Three Extended Essay Example: A Comprehensive Guide

Extended essays are a fundamental component of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, providing students with the opportunity to conduct in-depth research on a topic of interest. This essay explores three Extended Essay Example from different academic disciplines: Literature, Biology, and History. Each example highlights the rigor, creativity, and analytical skills required to excel in the extended essay.

Extended Essay Example1: Literature

**Title: The Influence of Post-Colonialism in Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart” and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o’s “A Grain of Wheat”

Introduction

Literature is a reflection of the cultural, social, and political contexts in which it is produced. The works of African writers, particularly those who experienced the repercussions of colonialism, offer profound insights into the impact of this historical phenomenon. This extended essay examines the influence of post-colonialism in Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart” and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o’s “A Grain of Wheat”. It delves into the themes, character development, and narrative techniques used by the authors to portray the effects of colonial rule on African societies.

Themes and Cultural Identity

Both Achebe and Ngũgĩ explore the theme of cultural identity in their novels. In “Things Fall Apart”, Achebe depicts the life of Okonkwo, a proud and determined Igbo man, who struggles to maintain his cultural identity amidst the imposition of British colonial rule. The novel captures the tension between traditional Igbo culture and the new colonial order, highlighting the fragmentation of identity that colonized people experience. Achebe uses Okonkwo’s tragic downfall to symbolize the broader disintegration of Igbo society.

Similarly, in “A Grain of Wheat”, Ngũgĩ focuses on the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya and its aftermath. The characters in the novel grapple with their identities in a post-colonial context, marked by betrayal, guilt, and the quest for freedom. Ngũgĩ employs multiple perspectives and intertwining narratives to showcase the diverse responses to colonialism and the complexity of reclaiming cultural identity.

Character Development and Resistance

The protagonists in both novels embody resistance against colonial oppression. Okonkwo’s resistance is rooted in his adherence to traditional values and his rejection of the new colonial order. His inability to adapt leads to his tragic end, symbolizing the demise of pre-colonial African societies. Achebe portrays Okonkwo as a flawed hero whose resistance, though noble, is ultimately futile against the overwhelming forces of colonization.

In contrast, Ngũgĩ’s characters in “A Grain of Wheat” represent a collective resistance. Mugo, the central character, is initially depicted as a reluctant hero who harbors a dark secret of betrayal. However, the novel’s climax reveals his internal struggle and the eventual confession of his betrayal, underscoring the theme of redemption. Ngũgĩ uses Mugo’s character to illustrate the moral complexities faced by individuals in a post-colonial society and the possibility of reconciliation and healing.

Narrative Techniques and Symbolism

Achebe and Ngũgĩ employ distinct narrative techniques to convey their themes. Achebe’s straightforward narrative style in “Things Fall Apart” is complemented by the use of proverbs, folktales, and songs, which enrich the cultural context of the novel. The use of the Igbo language and oral traditions reinforces the authenticity of the narrative and underscores the importance of cultural heritage.

Ngũgĩ, on the other hand, uses a more fragmented narrative structure in “A Grain of Wheat”. The novel’s non-linear timeline, multiple perspectives, and flashbacks create a complex narrative tapestry that reflects the fragmented nature of post-colonial Kenyan society. Ngũgĩ’s use of symbolism, such as the grain of wheat representing sacrifice and rebirth, adds depth to the narrative and emphasizes the themes of resistance and regeneration.

Conclusion

The Extended Essay Example on “The Influence of Post-Colonialism in Chinua Achebe’s ‘Things Fall Apart’ and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o’s ‘A Grain of Wheat'” demonstrates how literature can serve as a powerful medium for exploring the impacts of colonialism. Through their portrayal of cultural identity, character development, and narrative techniques, Achebe and Ngũgĩ provide profound insights into the post-colonial experience. Their works continue to resonate with readers, offering valuable perspectives on the enduring legacies of colonialism.

Extended Essay Example 2: Biology

Title: The Effect of Different Light Intensities on the Rate of Photosynthesis in Elodea Canadensis

Introduction

Photosynthesis is a fundamental biological process that converts light energy into chemical energy, sustaining life on Earth. Understanding the factors that influence the rate of photosynthesis is crucial for comprehending plant growth and productivity. This extended essay investigates the effect of different light intensities on the rate of photosynthesis in Elodea canadensis, a common aquatic plant. The study aims to quantify the relationship between light intensity and photosynthetic rate, contributing to the broader understanding of plant physiology.

Background Information

Photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll and used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. The rate of photosynthesis is influenced by various factors, including light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, and temperature. According to the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, light intensity directly affects the production of ATP and NADPH, which are essential for the Calvin cycle.

Elodea canadensis, also known as Canadian waterweed, is a suitable model organism for studying photosynthesis due to its high photosynthetic efficiency and ease of cultivation in aquatic environments. This study focuses on measuring the rate of oxygen production as an indicator of photosynthetic activity under different light intensities.

Experimental Design

The experiment involves exposing Elodea canadensis to varying light intensities and measuring the rate of oxygen production using a dissolved oxygen sensor. The light intensities are controlled using a series of light bulbs with different wattages, and the distance between the light source and the plant is adjusted to achieve the desired intensity levels.

The experimental setup includes:

• A water tank with Elodea canadensis specimens
• A light source with adjustable intensity
• A dissolved oxygen sensor connected to a data logger
• A thermometer to monitor water temperature

The procedure involves acclimating the plants to each light intensity for a specific period, followed by recording the oxygen concentration at regular intervals. The data collected is analyzed to determine the rate of photosynthesis at each light intensity.

Results and Analysis

The results indicate a positive correlation between light intensity and the rate of photosynthesis in Elodea canadensis. As light intensity increases, the rate of oxygen production also increases, up to a certain point. Beyond this optimum light intensity, the rate of photosynthesis plateaus, suggesting that other factors, such as carbon dioxide concentration and temperature, may become limiting.

The data is presented in a series of graphs showing the relationship between light intensity and oxygen production. The initial linear increase in photosynthetic rate corresponds to the light-dependent reactions’ efficiency. The plateau observed at higher light intensities indicates the saturation point, where the chloroplasts’ capacity to utilize light energy is maximized.

Discussion

The findings of this study are consistent with the theoretical understanding of photosynthesis. The light saturation point observed in Elodea canadensis aligns with the concept that chlorophyll molecules can only absorb a finite amount of light energy. Beyond this point, additional light does not further increase the rate of photosynthesis, as the Calvin cycle’s reactions become the limiting factor.

This experiment also highlights the importance of controlling other variables, such as carbon dioxide concentration and temperature, to isolate the effect of light intensity. Future studies could investigate the interactive effects of these factors on photosynthesis to provide a more comprehensive understanding of plant physiology.

Conclusion

The Extended Essay Example on “The Effect of Different Light Intensities on the Rate of Photosynthesis in Elodea canadensis” demonstrates the intricate relationship between light intensity and photosynthetic activity. The results confirm that light intensity is a crucial factor influencing the rate of photosynthesis, with an optimal point beyond which no further increase is observed. This study contributes to the broader knowledge of plant biology and underscores the importance of light in sustaining plant growth and productivity.

Extended Essay Example 3: History

Title: The Causes and Consequences of the Cuban Missile Crisis

Introduction

The Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 was a pivotal moment in the Cold War, bringing the world to the brink of nuclear conflict. This extended essay explores the causes and consequences of the Cuban Missile Crisis, examining the geopolitical, ideological, and strategic factors that led to the confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union. By analyzing primary and secondary sources, the essay provides a comprehensive understanding of the crisis and its lasting impact on international relations.

Causes of the Cuban Missile Crisis

The Cuban Missile Crisis was the result of a complex interplay of geopolitical and ideological factors. One of the primary causes was the ongoing Cold War rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union. The two superpowers were engaged in a global struggle for influence, and the placement of nuclear missiles in Cuba by the Soviet Union was a strategic move to counterbalance the U.S. military presence in Europe and Turkey.

Another significant factor was the Cuban Revolution of 1959, which brought Fidel Castro to power. Castro’s alignment with the Soviet Union and his anti-American stance prompted the United States to implement a series of economic and military measures aimed at destabilizing his regime, including the failed Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961. The presence of Soviet missiles in Cuba was seen as a way to protect the Castro government from further U.S. aggression.

Additionally, the Soviet Union sought to demonstrate its commitment to defending its allies and to assert its influence in the Western Hemisphere. The deployment of missiles in Cuba was intended to enhance the Soviet Union’s strategic position and to challenge U.S. dominance in the region.

The Crisis Unfolds

The Cuban Missile Crisis began in October 1962, when U.S. reconnaissance flights over Cuba revealed the construction of Soviet missile sites. President John F. Kennedy responded by imposing a naval blockade, referred to as a “quarantine,” to prevent further shipments of military equipment to Cuba. This move was accompanied by a demand for the removal of the existing missiles.

The crisis escalated as both superpowers engaged in intense diplomatic negotiations and military posturing. The world watched in fear as the possibility of a nuclear war loomed. The standoff reached its peak when Soviet ships carrying missile components approached the U.S. blockade line, but ultimately turned back to avoid a direct confrontation.

Resolution and Consequences

The Cuban Missile Crisis was resolved through a series of secret negotiations between the United States and the Soviet Union. On October 28, 1962, Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev announced that the Soviet Union would dismantle the missile sites in Cuba in exchange for a U.S. pledge not to invade Cuba. Additionally, the United States agreed to secretly remove its Jupiter missiles from Turkey, although this part of the agreement was not made public at the time.

The resolution of the crisis had significant consequences for international relations. Firstly, it led to a temporary thaw in U.S.-Soviet relations, with both superpowers recognizing the need for improved communication to prevent future conflicts. This realization resulted in the establishment of the Moscow-Washington hotline, a direct communication link between the White House and the Kremlin.

Secondly, the crisis underscored the dangers of nuclear brinkmanship and contributed to the development of arms control agreements. In 1963, the United States, the Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom signed the Partial Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, which prohibited nuclear tests in the atmosphere, outer space, and underwater.

Finally, the Cuban Missile Crisis had a lasting impact on U.S.-Cuban relations. The United States maintained its economic embargo against Cuba, and the island nation remained a focal point of Cold War tensions in the Western Hemisphere. The crisis also solidified Fidel Castro’s position as a key player in global politics and a symbol of resistance against U.S. hegemony.

Conclusion

The Extended Essay Example on “The Causes and Consequences of the Cuban Missile Crisis” provides a detailed analysis of one of the most critical events of the Cold War. By examining the geopolitical and ideological factors that led to the crisis and its resolution, the essay highlights the complexities of international relations during this period. The Cuban Missile Crisis serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for catastrophic conflict in a nuclear-armed world and the importance of diplomacy in resolving international disputes.

These three Extended Essay Example illustrate the diversity and depth of research that students can undertake across different academic disciplines. Each essay demonstrates the critical thinking, analytical skills, and creativity required to produce a comprehensive and insightful analysis of a complex topic.