What is the EE?

At Oakridge, the Extended Essay is a core component of the IB program that offers you the opportunity to investigate a topic of personal interest through independent research. Over the course of the program, you develop a focused research question and write a formal, academic essay of up to 4,000 words. Supported by a supervisor, you learn how to formulate arguments, evaluate sources, and structure a coherent and well-supported analysis. The Extended Essay builds essential skills in critical thinking, time management, and academic writing, preparing you for university-level research and encouraging deeper engagement with a subject you are passionate about.

Purpose of the EE

The extended essay is an in-depth study of a focused topic chosen from the list of approved Diploma Programme subjects — normally one of the student’s six chosen subjects for the IB diploma. It is intended to promote high-level research and writing skills, intellectual discovery and creativity. It provides students with an opportunity to engage in personal research in a topic of their own choice, under the guidance of a supervisor (a teacher in the school). This leads to a major piece of formally presented, structured writing, in which ideas and findings are communicated in a reasoned and coherent manner, appropriate to the subject chosen. It is recommended that completion of the written essay is followed by a short, concluding interview, or viva voce, with the supervisor. The extended essay is assessed against common criteria, interpreted in ways appropriate to each subject.

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