed in a rapid rate over the past decades)?

78. To what extent is the Company x corporate waste management program effective, demonstrating environmental sustainability?

79. To what extent is biodiversity being managed successfully at National Park X?

80. What types of urban design encourage high rates of vandalism in X neighbourhoods?

81. The kinetics of Enzymatic Reactions.

82. How do Iron Intake Diets differ in X country?

83. What are the different factors that affect the iodine values in cooking oils?

84. What is the effect of standing time and temperate on the acid content in X juice or soda?

85. Can caffeine in tea or coffee be reduced?

86. What is the effect of temperature on the souring of milk?

87. What are the sources of error in calorimetry?

88. Does brushing your teeth affect the pH in your mouth after eating?

89. How does changing the concentration of the reagents affect the formation and spacing between Liesehang rings in the reaction between X chloride and X when conducted in a test tube?

90. What effect does the coating of aspirin tablets have on the hydrolysis of aspirin?

Social and Cultural Anthropology

91. How clothing relates to the cultural anthropology of X culture.

92. The extent to which social media networks affect different societies.

93. The relationship between ritual, myths and faith in an X society.

94. The history of rituals in X culture.

95. How different marriage rituals inform the cultural anthropology of X culture.

96. Climate change and its impact on the evolution of different creatures on the planet.

97. Understanding the social and cultural anthropology of the supernatural in X culture.

98. 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

– World studies

– Visual arts

– Business management

Extended essays are a great way to improve your writing skills in academic writing. Essays of a high standard that demonstrate critical thinking and in depth analysis can be submitted to academic journals. These have the potential to reach the global society.

Start Writing Your Extended Essay Topic

We hope this gave you some great inspiration for the variation of topics available for your Extended Essay . The research question you select is what will carry you through the entire process, so be sure to choose wisely!

Remember, if you are looking for more help with your Extended Essay, make sure to check out our guide which will tell you exactly how to plan, structure, research and write your Extended Essay!

Grab Free Extended Essay Resources!

No matter the subject groups in your diploma program, we’re here to help all of our IB students. Whether you’re writing about social and cultural anthropology, business management, design technology, or scientific methods for your IB diploma, Lanterna has you covered.

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

Updated 30 Aug 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."

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?

While provided topics might be helpful in inspiring a research subject, don’t forget that you can always use our essay topic generator to explore even more topics from multiple categories. Also, you can choose to delegate the entire task to our writing experts – you can pick them yourself by reviewing their previous performance on our platform).

Choosing a compelling extended essay topic can be challenging, so if you're struggling, you might consider the option to pay for essay services to get expert assistance in developing a strong and engaging topic. 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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David is one of those experienced content creators from the United Kingdom who has a high interest in social issues, culture, and entrepreneurship. He always says that reading, blogging, and staying aware of what happens in the world is what makes a person responsible. He likes to learn and share what he knows by making things inspiring and creative enough even for those students who dislike reading.

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• Academic Honesty
• Aims and Objectives
• Areas of Exploration
• Conceptual Understanding
• Cultural Semiotics
• Global Issues
• Class Documents
• Assessment Criteria
• Short Fiction and Essays
• Born A Crime
• Non-Literary Texts
• The Things They Carried
• For Further Reading
• Learner Portfolio

Higher Level Essay  ​ Weighting: 20% 

• Identity —how does Ralph Ellison, in his novel Invisible Man, succeed in making his narrator a convincing spokesperson for the concerns of African-Americans in the 20th century?
• Culture —how does Robert Capa represent post-Second World War France to qualify/exemplify the brutalities of the French population on former Nazi collaborators in La Femme Tondue? (Language A: language and literature only)
• Creativity —how do Mario Testino’s portraits manage to convey the personalities of those portrayed in original ways? (Language A: language and literature only)
• Communication-- which view of love does Matt Groening convey in Love is Hell? (Language A: language and literature only)
• Transformation-- in what ways does The Alan Parsons Project’s Tales of Mystery and Imagination offer a transformative re-reading of Edgar Allan Poe’s tales?
• Perspective-- how does Mary Shelley’s protagonist in Frankenstein use the motif of dangerous knowledge to show the perspective of fear and anxiety of excesses in scientific enterprise in early 19th century Europe?
• Representation-- through what means does Juan Rulfo successfully convey the representation of realistic and non-realistic characters and situations in Pedro Páramo? ​
• How does F. Scott Fitzgerald foreshadow how Gatsby’s unnatural attachment to the past causes his downfall in TheGreat Gatsby?
• In what ways would Marxist theory about the stratification of wealth and power explain the violence that runs through the action of the novel A Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez?
• To what extent was the characterization of the protagonist in Patrick Süskind´s Perfume influenced by Franz Kafka´s The Metamorphosis?

The Learner Portfolio and the Higher Level Essay

• Reflect on the ways in which each text they read relates to the seven central concepts of the course  .
• Keep an ongoing record of themes and issues they find interesting in relation to each of the texts they read.  
• Explore how key passages in the texts they have studied are significant in relation to those themes and issues.   
• Trace the evolution of their thinking and planning in connection with their chosen topic.  
• Record references for, and ideas and quotations from, secondary sources they might want to mention in their essay.
• Reflect on the challenges that the HL essay poses for them as individual learners.  ​

Library & Innovation Centre

Subjects and Topic

The EE is an in-depth study of a focused topic. It gives students the opportunity to:

• engage in independent research with intellectual initiative, creativity and rigour
• develop research, thinking, self-management and communication skills
• reflect on what they have learned throughout the research and writing process.

All students must:

• provide a logical and coherent rationale for their choice of topic
• review what has already been written about the topic
• formulate a clear research question
• offer a concrete description of the methods they use to investigate the question
• generate reasoned interpretations and conclusions based on their reading and independent research in order to answer the question.

Choice of topic

Students first need to identify the broad area of inquiry they are interested in. Sources of ideas may include:

• work already undertaken as part of the course
• preliminary reading of academic journals and reputable scholarly e-resources, eg conference papers, essays, book chapters or journal articles. A school librarian can advise on this
• conversations with teachers, fellow students and librarians. 

(IBO Extended Essay guide)

Subject reports

• Business Management
• Computer Science
• Design Technology
• Global Politics
• Mathematics
• Visual Arts
• World Studies

Example essays

• Language acquistion
• Studies in language and literature
• Visual arts
• World studies

Subject specific information to the Extended Essay

• Individuals and societies An introduction to Individuals and societies extended essay
• Language acquisition An introduction to the Language acquisition Extended Essay
• Mathematics An introduction to the Mathematics Extended Essay
• The Sciences An introduction to The Sciences Extended Essay
• Interdisciplinary essays An introduction to the Interdisciplinary Extended Essays
• Studies in language and literature An introduction to the Studies in language and literature Extended Essay
• The Arts An introduction to The Arts Extended Essay

Created by Luciana Cavallaro 2018 | Updated Sept 2020

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IB Extended Essay: Past Essays

• Research Questions
• Past Essays
• Notes & Outlines
• Works Cited Page
• In-Text Citations
• Assessment Criteria
• Reflections
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Check these CAREFULLY to be sure your topic fits with IB expectations!

• Language & literature (language A)
• Language acquisition (language B)
• Mathematics
• Visual Arts
• World Studies

Business Management

English a & b ee examples.

• English A EE Example
• English A EE Example 1
• English A EE Example 2
• English A EE Example 3
• English B EE Example
• English B EE Example 1
• English B EE Example 2
• English B EE Example 3
• English B EE Example 4
• English B EE Example 5
• English B EE Example 6

Philosophy EE Examples

• Philosophy Example 1
• Philosophy Example 2
• Philosophy Example 3
• Philosophy Example 4

Economics EE Examples

• Econ Example 1
• Econ Example 2
• Econ Example 3
• Econ Example 4
• Econ Example 5
• Econ Example 6
• Econ Example 7
• Econ Example 8

Review Past Papers

• From the IB:  papers from other students and how they scored
• Renaissance Library Past Essays :  Links to all subject area examples

Music EE Examples

• Music EE Example 1
• Music EE Example 2
• Music EE Example 3
• Music EE Example 4

Psychology EE Examples

• Psych EE Example 1
• Psych EE Example 2
• Psych EE Example 3

Chinese EE Examples

• Chinese EE Example 1
• Chinese EE Example 2
• Chinese EE Example 3
• Chinese A EE Cat 1
• Chinese A EE Cat 2
• Chinese A EE Cat 3
• Chinese B EE Example 1
• Chinese B EE Example 2
• Chinese B Example 3
• Business EE Example 1
• Business EE Example 2
• Business EE Example 3

Visual Arts EE Examples

• Visual Arts EE Example 1
• Visual Arts EE Example 2
• Visual Arts EE Example 3
• Visual Arts EE Example 4

Film EE Examples

• Film Example 1
• Film Example 2

Chemistry EE Examples

• Chemistry EE Example

Biology EE Examples

• Biology EE Example
• Biology EE Example 1
• Biology EE Example 2
• Biology EE Example 3

Physics EE Examples

• Physics EE Example
• Physics EE Example 1
• Physics EE Example 2
• Physics EE Example 3
• Physics EE Example 4
• Physics EE Example 5

Math EE Examples

• Math EE Example 1
• Math EE Example 2
• Math EE Example 3
• Math EE Example 4
• Math EE Example 5
• Math EE Example 6

World Studies EE Examples

• World Studies Example 1
• World Studies Example 2
• World Studies Example 3
• World Studies Example 4
• World Studies Example 5
• World Studies Example 6
• World Studies Example 7
• World Studies Example 8
• World Studies Example 9
• World Studies Example 10
• World Studies Example 11
• World Studies Example 12
• World Studies Example 13
• World Studies Example 14
• World Studies Example 15
• World Studies Example 16
• World Studies Example 17
• World Studies Example 18
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Extended Essay: Group 2: Language Acquisition

• General Timeline
• Group 1: English Language and Literature

Group 2: Language Acquisition

• Group 3: Individuals and Societies
• Group 4: Sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics
• Group 6: The Arts
• Interdisciplinary essays
• Six sub-categories for WSEE
• IB Interdisciplinary EE Assessment Guide
• Brainstorming
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• Writing an EE Introduction
• Writing the main body of your EE
• Writing your EE Conclusion
• Sources: Finding, Organising and Evaluating Them
• Conducting Interviews and Surveys
• Citing and Referencing
• Check-in Sessions
• First Formal Reflection
• Second Formal Reflection
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From IB Subject Specific Guide   

  Overview 

  A group 2 Extended Essay is intended for students who are studying a second modern language. Students may not write a group 2 Extended Essay in a language that they are  offering as a language A for their diploma.

There are 3 categories of group 2 Extended Essays:

• Category 1—Language • Category 2—Culture and society (a or b) • Category 3—Literature.

Students should put the category in which they have presented their essay alongside the subject in which it is registered on the cover sheet of the extended essay, for example,

English B Cat: 2 (b); German B Cat :3; Spanish B Cat : 1.

A group 2 Extended Essay provides students with the opportunity to develop their awareness and knowledge of the language studied, and their understanding of the culture concerned. This is achieved by enabling students to pursue their interest in the language through research based on texts (taken to be any meaningful piece of spoken or written language, for example, an article, a book, a play, a poem) or on specific cultural artifacts (such as works of fine art or architecture, films, radio or television programmes, or popular music).

The Extended Essay must be written in the language for which it is registered (the target language). It must be focused on matters related to the target culture. The Extended Essay is a research essay and the assessment criteria emphasize the importance of research skills rather than linguistic proficiency. Although a certain level of ability in the language is obviously desirable in order to undertake a group 2 extended essay, fluency is neither a prerequisite nor a guarantee of success. In fact, students who are fluent in the language but who do not demonstrate the required research skills will definitely achieve a lower mark than students who are less fluent but who fulfill the other assessment criteria.

Choice of Topic

As indicated in the ”Overview” section, a group 2 extended essay aims to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of the target language and culture. Any proposed topic that will not further that aim should be rejected. The essay should consist of the study of an issue in one of three categories: language, culture and society, or literature. Combinations of these are also permissible. Each category has specific requirements that are described in this section. In addition, students should ensure that their topic:

• is worthy of investigation. For example, “Does tourism have a future in Switzerland?” or “Is the wine industry an important source of income for France?” would be too trivial for an essay of 4,000 words.

• is not too broad and allows for an effective treatment within the word limit. Topics such as “Racism in France”, “The theatre of the absurd”, or “A history of the French language” would need to be given a sharper focus.

• provides them with an opportunity to develop an argument and to demonstrate critical analysis and personal judgment rather than just knowledge. Topics that are merely descriptive or narrative, or that only summarize secondary sources (such as “French cheeses”, “The Provence region”, “The events of May 1968 in Paris”), should be avoided.

In each category the examples given are for guidance only .

Category 1 - Language

The essay should be a specific analysis of the language (its use, structure and so on) normally related to its cultural context or a specific text

Topic	Language laws in Quebec
Research question	To what extent has Bill 101 contributed to increasing the prevalence of the French language in Quebec?
Approach	An investigation into the effect of Bill 101 on the status of the French language in Quebec.

Topic	Foreign words (gairaigo) in Japanese
Research question	Do young people use more words of foreign origin than older people?
Approach	A survey of younger people and older people. Results are compared for knowledge of foreign words, frequency of their use and attitude towards their use.

Topic	Alternative use of the forms “vos” and “usted” in the Spanish of the Rio de la Plata (River Plate) region
Research question	To what extent have differences between formal and informal usage disappeared from the language used in the Rio de la Plata region?
Approach	An investigation into the language of young people from Buenos Aires in the Rio de la Plata region in a range of communicative situations.

Category 2 - Culture and Society

A: essays of a sociocultural nature with an impact on the language 

The essay should be an analysis of a cultural nature that describes the impact of a particular issue on the form or use of the language.

Topic	Language and feminism
Research question	Should feminine forms of more job titles be created in French to reflect shifting gender roles?
Approach	An examination of the linguistic and sociological arguments for and against the feminization of more job titles in French.

Topic	Language for family members
Research question	Does Japanese need new words to describe non-traditional family relationships as society changes?
Approach	A commentary on how the use of the words "shujin" and "kanai" have changed, together with an examination of the social factors that may require new linguistic terms for family relationships to be created.

Topic	Language and discrimination
Research question	To what extent does the language used by groups of young students from a secondary school in Buenos Aires reflect racial discrimination?
Approach	A sociolinguistic investigation into the way language used by young people reflects attitudes of discrimination present in contemporary society.

B: essays of a general cultural nature based on specific cultural artifacts 

The essay should be an analysis of a more general cultural nature but specific to a country or community where the language is spoken. Topics that are too broad and could apply to many cultures (like globalization, the death penalty or eating disorders) are inappropriate. Essays of a general cultural nature must be based on specific cultural artifacts. Cultural artifacts in this context are understood to include a wide variety of phenomena, ranging from works of fine art to newspapers, magazines and cartoons, to films, television programmes and popular music.

Topic	Social criticism in the songs of MC Solaar
Research question	What is the nature of MC Solaar’s rap critique of modern French society?
Approach	An analysis of adverts targeted at the youth market seen over a one-month period, together with an analysis of how these are targeted, and possible reasons why the images used are chosen.

Topic	Adverts in the Japanese media
Research question	How and why do Japanese advertisers use such a high proportion of non-Japanese models in advertising?
Approach	An analysis of adverts targeted at the youth market seen over a one-month period, together with an analysis of how these are targeted, and possible reasons why the images used are chosen.

Topic	Representation of women in tango
Research question	Which roles do women play in tango lyrics?
Approach	A critical and thematic analysis of a corpus of tango lyrics to reveal female roles.

Category 3 - Literature

The essay should be an analysis of a literary type, based on a specific work or works of literature exclusively from the target language. In the case of a comparison of texts, all texts must originally have been written in the target language.

Topic	Haitian politics as depicted in works by Dany Laferrière and Gary Victor
Research question	Does Dany Laferrière in  share the same point of view on Haitian politics as Gary Victor in
Approach	An investigation into the similarities between the ways these two writers treat this theme.

Topic	Pastoral references in Kenji Miyazawa
Research question	What role does the natural world play in
Approach	A commentary on the literary devices used by the author, together with the effect these have on the work.

Topic	Fictionalization of history in Abel Posse’s novels
Research question	How does Abel Posse construct an imaginary history in his novel
Approach	A textual analysis to reveal the narrative techniques used by the author to make the plot contrast with the order of chronological events.

Helpful Websites

IB Language Acquisition Subject Specific Guide  - Use tabs on the left under Language Acquisition: Subject Specific Guide for more information. 

Gale Communications and Mass Media 

Gale Literature Resource Center

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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.