Crafting the Perfect Structure for Your Extended Essay

The Extended Essay (EE) is a core component of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. It is an independent, self-directed piece of research, culminating in a 4,000-word paper. As it is a significant piece of work, having a robust and well-thought-out structure is critical. This essay will provide a comprehensive guide to crafting the perfect structure for your Extended Essay, including topic selection, research question formulation, planning, and the detailed breakdown of each section.

1. Choosing the Topic

The first step in crafting the perfect Extended Essay structure is selecting a topic. The topic should be both interesting and feasible. It is important to choose a subject that not only aligns with your interests and academic strengths but also adheres to the guidelines and assessment criteria of the IB.

A. Considerations for Topic Selection

1. Interest and Passion: Choose a topic you are passionate about. This will make the research and writing process more enjoyable and less burdensome.
2. Scope and Feasibility: Ensure the topic is neither too broad nor too narrow. It should be specific enough to allow for in-depth analysis but broad enough to find sufficient resources.
3. Availability of Resources: Ensure that there are enough resources (books, academic journals, credible websites) available to support your research.
4. Relevance: The topic should be relevant to the subject area of your Extended Essay and contribute to your understanding of the subject.

2. Formulating the Research Question

Once you have chosen a topic, the next step is to formulate a clear and focused research question. The research question guides your research and shapes the entire essay.

A. Characteristics of a Good Research Question

1. Clarity: The question should be clear and unambiguous.
2. Focus: It should be specific and focused on a particular issue or aspect of the topic.
3. Researchable: Ensure that the question can be answered through research and analysis.
4. Complexity: The question should allow for analysis and discussion, rather than a simple yes/no answer.

B. Examples of Research Questions

• For a History EE: “To what extent did the economic policies of the New Deal alleviate the effects of the Great Depression in the United States?”
• For a Biology EE: “What is the effect of varying pH levels on the rate of photosynthesis in Elodea plants?”

3. Planning the Research

Effective planning is essential for a well-structured Extended Essay. This involves outlining your research plan, gathering resources, and managing your time efficiently.

A. Research Plan

1. Outline: Create an outline of your essay, including the main sections and key points you plan to address.
2. Timeline: Develop a timeline with specific milestones and deadlines for each stage of the research and writing process.
3. Resource List: Compile a list of resources you need, such as books, academic journals, and websites.

B. Time Management

1. Set Goals: Set specific, achievable goals for each week or month.
2. Regular Work: Work on your essay regularly to avoid last-minute stress.
3. Monitor Progress: Regularly review your progress and adjust your plan as needed.

4. Structuring the Extended Essay

A well-structured Extended Essay consists of several key sections: the introduction, body, conclusion, and references. Each section has a specific purpose and contributes to the overall coherence and flow of the essay.

A. Introduction (500-600 words)

The introduction sets the stage for your essay. It should provide background information on the topic, outline the research question, and explain the significance of the study.

1. Background Information: Provide context and background information on the topic.
2. Research Question: Clearly state the research question and explain its significance.
3. Thesis Statement: Present a concise thesis statement that outlines the main argument or focus of the essay.
4. Overview: Briefly outline the structure of the essay.

B. Body (2800-3200 words)

The body is the main part of the essay, where you present your research, analysis, and arguments. It should be organized into clear, coherent sections with subheadings.

1. Literature Review: Review existing research and literature related to your topic. This helps to establish the context and relevance of your research.
2. Methodology: Explain the research methods you used, including data collection and analysis techniques.
3. Analysis and Discussion: Present your findings and analyze them in relation to your research question. Use evidence and examples to support your arguments.
4. Subheadings: Use subheadings to organize the body into logical sections, each addressing a specific aspect of the research question.

C. Conclusion (300-400 words)

The conclusion summarizes your findings and reflects on the implications of your research. It should restate the research question and thesis, and discuss the broader significance of the study.

1. Summary of Findings: Summarize the main findings of your research.
2. Restate Research Question: Restate the research question and discuss how your findings address it.
3. Broader Implications: Reflect on the broader implications of your research and suggest areas for further study.

D. References and Appendices

1. References: List all the sources you used in your research. Use a consistent citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).
2. Appendices: Include any additional material (e.g., raw data, detailed calculations) that supports your research but is not essential to the main text.

5. Writing and Revising

Once you have planned and structured your essay, the next step is to start writing. Writing and revising are iterative processes, requiring multiple drafts and revisions.

A. Writing Tips

1. Clear and Concise: Write clearly and concisely. Avoid unnecessary jargon and complex sentences.
2. Evidence and Examples: Use evidence and examples to support your arguments.
3. Transitions: Use transitions to ensure a smooth flow between sections and paragraphs.

B. Revising Tips

1. Review and Revise: Review and revise your essay multiple times. Focus on clarity, coherence, and consistency.
2. Feedback: Seek feedback from teachers, peers, or mentors. Use their suggestions to improve your essay.
3. Proofreading: Proofread for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

6. Presentation and Formatting

Proper presentation and formatting are essential for a professional-looking Extended Essay. Follow the IB guidelines for formatting, and pay attention to details such as font, margins, and spacing.

A. Formatting Guidelines

1. Font and Size: Use a readable font (e.g., Times New Roman, Arial) in size 12.
2. Margins: Use standard margins (1 inch on all sides).
3. Spacing: Double-space the text.
4. Title Page: Include a title page with the essay title, your name, candidate number, and the subject area.
5. Page Numbers: Number the pages consecutively.

B. Presentation Tips

1. Consistent Style: Use a consistent citation style throughout the essay.
2. Tables and Figures: Label and number all tables and figures. Include a list of tables and figures if necessary.
3. Table of Contents: Include a table of contents with page numbers for each section.

7. Reflection and Final Steps

Reflection is an important part of the Extended Essay process. The IB requires a reflection on the process and what you have learned. This reflection is part of the assessment criteria and should be taken seriously.

A. Reflection

1. Process: Reflect on the research and writing process. What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
2. Learning: Discuss what you learned from the experience, both about the topic and the research process.
3. Personal Growth: Reflect on how the Extended Essay has contributed to your personal and academic growth.

B. Final Steps

1. Final Review: Conduct a final review of your essay to ensure it meets all the requirements and is free of errors.
2. Submission: Submit your essay according to the IB guidelines and deadlines.
3. Celebrate: Take time to celebrate your hard work and achievement!

Conclusion

Crafting the perfect structure for your Extended Essay is a complex but rewarding process. By choosing a suitable topic, formulating a clear research question, planning effectively, and structuring your essay meticulously, you can produce a high-quality piece of academic writing. Remember to write clearly, revise thoroughly, and adhere to the IB guidelines for formatting and presentation. Reflecting on the process and what you have learned is also crucial. With dedication and careful planning, you can create an Extended Essay that not only meets the IB criteria but also contributes to your personal and academic development.