Extended Essay

The Extended Essay is a capstone project for IB Diploma candidates, offering a unique opportunity to dive into a topic of interest.

Designed to prepare students for university-level research and writing, the Extended Essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research culminating in a 4,000-word paper. It serves as a practical preparation for undergraduate research and provides a platform for students to explore a subject of personal interest.

The Extended Essay is more than just a research paper; it is an invaluable learning experience that equips students with the skills and confidence to tackle complex academic challenges in the future.

Through the research process, students learn to:

  • Engage in personal exploration: The EE encourages students to delve deeply into a topic that fascinates them, fostering a sense of ownership and passion for their work.
  • Formulate an appropriate research question: Students identify and refine a question that guides their inquiry, laying the foundation for a focused and meaningful investigation.
  • Develop an argument: The process of constructing and defending an argument sharpens students' analytical and critical thinking abilities.
  • Communicate ideas effectively: Students develop the ability to articulate their thoughts clearly and coherently, an essential skill for academic and professional success.

By completing their Extended Essay, students also develop the capacity to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate knowledge—skills that are invaluable in both academic and real-world contexts.

Edsmen do not navigate this journey alone! Throughout the research and writing process, students are guided by a faculty advisor who provides advice, feedback, and encouragement, helping them stay on track and refine their work.

 
 

Student Work

The Examination of Personhood Within the Blade Runner Films
Anthony Chambers '21

The Implications of the North Korean Missile Crisis Being a Cold War
Emerson Gray '21

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time: A Unique Detective Novel
Ethan Loderstedt '21

An Examination of Accuracy of Julius Caesar's Commentarii de Bello Gallico
Timothy Welch '21