I'm a junior starting my Extended Essay for the International Baccalaureate program, and I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed. Can anyone offer tips on choosing a topic, writing, and completing the Extended Essay effectively? Any resources or personal experiences will be extremely helpful, thanks!
Choosing a topic:
1. Pick a subject that genuinely interests you. Since you'll be spending a significant amount of time researching and writing, it's crucial that you choose a topic within a subject you enjoy and are passionate about.
2. Narrow down your subject to a specific research question. Ensure that the question is focused and narrow enough to allow for a deep, comprehensive analysis.
3. Consult with your IB supervisor to ensure your research question aligns with the IB guidelines and is feasible given the resources and time available. They can also guide you in the right direction and might suggest resources to begin your research.
Writing the Extended Essay:
1. Start by organizing your research and creating a detailed outline. This will help you maintain focus while writing and avoid going off-topic. Break down the research into sections and sub-points, and ensure that each point answers or discusses aspects of your research question.
2. Develop a clear thesis statement that encapsulates your argument or main idea. This statement should be concise and reflect the focus of your research question and the evidence you'll be using to support your claim.
3. When writing, prioritize clarity and conciseness. The Extended Essay is lengthy, so it's essential to keep the reader engaged without unnecessary waffle. Use a formal, academic tone and avoid colloquial language.
4. Use a variety of sources and evidence to explore your research question and support your thesis. Your sources should be diverse, reliable, and directly related to your subject. Cite them properly using the appropriate citation style (e.g., MLA, APA, or Chicago).
Completing the Extended Essay:
1. Schedule regular progress check-ins with your IB supervisor. Their input and guidance can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure that your essay is on track.
2. As you write, periodically reevaluate your research question and thesis statement. Ensure that the essay remains focused and that your argument and the evidence supporting it is cohesive and well-organized.
3. Set incremental deadlines for completing each section of your essay. This will help you manage your time effectively and avoid last-minute panic. Start early and allow time for revisions and input from your IB supervisor.
4. Once you've finished writing, edit and proofread your essay carefully. Check for clarity, flow, and grammar and spelling errors. Seek feedback from trusted peers or teachers to catch any mistakes you might have missed.
Resources:
1. Your IB supervisor or school librarian can recommend subject-specific resources and databases, such as JSTOR, Google Scholar, or other academic search engines.
2. For help with essay structure and citation styles, Purdue University's Online Writing Lab (OWL) is an excellent resource.
3. The International Baccalaureate organization's website contains guidelines, examples and assessment criteria for the Extended Essay, which can be helpful when planning and writing your essay.
Remember, the key to a successful Extended Essay is choosing a topic you're passionate about, staying focused, and managing your time wisely. Good luck on your Extended Essay journey!
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