Extended Essay (KS5) | ISB Secondary

Extended Essay (EE) (Pre-U)

The IB Extended Essay (EE) aims to develop key academic and personal skills in students through an independent, self-directed research project culminating in a 4,000-word paper. One of its main goals is to foster intellectual curiosity by allowing students to explore a topic of personal interest within one of their IB subjects. This process strengthens their ability to formulate research questions, evaluate sources, and construct a structured argument.

The EE also promotes time management, perseverance, and critical thinking. Working with a supervisor, students learn to reflect on their learning process and respond to feedback—valuable skills for academic and professional settings. The experience simulates the kind of independent research and writing expected at the university level, helping students gain confidence in handling complex tasks.

The outcomes of the EE include improved research and writing skills, better organization, and the ability to think analytically and communicate effectively. It also contributes up to three points toward the overall IB Diploma score when combined with Theory of Knowledge (TOK). More importantly, it prepares students for the rigors of higher education and lifelong learning. Ultimately, the EE is not just a diploma requirement, but a significant opportunity for academic and personal growth.

In order to meet these aims we will…

Allocate supervisors:
Each student will be assigned a suitable supervisor based on their chosen subject and area of interest. Supervisors will provide guidance, support, and feedback throughout the process.
Give structured preparation:
A series of scheduled sessions will be run to prepare students for each stage of the Extended Essay (EE). These sessions will cover research skills, academic writing, referencing, and reflection.
Use a milestone-based approach:
The entire EE process will be divided into seven key milestones, each with clear objectives, deadlines, and assessment criteria.
Provide guidance at every stage:
Detailed instructions and support will be provided at each milestone to ensure students understand what is expected and can manage their workload effectively.
Monitor progress:
Supervisors will track student progress at each milestone, offering feedback and ensuring that students remain on schedule.
Reflection and review:
Students will complete reflection sessions as part of the formal EE process, allowing them to evaluate their learning and development.
The final milestone will focus on final editing, formatting, and official submission of the Extended Essay.

Students will be able to;

Research Skills: Students learn how to formulate a focused research question, conduct independent research using a range of sources, and analyze and evaluate information critically.
Academic Writing: Students gain experience in structuring a formal essay, referencing sources correctly, and presenting a clear and coherent argument.
Critical Thinking: The EE encourages students to think deeply, reflect on their research process, and consider multiple perspectives.
Time Management: Through the extended timeline, students develop skills in planning, organizing, and meeting deadlines—essential for university and beyond.
Personal Growth: Completing the EE builds resilience, independence, and self-motivation. Students gain confidence in their ability to handle complex tasks and express original ideas.
Preparation for Higher Education: The EE mirrors the type of academic research and writing required at the university level, helping students transition more smoothly to post-secondary studies.
Diploma Points Contribution: When combined with the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the EE can contribute up to three additional points to the overall IB Diploma score.
Overall, the EE equips students with essential skills and habits for academic success and lifelong learning.