EE, or Extended Essay, is a type of independent research paper that is a requirement for students to complete in order to graduate from the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. The EE is a 4,000-word essay that allows students to explore a topic of their choice in depth, and to apply the analytical and research skills they have developed throughout their IB studies. The EE is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their ability to conduct independent research and to present their findings in a clear, well-organized manner.
There are many different topics that students can choose to write about for their EE, and the subject matter can vary widely depending on the student's interests and passions. Some students may choose to write about a topic in their field of study, such as science or history, while others may choose to explore a topic in the arts or social sciences.
When writing an EE, it is important for students to follow a clear and logical structure. This typically involves introducing the topic and outlining the research question, reviewing relevant literature, presenting the research methods and results, and discussing the implications and limitations of the study. It is also important for students to use appropriate citation styles and to properly acknowledge any sources they have used in their research.
One example of an EE in English might be a study of the portrayal of gender roles in a particular literary work. The student could start by introducing the topic and outlining the research question, such as "How are gender roles represented in Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice'?" The student could then review relevant literature on gender roles and feminist theory, and analyze the portrayal of gender roles in the novel using close reading techniques. The student could also consider the historical context in which the novel was written, and how this may have influenced the portrayal of gender roles. In the discussion section, the student could discuss the implications of the findings and consider any limitations of the study.
Another example of an EE in English might be a comparative analysis of two different translations of a work of literature. The student could start by introducing the topic and outlining the research question, such as "How do different translations of Homer's 'The Odyssey' reflect the cultural and linguistic context of the translator?" The student could then review relevant literature on translation theory and consider the cultural and linguistic context of the translators. The student could also analyze passages from both translations, comparing and contrasting the choices made by the translators and considering the impact on the overall meaning of the work. In the discussion section, the student could discuss the implications of the findings and consider any limitations of the study.
In conclusion, the EE is a valuable opportunity for students to demonstrate their ability to conduct independent research and to present their findings in a clear and well-organized manner. By choosing a topic that they are passionate about and applying their analytical and research skills, students can create a meaningful and engaging EE that showcases their knowledge and expertise.
