Hey guys, I'm starting my IBDP extended essay but I'm having trouble deciding on a subject to explore. Any advice on how to narrow down a topic or find something I'm passionate about to write on?
It's important to choose a topic for your Extended Essay that not only interests you but also meets the criteria for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP). Here are some steps to help you narrow down your topic and find something you're passionate about:
1. Reflect on your interests: Think about the subjects you enjoy the most in school, hobbies, or passions you have outside of academics. This could be anything from sports and history to art or science. You'll be spending a considerable amount of time researching and writing your extended essay, so it's crucial that the topic truly interests you.
2. Choose a subject area: Based on your interests, choose one of the IBDP subject areas that you feel most comfortable in. This should be a subject in which you have some background knowledge, as it will make the research process easier and more enjoyable.
3. Brainstorm possible topics: In your chosen subject area, start brainstorming some topics that you find particularly fascinating. Look into recent news, events, or issues that have caught your attention or emerged as significant in your field of interest. It's helpful to make a list of potential topics and then narrow them down based on their feasibility and relevance to your chosen subject area.
4. Consult with your supervisor: Discuss your potential topics with your IBDP supervisor or a teacher in the chosen subject area. They might be able to provide additional guidance on selecting a suitable topic, and they can help you gauge whether your topic is appropriate for the requirements of the Extended Essay.
5. Ensure a focused research question: Once you have a topic, you need to develop a focused research question that will guide your essay. A good research question should be specific, narrow in scope, and allow for an in-depth analysis. Try to avoid questions that are too broad or too easy to answer without extensive investigation.
6. Evaluate the feasibility of your topic: Ensure that your chosen topic has enough academic resources and primary sources available for research. It's important to verify that you have access to relevant information before committing to a topic
Remember that the Extended Essay is an opportunity to explore a topic you're genuinely curious about and demonstrate your research, analytical, and writing skills. By following these steps, you should be able to narrow down your topic and find something you're passionate about that also meets the IBDP Extended Essay requirements. Good luck!
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