extended essay economics

IB Economics EE examples

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Economics Extended Essay Guide: Everything You Need to Learn

by  Antony W

April 18, 2024

This guide covers everything you need to learn before you write an IB Economics Extended Essay.

We look at the definition, structure, assessment criteria, topic selection, data collection, analysis and evaluation, and reflection.

What is an IB Economics Extended Essay?

An Economics Extended Essay is a 4,000-word autonomous, self-directed report based on a topic of personal interest. This project allows you to:

• Improve your research skills.
• Apply economic theories to a real-world issue.
• Analyze and evaluate the outcomes of your study.

The essay requires 40 hours of preparation and writing. Moreover, you’ll get help from your school-based supervisor throughout this period. The result should be a clear and well-organized analytical essay.

To write a comprehensive Economics EE, you must dedicate time to conduct in-depth research to collect meaningful and reliable data you can use to analyze the context of your theory and research issue.

IB Economics Extended Essay Structure

Your Economics EE should feature a title page, table of contents, introduction, methodology, main body, conclusion, bibliography, and appendices.

• Title Page: Write the title of the essay, the EE research question , subject, and word count.
• Table of Contents: Make sure each section mentioned in your table of contents has corresponding page numbers.
• Introduction: Explain the focus of the essay, the scope of the research, and your line of argument.
• Main Body: Write reasoned arguments for the issue under investigation. Use subheadings for methodology, analysis, discussion, and evaluation.
• Conclusion: Communicate what you’ve achieved. Mention the limitation of your research and note what your research question couldn’t answer.
• Bibliography:   Cite all the EE sources to demonstrate that you engaged in in-depth research and that you care about academic integrity.

IB Economics Extended Essay Assessment Criteria

The assessment criteria for an extended essay in economics examine focus and method, knowledge and understanding, critical thinking, presentation, and engagement. The following table is a complete summary of the marking scheme.

	6	Topic, research question, and methodology	Focus and method looks at your subject, research issue, and approach. It looks at the description of the study, how you conducted research, and your area of emphasis.
	6	Context and subject-specific terminologies and concepts	Knowledge and understanding focuses on relevance of your study to the topic. IB looks at how you demonstrate your economic knowledge, language, and ideas.
	12	Research, analysis, discussion and evaluation	Critical thinking looks at the extent to which you’ve analyzed and evaluated the research conducted.
	4	Structure, and layout	Presentation looks at the layout of your economics extended essay. You have to adhere to the conventional structure to score a 4.
	6	Process, and research focus	Engagement evaluates the extent to which you participated in the research process and completed the economics extended essay.

Economics Extended Essay Topic Selection

The best economics EE topic is the one that you find interesting enough to explore, as long as the focus remains on the fundamentals of economic concepts.

We strongly suggest you choose a topic that allows you to apply economic theories, methods and instruments present in the curriculum. Remember, the assignment requires you to conduct secondary research. However, you may also conduct pertinent original research depending on the topic you choose.

Your topic should:

• Be historical. However, your focus should be on a research issue that’s no more than five years old.
• Allow you to use economic theories and concepts to answer your research question.
• Provide opportunities for critical analysis of the information and data collected.
• Allow enough room for analysis while sticking to the scope of the essay. 

Don’t choose a broad topic because the essay needs critical and reflective thinking and analysis on something specific. And don’t pick an excessively narrow theme because you may not have access to specific data.

So choose your topic wisely, making sure that it isn’t too wide or too narrow to fit within the scope of the EE’s requirements.

Data Collection in Economics Extended Essay

You have to conduct original research on topics covered in the economics curriculum. Therefore, spend just enough time establishing value for your topic in microeconomics, macroeconomics or the global economy.

Doing original research goes a long way to show that the title and the research question is an issue unanswered by secondary sources.

If you’ve decided to write an EE on microeconomics, you may have to use primary research in the form of surveys, questionnaires, or interviews with pertinent businesspeople direct to the study subject.

Themes from macroeconomics and the global economy require more secondary research in the form of data extraction from published academic papers, historical records, government publications, newspaper/online articles, and statistical databases.

Analysis and Evaluation in Economics EE

The analysis of your economics extended essay can only be effective if you use pertinent economic theories to analyze data collected.

You have to incorporate applicable economic theories, models, and methods in your research’s findings.

For example, you can exhibit critical analysis and evaluation by a sound assessment and judgment of the amount to which the applicable economic theory is beneficial in addressing your research question .

If you cannot establish relevant connections between your selected topic and the research question, avoid establishing knowledge claims based on economic theories, models, and instruments.

Criterion C of the assessment instrument requires you to provide precise findings for each analyzed point, and there has to be interim conclusions throughout your writing.

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the limitations of your own research, flaws in the economic theories, and underlying assumptions of the models utilized when developing your arguments. Also, evaluate the extent to which an economic theory may or may not describe your topic.

IB Economics EE Reflection Session 

Being reflective is one of the IB learner profile characteristics, and it is now a formal requirement of the EE evaluation criteria.

IB uses the Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF), which has a 6-point value, to evaluate reflections. This is a substantial amount of points, which can determine the distinction between two grades on the final examination.  

As part of the EE requirements, you will be required to hold three mandatory reflection sessions with your supervisor, and each of these reflection sessions appear on the official RPPF.

Reflection in the EE focuses on the process of the assignment itself.

Consider the following areas of reflection for each portion of the RPPF:

• How did you overcome the problems, setbacks, and barriers you encountered, and what did you learn in the process?
• Which of the IB learner profile characteristics apply to you?
• What did you learn, and did new views emerge?  

The maximum word count for all three reflections is 500. You must write the reflection in your own word and pertain only to your personal learning journey throughout the course.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

How to Write an Economics Extended Essay? A Complete Guide

Today, I’d love to share my insights on how to make an impressive Economics extended essay. According to general IB criteria, it’s about showcasing your knowledge and getting into your topic. So, where should you start?

Introduction to the Economics Extended Essay

From my experience, the extended essay is your chance to demonstrate critical thinking, research skills, and genuine interest in your subject. And believe me, there’s no better subject than Economics to showcase these abilities. Why? Well, economics constantly interacts with our daily lives, influencing our decisions and shaping our world.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Economics extended essay has a maximum word count of 4,000 words. However, some sections are not included in it:

• The abstract.
• Footnotes and endnotes.
• Bibliography or works cited.
• Appendices.

Students must adhere to this word limit to avoid potential penalties in the assessment process. Always double-check the specific requirements and guidelines provided by the IB and your school to ensure compliance.

All Economics Extended Essay Features

Based on both general IB criteria and my experience with the IB program, here are some key features of an Economics extended essay:

• The research question should be sharply focused and relevant to economic theory. Ideally, the question will address microeconomic and macroeconomic perspectives, but it could focus solely on one.
• The essay should not just be descriptive but should apply relevant economic theories or concepts. For instance, if the topic is about market structures, discussing monopoly, oligopoly, perfect competition, etc., using supply and demand graphs and even mathematical calculations is apt.
• An Economics essay should be rooted in real-world data. It could involve case studies, statistical data, or surveys. Analyzing this data in the context of the chosen topic is vital.
• More than merely presenting data is required. The student should analyze, interpret, and evaluate the data in light of their research question. It involves discussing the data’s implications, limitations, and potential biases.
• Students should cite various sources , including textbooks, journal articles, news articles, and interviews. This section is crucial to demonstrate the depth and breadth of the research undertaken.
• The essay should reflect critical thinking by considering different viewpoints and assessing the strengths and weaknesses of arguments.
• If primary research is conducted, such as surveys or interviews, the student should consider the ethical implications and ensure that participants’ rights and confidentiality are respected.

In conclusion, an Economics extended essay requires a blend of theoretical knowledge, practical data analysis, and a deep understanding of the economic landscape. It’s a rigorous academic exercise, but it can be rewarding for IB students with the right approach and passion.

Choosing the Right Topic for Your Economics Extended Essay

Every IB student faces an age-old question: “Which topic should I choose for my Economics extended essay?” I’ve been there, and as someone who has spent considerable time around the IB system, I understand the gravity of this decision. With many potential IB extended essay Economics topics floating around, the choice can be overwhelming.

However, based on my insights, always let your passion guide you. Don’t just chase complex or trendy topics; ensure you are genuinely interested in the subject. The most insightful extended essay Economics ideas are often birthed from personal experiences or recent events that resonate with you. These subjects can provide a fresh perspective and often yield profound insights.

Aligning with Personal Interest

The world of Economics is vast and varied. From the ebbs and flows of international trade to the microcosm of local markets, a topic can kindle anyone’s curiosity. In my opinion, the passion with which you approach your subject can be a game-changer. An inspired researcher will undoubtedly dig deeper with more zest, leading to more significant insights. Remember those moments when a particular news headline about economic reforms or market shifts caught your attention? Therein might lie your perfect topic!

Feasibility and Scope

However, enthusiasm alone isn’t enough. From my experience, the feasibility of your chosen topic is paramount. You might be fascinated by a niche area of economics, but if there’s a shortage of research material or data, you could find yourself in a tricky spot. It’s balancing choosing a subject you love and ensuring enough information exists to support your claims. The general IB criteria prioritize evidence-based arguments, so having ample resources is crucial.

Here are some potential topics to consider:

• The impact of Brexit on the UK’s economic landscape.
• The economic implications of the gig economy.
• Green economics: The cost and benefits of sustainable energy.
• The influence of cryptocurrency on traditional banking.
• A study on the wage gap: Factors and future implications.
• The economic aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Fast fashion and its economic and environmental costs.
• A comparative analysis of universal basic income models.
• The role of microfinance in developing economies.
• Economic consequences of population aging in Japan.
• The effects of automation and AI on employment rates.
• Tourism economics: A case study on [specific country or region].
• Price discrimination in online retailing.
• Economic challenges and opportunities of hosting the Olympics.
• The role of government interventions in preventing economic recessions.

Choosing a topic for your Economics extended essay is a significant first step in wrapping up. Take your time to follow your interests, but always be practical in ensuring you have the resources and scope to produce an insightful paper.

Structuring Your Essay: How to Get the Highest Grade

Once you’ve picked a topic, the next step is understanding how to structure an Economics extended essay.

Crafting a Strong Introduction

From my years around the IB community, I’ve seen countless essays; trust me, first impressions count! Your introduction is more than just a paragraph — it’s your audience’s first taste of your work. Start by setting the context; why did you choose this topic? What relevance does it have in today’s world?

Then, concisely present your research question. This initial clarity not only piques the interest of your reader but also firmly establishes the path you’re about to tread upon. An introduction is like the cover of a book; it should invite the reader to turn the page.

Building a Compelling Body

In this section, you lay out your arguments, analyses, and findings. Each paragraph should have a distinct point seamlessly linked to the next. But how do you ensure your ideas hold water? The answer is evidence. Whether it’s data from renowned economic journals, findings from credible institutions, or even case studies, always back up your claims. Here are a few additional tips:

• Clarity is Key . Use concise and clear language. Avoid jargon unless necessary, and always explain complex concepts.
• Stay Objective . While it’s okay to have a stance, ensure your essay is balanced, considering various perspectives and counterarguments.
• Proofread . A simple yet often overlooked step. Ensure your essay is free from grammatical errors and is coherently structured.

Using good sources for an Economics extended essay is like constructing with quality bricks; it strengthens your narrative. Remember to not just present data but interpret it. Ask yourself, “What story is this data telling? How does it relate to my research question?” From my experience, this analytical approach differentiates good essays from great ones.

Concluding with Impact

In my opinion, a conclusion is not an end but a new beginning. Instead of a mere summary, offer your readers a fresh insight or a different perspective based on your findings. It may raise additional questions that future researchers might consider. What are the broader implications of your research in the grand scheme of things? A firm conclusion leaves a lasting impression, making readers reflect upon your work long after reading.

Tips and Tricks for a Stellar Extended Essay

From my experience, a few strategies can improve your paper. While good extended essay topics for Economics are crucial, how you present them is equally vital.

Need help with your IB extended essay?

From research and analysis to structuring and editing, our skilled mentors will be by your side, helping you craft an exceptional extended essay that not only meets the wordcount and stringent IB criteria but also reflects your passion for selected IB group .

Engaging Your Audience

One thing becomes crystal clear: the importance of connection. Your examiners sift through many essays, so what can make yours memorable? Originality, yes, but also the art of storytelling. Incorporate real-life examples and thought-provoking questions that give a human touch to economic theories. Each paragraph should pull the reader into the next, creating a seamless flow of ideas. Remember, it’s not just about what you say but how you say it.

Ensuring Originality

The heart and soul of the IB program lie in its emphasis on original thought. Plagiarism is a strict no-no, but originality goes beyond that. It’s about showcasing your unique perspective, analytical prowess, and personal reflections. While secondary research will form the backbone of your essay, your interpretations, conclusions, and insights should stand out, offering a fresh perspective on a well-trodden topic.

Critical Evaluation

Always question your sources and the data you encounter. Instead of accepting information at face value, get into its implications, biases, and limitations. Critical evaluation showcases your ability to think beyond the obvious and challenges the status quo, a trait highly valued in the IB criteria.

Crafting a remarkable Economics extended essay is no small feat. But with passion, the right resources, and a clear structure, it’s an enriching experience. So, to all budding economists, I wish you the best of luck on this academic adventure!

This article serves as a guide, combining my years of experience as an IB tutor at ExtendedEssayWriters.com with essential tips to help students write a stellar Economics extended essay . Remember, the path is as significant as the destination!

Luke MacQuoid

Luke MacQuoid has extensive experience teaching English as a foreign language in Japan, having worked with students of all ages for over 12 years. Currently, he is teaching at the tertiary level. Luke holds a BA from the University of Sussex and an MA in TESOL from Lancaster University, both located in England. As well to his work as an IB Examiner and Master Tutor, Luke also enjoys sharing his experiences and insights with others through writing articles for various websites, including extendedessaywriters.com blog

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Navigating the IB Extended Essay in Economics: A Comprehensive Guide

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, with its high academic standards and comprehensive curriculum, has three core components, i.e., EE, CAS, and TOK, along with other subjects. Each component comes with its own challenges. An extended essay is one of those components that consists of a 4,000-word research project that gives students the opportunity to delve deeper into a topic of their choice within the range of IB subject areas. This article will explore a step-by-step process using which students can streamline their IB Extended Essay in Economics with finesse and ease.

• Choosing the Right Topic

Not every topic is going to excite you, so choosing a topic is like exploring many options to find a suitable fit.

Economics is a comprehensive subject, so in order to keep your motivation intact, you should choose a topic that genuinely interests you. Following the herd will lead you to a barren grass with overeating. It’s essential to choose a topic that excites you because you will be spending a significant amount of time on this topic throughout the course. Writing and researching become easy when you already understand the basic premises of the topic that you are choosing. Also, choosing a topic that you can easily relate to in real life is a vantage point. Your topic should be broad enough to allow research and specific enough to allow newness.

• Formulating Your Research Question

After choosing a suitable topic, the next thing to work on is to formulate a specific, clear, and well-defined research question. A research question will form the basis of your entire research and writing. A good research question should have the tendency to solve a current issue in our commercial world. For example, students can talk about the impact of COVID-19 on the granary market.

• Conducting Research

After choosing a suitable topic and relevant research question, the next thing is to plunge into the river of research. This is the first execution stage that forms the foundation of a successful IB Extended Essay in economics. This is the stage where you delve deep into the available literature, research articles, books, scholarly articles, economic databases, and relevant magazines. The credibility and reliability of these sources should not be compromised; therefore, they should be checked properly.

Tip: Make notes of the available literature and the sources from which you have acquired relevant information and evidence, as you will have to cite them in your extended essay.

• Data Collection and Analysis: A Batter for Writing

The next step is to collect data and then make a well-informed evaluation. This should be relevant to your Economics research question from the beginning of the research to the culmination. Data collection typically uses two sources—primary and secondary. This includes interviews, surveys, or statistical evaluations of the existing literature review, etc. Data collection methods should be reliable, and recording techniques should be precise and accurate. In writing an Economics Extended Essay, you will probably deal more with statistical data than empirical data.

The collection of data can only prove meaningful if interpreted properly. No data is relevant without accurate interpretations. Presenting your interpretations using visual representations will enhance the coherency and applicability of your extended essay.

• Structuring Your Essay

Structuring your extended essay is like forming a display for your shop. This is the stage where the execution of your preparations is done.

It is important to consider the structure of your extended essay, as it will enhance the flow and clarity of your essay. Usually, an economics extended essay follows this structure:

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Existing Literature Review
• Methodology
• Data Presentation and Analysis
• Bibliography
• Appendices, if relevant
• Writing Your Essay

The next step is to add content to the established structure. While writing your extended essay, students should keep in mind the language and relevance of the subject matter. They should use a formal writing style, adhering to IB standards and accurate economic terminology. Unnecessary jargon should be avoided in order to give a simplistic model of your entire research.

The arguments play an important role in the extended essays. Plausible explanations with relevant evidence should be provided and justified. Unnecessary arguments that beat around the bush should be avoided. Adding counterarguments will demonstrate your deeper understanding of the subject matter.

• Citing Sources and Referencing

Plagiarism is a serious offence that should be taken seriously. Giving credit wherever it is due is essential, so proper citation and referencing should form part of your extended essay. Students should use a recognised citation style throughout their essays.

• Seeking Guidance

Help is given to those who ask for it.

Seeking guidance from your IB supervisor or economics teacher is another important thing in the process of writing the IB Extended Essay. The teachers or supervisors can guide you by providing invaluable insights about everything relating to your essay. Constructive criticism will help you refine your arguments and research questions. If you have taken help from people other than your supervisors and teachers, you should also acknowledge them in your essay.

• Editing and proofreading

After completing your initial draft, it is important to revise and edit your essay. You should check for gaps and inconsistencies in your research question, grammar and spelling errors, plausibility in the stated arguments, and the overall flow of the essay. You can also ask your peers to review your essay and provide constructive criticism.

Tip: It’s often helpful to take a break after finishing your first draft and revise it from a fresh perspective.

• Meeting Deadlines

Deadlines are important in order to ensure that your extended essay fulfils the basic requirements of IBDP guidelines. The Extended Essay has several deadlines, beginning from the selection of an essay to the submission of the final draft. Students should be aware of all the deadlines in order to keep up with them.

• Final Thoughts and Reflection: The Way of Learning

After finishing your extended essay, it is important to take some time out to think and reflect on your entire research journey. This will help you critically analyse your strengths and weaknesses to ensure that your future projects do not endure any inconsistencies.

In conclusion, the IB Extended Essay in Economics is a challenging yet rewarding task. It gives students an opportunity to delve deep into the intricacies of a topic of their choice. Although one can feel the burden of this cumbersome task, with proper planning and execution, students can not just excel in it but will also gain invaluable insights in the process of this academic research.

Happy researching and learning!

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• Annotated extended essay sample 2
• The IB core
• Extended essay

Classroom activity

Read the extended essay below, which came from one of my former Economics students.  After doing so, apply the extended essay rubric and justify your marks. My comments are on the next page as well as an annotated copy of the EE.

Title : To what extent does the Palandöken Ski Center actively practise price discrimination?

Word count : 3897 words

Introduction	4
Methodology	5
Background Information	6
What is Price Discrimination?	6
Types of Price Discrimination?	8
First Degree Discrimination	8
Second Degree Discrimination	8
Third Degree Discrimination	9
Investigation	10
How can Palandoken Resort Hotels use Price Discrimination?	10
Primary Research Findings	11
Conclusions	14
Improvements	18
Appendix	19
Interview	20
Bibliography	21

Introduction

Erzurum Palandöken Ski Center is an important tourist attraction of Turkey in which there are 22 ski tracks, 5 hotels and about 5000 visitors every day. It is the best ski center in Turkey for skilled skiers because of the steepness of slopes, quality of snow, length of trail etc. This makes Palandöken Ski Centre a popular destination for tourists and the resort welcomes visitors from all over the world, including Turkey.

There are 5 hotels which sell tickets to the ski lifts, rent ski equipment to visitors as well as hotel rooms to the visiting tourists and local people.  For my essay, I will focus on whether the resort hotels use price discrimination as a method of maximising their sales revenues. To investigate this price discrimination, I will compare the prices paid by three different groups of customer – Turkish residents of Erzurum, Turkish people living in other cities of Turkey and foreigners. It is my opinion that the hotels will actively pursue price discrimination, charging lower prices to locally based customers.  This is based on my own experience having spoken to foreign tourists and asking them how much they paid for those items.

My essay will be based firstly on secondary research where I will outline the theory behind price discrimination and secondly, I will conduct a series of short interviews and surveys to collect my data. I intend to test my thesis and answer the question:

 “To what extent does the Palandöken Ski Centre actively practise price discrimination?”

The reason why I have chosen this topic is because I have been a keen skier since I was 8 years old and I have been skiing for 9 years. I also enjoy speaking to foreigners and sharing experiences with them.  I will enjoy working on this essay.

Methodology

In writing this essay, I intend to complete the following:                                                    

Firstly, I will complete my secondary research where I will summarise ‘Price Discrimination’.  After completing my secondary research I will start my primary research which will be based on surveys of customers at the ski centre as well as interviews with hotel owners and the salesmen who rent ski equipment.  I will start by going to Palandöken Ski Centre to check the price of accommodation, ski equipment and ski lifts.

I will record this data and then choose 10 people from Erzurum, 10 from other cities of Turkey (who are here as tourists) and 10 foreigners. Then I will ask this sample to fill in a short questionnaire where they will detail the price that each paid for their accommodation, ski lifts and ski equipment.

Finally, I will make a table to record all the data. This data table will help me to compare the results and decide whether my results support my hypothesis or not.  I intend to use the data as the basis for my in depth questionnaires, which will also help me to form my conclusions.

Lastly, having collected all of my data I will attempt to reach a conclusion as to the question: “To what extent does the Palandöken Ski Centre actively practise price discrimination?”

What is Price Discrimination?

Price discrimination is the way of selling in which the producer charges different prices to different consumers for the exact same product or service. For example a cinema may charge a lower price for students but a higher price for the adults.  In this case there is a price discrimination caused by the age of the two consumers. For a producer there should be three conditions which are listed below so that the producer can be able to price discriminate:

• To be able to price discriminate easily, the producer should have the price-setting ability. The more price-setting ability the producer has, the easier to price discriminate. Price discrimination generally occurs in imperfect markets rather than the perfect competition. That is why price discrimination mostly occurs in monopoly and oligopoly.This is because the more competitive the market and the more firms in the industry, the less ability each firm has to control prices – i.e. they become price takers, not price makers.
• A product with inelastic demand would generally be easier to price discriminate. This is because the more important a product is to a consumer, then the easier it to charge them higher prices. So another condition for price discrimination is that the consumers should have different price elasticities of demand for the product.
• The third condition is that the producer must be able to separate the consumers so that the segment(s) that pays a lower price for a product must not be able to resell the product on to a customer paying a higher price for the same product.

In order for producers to price discriminate, they must be able to separate the different markets by using the ways listed below:

• Time: Some consumers may be ready to pay higher prices at some certain times. For example a hotel may have more visitors at weekend rather than weekdays so the producer, in this case the hotel room, may charge lower prices at weekdays but higher prices at weekend. If the hotel can set the price correctly and discriminate the price well, they can maximise their revenue.
• Age: Different ages may pay different prices for the exact same product or service. For example an airline company may charge less to a child than an adult for the flight ticket. The reason is that children has lower income so that their demand for the flight ticket is more price elastic.
• Income: Some firms may change prices according to the income level of the customer. Under this method, people with higher incomes (e.g foreign tourists) would pay more than people with lower incomes (Erzurum residents). Another example might be a university charging lower tuition fees for a student with lower income and higher tuition fees for a student with higher income.
• Types of the consumer: A firm that sells their product to the different consumers charges different prices to these consumers. Firms determine different rates for the different types of the consumer and these rates are determined with respect to the elasticities of demand of the consumer. For example ski resorts may charge different prices to foreign tourists than local consumers, because the hotel believes that foreign tourists and local residents have different PEDs, i.e. tourists are simply more willing and able to purchase the hotel at a higher price than the local resident.

In order to discriminate the price, at least three of the above conditions above should exist; if not price discrimination will not be possible. Generally people think that sales promotion is also a type of price discrimination but actually it is the shrewd attitude of the seller in order to attract the customers. For example nightclubs’ idea of taking the girls in with a lower price is actually a way for them to attract more boys to come in their nightclubs. In this sense sales promotion is not included to price discrimination.

Types of Price Discrimination

There are three levels of price discrimination to be considered:

First Degree Discrimination

For the Figure 1.1, to the right, the trader sells the product to different consumers at different prices. If that trader sells his product with the price where MC=MR, he would receive a revenue which is only the pale blue area but if the trader sells his products by discriminating the price, selling with higher prices to tourists, he will also get the dark blue triangle as a revenue. In this case the hotel will charge higher prices during the peak season when demand is higher and less during the off peak season.  This method effectively charges different prices for the same hotel room, depending on the time of the season that they want it.

Second Degree Discrimination

This is basically charging different prices depending on the quantity consumed.  (Philips, 1999)

For the Figure 1.2 the GSM company decreases the price if the user sends more than 50 messages per month. Normally if the price stays the same GSM Company should get only the pale blue rectangle as a revenue but by discriminating the price they could also earn the dark blue rectangle as a profit.  Relating this method of discrimination to my essay, the hotel would charge a lower daily rate to visitors staying longer periods. As the consumers are willing and able to stay more, then the hotel will charge these consumers less per night which will help hotel to maximise their profits. In my research the quantity stands for the number of nights that consumers will stay.

Third Degree Discrimination

This means charging different prices depending on a particular market segment, e.g. age profile, income group, time of use.  examples of each are shown on the diagrams below:

Here in figure 1.3, above the cinema knows that students have more price elastic demand for going to the cinema because they have lower income. I.e. they are more sensitive to price than people in fulltime employment.  In this sense they charge lower prices to students, by contrast they charge higher to adults since they have higher income. In this example the student price would be 7.5 TL and the adult price 10.25.  Both prices are higher than the marginal cost of the ticket at 5TL.  If the cinema did not price discriminate they would have to charge either 7.5 TL and miss out on additional revenue from adults or charge 10.25 and have lower demand from students.  In this way consumer surplus is reduced and profits are raised as the cinema is filled with discounted tickets, rather than having this segment ignore the cinema.

Investigation

How can palandoken resort hotels use price discrimination.

It is my belief that Palandöken hotels are able to use first, second and third degree price discrimination because they are able to separate the market.  For my essay I will presume that there are three different types of customer – local residents (people living in Erzurum), Turkish tourists from Istanbul, Izmir and other wealthy Turkish cities as well as foreign (i.e. non-Turkish speaking) tourists.

The reason why foreigners cannot simply get Turkish people to purchase their hotel rooms is that the identity card of the customers are needed during the check in process. This is really important for hotels since they separate their market in this process. The identity card gives enough information about the nationality of the customer so that hotels are getting information in order to practise third degree price discrimination. This process enables hotels to separate the Erzurum residents from Istanbul and other wealthy Turkish cities’ residents. Distinguishing them from foreigners is very easy.  They are looking at the hometown of the customer and trying to offer the best price, based on what they believe customers are willing and able to pay.

Primary Research Findings

The survey that I completed in Palandöken Ski Center shows the price discrimination clearly. Data tables are created and shown below:

Erzurum	230
Erzurum	230
Erzurum	230
Erzurum	230
Erzurum	235
Erzurum	240
Erzurum *	210
Erzurum *	210
Erzurum *	210
Erzurum *	225

Ankara	235
Ankara	235
Ankara	235
Kocaeli	230
Kocaeli	230
Eskişehir	230
Adana	230
Istanbul	235
Istanbul*	215

Finally the last table shows the prices paid by foreign tourists:

England (but living in Erzurum)	245
USA	300
Bulgaria	280
Finland	280
Austria	280
Russia	265
USA*	245
New Zealand*	230
Georgia*	220
Iran*	230

Note: Subjects with (*) near them are taken towards the end of the season. (March 15, 2015)

The Following tables are illustrated in the following three graphs:

Average percentage change of the above data is as follows calculated by the formula:

average price of a hotel room paid by foreigners - average price paid for the same room by local residents / average price paid by local residents x 100 will provide us with the average level of discrimination paid by foreign tourists at the ski hotels.

Table 4: Average Prices and the Percentage Change of Prices
	Local Residents	People from Turkey (Others)	Foreigners
Average Prices in the Season	232,5	232,5	275
Average Prices towards the end of the season	213,75	215	231,25
Percentage Change in the Season	-	0%	18.2796%
Percentage Change Towards the end of the season	-	0.939%	8.4507%

In this investigation, there had been 10 sample prices for each of the 3 types of costumers: Local residents, people from different cities and foreigners. All the data are from two different weeks in which one of them is taken during the ski season and the other one is taken towards the end of the ski season. (Marked with “*” sign.)

According to the results, in the ski season, people from other cities of Turkey pay approximately same price (0%) with the local residents. On the other hand, foreigners pay approximately 18.2796% more than the local residents. Towards the end of the season this percentage falls to 8.4507%.

Data tables above have shown that customers have paid different prices for the same product or service at a given time. This shows that hotels are practising the price discrimination depending on the criteria listed in the introduction part. According to the tables above there are two factors that the hotels use to separate the markets: Income, based on the nationality of the customers and the time, based on the ski season when more or less customers are willing and able to pay for their goods and services.

Starting from the income of the customers, results show that local people pay the least price compared to the people from other cities and the foreigners. This result depends on the fact that local people earn less than the rest of the country and foreigners because of the cheaper living standards as a result of the geographical position of Erzurum which is the east part of the Turkey.

People from the other cities of Turkey pay slightly more than the local residents. This result depends on the fact that as you go from east to west part of the Turkey, the living standards rise and causes an increase in the wages. As a result of a difference in wages, hotel management sets different prices for the customers coming from different parts of the Turkey. Within the results of the people from other cities of Turkey, the hypothesis of “the prices rise as you go from east to west” is supported. In fact, not the geographical position of the city but the importance of the city and living standards determine the price of the hotels. According to the results taken from the questionnaire, people in Istanbul which is the most well-known and expensive city of Turkey pay more than anyone in the Turkey as a result of the highest wages in the country. Ankara is the second city that pays more than other cities of Turkey. This is because Ankara is the capital city of Turkey and like İstanbul, Ankara is also an expensive city which is a result of higher wages. Rest of the results for the other cities of Turkey, the prices are approximately same with the local residents which might seem a little bit strange. According to the price discrimination logic, people from different cities of Turkey other than Erzurum are supposed to pay more than the local residents. Probably; since the skiing is a luxury activity, hotel management thinks that local people who prefer to lodge in the hotel although they have their house in the city are willing and able to pay more for the goods and services of the hotel; so the hotel management considers these customers as customers who came from the other cities of Turkey and charge the same as the other people pay.

Foreigners are the customers who pay the highest prices for the hotels. This can be explained by the price elasticity of demand theory. The theory says that quantity demanded for a product or service responses to the change in price. In this investigation, it is known that tourists have lower price elasticity than the people from other cities of Turkey and the local people. This means tourists’ demand for the hotels will have a slight change for the increase in prices of the hotels. A lower PED is caused by the same theory of the people who live in the big and expensive cities of Turkey and the local people: Foreign people earn more money compared to the people in Turkey and also the difference in the currency provides them a chance to have a more valuable money in Turkey. When the foreigners are compared within themselves, it can be seen that American people pay more money than any other foreigners which shows that American people have the least price elasticity. Most of the customers from the European countries pay the same prices because of a similar price elasticities. Only Russian customer pays less than the other European countries probably because of the wide range of skiing opportunities in Russia. Hotel management sets a different and a cheaper price for the Russian people in order to attract them for their hotels instead of the hotels in Russia. The customer from the England is an exceptional sample in which he is capable of talking in Turkish. Normally, a British customer is supposed to pay a price similar to the American; however the hotel management set a lower price closer to the local people in order to appeal the customer.

The other factor that hotels use to price discriminate is the time of the year. The data in the tables show that towards the end of the skiing season the prices are lower than the normal skiing season. Price elasticity of demand theory can be used to explain the discrimination applied according to the time. In a normal season, there is a very high demand for the hotels so that although prices are very high, customers are willing and able to pay for the higher prices. Excess demand for the hotel rooms provides a chance for the hotel management to raise the price for their hotels by a logic that customers are ready to pay more. However, towards the end of the season, demand for the hotel room falls and this causes an excess supply. As a result of an excess supply, hotels lower the prices in order to attract more customers even if it is the end of the skiing season.

Having identified what I believe is evidence of price discrimination I wanted to test my theory by interviewing the manager of one of the most popular hotels, which I arranged on.

The manager of the Dedeman Hotel stated that they have 4 types of booking which are the ways of communicating with customers in order to practise price discrimination:

• Online booking
• Booking by telephone
• Booking in the hotel (Face to face)
• Regular Customers

He stated that it is very important for them to be able to practise price discrimination. A closer look at the booking types shows that the hotel charges different prices to different customers. For the online booking they reserve a limited number of rooms and the price for the rooms are determined transiently by the online receptionist according to the number of remaining rooms. For example a price of a room in the online booking can be 200 Turkish Liras when there are 10 rooms left and the price can go up to 250 when there is only 1 room left.  This would be similar to first degree price discrimination, as the airlines do.  Mr. Akca, the manager of the hotel, said that the prices for online booking are determined in a meeting of the board of directors and then applied in the booking websites such as “www.booking.com“ , “www.trivago.com” etc.

However the same process does not work for the booking by telephone. While people are booking for their rooms by telephone, the receptionist firstly asks where they are calling from in order to separate the customers. Mr. Akca says that after they have learned the hometown of the consumer, they are considering whether the hometown is wealthy or not and only then do they inform the consumers about the price.  He outlined that there is not much difference in price between customers from Erzurum or customers from other Anatolian cities however they do apply a small difference if they are calling from Ankara, İstanbul and Izmir.  These customers pay more and this difference comes from the income level of these cities, which are generally higher than the income of people from Erzurum or other Anatolian cities. In this sense the hotel believes that they are more willing and able to pay higher prices than the Anatolian cities’ customers.

While people are booking the hotel face to face, the prices go a little bit up. Mr. Akca explains this situation with these words: “When people come here for booking, we consider that they have only a few alternatives that is why they have to pay whatever the price we charge them is. As hotel administration we charge higher prices than normal but as always the price is negotiable. If they bargain with us, we may decrease the prices about 10-20 Turkish lira less.”

He also says that if the customer is a foreigner, they are charged more than the Turkish customers. According to Mr. Akca the reason for this is because foreigners have a lower price elasticity than Turkish customers which means they are willing and able to pay higher prices. The higher wages in foreign countries means that they are spending more money than Turkish customers and because of this reason they are ready to pay more for their rooms. Mr. Akca also says that they are charging different prices to different customers from different countries, meaning that Americans or people from the Middle East would pay more than Europeans who are more difficult to overcharge. 

This can be explained by differing price elasticities. He uses these words to explain this situation: “We all know that Americans earn more than everyone else including Europeans and this means they can pay more than everyone else.” According to what Mr. Akca says the board of management determines some prices for the foreigners by considering the national income of these consumers.  They give a decision-making-authority to the receptionists so that they can increase the prices about 10 to 20 Turkish liras.

The last type of customer is the regular customer such as pharmaceutical representatives. Mr. Akca says that for the regular customers they are generally charging the exact same price for the rooms and they do not practise the price discrimination for them.

According to the overall results of this investigation and the answers taken from the interview, it can be seen that hotels have different methods to maximise their profits. In order to use the advantages of price discrimination, they are separating their consumers and practising the price discrimination. In other words, they charge consumers the highest price that they are willing and able to pay so that they get the maximum profit that they can get.

Improvements

The investigation has shown that ski resorts in the Palandöken Mountain practise price discrimination to get the maximum profit. Data taken from the consumers in the resorts have proven that price discrimination occurs. However for this investigation, only 10 data for each type of consumers are used which is the weakness of this investigation. Small sample may cause the danger of one or two rogue results and falsely skewing the figures. If there could be more than 10 data, there might be more accurate results that show whether price discrimination occurs or not; but the investigation has supported the limited data by the interview made by the hotel manager so that the manager has also mentioned the price discrimination. All the data used in this investigation are taken from only 1 of the ski resorts in Palandöken so that all the price are similar; however if there could be the data of the other hotels, the price discrimination within hotels can also be observed.

Since the investigation is limited to 4000 words, it might be normal to have 10 data for each, however the investigation is opened to the improvements in order to see the price discrimination logic and the way that producers/hotels use to maximise their profits.

Appendix - Sample Questionnaire

This is the script of the questions that I have asked to the consumers of the hotels in the Palandöken Ski Centre to learn about the way hotels use to practise price discrimination:

Bilkent Erzurum Laboratory School

Economics Extended Essay Questionnaire

1: Where are you from?

2: How much do you pay for the hotel per night? (Including the ski lifts and ski equipments)

3: Do you think the hotel practise price discrimination?

This is the interview that I have made with the hotel manager to learn about the way hotels use to practise price discrimination. This is translated from the original and oral conversation.

Me: Hello Mr. Akca! I am here to learn about price discrimination that is practised by the hotels. Firstly, let me ask you whether you practise price discrimination or not? If yes, can you tell me about the way you follow for practising the price discrimination?

Mr. Akca: Of course we do. Price discrimination is something that is legal in the economy. As a hotel that has a wide range of tourist attraction from all around the world, we do practise price discrimination to make as much profit as we can. The most important thing about the price discrimination is that you should be able to practise price discrimination. We, as the Board of Directors of the hotel, have a meeting at the beginning of every week to talk about the profits and the prices. In these meetings, we are trying to find appropriate prices for the hotels in order to maximise our profits. During these meetings, we consider the price discrimination and we try to set the prices according to the price discrimination concepts. Let me explain these concepts from the booking ways of our hotels. We have 4 types of booking in our hotel: Online booking, booking by telephone, booking in the reception desk, regular bookings. Let me start with the online booking: In the meetings, we set a certain number of rooms that are reserved for the online booking. While people try to book from the websites like trivago.com etc., the online receptionist set different prices according to the number of rooms left for the online booking. As the number of rooms reserved for the online booking falls, the prices go a little bit up. If the consumers are booking on the telephone, the receptionists have the price-setting ability. They firstly ask where the consumers are calling from and then they set a price for these consumers according to their cities’ or countries’ average wealth level. When it comes to face to face booking where it take place in the reception desk, it becomes easier for us to take the prices up. When people come here for booking, we consider that they have only a few alternatives that is why they have to pay whatever the price we charge them is. As hotel administration we charge higher prices than normal but as always the price is negotiable. If they bargain with us, we may decrease the prices about 10-20 Turkish lira less. The regular consumers like pharmaceutical representatives we always have the same prices so that we do not practise price discrimination for these consumers. In general, I can say that tourists pay more than any other consumers and this is very normal. We all know that Americans earn more than everyone else including Europeans and this means they can pay more than everyone else. We set the price by looking at the wages so that it’s normal for these people to pay more. By considering that you know about the price elasticities, I can say that it is all about the price elasticity of these consumers. That’s all I can say about the hotels, do you have any other question?

Me: No, thank you Mr. Akca.

Bibliography

Blink, J., & Dorton , I. (2011). IB Economics. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Glass, M. (n.d.). Houston Chronicle . Retrieved from Chron : http://smallbusiness.chron.com/3-types-price-discrimination-25634.html

Phlips , L. (1999). The Economics of Price Discrimination. New York: Cambridge University Press.

Wikipedia . (2011). Retrieved from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia : https ://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki /2011_Winter_ Universiade

Grading practise

Now grade the extended essay according to the following essay, using the grading criteria accessed at MyIB

Remember that in order to grade accurately you will need to read each of the bands and starting with band 0, move up until you find the marking band which most accurately fits the essay.  If two bands appear to accurately assess the essay then teachers must use their professional judgement to decide which most accurately fits the criteria:

On the following page I have included both my notes as well as the score this essay was awarded from the IB.  To access this click on: Annotated extended essay sample 2 (grading criteria)

IB Extended Essay Topics: Economics

As someone with a background in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, I’ve come to appreciate the unique challenges and opportunities it presents, especially regarding the IB DP Economics Extended Essay (EE). From my extensive experience, I can say that choosing the right topic is an essential step in achieving a high score. That’s why I’m happy to share some ideas on engaging and researchable IB Economics Extended Essay topics.

The Basics of an Economics Extended Essay

Let’s talk about what an Economics EE involves. According to the general IB criteria, this essay requires you to conduct independent research on a topic of interest in Economics, culminating in a 4,000-word paper. From my perspective, the beauty of IB DP Economics EE lies in its ability to explore complex global issues through the lens of economic theory and principles.

In my experience, the most successful economics EEs are born from a genuine passion for the subject matter. Here’s a non-exhaustive list of considerations that might help to choose a topic:

• Aim for a topic that reflects ongoing discussions within the field of economics. It could range from the impact of blockchain technology on financial markets to the economic consequences of climate change policies.
• Ensure sufficient data is available to support your research. Topics with accessible and reliable data sources allow for a more in-depth analysis and a stronger argument.
• Choose a topic that allows you to apply economic theories and concepts. It may involve analyzing market structures, evaluating economic policies, or exploring consumer behavior factors.
• Your topic should spark curiosity and engagement. Writing about something you’re genuinely interested in can make the research process more enjoyable and fulfilling.
• Consider the feasibility of your topic within the given word count and time constraints. Find a topic broad enough to explore in depth but narrow enough to be thoroughly analyzed within 4,000 words.

A high-grade economics EE doesn’t just summarize data or describe an economic situation. It critically engages with economic theories and models to analyze that data. It might involve applying the concepts of supply and demand, elasticity, market structures, or the theories of consumer choice to your chosen topic.

Topics to Read:

• How IB Prepares Students for University?
• Can You Retake the IB Exams? Guide for IB Students
• Stress Management and Well-Being for IB Students
• How to Manage Time Effectively as an IB Student
• The Benefits of Pursuing the IB Diploma Programme
• IB vs. National Curriculum. The Benefits of an International Perspective
• What Are the Average IB Acceptance Rates? Insights from an IB Expert
• What Are the IB Internal Assessment Deadlines for 2024?
• Does an IB Diploma Help with College Admissions?
• How to Make Awesome IB Notes?
• How to Get Into the IB Program? IB Preparation
• What to Wear for IB Exams? IB Dress Code

Extended Essay Topics in Economics: The Best Ideas

As mentioned above, creating an engaging and rigorous IB Extended Essay in Economics starts with choosing a theme for investigation. Below are some topics and research questions spanning various aspects of economics.

These ideas can inspire and guide IB students in their quest for a fascinating research project:

• The Impact of COVID-19 on Small Businesses in New York City . How have small businesses in New York City adapted to the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic?
• Cryptocurrencies and the Global Economy . How do Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies influence global trade and financial markets?
• Sustainable Agriculture and Economic Development in India . Can sustainable agriculture significantly contribute to economic development in India?
• The Economics of Renewable Energy in Germany . How cost-effective are renewable energy sources compared to traditional fossil fuels in Germany?
• Globalization and Local Economies in Mexico . What is the impact of globalization on Mexico’s manufacturing sector?
• Minimum Wage and Employment Rates in the UK Retail Industry . How does introducing a minimum wage affect employment rates in the UK retail industry?
• Economic Implications of Climate Change Policies in the European Union . How have climate change policies impacted economic growth in the European Union?
• Consumer Behavior and E-commerce in China . How has the proliferation of online shopping platforms like Alibaba changed consumer behavior in China?
• Market Structure and Competition in the Telecommunications Industry of South Korea . How does the market structure affect consumer prices and service quality in South Korea’s telecommunications industry?
• Income Inequality and Economic Growth in Brazil . Does income inequality hinder economic growth in Brazil?
• The Economics of Education and Its Impact on Economic Growth in Finland . How does the level of education affect economic growth in Finland?
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Economic Development in Vietnam . What role does FDI play in Vietnam’s economic development?
• Tourism Economics and Economic Development in Thailand . How does tourism contribute to the economic development of Thailand?
• Economic Impact of Health Crises on the Healthcare Sector in Italy. What are the long-term economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Italy’s healthcare sector?
• Technology Startups and Economic Growth in Silicon Valley, USA . How do technology startups contribute to economic growth in Silicon Valley?
• Trade Policies and Agricultural Exports in Kenya . How do trade policies affect agricultural exports in Kenya?
• Inflation and Consumer Purchasing Power in Argentina . How does inflation affect consumer purchasing power in Argentina?
• The Gig Economy and Labor Markets in the United States . How does the gig economy impact traditional labor markets in the United States?
• Public Debt and Economic Stability in Greece . How does high public debt affect economic stability in Greece?
• Economic Sanctions and Their Effectiveness Against Iran . How effective are economic sanctions in achieving political objectives against Iran?
• Gender Inequality in the Workforce and Economic Development in Japan . What impact does gender inequality have on economic development in Japan?
• Economics of Recycling and Waste Management Policies in Sweden . How does the economics of recycling impact waste management policies in Sweden?
• Housing Markets and Economic Cycles in Canada . How do housing markets affect economic cycles in Canada?
• Impact of Social Media on Consumer Spending Among Teenagers in the United States . How does social media influence consumer spending habits among teenagers?
• The Role of Microfinance in Poverty Reduction in Bangladesh . How effective is microfinance in reducing poverty in Bangladesh?
• The Economic Effects of Urbanization in Lagos, Nigeria . How does rapid urbanization affect economic development and living standards in Lagos?
• Brexit and the UK’s Financial Services Sector . What has been Brexit’s impact on London as a global financial hub?
• The Economics of Plastic Ban Policies in Rwanda . How have plastic ban policies impacted the environment and economy in Rwanda?
• The Role of Women Entrepreneurs in Economic Development in Jordan . How do women entrepreneurs contribute to economic growth and job creation in Jordan?
• Impact of Digital Currency on Traditional Banking in Sweden . How is the rise of digital currency affecting traditional banking services in Sweden?
• Agricultural Subsidies and Food Security in India . How do agricultural subsidies impact food security and farmer welfare in India?
• Economic Impact of Cultural Tourism in Kyoto, Japan . What role does cultural tourism play in Kyoto’s economy?
• Child Labor and Economic Growth in Pakistan . How does child labor affect economic growth and development in Pakistan?
• The Effectiveness of Anti-Smoking Policies on Public Health Expenditures in Australia . Have anti-smoking policies significantly reduced public health expenditures in Australia?
• The Gig Economy and Urban Transportation in New York City . How has the gig economy transformed urban transportation in New York City?
• Renewable Energy Adoption and Job Creation in Germany . How has the shift towards renewable energy affected job creation in Germany?
• The Economic Consequences of Ageing Populations in Japan . What are the economic challenges and opportunities faced by an aging population in Japan?
• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Manufacturing Jobs in China . How is artificial intelligence reshaping the manufacturing sector and employment in China?
• The Influence of Social Media Marketing on Consumer Spending in the Fashion Industry . How does social media marketing influence consumer spending in the fashion industry?
• Water Scarcity and Economic Development in Egypt . How does water scarcity impact agricultural productivity and economic development in Egypt?
• The Economics of Space Exploration . What are the economic benefits and costs of investing in space exploration?
• Impact of Sports Events on Local Economies . Case Study of the Olympics in Tokyo: How do major sports events like the Olympics affect the local economy of the host city?
• Sustainable Fishing Practices and Economic Viability in Norway . How do sustainable fishing practices impact the economy and environment in Norway?
• The Role of E-commerce in Rural Development in China . How does e-commerce contribute to economic development in rural areas of China?
• Economic Impacts of Natural Disasters in the Philippines . How do natural disasters affect economic growth and recovery in the Philippines?
• The Relationship Between Social Inequality and Economic Growth in South Africa . How does social inequality affect economic growth in South Africa?
• The Effect of International Sanctions on North Korea’s Economy . How have international sanctions impacted North Korea’s economy?
• Economic Benefits of Bilingualism in Canada . How does bilingualism contribute to economic opportunities in Canada?
• The Impact of Veganism on the Meat Industry in the United States . How is the rise of veganism affecting the meat industry and economy in the United States?
• Mobile Banking and Financial Inclusion in Kenya . How has mobile banking contributed to financial inclusion and economic development in Kenya?

These topics and research questions are intended to promote critical thinking and lay the groundwork for a thorough inquiry into various economic concerns. You can tailor these ideas to your interests and data availability for Extended Essay research. Also, check our latest article for tips on selecting and adapting Internet-sourced Extended Essay topics .

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You can write an informative and compelling Extended Essay by choosing a topic that aligns with your interests and adhering to the IB’s criteria. Remember, this is an opportunity to research an area of Economics that fascinates you. So approach it enthusiastically, and you’ll get the highest grade. Also, if you need help with Extended Essay writing , just contact our IB writers.

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Economics Extended Essay Topic Ideas for IB Students

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The International Baccalaureate Extended Essay in Economics can cover a wide range of topics. However, the choice of topic must enable the student to apply a range of economic theories and concepts to address a research question. 

This will be a long read, but everyone will likely find a good idea of the topic and research question for their Economics extended essay.

Extended essay in Economics topic categories

The IB Economics EE is expected to demonstrate a good understanding of the subject and the application of economic theory to real-world situations .

Btw…if you need assistance, you can always count on our extended essay writing service at Writing Metier. We will help you with your Economics extended essay.

Here are 12 potential categories for IB Economics Extended Essay topics:

• Market Structures (e.g., Monopolies, Oligopolies)
• Market Failure (e.g., Externalities, Public Goods)
• Elasticity (e.g., Price Elasticity of Demand/Supply)
• Economic Cycles (e.g., Business Cycles, Economic Growth)
• Fiscal Policy (e.g., Government Spending, Taxation)
• Monetary Policy (e.g., Interest Rates, Money Supply)
• Trade Policies (e.g., Tariffs, Trade Agreements)
• Exchange Rates (e.g., Currency Fluctuations, Foreign Exchange Markets)
• Balance of Payments (e.g., Current Account, Capital Account)
• Measures of Development (e.g., GDP, HDI)
• Poverty and Inequality (e.g., Income Distribution, Poverty Alleviation Strategies)
• Sustainable Development (e.g., Environmental Sustainability, Social Sustainability)
• Consumer Behavior (e.g., Bounded Rationality, Heuristics)
• Nudge Theory (e.g., Choice Architecture, Incentives)
• Market Behavior (e.g., Bubbles, Herd Behavior)
• Wage Determination (e.g., Minimum Wage, Bargaining)
• Labor Markets (e.g., Unemployment, Labor Mobility)
• Human Capital (e.g., Education, Training)
• Resource Management (e.g., Renewable Resources, Conservation)
• Environmental Policies (e.g., Carbon Tax, Emissions Trading)
• Cost-Benefit Analysis (e.g., Environmental Impact Assessments)
• Healthcare Systems (e.g., Insurance, Public vs. Private Provision)
• Health Outcomes (e.g., Life Expectancy, Quality of Life)
• Health Policies (e.g., Regulation, Subsidies)
• Government Expenditure (e.g., Public Goods, Welfare)
• Taxation (e.g., Progressive vs. Regressive Taxes)
• Fiscal Federalism (e.g., Central vs. Local Government Finance)
• Firm Behavior (e.g., Mergers, Acquisitions)
• Market Regulation (e.g., Antitrust Laws, Competition Policy)
• Innovation and Technology (e.g., R&D, Patents)
• Financial Markets (e.g., Stock Markets, Bond Markets)
• Financial Instruments (e.g., Derivatives, Futures)
• Financial Regulation (e.g., Banking Regulation, Financial Crises)
• Economic Thought (e.g., Classical, Keynesian)
• Economic History (e.g., Historical Economic Development, Historical Crises)
• Methodological Issues (e.g., Econometrics, Qualitative vs. Quantitative Analysis)

Each of these categories can be further refined into specific research questions suitable for an extended essay . Below, I’ll be providing some ideas for your ease.

The choice of topic should be such that it allows for a systematic investigation that can be effectively analyzed using economic theories and data. 

It’s also essential to ensure that the topic is narrow enough to be addressed within the word limit and broad enough to allow for an in-depth analysis.

Economics IB EE Topic Ideas and Research Questions

Starting with Microeconomics, we’re zooming in on the nitty-gritty of individual markets and how they tick. 

Microeconomics Topics and Research Questions

We’ve got our classic battles of market structures—monopolies holding the fort, oligopolies playing chess with each other, and perfect competition being the ideal we rarely meet.

Then there’s the whole drama of market failure, where things get messy with externalities and public goods, and no one’s quite sure who should clean up the mess. 

And elasticity? It’s like the pulse check of the market, seeing how it reacts to price changes. It’s all about the small scale, the details, the fine print.

Market Structures

Topic:  The impact of local monopolies on consumer choice in rural areas.

Research Question:  How do local monopolies in rural areas affect consumer choices and prices?

Topic:  The competitive strategies of oligopolies in the smartphone industry.

Research Question:  What competitive strategies do oligopolies in the smartphone industry use to maintain market share?

Topic:  The prevalence of monopolistic competition in the fast-food industry.

Research Question:  How does monopolistic competition influence product variety in the fast-food industry?

Market Failure

Topic:  The role of government in addressing negative externalities in urban transport.

Research Question:  How effective are government interventions in reducing traffic congestion as a negative externality in urban areas?

Topic:  The effectiveness of public goods provision in rural education.

Research Question:  How does the provision of education as a public good affect educational outcomes in rural areas?

Topic:  The impact of plastic bag taxes on environmental externalities.

Research Question:  Have plastic bag taxes significantly reduced the environmental externalities associated with plastic waste?

Topic:  Price elasticity of demand for organic produce in urban markets.

Research Question:  How does the price elasticity of demand for organic produce affect consumer purchasing patterns in urban markets?

Topic:  Cross-price elasticity between electric cars and fossil fuel vehicles.

Research Question:  What is the cross-price elasticity of demand between electric cars and fossil fuel vehicles, and what does it imply for future sales?

Topic:  The elasticity of supply in the housing market during economic booms.

Research Question:  How does the elasticity of supply in the housing market respond to economic booms?

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Macroeconomics Topics and Research Questions

But then we step back and look at the big picture with Macroeconomics. Here we’re talking about the economy’s heartbeat—those business cycles that keep us on our toes, wondering if we’re heading for a boom or bracing for a bust. 

Governments step in with their fiscal policies, wielding taxes and spending like surgeons trying to fix the economy without making it bleed out. 

And let’s not forget the central banks, playing with interest rates and money supply like some high-stakes game of poker.

Economic Cycles

Topic:  The impact of economic cycles on unemployment rates in industrial sectors.

Research Question:  How do different phases of economic cycles affect unemployment rates in the manufacturing sector?

Topic:  The correlation between economic growth and income inequality.

Research Question:  Is there a significant correlation between economic growth and the level of income inequality in developed countries?

Topic:  The role of technological innovation in driving economic cycles.

Research Question:  To what extent does technological innovation influence the length and magnitude of economic cycles?

Fiscal Policy

Topic:  The effectiveness of fiscal stimulus in recession recovery.

Research Question:  How effective are fiscal stimulus packages in accelerating recovery from recessions?

Topic:  The impact of taxation on small businesses and economic growth.

Research Question:  What is the impact of changes in small business taxation on economic growth?

Topic:  Government spending priorities and their impact on long-term economic growth.

Research Question:  How do government spending priorities influence long-term economic growth?

Monetary Policy

Topic:  The effects of interest rate changes on consumer spending.

Research Question:  How do changes in the central bank’s interest rate affect consumer spending patterns?

Topic:  The relationship between money supply growth and inflation.

Research Question:  What is the relationship between the growth of money supply and the rate of inflation in emerging economies?

Topic:  Central bank policies and their impact on currency exchange rates.

Research Question:  How do central bank policies in developed countries affect their currency exchange rates?

Each of these topics and research questions can be tailored to fit the specific requirements of an IB Economics Extended Essay , including the availability of data, the scope of the research, and the word count limitations. 

It’s important to conduct preliminary research to ensure that there is enough material to support the investigation.

Next stop, International Economics. This is where countries shake hands or sometimes wrestle over trade policies. 

International Economics Topics and Research Questions

Tariffs, trade agreements, and who gets the better deal—it’s like a global marketplace where everyone’s trying to haggle their way to prosperity. 

Exchange rates bounce around like ping pong balls, and the balance of payments tells us who’s spending too much on their credit card and who’s got money in the bank.

Trade Policies

Topic:  The impact of trade tariffs on the domestic automobile industry.

Research Question:  How have recent changes in trade tariffs affected the competitiveness of the domestic automobile industry?

Topic:  The effectiveness of free trade agreements in promoting economic growth.

Research Question:  What has been the impact of free trade agreements on the economic growth of member countries?

Topic:  The role of trade policies in protecting local agriculture.

Research Question:  How do trade policies affect the sustainability and profitability of local agricultural sectors?

Exchange Rates

Topic:  The effects of exchange rate fluctuations on the tourism industry.

Research Question:  How do exchange rate fluctuations impact the number of international tourists and tourism revenue?

Topic:  Currency wars and their impact on global trade.

Research Question:  What are the consequences of competitive devaluations, often referred to as ‘currency wars’, on global trade dynamics?

Topic:  The relationship between commodity prices and currency strength in exporting countries.

Research Question:  How do fluctuations in commodity prices affect the exchange rate of commodity-exporting countries?

Balance of Payments

Topic:  The impact of remittances on the balance of payments in developing countries.

Research Question:  What role do remittances play in the balance of payments of developing countries?

Topic:  Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and its effect on the current account balance.

Research Question:  How does FDI influence the current account balance of emerging economies?

Topic:  The effects of tourism on the balance of payments in small island economies.

Research Question:  What is the significance of tourism revenue in the balance of payments of small island economies?

Then we get into the meaty issues with Development Economics. 

Development Economics Topics and Research Questions

It’s all about asking, “Are we getting better?” We measure development with things like GDP and the Human Development Index, but they don’t always tell the full story. 

We’re also tackling the tough stuff like poverty, inequality, and whether we can keep growing without trashing the planet. It’s about making sure progress today doesn’t rob tomorrow.

Measures of Development

Topic:  The correlation between GDP growth and improvements in Human Development Index (HDI) scores.

Research Question:  Does GDP growth have a significant correlation with improvements in HDI scores?

Topic:  The effectiveness of Gross National Happiness (GNH) as an alternative development measure.

Research Question:  How does GNH compare to GDP as a measure of development, and what are its implications for policy-making?

Topic:  The impact of technological advancement on economic development indicators.

Research Question:  What is the impact of rapid technological advancement on traditional economic development indicators?

Poverty and Inequality

Topic:  The effectiveness of microfinance in reducing poverty in rural areas.

Research Question:  To what extent has microfinance contributed to poverty reduction in rural communities?

Topic:  Income inequality and educational outcomes in urban environments.

Research Question:  How does income inequality within urban areas affect educational outcomes?

Topic:  The role of gender inequality in economic development.

Research Question:  What is the impact of gender inequality on economic development in developing countries?

Sustainable Development

Topic:  The economic impacts of transitioning to sustainable energy sources.

Research Question:  What are the short-term and long-term economic impacts of transitioning to sustainable energy?

Topic:  The role of sustainable agriculture in promoting food security.

Research Question:  How does sustainable agriculture contribute to food security and economic development?

Topic:  The cost-benefit analysis of environmental conservation measures.

Research Question:  What are the economic benefits and costs associated with environmental conservation measures?

Behavioral Economics Topics and Research Questions

Now, let’s talk about what makes people tick with Behavioral Economics. This is where we realize that humans aren’t always the rational robots some theories make us out to be. 

We’ve got our quirks—bounded rationality, heuristics, and sometimes we follow the herd off a cliff in a market bubble. It’s fascinating because it’s about the psychology behind the economics.

Consumer Behavior

Topic:  The influence of social media on consumer purchasing decisions.

Research Question:  To what extent does social media influence consumer behavior in the fashion industry?

Topic:  The impact of brand loyalty on price elasticity.

Research Question:  How does brand loyalty affect the price elasticity of demand for consumer electronics?

Topic:  Behavioral factors influencing impulsive buying behavior.

Research Question:  What behavioral factors are most significant in influencing impulsive buying behavior in online retail?

Nudge Theory

Topic:  The effectiveness of nudges in promoting healthy eating habits.

Research Question:  How effective are nudging strategies in changing consumer eating habits in school cafeterias?

Topic:  The role of default choices in retirement savings plans.

Research Question:  What is the impact of default options on the participation rates in employer-sponsored retirement savings plans?

Topic:  The use of framing effects in environmental policy compliance.

Research Question:  How do framing effects influence compliance with environmental policies among households?

Market Behavior

Topic:  The impact of investor sentiment on stock market bubbles.

Research Question:  To what extent does investor sentiment contribute to the formation and bursting of stock market bubbles?

Topic:  Herd behavior and its influence on cryptocurrency markets.

Research Question:  How does herd behavior manifest in the trading patterns of cryptocurrency markets?

Topic:  The role of overconfidence in financial market trading.

Research Question:  What is the role of overconfidence bias in the decision-making processes of individual investors in financial markets?

Each of these topics and research questions should be carefully considered and refined to ensure that they are feasible for an extended essay , with a clear focus and available data for analysis.

Labor Economics Topics and Research Questions

Shifting gears to Labor Economics, we’re in the world of work. Wages aren’t just about money; they’re about bargaining power, fairness, and sometimes just sticking to the minimum. 

The labor market’s a tough crowd, with unemployment and the quest for the right job in the right place. 

And human capital reminds us that it’s not just about filling positions but nurturing talent through education and training.

Wage Determination

Topic:  The impact of minimum wage increases on small business employment levels.

Research Question:  What is the effect of minimum wage increases on employment levels in the small business sector?

Topic:  Wage bargaining and gender pay disparity in the technology sector.

Research Question:  How does wage bargaining contribute to the gender pay gap in the technology industry?

Topic:  The influence of trade unions on wage determination in the automotive industry.

Research Question:  What role do trade unions play in shaping wage determination in the automotive industry?

Labor Markets

Topic:  The effects of automation on unemployment rates in manufacturing.

Research Question:  How has the increase in automation impacted unemployment rates in the manufacturing sector?

Topic:  Labor market flexibility and its impact on economic resilience during recessions.

Research Question:  How does labor market flexibility affect a country’s economic resilience to recessions?

Topic:  The role of labor mobility in regional economic development.

Research Question:  What is the impact of labor mobility on economic development in economically depressed regions?

Human Capital

Topic:  The return on investment in higher education for various fields of study.

Research Question:  What is the comparative return on investment in higher education across different fields of study?

Topic:  The impact of vocational training programs on employability in the service sector.

Research Question:  How do vocational training programs affect employability and income levels in the service sector?

Topic:  The correlation between educational attainment and labor productivity.

Research Question:  How does the level of educational attainment correlate with labor productivity in the tech industry?

Breathing in some fresh air, we move to Environmental Economics. 

Environmental Economics Topics and Research Questions

Here’s where we figure out how to play nice with nature. Managing resources, setting up environmental policies like carbon taxes, and doing the math to see if the benefits of saving a forest are worth the cost. 

It’s economics going green.

Resource Management

Topic:  The economic viability of renewable energy sources in rural communities.

Research Question:  What are the economic challenges and benefits of adopting renewable energy sources in rural communities?

Topic:  The impact of water resource management on agricultural productivity.

Research Question:  How does effective water resource management influence agricultural productivity and economic sustainability?

Topic:  The effects of conservation policies on the forestry industry.

Research Question:  What economic impact do conservation policies have on the forestry industry?

Environmental Policies

Topic:  The effectiveness of carbon taxes in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Research Question:  How effective have carbon taxes been in achieving their intended reductions in greenhouse gas emissions?

Topic:  The economic impacts of emissions trading schemes on heavy industries.

Research Question:  What are the economic consequences of emissions trading schemes for heavy industries?

Topic:  The role of environmental regulations in shaping the automotive industry.

Research Question:  How have environmental regulations influenced innovation and economic outcomes in the automotive industry?

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Topic:  The cost-benefit analysis of urban green space preservation.

Research Question:  What are the economic costs and benefits of preserving urban green spaces?

Topic:  The economic evaluation of flood defense systems in coastal cities.

Research Question:  From an economic perspective, how do the costs and benefits of flood defense systems in coastal cities compare?

Topic:  The financial implications of biodiversity conservation programs.

Research Question:  What are the economic trade-offs associated with biodiversity conservation programs?

Health Economics Topics and Research Questions

Health Economics brings us to the crossroads of wealth and well-being. Healthcare systems are complex beasts, and we’re trying to tame them so that they can heal without causing financial heartache. 

We’re measuring health outcomes and life quality, all while navigating through the maze of health policies.

Healthcare Systems

Topic:  The economic effects of public versus private healthcare provision on quality of care.

Research Question:  How does the mode of healthcare provision (public vs. private) affect the quality of care and economic efficiency?

Topic:  The impact of insurance coverage on healthcare utilization rates.

Research Question:  How does the level of insurance coverage influence healthcare utilization rates among different socioeconomic groups?

Topic:  The cost-effectiveness of universal healthcare systems.

Research Question:  From a cost-effectiveness standpoint, how do universal healthcare systems compare to multi-payer systems?

Health Outcomes

Topic:  The economic burden of chronic diseases on healthcare systems.

Research Question:  What is the economic impact of the rising prevalence of chronic diseases on healthcare systems?

Topic:  The relationship between socioeconomic status and health outcomes.

Research Question:  How does socioeconomic status affect health outcomes across different regions?

Topic:  The impact of mental health services on workplace productivity.

Research Question:  What is the economic impact of providing mental health services on workplace productivity?

Health Policies

Topic:  The economic implications of pharmaceutical regulation on drug prices.

Research Question:  How do pharmaceutical regulations affect drug prices and the availability of new medications?

Topic:  The cost-benefit analysis of preventive healthcare measures.

Research Question:  What are the long-term economic benefits of investing in preventive healthcare measures?

Topic:  The effects of subsidies on the consumption of health-related goods.

Research Question:  How do subsidies for health-related goods (e.g., gym memberships, healthy foods) affect consumption patterns and health outcomes?

Public Sector Economics Topics and Research Questions

Public Sector Economics is where we see how the government tries to steer the ship. They’re spending on public goods and welfare, trying to keep the economy afloat without springing too many leaks. 

Taxation is a hot topic—progressive, regressive, who’s paying their way, and who’s getting a free ride? And with fiscal federalism, it’s a tug-of-war between local needs and central control.

Government Expenditure

Topic:  The impact of government spending on public goods on economic growth.

Research Question:  How does government expenditure on public goods such as infrastructure contribute to economic growth?

Topic:  The effectiveness of welfare programs in reducing poverty.

Research Question:  What has been the impact of welfare programs on poverty levels in developed countries?

Topic:  The economic consequences of military spending.

Research Question:  How does military expenditure affect the allocation of government resources and economic growth?

Topic:  The economic effects of progressive taxation on income distribution.

Research Question:  Does progressive taxation lead to a more equitable distribution of income?

Topic:  The impact of value-added tax (VAT) on consumer spending.

Research Question:  How does the implementation of VAT affect consumer spending patterns?

Topic:  The role of tax incentives in promoting renewable energy investments.

Research Question:  How effective are tax incentives in encouraging investment in renewable energy projects?

Fiscal Federalism

Topic:  The challenges of fiscal coordination between central and local governments.

Research Question:  What are the main challenges in achieving fiscal coordination between different levels of government?

Topic:  The impact of fiscal decentralization on local economic development.

Research Question:  How does fiscal decentralization affect economic development at the local level?

Topic:  The role of intergovernmental transfers in balancing regional disparities.

Research Question:  How do intergovernmental transfers help to address regional economic disparities?

Industrial Organization Topics and Research Questions

We’re watching firms and their power moves—mergers, acquisitions, and the regulatory hoops they have to jump through. 

It’s about keeping the market fair and innovative, making sure the big fish don’t eat all the little ones and that new ideas get a chance to grow.

Firm Behavior

Topic:  The economic rationale behind mergers and acquisitions in the tech industry.

Research Question:  What economic factors drive mergers and acquisitions in the technology sector?

Topic:  The impact of corporate governance on firm performance.

Research Question:  How does the quality of corporate governance affect firm performance and economic outcomes?

Topic:  The effects of vertical integration on market competition.

Research Question:  Does vertical integration by large firms lead to less competition in the market?

Market Regulation

Topic:  The effectiveness of antitrust laws in promoting fair competition.

Research Question:  How effective are antitrust laws in maintaining competitive markets?

Topic:  The economic impacts of deregulation in the airline industry.

Research Question:  What have been the economic outcomes of deregulation in the airline industry?

Topic:  The role of competition policy in fostering innovation.

Research Question:  How does competition policy influence the rate and direction of innovation in high-tech industries?

Innovation and Technology

Topic:  The relationship between R&D investment and economic performance in pharmaceuticals.

Research Question:  How does R&D investment correlate with economic performance in the pharmaceutical industry?

Topic:  The economic implications of patent laws on innovation.

Research Question:  What is the impact of patent laws on the rate of innovation in renewable energy technologies?

Topic:  The role of government subsidies in technological advancement.

Research Question:  How do government subsidies affect technological advancement in emerging industries?

Financial Economics Topics and Research Questions

Financial Economics is where the money’s at—literally. Stock markets, bond markets, the exotic world of derivatives—it’s all about the flow of money. 

And with financial regulation, we’re trying to keep the party responsible so that the financial hangover doesn’t hit too hard.

Financial Markets

Topic:  The impact of stock market volatility on economic decision-making.

Research Question:  How does stock market volatility influence corporate investment decisions?

Topic:  The role of bond markets in public debt management.

Research Question:  What role do bond markets play in the management of public debt?

Topic:  The effects of quantitative easing on financial markets.

Research Question:  How has quantitative easing affected financial markets post-2008 financial crisis?

Financial Instruments

Topic:  The use of derivatives in risk management by corporations.

Research Question:  How do corporations use derivatives to manage financial risk?

Topic:  The impact of futures trading on commodity price stability.

Research Question:  Does futures trading contribute to the stability of commodity prices?

Topic:  The role of cryptocurrency in the financial portfolio diversification.

Research Question:  How do cryptocurrencies affect the diversification of financial portfolios?

Financial Regulation

Topic:  The effectiveness of banking regulation in preventing financial crises.

Research Question:  How effective have banking regulations been in preventing another financial crisis?

Topic:  The economic effects of capital adequacy requirements on banks.

Research Question:  What are the economic effects of increased capital adequacy requirements for banks?

Topic:  The impact of international financial reporting standards on market transparency.

Research Question:  How do international financial reporting standards improve market transparency and economic outcomes?

Economic Methodology and History Topics and Research Questions

Lastly, we’ve got Economic Methodology and History. It’s a bit like time travel, seeing how past thinkers shape our current policies and how historical events steer us towards new economic shores. 

And methodology? It’s the toolbox that helps us figure out if what we’re doing actually makes sense, with all the number crunching and case studies that help us understand the why behind the what.

Economic Thought

Topic:  The influence of Keynesian economic policies on modern fiscal strategies.

Research Question:  How have Keynesian economic principles shaped contemporary fiscal policy-making?

Topic:  The relevance of classical economics in today’s market economy.

Research Question:  To what extent are the principles of classical economics applicable in the current market economy?

Topic:  The impact of behavioral economics on traditional economic models.

Research Question:  How has behavioral economics challenged the assumptions of traditional economic models?

Economic History

Topic:  The economic consequences of the 1970s oil shocks.

Research Question:  What were the long-term economic consequences of the oil shocks of the 1970s?

Topic:  The role of economic policies in the Great Depression.

Research Question:  How did economic policies contribute to the onset and duration of the Great Depression?

Topic:  The economic impacts of the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

Research Question:  What were the economic impacts of the dissolution of the Soviet Union on Eastern European countries?

Methodological Issues

Topic:  The application of econometrics in evaluating fiscal policy.

Research Question:  How can econometric models be used to evaluate the effectiveness of fiscal policy?

Topic:  The challenges of qualitative analysis in economic research.

Research Question:  What are the main challenges associated with using qualitative analysis in economic research?

Topic:  The comparison of case study and statistical methods in economic analysis.

Research Question:  How do case study methods compare to statistical methods in the analysis of economic phenomena?

So, there you have it—a whirlwind tour through the interconnected world of economics extended essay topics. 

Each piece of the cake tells part of the story, and it’s only when you put them all together that you see the full tasty picture. What’s your take on all this?

If you need some other IB EE topic options, we also have many other articles with various extended essay topic ideas . Do not miss a chance to check some that may interest you.

Conclusion 

I would have continued with other options, but I believe this list of Economics extended essay topic ideas are quite enough for today. Good luck with your RQ selection, research and writing .

If you find a better article that provides more comprehensive and detailed suggestions for Economics extended essay topic ideas, share it with me 😉

If you need topic suggestions with outlines or assistance with writing a custom IB Economics EE, our IB experts at Writing Metier are always ready to assist you.

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Vasyl Kafidoff is a co-founder and CEO at WritingMetier. He is interested in education and how modern technology makes it more accessible. He wants to bring awareness about new learning possibilities as an educational specialist. When Vasy is not working, he’s found behind a drum kit.

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The Complete IB Extended Essay Guide: Examples, Topics, and Ideas

International Baccalaureate (IB)

IB students around the globe fear writing the Extended Essay, but it doesn't have to be a source of stress! In this article, I'll get you excited about writing your Extended Essay and provide you with the resources you need to get an A on it.

If you're reading this article, I'm going to assume you're an IB student getting ready to write your Extended Essay. If you're looking at this as a potential future IB student, I recommend reading our introductory IB articles first, including our guide to what the IB program is and our full coverage of the IB curriculum .

IB Extended Essay: Why Should You Trust My Advice?

I myself am a recipient of an IB Diploma, and I happened to receive an A on my IB Extended Essay. Don't believe me? The proof is in the IBO pudding:

If you're confused by what this report means, EE is short for Extended Essay , and English A1 is the subject that my Extended Essay topic coordinated with. In layman's terms, my IB Diploma was graded in May 2010, I wrote my Extended Essay in the English A1 category, and I received an A grade on it.

What Is the Extended Essay in the IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Extended Essay, or EE , is a mini-thesis you write under the supervision of an IB advisor (an IB teacher at your school), which counts toward your IB Diploma (learn more about the major IB Diploma requirements in our guide) . I will explain exactly how the EE affects your Diploma later in this article.

For the Extended Essay, you will choose a research question as a topic, conduct the research independently, then write an essay on your findings . The essay itself is a long one—although there's a cap of 4,000 words, most successful essays get very close to this limit.

Keep in mind that the IB requires this essay to be a "formal piece of academic writing," meaning you'll have to do outside research and cite additional sources.

The IB Extended Essay must include the following:

• A title page
• Contents page
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References and bibliography

Additionally, your research topic must fall into one of the six approved DP categories , or IB subject groups, which are as follows:

• Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
• Group 2: Language Acquisition
• Group 3: Individuals and Societies
• Group 4: Sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics
• Group 6: The Arts

Once you figure out your category and have identified a potential research topic, it's time to pick your advisor, who is normally an IB teacher at your school (though you can also find one online ). This person will help direct your research, and they'll conduct the reflection sessions you'll have to do as part of your Extended Essay.

As of 2018, the IB requires a "reflection process" as part of your EE supervision process. To fulfill this requirement, you have to meet at least three times with your supervisor in what the IB calls "reflection sessions." These meetings are not only mandatory but are also part of the formal assessment of the EE and your research methods.

According to the IB, the purpose of these meetings is to "provide an opportunity for students to reflect on their engagement with the research process." Basically, these meetings give your supervisor the opportunity to offer feedback, push you to think differently, and encourage you to evaluate your research process.

The final reflection session is called the viva voce, and it's a short 10- to 15-minute interview between you and your advisor. This happens at the very end of the EE process, and it's designed to help your advisor write their report, which factors into your EE grade.

Here are the topics covered in your viva voce :

• A check on plagiarism and malpractice
• Your reflection on your project's successes and difficulties
• Your reflection on what you've learned during the EE process

Your completed Extended Essay, along with your supervisor's report, will then be sent to the IB to be graded. We'll cover the assessment criteria in just a moment.

We'll help you learn how to have those "lightbulb" moments...even on test day!  

What Should You Write About in Your IB Extended Essay?

You can technically write about anything, so long as it falls within one of the approved categories listed above.

It's best to choose a topic that matches one of the IB courses , (such as Theatre, Film, Spanish, French, Math, Biology, etc.), which shouldn't be difficult because there are so many class subjects.

Here is a range of sample topics with the attached extended essay:

• Biology: The Effect of Age and Gender on the Photoreceptor Cells in the Human Retina
• Chemistry: How Does Reflux Time Affect the Yield and Purity of Ethyl Aminobenzoate (Benzocaine), and How Effective is Recrystallisation as a Purification Technique for This Compound?
• English: An Exploration of Jane Austen's Use of the Outdoors in Emma
• Geography: The Effect of Location on the Educational Attainment of Indigenous Secondary Students in Queensland, Australia
• Math: Alhazen's Billiard Problem
• Visual Arts: Can Luc Tuymans Be Classified as a Political Painter?

You can see from how varied the topics are that you have a lot of freedom when it comes to picking a topic . So how do you pick when the options are limitless?

How to Write a Stellar IB Extended Essay: 6 Essential Tips

Below are six key tips to keep in mind as you work on your Extended Essay for the IB DP. Follow these and you're sure to get an A!

#1: Write About Something You Enjoy

You can't expect to write a compelling essay if you're not a fan of the topic on which you're writing. For example, I just love British theatre and ended up writing my Extended Essay on a revolution in post-WWII British theatre. (Yes, I'm definitely a #TheatreNerd.)

I really encourage anyone who pursues an IB Diploma to take the Extended Essay seriously. I was fortunate enough to receive a full-tuition merit scholarship to USC's School of Dramatic Arts program. In my interview for the scholarship, I spoke passionately about my Extended Essay; thus, I genuinely think my Extended Essay helped me get my scholarship.

But how do you find a topic you're passionate about? Start by thinking about which classes you enjoy the most and why . Do you like math classes because you like to solve problems? Or do you enjoy English because you like to analyze literary texts?

Keep in mind that there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing your Extended Essay topic. You're not more likely to get high marks because you're writing about science, just like you're not doomed to failure because you've chosen to tackle the social sciences. The quality of what you produce—not the field you choose to research within—will determine your grade.

Once you've figured out your category, you should brainstorm more specific topics by putting pen to paper . What was your favorite chapter you learned in that class? Was it astrophysics or mechanics? What did you like about that specific chapter? Is there something you want to learn more about? I recommend spending a few hours on this type of brainstorming.

One last note: if you're truly stumped on what to research, pick a topic that will help you in your future major or career . That way you can use your Extended Essay as a talking point in your college essays (and it will prepare you for your studies to come too!).

#2: Select a Topic That Is Neither Too Broad nor Too Narrow

There's a fine line between broad and narrow. You need to write about something specific, but not so specific that you can't write 4,000 words on it.

You can't write about WWII because that would be a book's worth of material. You also don't want to write about what type of soup prisoners of war received behind enemy lines, because you probably won’t be able to come up with 4,000 words of material about it. However, you could possibly write about how the conditions in German POW camps—and the rations provided—were directly affected by the Nazis' successes and failures on the front, including the use of captured factories and prison labor in Eastern Europe to increase production. WWII military history might be a little overdone, but you get my point.

If you're really stuck trying to pinpoint a not-too-broad-or-too-narrow topic, I suggest trying to brainstorm a topic that uses a comparison. Once you begin looking through the list of sample essays below, you'll notice that many use comparisons to formulate their main arguments.

I also used a comparison in my EE, contrasting Harold Pinter's Party Time with John Osborne's Look Back in Anger in order to show a transition in British theatre. Topics with comparisons of two to three plays, books, and so on tend to be the sweet spot. You can analyze each item and then compare them with one another after doing some in-depth analysis of each individually. The ways these items compare and contrast will end up forming the thesis of your essay!

When choosing a comparative topic, the key is that the comparison should be significant. I compared two plays to illustrate the transition in British theatre, but you could compare the ways different regional dialects affect people's job prospects or how different temperatures may or may not affect the mating patterns of lightning bugs. The point here is that comparisons not only help you limit your topic, but they also help you build your argument.

Comparisons are not the only way to get a grade-A EE, though. If after brainstorming, you pick a non-comparison-based topic and are still unsure whether your topic is too broad or narrow, spend about 30 minutes doing some basic research and see how much material is out there.

If there are more than 1,000 books, articles, or documentaries out there on that exact topic, it may be too broad. But if there are only two books that have any connection to your topic, it may be too narrow. If you're still unsure, ask your advisor—it's what they're there for! Speaking of advisors...

Don't get stuck with a narrow topic!

#3: Choose an Advisor Who Is Familiar With Your Topic

If you're not certain of who you would like to be your advisor, create a list of your top three choices. Next, write down the pros and cons of each possibility (I know this sounds tedious, but it really helps!).

For example, Mr. Green is my favorite teacher and we get along really well, but he teaches English. For my EE, I want to conduct an experiment that compares the efficiency of American electric cars with foreign electric cars.

I had Ms. White a year ago. She teaches physics and enjoyed having me in her class. Unlike Mr. Green, Ms. White could help me design my experiment.

Based on my topic and what I need from my advisor, Ms. White would be a better fit for me than would Mr. Green (even though I like him a lot).

The moral of my story is this: do not just ask your favorite teacher to be your advisor . They might be a hindrance to you if they teach another subject. For example, I would not recommend asking your biology teacher to guide you in writing an English literature-based EE.

There can, of course, be exceptions to this rule. If you have a teacher who's passionate and knowledgeable about your topic (as my English teacher was about my theatre topic), you could ask that instructor. Consider all your options before you do this. There was no theatre teacher at my high school, so I couldn't find a theatre-specific advisor, but I chose the next best thing.

Before you approach a teacher to serve as your advisor, check with your high school to see what requirements they have for this process. Some IB high schools require your IB Extended Essay advisor to sign an Agreement Form , for instance.

Make sure that you ask your IB coordinator whether there is any required paperwork to fill out. If your school needs a specific form signed, bring it with you when you ask your teacher to be your EE advisor.

#4: Pick an Advisor Who Will Push You to Be Your Best

Some teachers might just take on students because they have to and aren't very passionate about reading drafts, only giving you minimal feedback. Choose a teacher who will take the time to read several drafts of your essay and give you extensive notes. I would not have gotten my A without being pushed to make my Extended Essay draft better.

Ask a teacher that you have experience with through class or an extracurricular activity. Do not ask a teacher that you have absolutely no connection to. If a teacher already knows you, that means they already know your strengths and weaknesses, so they know what to look for, where you need to improve, and how to encourage your best work.

Also, don't forget that your supervisor's assessment is part of your overall EE score . If you're meeting with someone who pushes you to do better—and you actually take their advice—they'll have more impressive things to say about you than a supervisor who doesn't know you well and isn't heavily involved in your research process.

Be aware that the IB only allows advisors to make suggestions and give constructive criticism. Your teacher cannot actually help you write your EE. The IB recommends that the supervisor spends approximately two to three hours in total with the candidate discussing the EE.

#5: Make Sure Your Essay Has a Clear Structure and Flow

The IB likes structure. Your EE needs a clear introduction (which should be one to two double-spaced pages), research question/focus (i.e., what you're investigating), a body, and a conclusion (about one double-spaced page). An essay with unclear organization will be graded poorly.

The body of your EE should make up the bulk of the essay. It should be about eight to 18 pages long (again, depending on your topic). Your body can be split into multiple parts. For example, if you were doing a comparison, you might have one third of your body as Novel A Analysis, another third as Novel B Analysis, and the final third as your comparison of Novels A and B.

If you're conducting an experiment or analyzing data, such as in this EE , your EE body should have a clear structure that aligns with the scientific method ; you should state the research question, discuss your method, present the data, analyze the data, explain any uncertainties, and draw a conclusion and/or evaluate the success of the experiment.

#6: Start Writing Sooner Rather Than Later!

You will not be able to crank out a 4,000-word essay in just a week and get an A on it. You'll be reading many, many articles (and, depending on your topic, possibly books and plays as well!). As such, it's imperative that you start your research as soon as possible.

Each school has a slightly different deadline for the Extended Essay. Some schools want them as soon as November of your senior year; others will take them as late as February. Your school will tell you what your deadline is. If they haven't mentioned it by February of your junior year, ask your IB coordinator about it.

Some high schools will provide you with a timeline of when you need to come up with a topic, when you need to meet with your advisor, and when certain drafts are due. Not all schools do this. Ask your IB coordinator if you are unsure whether you are on a specific timeline.

Below is my recommended EE timeline. While it's earlier than most schools, it'll save you a ton of heartache (trust me, I remember how hard this process was!):

• January/February of Junior Year: Come up with your final research topic (or at least your top three options).
• February of Junior Year: Approach a teacher about being your EE advisor. If they decline, keep asking others until you find one. See my notes above on how to pick an EE advisor.
• April/May of Junior Year: Submit an outline of your EE and a bibliography of potential research sources (I recommend at least seven to 10) to your EE advisor. Meet with your EE advisor to discuss your outline.
• Summer Between Junior and Senior Year: Complete your first full draft over the summer between your junior and senior year. I know, I know—no one wants to work during the summer, but trust me—this will save you so much stress come fall when you are busy with college applications and other internal assessments for your IB classes. You will want to have this first full draft done because you will want to complete a couple of draft cycles as you likely won't be able to get everything you want to say into 4,000 articulate words on the first attempt. Try to get this first draft into the best possible shape so you don't have to work on too many revisions during the school year on top of your homework, college applications, and extracurriculars.
• August/September of Senior Year: Turn in your first draft of your EE to your advisor and receive feedback. Work on incorporating their feedback into your essay. If they have a lot of suggestions for improvement, ask if they will read one more draft before the final draft.
• September/October of Senior Year: Submit the second draft of your EE to your advisor (if necessary) and look at their feedback. Work on creating the best possible final draft.
• November-February of Senior Year: Schedule your viva voce. Submit two copies of your final draft to your school to be sent off to the IB. You likely will not get your grade until after you graduate.

Remember that in the middle of these milestones, you'll need to schedule two other reflection sessions with your advisor . (Your teachers will actually take notes on these sessions on a form like this one , which then gets submitted to the IB.)

I recommend doing them when you get feedback on your drafts, but these meetings will ultimately be up to your supervisor. Just don't forget to do them!

The early bird DOES get the worm!

How Is the IB Extended Essay Graded?

Extended Essays are graded by examiners appointed by the IB on a scale of 0 to 34 . You'll be graded on five criteria, each with its own set of points. You can learn more about how EE scoring works by reading the IB guide to extended essays .

• Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum)
• Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum)
• Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum)
• Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum)
• Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum)

How well you do on each of these criteria will determine the final letter grade you get for your EE. You must earn at least a D to be eligible to receive your IB Diploma.

Although each criterion has a point value, the IB explicitly states that graders are not converting point totals into grades; instead, they're using qualitative grade descriptors to determine the final grade of your Extended Essay . Grade descriptors are on pages 102-103 of this document .

Here's a rough estimate of how these different point values translate to letter grades based on previous scoring methods for the EE. This is just an estimate —you should read and understand the grade descriptors so you know exactly what the scorers are looking for.

30-34	Excellent: A
25-29	Good: B
17-24	Satisfactory: C
9-16	Mediocre: D
0-8	Elementary: E

Here is the breakdown of EE scores (from the May 2021 bulletin):

A	10.1%
B	24.4%
C	40.8%
D	22.5%
E	1.4%
N (No Grade Awarded)	0.7%

How Does the Extended Essay Grade Affect Your IB Diploma?

The Extended Essay grade is combined with your TOK (Theory of Knowledge) grade to determine how many points you get toward your IB Diploma.

To learn about Theory of Knowledge or how many points you need to receive an IB Diploma, read our complete guide to the IB program and our guide to the IB Diploma requirements .

This diagram shows how the two scores are combined to determine how many points you receive for your IB diploma (3 being the most, 0 being the least). In order to get your IB Diploma, you have to earn 24 points across both categories (the TOK and EE). The highest score anyone can earn is 45 points.

Let's say you get an A on your EE and a B on TOK. You will get 3 points toward your Diploma. As of 2014, a student who scores an E on either the extended essay or TOK essay will not be eligible to receive an IB Diploma .

Prior to the class of 2010, a Diploma candidate could receive a failing grade in either the Extended Essay or Theory of Knowledge and still be awarded a Diploma, but this is no longer true.

Figuring out how you're assessed can be a little tricky. Luckily, the IB breaks everything down here in this document . (The assessment information begins on page 219.)

40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme

In case you want a little more guidance on how to get an A on your EE, here are over 40 excellent (grade A) sample extended essays for your reading pleasure. Essays are grouped by IB subject.

• Business Management 1
• Chemistry 1
• Chemistry 2
• Chemistry 3
• Chemistry 4
• Chemistry 5
• Chemistry 6
• Chemistry 7
• Computer Science 1
• Economics 1
• Design Technology 1
• Design Technology 2
• Environmental Systems and Societies 1
• Geography 1
• Geography 2
• Geography 3
• Geography 4
• Geography 5
• Geography 6
• Literature and Performance 1
• Mathematics 1
• Mathematics 2
• Mathematics 3
• Mathematics 4
• Mathematics 5
• Philosophy 1
• Philosophy 2
• Philosophy 3
• Philosophy 4
• Philosophy 5
• Psychology 1
• Psychology 2
• Psychology 3
• Psychology 4
• Psychology 5
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 1
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 2
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 3
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 1
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 2
• Visual Arts 1
• Visual Arts 2
• Visual Arts 3
• Visual Arts 4
• Visual Arts 5
• World Religion 1
• World Religion 2
• World Religion 3

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Not sure where you want to go to college? Read our guide to finding your target school . Also, determine your target SAT score or target ACT score .

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Extended Essay (First Exams 2018): Examples of Extended Essays

• EE Intro to Inquiry
• Examples of Extended Essays
• Recommended Research Tools
• How-to: Research Help

Samples from the IBO

The IBO publishes two volumes of  50 Excellent Extended Essays , covering all Diploma Programme groups -- and all scored a top A grade.

Click on the link below to access PDFs of the essays. 

50 Excellent Extended Essays

All 50 essays are also available in electronic form in the QD Library on the iPads.  Look for the display at the circulation desk. The essays are found in the iBooks app. The iPads are available for check out at the circulation for periods of 30 minutes at one time.

Recently, the IBO has produced another list of exemplars with marks. Click on the link below to access this:

• Assessed Student Work  
• << Previous: EE Intro to Inquiry
• Next: Recommended Research Tools >>
• Last Updated: Nov 26, 2021 12:34 PM
• URL: https://libguides.qibaodwight.org/ee

EE Examples

Elevate your Extended Essay game for free! Get access to our unbeatable collection of Free EE Examples and score big on your IB exams.

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Discover An Insightful Sample EE On IB History SL: An Investigation Into Salvador Allende’s Effectiveness As President. Explore Detailed Analysis And Critical Evaluations.

To What Extent Is There A Correlation Between The Number Of Employees And The Marginal Profit, The Number Of Employees And The Total Profit Over The Period From The Year 2010 To 2019, Determined Using Differentiation, Integration Of Logarithmic, Trigonometric, Inverse Trigonometric, Exponential, Polynomial Functions And Regression Analysis

Discover The Role Of Financial Mathematics In Correlating Employee Count, Marginal Profit, And Total Profit With This Comprehensive IB Mathematics AI SL Sample EE.

Time Frame Analysis Of Stock Prices At Amazon Using Financial Mathematics

Explore The Time Frame Analysis Of Amazon Stock Prices Using Financial Mathematics In This Sample IB Mathematics AI SL Extended Essay. Unlock Insights Today.

To What Extent Mathematical Analysis Of Variation Of Stock Prices In The Time Domain Can Be Used To Predict The Ideal Business Transactions In Stock Market For Amazon Inc. Using Differentiation, First Order And Second Derivative & Calculus?

Unlock The Secrets Of Financial Mathematics: Discover A Sample IB Math EE On Amazon Stock Price Time Frame Analysis. Perfect For IB Math AA SL Students Seeking Insights.

To What Extent Is There A Correlation Between The Number Of Employees & The Marginal Profit, The Number Of Employees & The Total Profit Over The Period From The Year 2010 To 2019, Determined Using Differentiation, Integration Of Logarithmic, Trigonometric, Inverse Trigonometric, Exponential, Polynomial Functions & Regression Analysis?

Explore How Financial Mathematics Uncovers The Correlation Between Employee Count, Marginal Profit, And Total Profit In This Sample IB Math AA SL Extended Essay

How Does The Magnitude Of Critical Micellization Concentration(CMC) Of Anionic Detergent, (Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate ) Depends On Temperature, Determined Using Conductometric Analysis?

Discover How Temperature Affects Anionic Detergent CMC Using Conductometric Analysis in This Sample IB Chemistry SL Extended Essay.

Is There Any Correlation Between The Freezing Point Of A Mixture Of Naphthalene And 4-nitrophenol And The Composition Of The Mixture (In Terms Of Mole-fraction), Determined Using Temperature Versus Composition Diagram?

Discover The Impact Of Mixture Composition On Freezing Point In This Sample IB Chemistry SL EE. Explore In-Depth Analysis And Insights To Ace Your Chemistry Extended Essay.

How Does The Magnitude Of Upper Critical Solution Temperature (Ucst) Of Phenol(Hydroxy Benzene)-aqueous Nacl System Depend On The Molar Concentration (Moldm -3 ) Of The Aqueous Solution Of Nacl Added To It, Determined Using Mutual Solubility Curve?

Discover How The UCST Of The Phenol-NaCl System Varies With Molar Concentration Through Mutual Solubility Curves In This Sample IB Chemistry SL EE.

To What Extent Has The Vape Ban Been Effective In Reducing The Welfare Costs Of Tobacco Consumption In Bangalore?

Discover How Bangalore's Vape Ban Impacts Tobacco Consumption Costs. Dive Into This IB Economics SL Sample EE To Explore Detailed Insights And Welfare Analysis.

To What Extent Do Various Economic Forces Contribute To The Optimum Allocation Of Resources In The Passenger Car Market Of Bangalore, After 2018?

Discover How Economic Forces Shape The Allocative Efficiency Of Bangalore's Passenger Car Market. Explore Key Insights In This Sample EE For IB Economics SL.

To What Extent Has The Procurement Of Cotton From The Cotton Farmers In Maharashtra, India By The Cotton Corporation Of India (Cci) Been Impacted By The Global Pandemic Of Covid-19 And Subsequent Lockdown?

Discover How The Global Pandemic Impacted Cotton Procurement By The Cotton Corporation Of India In Maharashtra, India – An In-Depth IB Economics SL EE Analysis.

How Does The Antimicrobial Effect Of Neutral Alcoholic Extract Of Ocimum Tenuiflorum (Tulsi Leaves), On The Growth Of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae (Yeast), Measured In Terms Of Percentage Inhibition Of Growth Of Yeast Depends On The Percentage Strength Of The Tulsi Extract Used – 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% And 50%, Determined Spectrophotometrically?

Explore How Tulsi Inhibits Yeast Growth: A Detailed IB Biology Sample EE. Discover Antimicrobial Effects And Gain Insight For Your Own Research!

How Does The Rate Of Alcoholic Fermentation (In Cm 3 Min -1 ), Measured In Terms Of Volume Of Co 2 Produced Depends On The Type Of The Sugar Unit-sucrose, Glucose, Fructose And Starch Used As Substrate, Determined Using Gas Collection Method?

Unlock The Secrets Of Alcoholic Fermentation: Discover How Substrate Nature Influences Fermentation Rates In This Comprehensive IB Biology SL Sample Extended Essay.

How Does The Terminal Velocity In Cm S -1 Of An Object Falling Through A Liquid Depends On The Density Of The Liquid It Is Falling Through, Determined Using Velocity-time Graph?

Discover How Fluid Density & Object Shape Influence Terminal Velocity In This IB Physics SL Sample EE. Boost Your Understanding With This Comprehensive Guide.

To What Extent Has The Acquisition Of Essar Oil By Rosneft Helped Them Attain Profitability?

Unlock The Secrets Of Profitability: A Deep Dive Into Rosneft's Strategic Acquisition Of Essar Oil For IB Business Management SL.

How Does The Interference Fringe Width (Distance Between Two Maxima i.e. Two Bright Spots) Depend On The Diameter Of The Slits (Behaving As Source), Refractive Index Of Medium Present Between The Source Of The Light (Double Slit) & The Screen?

Discover How Interference Fringe Width Relates To Slit Diameter And Medium Refractive Index In This Sample IB Physics SL Extended Essay. Explore Key Insights And Analysis.

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IB Study Resources

September 14, 2021

A Definitive Guide to the IB Extended Essay (EE)

The Extended Essay (EE) is an independent, self-directed academic research, presented in the form of a 4,000-word paper. One component of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) core, the extended essay is mandatory for all students. The final work is given a grade from E to A, and makes up part of each student’s final IB score. These are our thoughts on how to do well in the EE:

Step 1: Choosing a Extended Essay (EE) topic

Choosing a good topic for your extended essay can make a huge difference on your final score. Firstly, you should always choose a topic that you are interested in! The writing process becomes much more engaging, and will also be good content you can write in your personal statement for your university applications.

Always be creative and original when choosing your research topic. Think about how you can make your research question and the way you communicate your academic research unique. In addition, if you wish to explore a multidisciplinary field , you could consider writing a World Studies extended essay . This research is analysed through at least two disciplines, encouraging students to apply their knowledge to a problem with global significance. For example, you may want to consider the effects of an electric vehicle subsidy on climate change. This is an exciting opportunity and provides a good insight to an interdisciplinary university degree such as PPE.

Step 2: Framing your research question

Once you know your extended essay subject, your next step is to choose a question. Often, questions will be framed as “To what extent does…”. Exploring multiple perspectives, and critically analysing each of these, are key to success. Therefore, try and shape your question so that more than one point of view can be explored.

Similarly, make sure your question is specific ! Having a focused question will guide your research and show that you can explore one area in detail. For example, here are 2 examples of Economics extended essay questions:

• To what extent do smartphone companies compete with each other?
• To what extent do Apple and Samsung operate in a duopoly in the global smartphone market?

The second research question is more focused, allowing for greater in-depth research into which areas they are competing over. You can use secondary data from both companies’ annual reports, competitor websites, and undertake primary research (such as through an Economic survey or personal interview) – Having a research question that allows you to explore a specific area critically will definitely help you to score highly.

Step 3: Meeting your supervisor to establish specific targets

We recommend meeting with your supervisor as early as possible to check whether your research question is appropriate. If it is, this is a great opportunity to explore potential avenues of research. For example, a Physics extended essay on the path of a bowling bowl may look to incorporate several different features, such as force, weight, and air resistance into a model. Whichever subject area you choose, your supervisor is usually your first port of call for any questions you have.

During the meeting, it will be good to establish a timeline for your extended essay. Although this may only be rough, this will give you deadlines to work towards (much like you will need to do for university essays). Similarly, setting specific targets for your next meeting, such as writing an introduction or doing your survey, will also give you definitive targets to meet. Make sure at the end of this meeting you have clear goals to achieve and by your next meeting.

Furthermore, make sure that you are keeping a record of all of your meetings with your extended essay supervisor. 6 of the 36 marks for the EE are from your Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF) where you reflect on the meetings you have had with your supervisor. These should show that you are engaged with your topic, so discuss the ideas you have considered in response to setbacks whilst writing your extended essay and make sure to use personal pronouns (I, my) to convey your engagement. Detail any changes you made to your research method and demonstrate how you have taken a creative approach to your topic, as these will highlight what you have done to stand out.

Step 4: Starting your EE research

Following the meeting with your supervisor, it is time to begin researching your topic! This does not have to be too detailed to begin with, and we recommend aiming to research enough to write an introduction to your essay. This introduction should outline the main themes you will explore and your line of argument. To reiterate, your main argument may change as your essay develops, so do not worry if it is not perfect when you begin.

Some useful sources of information are your school library or Jstor. Your school librarian may be able to suggest some good books or articles to start reading, whilst using academic sources like Jstor or Google scholar gives you access to a wide range of academic material. When reading books or journal articles, you do not have to read them cover to cover! In fact, you should only read the sections that are relevant to your topic, and reading the introduction and conclusion will often tell you whether a journal article is relevant.

When reading, consistently keep in mind your essay title as this will help you to focus your reading on key sections of texts. For instance, highlight the key sections of the texts to review later. Alternatively, you could make notes in a separate word document; such as Googledocs; or with pen and paper. It is useful to keep everything you do in the same format, however, so you can easily collate it.

Step 5: Writing the essay’s first draft

The most difficult part with the EE is getting the first draft down. Many students struggle o to write the perfect introduction and methodology, and get stuck for weeks in the process. Your introduction and first draft do not have to be perfect but should form the base of your essay moving forward. It is often good to form a plan from your research that contains the key elements of each paragraph. Once you are confident with this and have filled it in with more research, you can turn this into a fully operational first draft.

We recommend breaking down the writing stage into several paragraphs, setting yourself mini-goals to achieve. This will help you to move along faster and make the seemingly daunting task of a 4,000-word essay a lot simpler. Similarly, you should use the research you have to support your ideas. Your research might consist of facts to back up your analysis or other writers’ opinions that agree with your own. Furthermore, you can also use this research to explore multiple points of view, coming to a conclusion as to which one is most appropriate. However, save yourself time whilst doing this by including links to the original article, rather than full references, as it is likely you may change the content of your essay and the references you use as you progress.

Make sure you save your extended essay frequently and to an accessible platform such Dropbox or Google Drive so that if your computer were to crash your progress will be stored!

Step 6: Reviewing your first draft

Your aim when meeting with your supervisor this time is to look over your first draft to see which parts are excellent, which can be explored further and which need to be rethought. This can be split into a number of meetings; for example, I looked at my introduction, then at the 4 sections of my main body, and finally at my conclusion. This reshaped the goals that I had moving forward and gave me specific subsections to work on.

Whilst editing your first draft, do not be afraid to delete, reword or move some parts that you have written, as this will help you shape your extended essay into the finished article. You can, if needed, even slightly alter your question. I changed my question at the start of April, with a June deadline for my essay. However, changing my essay question did not leave me with a whole new essay to write, as I was able to use most of what I had already written, adapting it to focus on the new question. Whatever changes you have to make, they are all moving you towards a complete final version, so stay positive!

Step 7: Refining your Extended Essay

After your meeting, review the changes you have to make to your methodology and research process. You should consider whether you have critically investigated the variables in your RQ and whether it is backed up by a solid methodology. For instance, are there any counter arguments you have not considered? Does your research process flow? Always draw links to each paragraph, so that your essay has a logical flow from its introduction to its argument, counter arguments, responses, and conclusion.

When researching areas in more detail, make use of what you have learnt from your current research. For instance, look at the suggested reading or references in books that you have read or look at articles from the same journal. Furthermore, stay up to date with the news in case you can include new research in your extended essay.

When editing, it is useful to save a new copy of your extended essay (for example, EE draft 2) so that you can track any changes that you make. Also, if anything were to happen to your new copy, you always have the previous copy and notes from the meeting to re-do any changes. We recommend doing this on Googledocs whether changes are saved real-time on the servers so you don’t lose precious work if your computer crashes.

Step 8: Final Notes

Once you are done with your initial drafts, ensure that you have professional presentation, consistent formatting, and proper citations. Make sure that you have included page numbers and a bibliography (if required). Additionally, make the layout justified, font and size, as well as double spaced as per IB requirements. You have to include a cover page with a title, your research question, word count and subject. You also have to meet your supervisor the final time to fill out your viva voce (oral) section of the RPPF before the final submission.

Step 9: Final Submission

When submitting your extended essay, ensure that your name, candidate number and your school’s name are not on the document. This will ensure that your EE is marked fairly without prejudice. Your EE is electronically stamped and the IB can track who it belongs to, as is your RPPF.

We wish you the best of luck with your extended essay and hope you enjoy the process. If you would like help with your extended essay, please take a look at our courses or contact us for more information. We also offer IB tuition for various subjects and University applications mentoring and are more than happy to tailor our classes to your needs and requirements!

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Supervising your economics extended essay

• Register for event

To start, the resource will provide a quick overview of where to find the most up-to-date extended essay and Diploma Programme resources. Next, you will review subject-specific guidance and the economics extended essay assessment criteria. Then you will explore three examiner-annotated essays to understand how the criteria were applied. The final section includes teacher advice and further supporting resources.   

The resource provides you with an opportunity to:

• reflect on teaching and learning practices that support the extended essay
• review the economics assessment criteria
• appreciate the investigatory approach of the essay
• explore authentic student samples with examiner annotations.

Supervising your economics extended essay	DP	English	Cat 3

General information

Some of the main benefits educators can gain from self-paced modules include: 

• Accessing professional development from the comfort of their homes – no need to incur travel or accommodation costs. 
• Self-paced module can be completed and revisited repeatedly for six months from date of purchase. 
• Self-paced module topics can be hyper-focused and cover topics not normally featured in typical IB professional development workshops and events. 

The self-paced modules do not count towards authorisation or evaluation. However, they are an excellent opportunity to build and enhance professional development portfolios.

IB self-paced modules are category 3, building on and enhancing professional development portfolios. 

The introductory price is 125 USD.

Cancellation Policy.

Once registered, cancellations are not permitted for the self-paced modules.

Self-paced Module Completion Requirements

• Participants should plan to spend five hours of active online participation and learning to complete each self-paced module. 
• Participants will receive access to their self-paced module within 24 hours of registration and have six months from the date of registration to finish all the learning engagements. 
• Self-paced modules are fully online and asynchronous with no facilitator, so participants can complete the module at their own pace. 
• Access to the content on each self-paced module is available for six months from date of purchase. 
• Once participants complete all the learning engagements, they will be able download the completion certificate.

2016-2025 IB Extended Essay: Sample IB EE's

• Workshop 1: Getting started
• Workshop 2: EE Options
• Workshop 3: Selecting a topic
• Workshop 4:Research Questions
• Workshop 5: Supervisors and Reflections
• Finding Books & Ebooks
• Primary Sources
• Citation Guide
• Subject guidance
• Sample IB EE's

• Biology (2018 new rubric)
• Biology Light Intensity
• Does Age Have an Effect on Short-term Memory of 6 to 18 Year Old Students?

Chemistry: 

• Chemistry 1
• What are the Alternative Fuels for the Depleting Fossil Fuels and which is the Best Fuel in Accordance with the Energy Output?
• A Copper Ions
• Chemistry 3

Design Technology

• Does Hull Trim and Balance Affect the Speed of a Boat?

Individuals & Society:

• Market Form of the Retail Petroleum Supply Industry in Parklands
• Economics 1
• Economics 2
• Economics 3

I have an exemplar but the file is too big to upload.  If you are interested in this topic I can share the essay with you.

• Geography 2
• History EE (2018 new rubric)
• To What Extent was the Establishment of the State of Israel in Palestine in 1948, Influenced by Theodor Herzl?

Information Technology in a Global Society

• Philosophy 1
• Philosophy 2
• Philosophy 3
• Philosophy 4
• Psychology EE (2018 new rubric)
• Applied Behavior Analysis and Early Intervention: The Extent of Recovery from Autism
• Psychology 1
• Psychology 2
• Psychology 3

Social & Cultural Anthropology

• Social & Cultural Anthropology 1
• Social & Cultural Anthropology 2

World Religions

• To What Extent do the Core Scriptural Teachings of Sikhism Permit them to Marry Outside of the Religion?
• World Religions 1
• World Religions 2

Language Acquisition:

• French: Les Liaisons Dangereuses

Literature & Language 

•   Journeys in the Inferno and The Wonderful Wizard of Oz   
•   Toni Morrison 

Math: 

•   Cryptography and Rubik's Cube: An Investigative Analysis   
•   Pascal's Triangle 

Visual Arts: 

•   How Does the work of Yinka Shonibare Illustrate the Changing Role of African Art in a Global Society? 
• Ballet's Accessibility and Costumes Affecting Society's View of the Art Form
• Visual Arts 1
• Visual Arts 4

Interdisciplinary Essays:

Environmental Systems & Societies

• ESS Extended Essay (2018 new rubric)

World Studies

• World Studies EE History, Economics, & Politics  (2018 new rubric)
• Does the Production of Dairy and Meat from Dairy Cows in the United States affect the Environment and Well Being of Animals and Humans?
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• Last Updated: Aug 25, 2024 12:34 PM
• URL: https://lewishs-fcps.libguides.com/IBExtendedEssay

IB Extended Essay: Past Essays

• Research Questions
• Past Essays
• Notes & Outlines
• Works Cited Page
• In-Text Citations
• Assessment Criteria
• Reflections
• Supervisor Info
• Net Valley Library This link opens in a new window

Check these CAREFULLY to be sure your topic fits with IB expectations!

• Language & literature (language A)
• Language acquisition (language B)
• Mathematics
• Visual Arts
• World Studies

Business Management

English a & b ee examples.

• English A EE Example
• English A EE Example 1
• English A EE Example 2
• English A EE Example 3
• English B EE Example
• English B EE Example 1
• English B EE Example 2
• English B EE Example 3
• English B EE Example 4
• English B EE Example 5
• English B EE Example 6

Philosophy EE Examples

• Philosophy Example 1
• Philosophy Example 2
• Philosophy Example 3
• Philosophy Example 4

Economics EE Examples

• Econ Example 1
• Econ Example 2
• Econ Example 3
• Econ Example 4
• Econ Example 5
• Econ Example 6
• Econ Example 7
• Econ Example 8

Review Past Papers

• From the IB:  papers from other students and how they scored
• Renaissance Library Past Essays :  Links to all subject area examples

Music EE Examples

• Music EE Example 1
• Music EE Example 2
• Music EE Example 3
• Music EE Example 4

Psychology EE Examples

• Psych EE Example 1
• Psych EE Example 2
• Psych EE Example 3

Chinese EE Examples

• Chinese EE Example 1
• Chinese EE Example 2
• Chinese EE Example 3
• Chinese A EE Cat 1
• Chinese A EE Cat 2
• Chinese A EE Cat 3
• Chinese B EE Example 1
• Chinese B EE Example 2
• Chinese B Example 3
• Business EE Example 1
• Business EE Example 2
• Business EE Example 3

Visual Arts EE Examples

• Visual Arts EE Example 1
• Visual Arts EE Example 2
• Visual Arts EE Example 3
• Visual Arts EE Example 4

Film EE Examples

• Film Example 1
• Film Example 2

Chemistry EE Examples

• Chemistry EE Example

Biology EE Examples

• Biology EE Example
• Biology EE Example 1
• Biology EE Example 2
• Biology EE Example 3

Physics EE Examples

• Physics EE Example
• Physics EE Example 1
• Physics EE Example 2
• Physics EE Example 3
• Physics EE Example 4
• Physics EE Example 5

Math EE Examples

• Math EE Example 1
• Math EE Example 2
• Math EE Example 3
• Math EE Example 4
• Math EE Example 5
• Math EE Example 6

World Studies EE Examples

• World Studies Example 1
• World Studies Example 2
• World Studies Example 3
• World Studies Example 4
• World Studies Example 5
• World Studies Example 6
• World Studies Example 7
• World Studies Example 8
• World Studies Example 9
• World Studies Example 10
• World Studies Example 11
• World Studies Example 12
• World Studies Example 13
• World Studies Example 14
• World Studies Example 15
• World Studies Example 16
• World Studies Example 17
• World Studies Example 18
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• URL: https://sis-cn.libguides.com/ExtendedEssay

Extended Essay

• Mathematics
• Studies in language and literature
• World studies extended essay
• Visual arts
• Language Acquisition

Economics Sample B

Extended Essay: Exemplar Commentary
Subject	Economics	If applicable, theme for WSEE
If applicable, category for language essays		If applicable, subjects used for WSEE
Title of essay	To what extent has the recent fall in the exchange rate of the Rand affected the tourism industry of Cape Town, South Africa?
Essay number	B	Examination session
Assessment of extended essay
Criteria	Mark awarded	Commentary
A: Focus and method [6]	3	Level 3-4 is appropriate here. In the early part of the essay, the purpose and focus are adequately clear and the Research question is mostly clear. What is missing from the Research question and the methodology is a clear indication of the timeframe under investigation, and this is a shortcoming for the entire essay, as it is never clarified. The methodology is reasonably clear. There are reasonable sources related to the tourism industry, but very limited information on movements in the exchange rate. The essay does not maintain a focus on the link between the exchange rate and the tourism industry.
B: Knowledge and understanding [6]	3	The use of economic terminology and concepts is adequate, but there are points of confusion. There is an understanding of some parts of the sources, but the application is only partially effective. Knowledge of the topic borders on anecdotal in quite a few places. This means that the lower level of 3-4 is appropriate.
C: Critical thinking [12]	4	The essay fits into the 4-6 band. There is reasonable information on the tourism industry, and there is some analysis of this information, but it is only partially relevant to the Research question. There are many assertions that are not supported by the evidence, and insufficient information about the exchange rate. At no point is there any concrete data about the exchange rate to map against changes in the tourism industry. There is an attempt to provide conclusions to individual points, but these are only partly consistent with the evidence. There is an attempt to provide evaluation of the research, and there is an awareness of the limitations of the research, but this is not clearly developed or supported by evidence.
D: Presentation [4]	3	The formal elements of the essay are in line with expectations. Footnotes are clear and informative and the bibliography is adequate, although more information is required for websites. The data in the tables is not easy to read, and there is too much of it that is not relevant to the essay, thus hindering effective understanding of the evidence.
E: Engagement [6] (not included)		The assessment of an accompanying RPPF will affect the overall mark awarded and the grade achieved.
Total marks awarded	13/28	The topic is an interesting one, and one that could reasonably be explored in the context of the EE. In this essay, however, there is not enough evidence about the exchange rate to make a reasoned argument. There is an awareness of this limitation, but too much time is spent discussing the tourism industry in general without appropriate information about the exchange rate. There seems to be some inconsistency in the use of data in the essay. The data does not convincingly indicate any discernible change in the tourist industry that could be attributed to any particular factor, and so an attempt to make an argument relating to the exchange rate is unlikely to be successful. Within the context of the subject, it would also have been appropriate to introduce some discussion of the price elasticity of demand in the short run. Please note: as a result of modifying existing extended essays for illustrative purposes, not all exemplars have an accompanying RPPF for assessment under criterion E (this is a mandatory element for all essays as of 2018). As a result, this essay has been marked out of 28 rather than 34.

• Last Updated: Oct 14, 2021 3:31 PM
• URL: https://keystoneacademy-cn.libguides.com/extended-essay

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The Do’s and Don’ts of Extended Essay (EE)

The Extended Essay (EE) is an exhilarating yet challenging journey that every IB student embarks upon during the diploma. It is a culmination of years of hard work and dedication, an opportunity to delve into a subject you are passionate about, and a chance to demonstrate your research and writing skills. However, the path to completing an outstanding EE can be strewn with obstacles and pitfalls. Drawing from personal experience, I will share some valuable do’s and don’ts to guide you through your Extended Essay journey.

Do’s:

Utilize your supervisor.

 One of the greatest resources at your disposal is your EE supervisor. Regularly communicate with them, seek their guidance, and ask questions when you are unsure. A good rapport with your supervisor can make a significant difference in your EE experience.

Advocate for Yourself

If, like me, you find yourself shuffled through supervisors or encounter issues with your assigned supervisor, don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself. Request a change if necessary and ensure you have a supervisor who understands and supports your research goals.

Start Early

Procrastination is a common pitfall in the EE process. Start your research and writing as early as possible. A well-structured timeline can help you manage your time effectively and reduce last-minute stress. Starting your EE journey with research rather than writing will allow you to understand the implications of your question and your writing process will be a lot smoother. Then the summer holiday between Y1 and Y2 of IB is the best time to get ahead in writing your EE, even if you only do a little, it’s still going to make the whole process during Y2 so much easier.

Choose Your Passion

 Select a topic that genuinely excites you. Your EE is a substantial research project, and your passion for the subject matter will keep you motivated throughout the process. Plus, it will reflect in the quality of your work. This can also help in choosing a future area of study after the IB – who knows, maybe you could be on your way to a PhD in your EE area in the future.

Reading Widely

When researching, it’s beneficial to engage in a wide variety of sources. When you’re researching make sure to read all perspectives on your matter, from the journal articles to documents, to news articles, and even people’s personal anecdotes. While you may not use all of these, you do need to get every countless perspective on an issue to make informed interpretations and back up your claims. This wide-range of research and engagement with your topic also makes you develop a deeper passion and brings fun to the process.

Draft and Redraft

 Writing is a process that often requires multiple drafts. Don’t expect your first draft to be perfect. Edit and revise your work diligently, and seek feedback from peers and teachers to refine your essay.

Cite Sources Properly

Adhere to proper citation and referencing styles (such as MLA, APA, or Chicago). Plagiarism is a serious academic offense, and citing sources correctly is crucial to maintaining academic integrity. What is strongly advised by many IB schools is that the percentage of integrity – or TurnItIn score – should be under 20%, so citing and referencing is vital in all IB assignments.

Don’ts

Procrastinate.

As mentioned earlier, procrastination can be your worst enemy. Avoid putting off your EE tasks until the last minute. This can lead to rushed research, lower-quality work, and unnecessary stress.

Choose a Topic Solely for Its Ease

 While it’s important to choose a subject you are passionate about, avoid selecting a topic solely because you think it will be easy. EE is about challenging yourself and exploring your academic boundaries.

Overcomplicate Your Topic

 On the other hand, don’t choose a topic that is overly complex or beyond your current knowledge level. Striking the right balance between challenge and feasibility is essential.

Ignore feedback

When you receive feedback from your supervisor or peers, don’t dismiss it. Feedback is a valuable tool for improvement. Embrace constructive criticism and use it to refine your EE.

Neglect your Reflections

 Your 3 reflections are worth 6 marks, which is a lot in terms of EE. If you know that you might forget to complete them, or won’t remember things to put in them, keep a document while you’re on your EE journey to keep track of all problems, solutions and lessons you’ve learnt – this will help you synthesize great reflections and help your future self.

The IB Extended Essay is a rigorous and rewarding endeavor that can shape your academic and personal growth. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can navigate the challenges and make the most of this unique opportunity. Remember to harness your passion, seek guidance from your supervisor, and start early to ensure a successful Extended Essay journey. Embrace the process, and you’ll emerge with not only a valuable piece of research but also a sense of accomplishment that will stay with you long after your IB days are over.

You may also like…

• Regina’s guide to citing (MLA formatting)
• Christina’s tips on working with your EE supervisor

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