About The Writer
Mr Jason Edward Lance Bogart
IB Examiner, Diploma Coordinator, EE Coordinator and English Language & Literature Teacher with 20+ Years of Experience. Graduated with B. Ed Secondary Education & Teaching with a Major in Secondary English at Acadia University (Canada).
Venturing into the realm of writing an Extended Essay (EE) for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is akin to embarking on a thrilling inquiry hunt. It’s a pursuit rich with intellectual discovery, where each step uncovers new insights and challenges your mind in exciting ways. As an EE coordinator, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of this academic exercise. However, I’ve also observed some common struggles that students often face. In this blog edition, we’ll explore how to choose a topic that not only meets the EE requirements but also sparks your passion, making the process more enjoyable and rewarding.
Why Passion Matters
The Extended Essay is an opportunity for you to delve deeply into a topic of your choice. Given its crucial role in the completion of the IB Diploma Programme, selecting a topic that genuinely interests you is crucial. A passionate approach will not only make the research and writing process more enjoyable but also enhance the quality of your work. When you are genuinely interested in your topic, it shows in your writing and analysis, often leading to a more insightful and comprehensive essay.
Common Struggles and How to Overcome Them
In my role as an EE coordinator, I’ve identified four main pitfalls that students face when choosing their topics:
1.
Choosing a Topic Without Genuine Interest
It’s tempting to select a topic that seems impressive or aligns with perceived academic trends. However, if the subject doesn’t genuinely interest you, maintaining motivation throughout the process can be challenging. Reflect on your interests, hobbies, and previous subjects that excited you. This introspection can guide you to a topic that you’ll enjoy exploring.
2.
Skipping Preliminary Research
Jumping into a topic without initial research can lead to a lack of direction and difficulty in finding relevant sources. Begin by exploring different subjects first and then narrow your topic down. After that, it is important to conduct a brief literature review. This will help you understand the scope of available information and refine your topic accordingly and avoid jumping into an essay without finalizing your focus. This can lead to frustration in the later stages as you may discover that you do not have enough secondary sources to successfully complete your EE.
3.
Selecting an Overly Ambitious Research Question
While it’s great to aim high, choosing a research question that is too broad or ambitious can lead to frustration. An overly complex question might be difficult to tackle within the word limit and available resources. Instead, focus on a specific aspect of a broader topic. This approach allows for a more detailed and manageable exploration.
4.
Choosing a Topic Based on University Applications
Some students select topics they believe will look impressive on university applications, even if they aren’t genuinely interested in them. While strategic thinking is important, remember that universities value depth of understanding and genuine engagement. Choose a topic that reflects your true interests and strengths, as this will naturally result in a more compelling essay.
Starting Point: IB Extended Essay Guide
To navigate these challenges effectively, I highly recommend starting with IBO’s official IB Extended Essay Guide. This resource provides comprehensive guidance on the EE process, including how to choose a topic, formulate a research question, and structure your essay. Familiarizing yourself with this guide will help you understand the expectations and requirements for each subject, especially if you need primary sources and the ethical implications of any experimentation. So, setting a strong foundation for your essay journey is crucial and the guide is your go to source rather than internet search and advice from friends.
Choosing a Topic that Sparks Your Passion
Selecting a topic for your EE is perhaps the most crucial step in the process. Here are some strategies to help you choose a topic that not only meets the IB’s criteria but also ignites your passion.
Reflect on Your Interests
Start by considering the subjects you are most passionate about. What topics have you enjoyed studying in your IB courses? Are there any areas that you are curious to explore further? Reflecting on your interests will help you identify potential topics that you are eager to research.
Identify Personal Connections
Think about any personal experiences, hobbies, or extracurricular activities that could inform your research. For instance, if you are passionate about environmental conservation, you might explore a topic related to sustainability or climate change. Personal connections can provide unique insights and make your research more engaging.
Explore Current Issues
Consider choosing a topic that addresses a current issue or trend. This approach can make your research more relevant and impactful. Stay informed about global events and developments in your areas of interest and think about how you can contribute to the conversation through your EE.
Consider Interdisciplinary Essays
If you are interested in combining subjects, an interdisciplinary essay can be a great choice. This allows you to explore topics that intersect multiple areas of study, such as conflict, peace and security; culture, language and identity; environmental and/or economic sustainability; equality and inequality; health and development; or science, technology and society. This allows for you to combine the two subjects that interest you and perhaps allow for more personalized inquiry.
Consult with Teachers, Mentors and Supervisors Regularly
Seek advice from your teachers, EE supervisor, or mentors who have expertise in your area of interest. They can provide valuable guidance, suggest resources, and help you refine your research question. Their feedback can also help you assess the feasibility and scope of your chosen topic.
Narrow Down Your Focus
Once you have a general idea of your topic, narrow it down to a specific research question. A focused research question will guide your investigation and ensure your essay remains coherent and well-structured. It should be clear, concise, and open to analysis and interpretation.
Choosing a topic for your Extended Essay that sparks your passion is a critical step in ensuring a successful and fulfilling experience. By addressing common struggles and leveraging available resources, you can embark on a research journey that not only meets the IB criteria but also enriches your academic and personal growth. Remember, the EE is not just an assignment; it’s an opportunity to explore your interests and showcase your intellectual curiosity. So, dive deep, stay curious, and let your passion guide you to an outstanding Extended Essay.
