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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.

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

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

What's Next?

Trying to figure out what extracurriculars you should do? Learn more about participating in the Science Olympiad , starting a club , doing volunteer work , and joining Student Government .

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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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IB History Extended Essay Topics

As an IB educator and writer, I’ve seen the significant growth students experience in the IB DP History course . However, the most notable part of this development frequently happens throughout the Extended Essay writing process. The practical application of historical theory helps students to take on the role of historians. This post provides advice and recommendations on selecting a topic and writing your IB History Extended Essay.

What Is IB DP History Course?

The IB History course is a fascinating and multidimensional path through time that aims to engage students in the complexity of human history. In my perspective, the course’s strength is its comprehensive approach to comprehending the forces that have formed our world. It is more than merely knowing about the past. It is about understanding why these events happened, how they shaped the present, and how they may affect the future.

In addition, IB History encourages students to become historians. This involves learning skills valuable for historical research and other areas of life outside the classroom. Critical thinking is at the forefront of these skills, allowing students to analyze sources, weigh evidence, and draw informed conclusions about the past.

The Extended Essay, an essential part of the IB History course, shows the program’s emphasis on individual investigation and in-depth study. This task encourages students to conduct deep research on a historical topic that interests them. It’s a daunting task that requires students to apply the skills they’ve learned throughout the course: developing a research question, gathering and analyzing materials, and building a well-supported argument.

How to Choose a History Extended Essay Topic?

Finding a topic that resonates with you is crucial. Throughout the IB History course, there will undoubtedly have been moments that captured your imagination more than others. Was it the intrigue of Cold War diplomacy, the cultural revolutions of the 1960s, or perhaps the ancient civilizations of Egypt or Rome that fascinated you? Start there. Reflect on the lectures, readings, and discussions that sparked a desire to learn more.

However, passion alone isn’t enough. Your chosen topic must also align with the IB History curriculum and offer a rich field for investigation. Here are the key considerations:

• Your topic should reflect the themes, periods, and areas covered in the IB History course.
• Ensure there are ample primary and secondary sources available on your chosen topic. Reliable sources are essential for conducting thorough research.
• Your topic should allow you to formulate a specific research question. Avoid overly broad issues that cannot be covered effectively within the word limit.
• A good topic is well-defined and narrow enough to be manageable. Vague or overly broad issues can lead to superficial treatment of the subject matter.
• Consider the feasibility of your topic. Can it be thoroughly researched and addressed within the constraints of the Extended Essay format?

Lastly, strive for a topic that offers a fresh perspective or researches less commonly discussed aspects of history. Originality can make your essay stand out and demonstrate your creativity and analytical skills.

IB Extended Essay Topics: History

Here are 30 topic ideas, along with their respective research questions, to inspire your project:

• The Impact of the Cold War on Space Research . How did the Cold War rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union drive the space race, and what were its most significant outcomes?
• Women’s Suffrage Movements in the Early 20th Century . To what extent did women’s suffrage movements in Britain and the United States share common strategies and ideologies, and how did they differ?
• The Role of Propaganda in Nazi Germany . How did Nazi propaganda aim to create a unified national identity, and what methods were most effective?
• Economic Consequences of the Treaty of Versailles . What were the long-term economic impacts of the Treaty of Versailles on Germany, and how did they contribute to the rise of National Socialism?
• Decolonization and Independence Movements in Africa . How did the process of decolonization in Algeria compare with that in Kenya, and what factors contributed to the differences?
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: A Nuclear Standoff . What critical decisions did the leaders of the United States and the Soviet Union make during the Cuban Missile Crisis, and how did these decisions prevent a nuclear war?
• The Cultural Revolution in China . What were the primary goals of the Cultural Revolution in China, and to what extent were they achieved?
• Impact of the Silk Road on Cultural Exchange . How did the Silk Road facilitate cultural exchange between East and West, and what were its most significant impacts on the civilizations it connected?
• The Fall of the Roman Republic . What were the causes of the fall of the Roman Republic, and how did the transition to empire affect Roman society?
• The Vietnam War and Its Impact on American Society . How did the Vietnam War influence American public opinion on foreign policy and military engagement?
• The Development of Atomic Energy and Its Global Implications . How did the development of atomic energy during and after World War II influence global politics and the onset of the nuclear age?
• British Colonial Rule in India . What were British colonial rule’s economic, social, and political impacts on India, and how did they contribute to the Indian independence movement?
• The Influence of the Renaissance on Modern Western Thought . How did the Renaissance influence modern Western thought in art, science, and philosophy?
• The Role of Cryptography in World War II . How did the use of cryptography by Allied forces contribute to the outcome of World War II, specifically focusing on the Enigma machine?
• The French Revolution and the Rise of Napoleon . How did the French Revolution pave the way for Napoleon’s rise to power, and what were the key reforms he implemented?
• The Global Impact of the Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918 . How did the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918 affect global populations differently, and what were its long-term impacts on public health policies?
• The Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and its Role in Sparking WWI . To what extent did the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand contribute to the outbreak of World War I, considering the complex web of alliances and tensions in Europe?
• The Influence of Social Media on the Arab Spring . How did social media act as a catalyst for political and social change during the Arab Spring, and what were its limitations?
• The Partition of India: Causes and Consequences . What were the primary causes of the Partition of India in 1947, and how have its consequences shaped the current political and social climates in India and Pakistan?
• The Impact of the Gold Rush on California’s Development . How did the California Gold Rush 1849 impact the state’s economic development, demographic changes, and social structures?
• The Salem Witch Trials: A Study of Fear and Social Paranoia . What factors contributed to the outbreak of the Salem witch trials, and what does this episode reveal about the social and psychological underpinnings of early American colonial society?
• The Role of the Ottoman Empire in World War I . What was the strategic significance of the Ottoman Empire in World War I, and how did its participation affect the outcome of the war?
• The Chornobyl Disaster: A Historical Analysis of its Causes and Effects . What caused the Chornobyl nuclear disaster, and what have been its long-term environmental and health effects?
• The Development and Impact of the Transatlantic Slave Trade . How did the transatlantic slave trade develop, and how did it impact African societies and economies?
• The Cultural and Political Impact of the Beatles . How did the Beatles influence cultural and political attitudes in the 1960s, particularly regarding youth culture and anti-war movements?
• The Evolution of Espionage During the Cold War . How did espionage tactics evolve during the Cold War, and what impact did intelligence activities have on the relations between the Soviet Union and the United States?
• The Rise and Fall of the Aztec Empire . What factors led to the Aztec Empire’s rapid rise and subsequent fall, and how did the Spanish conquest alter the course of Mexican history?
• The Influence of the Enlightenment on the American and French Revolutions . To what extent did Enlightenment ideas influence the ideologies and outcomes of the American and French Revolutions?
• The Berlin Airlift: A Turning Point in the Cold War . How did the Berlin Airlift signify a turning point in the Cold War, and what does it reveal about the powers’ strategies and priorities?
• The Impact of Apartheid on South African Society . What were the social, economic, and political impacts of apartheid on South African society, and how are its effects still felt today?
• The Economic Policies of Mao Zedong . How did Mao Zedong’s economic policies impact China’s rural population during the Great Leap Forward?
• The Rise of Feminism in the 20th Century . What key factors propelled the second wave of feminism in the United States during the 1960s?
• The Disintegration of Yugoslavia . What were the primary causes of the disintegration of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, and what role did ethnic tensions play?
• British Policies and the American Revolution . How did British economic and political policies in the colonies contribute to the outbreak of the American Revolution?
• The Global Influence of the Portuguese Empire . How did Portuguese maritime findings impact global trade patterns in the 16th century?
• The French Resistance during World War II . How effective was the French Resistance in thwarting Nazi operations during World War II?
• The Impact of the Panama Canal on Global Trade . How did the construction of the Panama Canal in the early 20th century affect global trade and geopolitical strategies?
• The Role of the Media in the Vietnam War . How did media coverage in the United States influence public opinion and policy decisions during the Vietnam War?
• The Abolition of the Slave Trade in the British Empire . What economic and social factors led to the abolition of the slave trade in the British Empire in 1807?
• The Influence of Nikola Tesla on Modern Electrical Engineering . How did Nikola Tesla’s inventions and theories contribute to the development of modern electrical engineering?
• The Cultural Impact of the Beatles Beyond Music . Beyond their musical contributions, how did the Beatles influence 1960s culture globally regarding fashion, lifestyle, and politics?
• The Effects of the Black Death on Medieval European Society . How did the Black Death alter the social and economic structures of medieval European societies?
• The Role of Women in World War I . How did women’s roles in the workforce and military change during World War I, and what were the long-term effects on gender roles?
• The Fall of the Berlin Wall and European Unification . What were the immediate and long-term impacts of the fall of the Berlin Wall on European political and economic unification?
• The Genocide in Rwanda: Causes and International Response . What were the leading causes of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, and how effective was the international community’s response?
• The Economic Reforms of Atatürk in Turkey . How did Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s economic reforms transform Turkey in the early 20th century, and what long-term impacts did they have on Turkish society?
• The Decolonization of the Caribbean . How did the process of decolonization unfold in the Caribbean, and what were the primary factors that influenced the different paths taken by these territories?
• The Manhattan Project and its Consequences . What were the scientific, ethical, and political implications of the Manhattan Project on the international stage during and after World War II?
• The Influence of the Spanish Inquisition on European Society . How did the Spanish Inquisition affect religious and cultural life in Spain, and what were its repercussions throughout Europe?
• The Rise and Impact of the Zulu Kingdom . How did the rise of the Zulu Kingdom under Shaka Zulu influence the regional dynamics in Southern Africa?
• The Witch Trials in Early Modern Europe . What factors contributed to the outbreak of witch trials in early modern Europe, and how did societal attitudes towards these trials change over time?
• The Formation and Impact of NATO in the Cold War . What role did NATO play in the Cold War dynamics, and how did it influence the policies of both Western and Eastern bloc countries?
• The Boxer Rebellion and Its Impact on Chinese Imperial Rule . How did the Boxer Rebellion influence the course of Chinese history and its relationships with Western powers at the turn of the 20th century?
• The Social Effects of the Industrial Revolution in Britain . How did the Industrial Revolution transform social structures and day-to-day life in Britain during the 18th and 19th centuries?
• The Impact of the Great Depression on American Foreign Policy . How did the Great Depression affect the United States’ foreign policy, particularly in terms of isolationism and interventionism?

It is also a good idea to consult with your teacher or advisor to refine your choices. Seek feedback from peers or mentors who can provide fresh perspectives on your work.

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Every part of the writing process, from selecting a fascinating topic to conducting comprehensive research and constructing a convincing argument, provides a chance to improve your historical knowledge and academic skills. Also, our experienced IB writers are always ready to help you with extended essays on any subject.

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IB History Extended Essay Topics and Research Questions

Table of contents

• Writing Metier

Are you gearing up to start writing your History Extended Essay but feeling a bit overwhelmed with where to start?

You’re in luck! We’ve put together an exciting array of IB History EE topics that span the rich tapestry of history, from the world wars to the nuances of cultural revolutions.

These aren’t just any History EE topics; they’re carefully selected to ignite your curiosity and fit snugly within the IB criteria.

So, please grab a cup of your favorite brew, and let’s explore these ideas together. And remember, if you need a bit more than just inspiration, we at Writing Metier are here to help you every step of the way! 

50+ History Extended Essay Topics

In this article, we’ve divided our selection of History Extended Essay topics into ten categories. It’s like having a library where each section is dedicated to a different era or theme in history, making it easier for you to find the topics that catch your eye. 

Whether you’re passionate about the Cold War, intrigued by the Renaissance, or curious about economic history, these categories collected by our History essay writers are set up to help you zero in on the area that sparks your interest. 

Think of it as a well-organized menu of historical feasts, ready for you to pick your favorite dish! 

1. World War I and II

We’re starting our exploration with World War I and II, where battles reshaped our planet. 

We’ll examine the causes behind the Great War, analyze strategic masterstrokes of the Second World War, and assess their lasting impact on society and politics. 

It’s a fascinating look at events that defined a century.

Causes and Consequences of World War I

• Research Question:  How did rising nationalism contribute to the outbreak of World War I?
• Research Question:  What were the long-term economic impacts of World War I on European countries?

Key Battles and Strategies of World War II

• Research Question:  How did the Battle of Stalingrad turn the tide of World War II?
• Research Question:  How did naval warfare strategies influence the outcome of battles in the Pacific during World War II?

Political and Social Impact of the World Wars

• Research Question:  How did World War II influence the progression of the Civil Rights Movement in the US?
• Research Question:  How did the political landscape of Europe change after World War I?

Moving from global conflicts to a war of shadows and ideologies, we enter the Cold War Era.

2. Cold War Era

This period was less about physical battles and more about espionage, strategic politics, and iconic leaders. We’ll explore the secret world of spies, the global chess game of this era, and the personalities who steered these events.

The Role of Espionage and Intelligence

• Research Question:  How did espionage activities shape the diplomatic relations between the US and the Soviet Union during the Cold War?
• Research Question:  How did intelligence operations contribute to the resolution of the Cuban Missile Crisis?

Influence of the Cold War on Global Politics

• Research Question:  How did the Cold War affect political dynamics in the Middle East?
• Research Question:  How did the Cold War contribute to the formation and policies of the European Union?

Key Figures and Leaders of the Cold War

• Research Question:  How did Ronald Reagan’s policies contribute to the end of the Cold War?
• Research Question:  How did Nikita Khrushchev’s leadership influence the course of the Cold War?

Now, let’s focus on Revolution and Change. We’re delving into the Russian Revolution’s seismic shifts, the Industrial Revolution’s world-changing innovations, and the unique narratives of Latin American revolutions.

3. Revolution and Change

These events didn’t just change nations; they rewrote the rules of society.

The Russian Revolution: Causes and Effects

• Research Question:  What factors led to the success of the Bolsheviks in the Russian Revolution?
• Research Question:  How did World War I catalyze the Russian Revolution?

The Impact of the Industrial Revolution

• Research Question:  How did the Industrial Revolution drive urbanization and social change in 19th century Britain?
• Research Question:  What were the key technological innovations of the Industrial Revolution, and how did they transform societies?

Revolutions in Latin America: A Comparative Study

• Research Question:  How do the causes and outcomes of the Mexican and Cuban revolutions compare and contrast?
• Research Question:  What was Simon Bolivar’s impact on the revolutions in Latin America?

Next, we explore the era of Colonialism and Imperialism, a time of empires expanding and reshaping continents. We’ll investigate what drove the Scramble for Africa, the complexities of British rule in India, and how empires waned in the 20th century. 

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4. Colonialism and Imperialism

It’s a compelling story of power, conquest, and resistance.

The Scramble for Africa: Causes and Impact

• Research Question:  What were the primary motivations for European nations in the Scramble for Africa, and how did they justify their actions?
• Research Question:  How did the Berlin Conference and the subsequent division of Africa impact the political landscape of the continent in the long term?

British Rule in India: Economic and Social Effects

• Research Question:  How did the economic policies of the British Raj affect the social and economic structure of Indian society?
• Research Question:  What was the significance of the Indian railway system in facilitating British colonial objectives and its impact on India?

The Decline of Empires in the 20th Century

• Research Question:  How did the collapse of the Ottoman Empire contribute to the shaping of modern Middle Eastern borders and conflicts?
• Research Question:  What were the key factors that led to the decline of the British Empire after World War II?

Shifting from political power plays to the power of ideas, we enter the world of Cultural and Intellectual History. 

5. Cultural and Intellectual History

We’ll explore the Renaissance’s bloom of creativity, the Enlightenment’s revolutionary ideas, and the 1960s’ cultural upheaval. It’s a celebration of the minds that dared to think differently.

The Renaissance: Artistic and Scientific Innovations

• Research Question:  How did Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions and scientific studies exemplify the spirit of innovation during the Renaissance?
• Research Question:  How did the invention of the printing press transform literature and the spread of ideas during the Renaissance?

The Enlightenment: Philosophers and Ideas

• Research Question:  How did Voltaire’s writings and ideas contribute to the development of Enlightenment thought?
• Research Question:  How did Enlightenment philosophies influence the development of modern democratic and political ideals?

The Cultural Impact of the 1960s

• Research Question:  How did the counterculture movement of the 1960s influence the evolution of music during that era?
• Research Question:  How did youth movements in the 1960s contribute to social and political change in the United States?

From the world of art and ideas, we turn to Economic History. Here, we’ll dissect the Great Depression’s global impact, trace the evolution of economic systems, and understand globalization’s role in reshaping economies. 

6. Economic History

It’s an insightful look at how economic forces shape our world.

The Great Depression: Causes and Global Effects

• Research Question:  What were the underlying causes of the 1929 stock market crash, and how did it precipitate the Great Depression?
• Research Question:  How did the Great Depression affect the economies of industrialized nations outside the United States?

The Evolution of Economic Systems in the 20th Century

• Research Question:  How did the shift from mercantilism to free market capitalism shape economic policies in the 20th century?
• Research Question:  What factors led to the rise and eventual decline of command economies in the 20th century?

The Impact of Globalization on World Economies

• Research Question:  How has the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) impacted the economies of its member countries?
• Research Question:  How have multinational corporations influenced the process of economic globalization and its impact on national economies?

Here you can also find a list of good Economics extended essay topics for you. Just so you know 😉

In Social History, we examine the movements that have sculpted our societal landscape. 

7. Social History

We’ll explore the fight for women’s rights, the journey of the Civil Rights Movement in the US, and the Victorian era’s social reforms. These movements are the pillars of our modern society.

Women’s Rights Movements Across History

• Research Question:  How did the suffragette movement in the UK impact the fight for women’s rights and lead to societal change?
• Research Question:  What was the contribution of women to the French Revolution, and how did it influence their rights?

The Civil Rights Movement in the United States

• Research Question:  How did Martin Luther King Jr.’s leadership and strategies shape the course of the Civil Rights Movement?
• Research Question:  How did media coverage affect the public perception and progress of the Civil Rights Movement?

Social Reforms of the Victorian Era

• Research Question:  How did the Factory Acts reform labor conditions, and what was their social impact during the Victorian era?
• Research Question:  How did Charles Dickens’ portrayal of social issues in his novels contribute to awareness and reform in Victorian England?

Next, we explore the experiences of Indigenous Peoples during colonial times. We’ll look at how European colonization impacted Native American societies, the resilience of Aboriginal communities in Australia, and the effects of colonial policies in South America. 

8. Indigenous Peoples and Colonial Histories

These stories are about endurance, identity, and cultural survival.

The Impact of European Colonization on Native American Societies

• Research Question:  What were the immediate and long-term effects of the Spanish conquest on Aztec society and culture?
• Research Question:  How did European colonization transform the social, political, and economic structures of Native American societies?

Aboriginal Histories and Resistance in Australia

• Research Question:  What were the long-term effects of the Stolen Generations policy on Aboriginal communities in Australia?
• Research Question:  How has the Aboriginal land rights movement shaped the legal and political landscape in Australia?

The Effects of Colonial Policies on Indigenous Cultures in South America

• Research Question:  How did Spanish colonialism affect the social and cultural structures of indigenous societies in the Andean region?
• Research Question:  What has been the lasting impact of Portuguese colonialism on indigenous communities in Brazil?

Now, let’s look at how technology changes history’s course. 

9. Technological Advancements and Historical Change

From the printing press sparking a knowledge revolution to the telegraph altering warfare, and the internet’s role in recent revolutions, we’re examining technology’s power to transform societies.

The Role of the Printing Press in Reformation Europe

• Research Question:  How did the printing press facilitate the spread of Martin Luther’s ideas during the Reformation?
• Research Question:  How did the invention of the printing press contribute to the intellectual and cultural developments of the Renaissance?

The Impact of the Telegraph on 19th Century Wars

• Research Question:  How did the telegraph influence military strategies and communication during the American Civil War?
• Research Question:  How did the use of the telegraph affect diplomatic communications and decision-making during the Crimean War?

The Influence of the Internet on Late 20th Century Revolutions

• Research Question:  How did the internet and social media platforms influence the organization and spread of the Arab Spring movements?
• Research Question:  How did the advent of digital communication technologies contribute to the political and social changes leading to the fall of the Soviet Union?

Finally, we arrive at the latest chapter in our history – Contemporary Global Issues and Conflicts post-1990. 

10. Contemporary Global Issues and Conflicts (Post-1990)

Here, we tackle the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the new face of terrorism post-9/11, and the far-reaching effects of the 2008 financial crisis. It’s a close look at the challenges shaping our current world.

The Historical Roots of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

• Research Question:  How have the Oslo Accords shaped the subsequent developments in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
• Research Question:  How have international interventions influenced the dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict since 1990?

The Rise of Terrorism and Its Global Impact Post-9/11

• Research Question:  How have global counterterrorism strategies evolved in response to the changing nature of terrorism since 9/11?
• Research Question:  What changes have been implemented in global aviation security as a direct response to the 9/11 attacks?

The Social and Political Consequences of the 2008 Financial Crisis

• Research Question:  How did the 2008 financial crisis influence economic and political policies within the European Union?
• Research Question:  What changes in financial regulation have been implemented since the 2008 crisis to prevent similar future events?

The Syrian Civil War and Refugee Crisis

• Research Question:  How have different countries responded to the Syrian refugee crisis, and what are the implications of these responses?
• Research Question:  How has the Syrian Civil War affected political and social stability in the Middle East region?

The Russian-Ukrainian Conflict and Its Global Implications

• Research Question:  What were the causes of Russia’s annexation of Crimea, and how did the international community respond?
• Research Question:  How has cyber warfare been utilized in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, and what are its implications for modern warfare?

And that wraps up our extensive list of over 50 History IB Extended Essay topics, carefully selected across various intriguing categories. 

Tailored to meet the IB criteria and EE rubric, these topics are ideal for anyone taking on history as their extended essay subject. They offer a gateway to explore significant historical events and themes, ensuring a blend of academic rigor and engaging storytelling.

Select Your Topic Wisely

As you stand at the threshold of your IB History Extended Essay, remember, the path to a great paper doesn’t have to be walked alone. If you’re circling around topic ideas or looking for expert guidance in writing a standout essay, Writing Metier is just a message away. 

We’re here to offer support, whether it’s sparking your initial idea or crafting an essay that truly reflects your historical insight. 

Reach out to us, and let’s turn your history essay into a piece that stands out in both depth and clarity.

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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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• How to Structure an IB History Extended Essay: A Comprehensive Guide

The Extended Essay Challenge

The IB History Extended Essay (EE) is a significant academic undertaking that requires you to conduct independent research on a topic of your choice. Structuring your essay effectively is crucial to presenting your research in a clear and coherent manner. This guide will help you organize your IB History EE to ensure that it meets the IB criteria and showcases your analytical and research skills.

The Importance of Structure

A well-structured essay not only helps you present your arguments clearly but also makes it easier for the examiner to follow your line of thought. Imagine reading an essay where ideas are jumbled and key points are lost in the confusion. Proper structure is key to avoiding this pitfall.

Key Elements of an IB History Extended Essay

1. Title Page

• Title : Should be concise and focused on your research question.
• Candidate Details : Include your name, candidate number, and session.
• Subject : Specify that the subject is History.
• Word Count : Provide the total word count of the essay.

2. Abstract (No longer required in the new EE guidelines)

• The abstract is no longer a requirement as per the updated IB guidelines. Ensure you are following the latest requirements by checking the IB Extended Essay guide.

3. Table of Contents

• Headings : List all major sections and subsections with corresponding page numbers.
• Clarity : Ensure the table of contents is clear and accurately reflects the structure of your essay.

4. Introduction

• Research Question : State your research question clearly and succinctly.
• Context : Provide background information and context to your research question.
• Significance : Explain why the topic is significant and worth researching.
• Thesis Statement : Present your main argument or thesis statement.
• Scope : Outline the scope of your essay, including what you will and will not cover.
• Overview of Sources : Summarize the key sources you have used.
• Historiography : Discuss different historical interpretations and debates related to your topic.
• Thematic or Chronological Organization : Organize your analysis either thematically or chronologically, depending on what best suits your topic.
• Detailed Analysis : Provide a detailed analysis of your primary and secondary sources.
• Evidence and Examples : Support your arguments with specific evidence and examples from your research.
• Critical Evaluation : Critically evaluate the sources and interpretations, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.
• Constructing Arguments : Develop clear and coherent arguments that support your thesis.
• Linking Sections : Ensure each section logically follows from the previous one and leads into the next.

6. Conclusion

• Restate Thesis : Summarize your main findings and restate your thesis in light of the evidence presented.
• Implications : Discuss the broader implications of your findings.
• Further Research : Suggest areas for further research or questions that remain unanswered.

7. References and Bibliography

• Citation Style : Use a consistent citation style (such as Chicago, MLA, or APA) as recommended by your supervisor.
• Comprehensive List : Include all sources cited in your essay in a comprehensive bibliography.
• Primary and Secondary Sources : Differentiate between primary and secondary sources in your bibliography.

8. Appendices (if applicable)

• Supplementary Material : Include any supplementary material such as maps, charts, or images that are relevant to your research.
• Referencing in Text : Ensure that all appendices are referenced in the main body of your essay.

Tips for a Successful Extended Essay

1. Choose a Focused Topic

• Narrow Scope : Select a specific and focused research question that allows for in-depth analysis.
• Interest and Relevance : Choose a topic that interests you and has sufficient available resources.

2. Conduct Thorough Research

• Primary Sources : Seek out primary sources such as letters, diaries, official documents, and contemporary accounts.
• Secondary Sources : Use secondary sources such as books, journal articles, and scholarly critiques to provide context and analysis.

3. Draft and Revise

• Initial Draft : Write a complete first draft, focusing on content and argumentation rather than perfection.
• Feedback : Seek feedback from your supervisor and peers.
• Revisions : Revise your essay based on feedback, focusing on clarity, coherence, and depth of analysis.

4. Proofread

• Grammar and Spelling : Carefully proofread your essay for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
• Formatting : Ensure that your essay adheres to the required formatting and citation guidelines.

Steps to Implement Your Structure

• Plan Your Research : Create a research plan and timeline to ensure you cover all necessary areas.
• Organize Your Notes : Keep your research notes organized by theme or chronological order.
• Outline Your Essay : Create a detailed outline before you start writing.
• Write in Sections : Write your essay in sections, focusing on one part at a time.
• Review and Edit : Continuously review and edit your work to ensure it meets the IB criteria.

Crafting a Compelling Extended Essay

Structuring your IB History Extended Essay effectively is crucial for presenting your research clearly and coherently. By following this guide, you can ensure that your essay is well-organized, thoroughly researched, and analytically robust. Embrace the challenge, stay focused, and enjoy the process of exploring your chosen historical topic in depth.

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IB History Extended Essay Topics

The Extended Essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, culminating in a 4,000-word paper. It’s an important component of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and allows students to engage in an in-depth study of a topic that interests them. Aspiring IB History students must complete their EE to gain the full diploma.

When working on an EE, students need to follow very specific guidelines and formatting expectations. The essay should look professional, be free of errors, have a clear layout, and have a unique and interesting thesis statement. For IB History specifically, topics should relate to some historical event or time period.

Most EE topics require a large amount of research. Students are expected to use reliable and high-quality sources for information. Additionally, topics should not be too broad but also not too narrow—there needs to be enough material available to create a comprehensive essay.

It’s also important to keep in mind the weight of the essay in a student’s final grade. An EE typically includes a title page, table of contents, introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion, list of works cited, and any additional appendices. Getting started can seem daunting, but with clear goals and guidance, you can break the process into manageable parts.

• The Impact of World War I on the Russian Revolution: A Comparative Analysis of Pre- and Post-War Societal Changes
• The Rise and Fall of Apartheid in South Africa: Analyzing the Political and Economic Factors
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: Assessing the Role of Cold War Diplomacy in Averting Nuclear War
• The Spanish Inquisition: Exploring the Socio-Cultural and Religious Dynamics of Persecution
• The Fall of the Berlin Wall: The Interplay of Political and Cultural Factors in East and West Germany
• The Chinese Cultural Revolution: Assessing the Legacy of Mao Zedong’s Policies on Modern China
• The Influence of Ancient Greek Democracy on the Formation of the United States Constitution
• The Role of Women in the French Revolution: Analyzing the Contributions and Limitations of Female Activism
• The Armenian Genocide: Investigating the Origins, Perpetrators, and International Response
• The Impact of the Printing Press on the Protestant Reformation: A Study of the Spread of Ideas in 16th Century Europe
• The League of Nations: Evaluating the Successes and Failures in Preserving Global Peace and Security
• The Indian Independence Movement: A Comparative Study of the Strategies Employed by Mahatma Gandhi and Subhash Chandra Bose
• The Influence of the Enlightenment on the American and French Revolutions: A Comparative Analysis
• The Iranian Revolution of 1979: Examining the Role of Religion and Nationalism in Shaping Political Change
• The Rwandan Genocide: Analyzing the International Community’s Response and its Implications for Future Conflict Resolution
• The Consequences of the Treaty of Versailles on Post-World War I European Stability
• The Great Depression: Investigating the Effects of Economic Policies on the Global Recovery
• The Role of Propaganda in Shaping Public Opinion During World War II: A Comparative Study of Nazi Germany and Allied Nations
• The Impact of European Colonialism on the Formation of Modern African Nation-States
• The Vietnam War: Analyzing the Domino Theory and its Influence on American Foreign Policy

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Brainstorming ib history topics.

When it comes to choosing an IB History Extended Essay topic, the sky is the limit. IB History offers a wide range of topics that span from ancient history to the contemporary world and beyond. To choose the best topic for your essay, it’s important to brainstorm several ideas and then narrow them down until you find your final topic. Here are some tips for brainstorming IB History topics for your essay.

1. Pick an Interesting Area

When selecting an area for your IB History topic, pick something that interests you. You will be researching this subject in depth, so it helps to pick something that catches your eye. Think about the topics that most pique your curiosity and consider these when narrowing down your choices.

2. Select a Time Period

Before you start brainstorming specific topics, it’s important to select a time period. This will help you to focus on topics within the scope of your essay. The IB History syllabus includes comprehensive studies of events, people, and societies from prehistory to the present day. Consider which time period you would like to focus on and use this to guide your research.

3. Brainstorm Ideas

Now that you have identified a broad area of research and a specific time period, it’s time to brainstorm some potential topics. Start by making a list of ideas and then narrow it down by considering which ones you think would make for compelling research. Consider topics related to events, people, or societies within the chosen time period. You can also look for potential connections between topics for added interest.

4. Research Specific Topics

Once you have narrowed down your list of potential topics, start researching each one. Try to find out as much information as you can about each topic, including background information and any relevant primary sources. This will help you decide which topic you would like to develop further and ultimately write your essay on.

5. Review the IB Assessment Criteria

Finally, before you make your final decision, take some time to review the IB Assessment Criteria. Understand what the components of the assessment are and make sure that your chosen topic is suitable. This will help ensure that you are on the right track early on and can dedicate more time to researching and writing the essay itself.

Developing Your Topic

Finding the right topic for your IB history extended essay is an important step. After brainstorming relevant and engaging topics, you’ll need to narrow your choices down to one final topic. This process can take some time and effort, but it’s well worth the effort. Here are a few tips for selecting the perfect topic:

• Think carefully about your passion and interests. Consider what topics you find the most interesting and engaging, and then research those topics more deeply. By selecting a topic that you have a real connection to, you are more likely to stay motivated and enjoy the writing process.
• Conduct a thorough research. Explore each of your suggested topics in greater depth. Gather as much information as possible and narrow your focus to a single topic.
• Identify an original angle. While it can be tempting to choose a broad or popular topic, try to choose something unique and specific that sets you apart from other students. Create a thesis statement that will ensure that your essay provides insight into the subject matter.

By using these guidelines and following the step-by-step process, you can select a topic for your IB history extended essay that you find interesting and engaging. When you have settled on a topic, you can begin conducting research and writing your essay.

Researching the Topic

Research is an essential part of writing your IB History Extended Essay. Gathering reliable sources that are relevant to your topic is the first step towards writing a successful essay.

There are a variety of sources you can use when researching your topic. Some good places to start include online databases, libraries, textbooks, and journals. It is important to use sources that are reliable and accurate, so be sure to double-check who the authors are and any associated credentials.

When researching, make sure to keep track of where you are gathering your information from. This will help you later when you are citing your sources in the essay. You should also take notes as you go along, as this will help you to remember which sources you used for each particular piece of information.

In addition to traditional sources, there are a number of other methods you can use to research your topic. Interviews, surveys, and field observations are just a few ways you can gather additional information. As always, make sure to record your sources and check for reliability.

As you do your research, be sure to pay attention to any opposing views or counterarguments. Understanding different perspectives can help you develop a more balanced and nuanced argument in your essay.

Finally, you should aim to draw connections between all your sources. Identifying patterns and themes can help you find evidence to support your thesis and provide an overall structure for your essay.

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Writing the Essay

Writing your extended essay on IB History is an exciting challenge, but it can be daunting. However, with some careful preparation and organization, you can craft a powerful, persuasive argument that will get you the grade you’re looking for.

Formulating an Argument

When writing an extended essay, it’s important to make sure that you’re arguing for a clear point of view. Start by doing research into your topic area and brainstorming ideas about what you want to say. Once you have done this, you can begin to form a thesis statement and outline the structure of your essay. Remember to keep it focused, so that you can make your point in a concise and compelling way.

Organizing Your Thoughts

Organizing your thoughts in advance is key when writing an extended essay. When you have multiple sources to consult and various points to consider, it can be easy to get sidetracked. To keep yourself on track, start by creating a timeline and a plan. Break the task down into manageable steps and set deadlines for each one. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t miss anything important.

Creating a Powerful Introduction, Body Sections and Conclusion

Now you’re ready to start writing. The introduction should set the stage for the rest of your essay, giving background and context and introducing the main points you will be discussing. The body sections should each make a compelling case for your argument, supported by facts and examples from your research. Finally, the conclusion should summarize the main points of your essay in a concise and effective manner.

Overall, if you take the time to plan and organize your essay before you begin writing, you’ll be setting yourself up for success. By taking this approach, you will be able to create a coherent and persuasive essay that will impress your reader.

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Editing and Revising Your Essay

Writing an extended essay for IB History can be a challenge, especially when it comes to the editing and revising process. Fortunately, with some careful planning and organization, you can make this step of the process much easier.

The first step in the editing and revising process is proofreading. This involves making sure that your essay is free from any errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. It’s important to take your time when doing this, as even the smallest mistake can detract from your overall grade. Once you’ve finished proofreading, the next step is to check for coherence. This involves ensuring that the ideas in your essay are logically connected and flow together. If your essay jumps around too much, it can be difficult for readers to follow your ideas.

Another useful tip is to consult with experts or mentors who may have experience writing essays in the same field. They can often provide valuable feedback and advice that can help you improve your essay. Additionally, it’s helpful to read your essay aloud, or have someone else read it out loud, as this can help you identify any awkward phrasing or unclear sentences.

Overall, editing and revising your extended essay for IB History can be daunting, but with some careful planning and organization, it doesn’t have to be! So take your time, proofread thoroughly, and don’t forget to consult with experts or mentors if you need feedback.

Writing an IB History Extended Essay doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right amount of preparation and research, you can craft an essay that will be well-received by your teachers and peers.

This guide has offered a comprehensive overview on how to go about writing a successful extended essay, from brainstorming topics to researching, writing and editing. Additionally, resources such as examples of excellent essays, common mistakes to avoid, and FAQs were provided to give readers a further understanding of the expectations of a successful Extended Essay.

Take the time to read through this guide and make sure you are inline with all the guidelines, as they are there to help you produce a high quality essay. Good luck!

• Last Edit 11 May 2023

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Nick's article, featured in Routledge's " Entrepreneurship in Central and Eastern Europe: Development through Internationalization ," highlights his sharp insights and unwavering dedication to advancing the educational landscape. Inspired by his personal motto, "Make education better," Nick's mission is to streamline students' lives and foster efficient learning. His inventive ideas and leadership have contributed to the transformation of numerous educational experiences, distinguishing him as a true innovator in his field.

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100 IB Extended Essay Topic Ideas!

One of the biggest keys to the Extended Essay is choosing which subject you want to write your work in and developing that crucial research question. Read on to find inspiration for topics across a wide range of subjects.

Extended Essay: The Love/Hate aspect of the IB

One of the biggest keys to the Extended Essay is choosing which subject you want to write your work in and developing that crucial research question. Annoyingly, coming up with that idea and research question can be the toughest part of the entire process. Writing 4,000 words about something you are interested in is a big ask and it often feels impossible to narrow down your thoughts. To make everything super clear, here are 100 Extended Essay Topics for you to draw inspiration from! Use these as a springboard to create your own research question !

Get Support from A Top Tutor Today

At Lanterna we have over 300 tutors who smashed their Extended Essay. They know exactly how to get an A in your EE and can give you tips and tricks on how you can do the same. What are you waiting for? Get your own tutor today !

How to Begin Your IB Extended Essay

To make everything super clear, here are 100 Extended Essay Topics for you to draw inspiration from! Use these as a springboard to  create your own research question !

Get Support from a Top Tutor Today

At Lanterna, we have over 300 tutors who smashed their Extended Essay. They know exactly how to get an A in your EE and can give you tips and tricks on how you can do the same. What are you waiting for? Get your own tutor today!

10 Steps to Writing an Extended Essay

Before we look at specific topics for your essay, let’s recap the 10-steps you’ll need to follow to complete your extended essay.

1. Define the Topic and Draft the Research Question

2. Create a Timeline

3. Identify and gather Sources

4. Set Deadlines

5. Plan the structure according to the total word count

6. Evaluate

7. independent Research

8. Write the extended essay draft

10. Present

By following the steps above, you should be able to produce a logical and coherent rationale to follow when writing the extended essay for your IB diploma programme.

By starting with a solid research question, you’ll be able to put an extended essay of global significance together, from the research and writing process all the way through to your final submission with a favourable extended essay grade.

Below, we’re sharing 10 topics across 10 subjects to inspire your next IB extended essay.

1. How the change of habitat affects an X organism?

2. How does climate affect the growth of X plant?

3. Can photosynthesis take place without sunlight?

4. What is the effect of age and gender on the photoreceptor cells in the human retina?

5. How is climate change impacting the appearance of coral reefs?

6. An evaluation of how  antioxidants  work in our bodies?

7. Does hand sanitizer, hand soap or antibacterial wipes have the greatest ability to inhibit the growth of E. Coli?

8. To what extent do live cultures in yogurts/milk/other dairy products reduce the concentration of lactose present over the course of a 2 hour incubation period at x°C?

9. What is the relationship between  population density  between X and population size of X?

10. What is the relationship between indoleacetic acid, a growth hormone, and the growth of X (a crop)?

11. How does human influence impact an aquatic ecosystem?

12. How can one organize a pollution check along a X canal in X?

13. What is the effect of the increased ecological footprint in the  Amazon ?

14. What are the forest and woodland restoration in Siberia, Russia and which one is most effective?

15. How does human interference cause ecological imbalances in an X city/country/continent?

16. What is the impact of urban development on the  bee population  in X city?

17. What are the differences in the conversation efforts in Yosemite National Park (California, USA) and the Lake District National Park (UK)?

18. To what extent have healthcare policies in X country influenced their human population curve?

19. How have changes in environmental systems influenced the value system of X country?

20. How has X landfill site affected the surrounding terrestrial ecosystem?

21. What is the profitability of  airline companies ?

22. How does unemployment affect the market?

23. Why did X recession occur?

24. How did the financial Policy affect the economy in X?

25. How effective are government policies in reducing overconsumption of alcohol (specifically hard liquor)?

26. To what extent are public buses and subways substitute goods in a country?

27. How did the tax reform in country x affect its growth and development? (many countries to choose from)

28. To what extent was weak government policy responsible for the Latin American financial crisis of 1997?

29. How effective is the  Big Mac Index  in measuring purchasing power parity?

30. To what extent would the UK suffer from leaving the European Customs Union if Brexit happens?

31. Is there an association between viewing violence on television and the display of violent acts?

32. What motivational climate should a coach employ in order to achieve optimal performance in athletes?

33. How does  X hormone affect human behavior ?

34. Compare theories explaining altruism in human behaviour

35. Discuss short-term and long-term consequences of exposure to violence

36. Why do relationships change or end?

37. Discuss how  social variables (poverty, parenting, educational environment) may the affect cognitive environment.

38. To what extent do mirror neurons play a role in empathy? (2014)

39. To what extent does Mindfulness help people cope with General Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

40. To what extent is drug therapy effective in the treatment of bipolar disorder?

41. Does the British Parliamentary reforms act of 1832 deserve its title as the great reform act?

42. To what extent are there similarities in Hitler and Mussolini’s Rise to Power?

43. To what extent did Mao’s tackle the problems which he faced?

44. Was Tsar Alexander II of Russia reforms a success or failure?

45. To what extent was the bombing of Dresden in 1945 justifiable?

46. To what extent can  Sweden be considered neutral during WWII ?

47. The impact of structural economic weakness on the collapse of the Soviet Union.

48. How were women treated differently in 1920s and 1950s Great Britain?

49. Why did Israel win the  Six Day War  of 1967?

50. What role did economics play in the unification of Germany from 1834 to 1871?

English Literature

51. What are the Compare and Contrast Jane Austen Books?

52. How does Joseph Conrad’s portray Racism in A Heart of Darkness?

53. How does Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman critique today’s capitalist society? The American Dream?

54. To what extent does Chris McCandless in Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild escape familial influence?

55. What are the similarities and differences between J.K. Rowling’s characterization of Severus Snape in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows?

56. How does Yaa Gyasi use structure in her novel Homegoing to portray the evolution of time?

57. What is the impact of the social context on Holden Caufield and Huckleberry Finn?

58. How does Sylvia Path’s use of Inanimate objects in Bell Jar?

59. How is the empowerment of Feminine portrayed in the Lord of the Rings?

60. Compare the political rhetoric as used in the inaugural addresses of George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump.

61. The design, construction and calibration of an apparatus for measuring lipid concentration in milk.

62. What is the effect of a change in the optimal lift on the horizontal gliding distance of an aircraft?

63. How does the sugar concentration affect the refractive index of water?

64. How does temperature affect the viscosity of X juice/soda?

65. Is the relationship between temperature and conductivity and insulators and conductors?

66. What is the Oberth Effect?

67. What is the temperature dependence of work performed on an AA battery?

68. How can the rotational frequency of a fan driven by a flame measure distance?

69. Do wine bottles of different shapes behave as Helmholtz resonators?

70. How does the diameter of a wheel affect stability in different weather conditions?

71. What factors influence the location of industries in country/city X?

72. An investigation into the significance of preserving the quality of water in a continent/country/city?

73. An investigation into the degree to which City X can be considered a Sustainable City/Community.

74. To what extent is Biodiversity being managed successfully in city X?

75. To what extent does the education and employment of women affect Country x’s fertility rate?

76. To what extent do gender, educational attainment, and working parameters influence obesity risk?

77. To what extent has urban development affected human thermal comfort levels in Country/city x (a country/city that has developed in a rapid rate over the past decades)?

78. To what extent is the Company x corporate waste management program effective, demonstrating environmental sustainability?

79. To what extent is biodiversity being managed successfully at National Park X?

80. What types of urban design encourage high rates of vandalism in X neighbourhoods?

81. The kinetics of Enzymatic Reactions.

82. How do Iron Intake Diets differ in X country?

83. What are the different factors that affect the iodine values in cooking oils?

84. What is the effect of standing time and temperate on the acid content in X juice or soda?

85. Can caffeine in tea or coffee be reduced?

86. What is the effect of temperature on the souring of milk?

87. What are the sources of error in calorimetry?

88. Does brushing your teeth affect the pH in your mouth after eating?

89. How does changing the concentration of the reagents affect the formation and spacing between Liesehang rings in the reaction between X chloride and X when conducted in a test tube?

90. What effect does the coating of aspirin tablets have on the hydrolysis of aspirin?

Social and Cultural Anthropology

91. How clothing relates to the cultural anthropology of X culture.

92. The extent to which social media networks affect different societies.

93. The relationship between ritual, myths and faith in an X society.

94. The history of rituals in X culture.

95. How different marriage rituals inform the cultural anthropology of X culture.

96. Climate change and its impact on the evolution of different creatures on the planet.

97. Understanding the social and cultural anthropology of the supernatural in X culture.

98. An analysis of body modification in relation to social and cultural anthropology.

100. Chaste systems and social ranks in societies.

There are so many class subjects that can form the basis of your extended essay, including these popular six subjects:

– Information technology

– Computer science

– Health science

– World studies

– Visual arts

– Business management

Extended essays are a great way to improve your writing skills in academic writing. Essays of a high standard that demonstrate critical thinking and in depth analysis can be submitted to academic journals. These have the potential to reach the global society.

Start Writing Your Extended Essay Topic

We hope this gave you some great inspiration for the variation of topics available for your Extended Essay . The research question you select is what will carry you through the entire process, so be sure to choose wisely!

Remember, if you are looking for more help with your Extended Essay, make sure to check out our guide which will tell you exactly how to plan, structure, research and write your Extended Essay!

Grab Free Extended Essay Resources!

No matter the subject groups in your diploma program, we’re here to help all of our IB students. Whether you’re writing about social and cultural anthropology, business management, design technology, or scientific methods for your IB diploma, Lanterna has you covered.

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Extended Essay Topics: 50+ Examples for Subject in EE

by  Antony W

July 30, 2022

This is the complete list of Extended Essay topics on different EE subject areas. We’ve packed this guide with as many topic ideas as possible.

So if you’re just getting started with the IB extended essay assignment and you’re already stuck on topic selection, this post might help you to get unstuck.

What is an Extended Essay?

Abbreviated as EE, the Extended Essay is a required component of the IB Diploma Program for all students, regardless of the disciplines they are studying.

The objective of the Extended Essay is to offer students the chance to conduct research on a topic of their choice and demonstrate knowledge and reading beyond the classroom curriculum. The essay also provides students with the opportunity to develop abilities necessary for researching and writing in advanced learning institutions.

Students often begin working on their essay during the second term of their first year of the IB Diploma Program. They will require a manager (one of the teachers at their school) with whom they will meet on a regular basis to help them outline their research questions and lead them through the writing process.

The IB diploma program allows you to prepare and submit one draft to the supervisor for input, followed by a second, final draft. As for the length of the extended essay, you want to make sure the assignment doesn’t exceed 4,000 words .

Getting Extended Essay Help

Owing to the very nature of the IB program, searching for an extended essay topic and getting the task completed can be an involving task. If you feel like the whole process would end up rather overwhelming, you can take advantage of our extended essay writing service and we’ll help you get the task done. 

For just $19.09/page, you can get the professional writing help and advice required to score a 34 in your Extended Essay. The pricing is standard regardless of the topic you would like to work on.

Extended Essay Topics

If you’re confident that you can write an extended essay yourself, and you should, you need to start with selecting the right topic for the assignment. Here are some topic ideas to get you started: 

1. English Extended Essay Topics

The following are some of the best examples of topic ideas to consider if you choose to write an Extended Essay in the English subject.

• How the heroic couplets of the neoclassical period differed from those of the romantic period, and why classical poetry had so many rules.
• How many different styles of poetry can we observe from the English Renaissance through modernism and postmodernism?
• Does colonialism have an effect on modern poetry and the manner in which it evolves during the many eras of colonial rule?
• Why has euphemism been so prominent in the English language for so long and how does this affect the lexicon and structure of the language?
• Can we argue that, unlike other languages of the globe, English is a language of conventions and traditions with no hard and fast rules?
• What function does slang play in the English language, and how are slang terms now preserved in official and academic dictionaries?
• What are the primary causes of the gradual shift in the spelling of English words through time?
• Impact of globalization on the evolution of the English language as it becomes the universal language.

We encourage you to read more about English Extended Essay for further insights.

2. Biology Extended Essay Topics

• How do age and gender influence the photoreceptor cells in the human retina?
• What effects does climate change have on the appearance of coral reefs?
• An analysis of how antioxidants function in the human body?
• Which of hand sanitizer, hand soap, or antibacterial wipes inhibits the development of E. coli the most effectively?
• How does population density between X and X’s population size relate?
• What is the link between the growth hormone indoleacetic acid and the growth of X?

You can read more about Biology EE here.

3. Business Management Extended Essay Topics

We put together an in-depth guide on IB Business Management EE to give you more insight about the subject.

In addition to teaching you exactly how to write an EE in this subject, the post includes some interesting topic ideas as well as their respective research questions.

Remember to check it out to learn more.

4. Chemistry Extended Essay Topics

• What effect does acid rain have on the trees, plants, and public gardens in your neighborhood?
• Analyze the chemical composition of various types of lava and magma rocks from across the world.
• What kinds of chemical components are responsible for the majority of food allergies?
• Examine the chemistry of MDMA and other “nightclub” or designer drugs in users of various ages.
• Examine how chemical experiments and the knowledge gained from them have altered the globe.
• How has the usage of fluoride in the community’s water supply benefited and harmed the community?
• What chemical difference does choosing organic foods vs pesticide-treated foods have on our bodies?
• What impact have big cosmetics manufacturers made on our contemporary understanding of chemistry?
• What type of chemistry is involved in making generic medications cheaper than brand-name pharmaceuticals?

You can read more about Chemistry Extended Essay in this post.

5. Computer Science Extended Essay Topics

• In what way are support vector machines more accurate in predicting ATP tennis matches than artificial neural networks?
• To what extent are Java-generated pseudo-random numbers more predictable than C#-generated numbers?
• How much more effectively does MP3 encoding reduce quality loss and file size than OGG in terms of algorithmic efficiency and encoded file quality?
• How well does the binary search algorithm locate specific values among variable-sized data sets?
• How much more efficient is Depth First Search than Breadth First Search for path finding in artificial intelligence and robot motion planning?
• To what degree is hashing a more appropriate and efficient method than binary search for locating specific values in different-sized data sets?
• How do Password Length and Character Variation Influence the Entropy of a Password?
• How much more space-efficient is the AES symmetric encryption method compared to the Blowfish symmetric encryption technique when encrypting data of varied sizes and types?

6. Economics Extended Essay Topics

• What is the connection between unemployment and economic contraction?
• Is Alcohol Consumption Regulation Beneficial to the Stock Market?
• Trucking Companies and the Effects of Sanctions and Trade Embargoes
• Analysis of the Effects of Increasing Taxes on Multinational Corporations and Religious Organizations
• What Negative Effects Will a “Hard” Brexit Have on Scotland and Wales?
• How Will the Substitution of Fossil Fuels with Solar Power Affect the Economies of Middle Eastern Nations?
• In Sub-Saharan Africa, deforestation and man-made disasters are the leading causes of poverty.

We’ve written an in-depth guide on Economics Extended Essay, and we encourage you to check it out to learn more about the subject.

7. Environmental Systems and Societies EE Topics

The following are some interesting topics on the Environmental Systems and Societies. The X is a variable, which can be a name of any city or country you’d wish to investigate in your ESS.

• What forest and woodland restoration strategies exist in Siberia, Russia, and one is the most effective?
• How can human meddling in X city/country/continent produce ecological imbalances?
• What effect does urbanization have on the bee population in X city?
• What are the distinctions between Yosemite National Park (California, USA) and Lake District National Park (United Kingdom) in terms of dialogue efforts?
• How much have healthcare policies in nation X affected its human population curve?
• What impact has X’s landfill had on the surrounding terrestrial ecosystem?

You can read our ESS guide to learn more about this subject before you start working on your Extended Essay assignment.

8. Film Extended Essay Topics  

• Relationship between IMDB ratings and several national and international film honors
• The current transformation of masculinity as represented in Fight Club
• Varieties of timeline modification methods in cinematography
• Sci-fi film portrayals of scientists and the scientific method are grossly inaccurate.
• Moving camera – inventive approaches (such as those utilized in The Matrix or Guy Ritchie’s film)
• How can filmic approaches depict the evolution of Disney princesses from 1937 to 2012?
• How are transgender characters portrayed in two films from distinct periods?

9. Geography Extended Essay Topics

• What socioeconomic and urban design elements contribute to high vandalism rates in Eindhoven’s neighborhoods?
• How does the quality of life of Filipina Foreign Domestic Workers in Downtown Singapore compare to that of Filipinas in the Philippines?
• An inquiry examining whether Singapore qualifies as a sustainable city
• To what degree do migratory patterns and motivations in the northern area of Thailand correspond to predicted migration movements in an LDC?
• Comparative analysis of the provision of public services in Warsaw’s districts

Check out our complete guide on Geography EE to learn more about the subject. Make sure you check the assessment criteria part, so you can write the kind of an EE that earns you top grades – if not a 34.

10. Global Politics EE

• The legitimacy of the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq; to what extent was the invasion justified? (2021)
• How media depictions and government information can diverge
• How the success of a political party in one nation may affect the results in another.
• Comparing the influence of global political trends on two countries reveals contrasting results.
• The effect of a single crisis on the political ties between two countries

We’ve put together a more comprehensive guide on Global Politics Extended Essay . So we encourage you to check that out to learn more.

11. History Extended Essay

• The consequences of dropping nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki
• You can investigate the economic, ethnic, social, and even environmental consequences of conflict diamonds.
• The evolution of military technology during the American Civil War
• The post-apartheid work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Southwest Africa
• The rise and collapse of the Ottoman Empire and its economic influence

You can get more topic ideas on this subject from this post .

12. Math Extended Essay

• How can mathematics be used to determine the ideal distance from the try line for positioning the ball for a rugby union conversion kick?
• In the sliding tile problem, what is the graph structure of m x n?
• How long does it take to travel around the whole Singapore MRT network? (2015)
• Modeling mathematics – An examination of the Richardson arms race model (2020)
• Real-world applications of a study of differential equations of the second order
• A mathematical examination of shock absorbers’ damped harmonic motion

Our IB Math EE guide has more insights worth checking out. So we recommend going through the guide before you start writing an extended essay on this subject.

13. Physics Extended Essay Ideas  

• How may the design of an airplane’s wings affect its aerodynamic performance?
• Why is it required for the wing of an aircraft to have an ‘angle of attack’? Is it impossible for the aircraft to behave the same without the angle of attack?
• If landing gears are a cause of drag during flight, how is a Cessna able to deliver a sufficient amount of force to overcome drag?

14. Psychology EE Ideas  

• What do we know about the connection between stress and bodily disease, and can we utilize this information to manage stress?
• To what degree can psychology offer plausible explanations for altruistic behavior?
• Which strategies are most effective in assisting autistic youngsters in improving their everyday functioning?
• The difficulty of identifying particular genetic variables that might indicate an autism risk
• How well biological (or sociocultural) variables explain the origin of homosexuality.
• To what degree does parental discipline affect the temperament of their children?
• Are Montessori schools, which utilize a humanistic approach to education, also consistent with cognitive theory?

We’ve put together a complete guide on Physics Extended Essay. So, check that out to learn more about the subject. 

15. Visual Arts

• What role did national themes have in the creative activity of Russian avant-garde artists associated with the Knave of Diamonds society?
• How did men and women’s clothes communicate National Socialist ideals?
• How does Yinka Shonibare’s work represent the evolving importance of African art in a global society?
• What are the origins of Romanesque architecture in Arles?
• Are there pop art elements in the design of Pakistani trucks?

Check out this post to learn more about the topic. 

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.

Tips for writing an EE in History

1. Choose an interesting, unique topic

The first step to any successful Extended Essay (EE) is choosing a good topic. This can actually be one of the most challenging parts of the process! I recommend choosing a topic that, first and foremost, interests you . You’ll be exploring this topic for over a year, so the best way to remain motivated is to research something you actually want to research.

Also choose a topic that isn’t overdone. Your examiner is human, so it’s best to keep them engaged and excited about your topic by writing about an area of history that, perhaps, is a little more obscure. At the same time, make sure it isn’t so obscure that you can’t find many good sources about it. It’s a balancing act. 

Personally, I wrote my History EE about how the March First independence uprisings of 1919 impacted Japanese colonial policies in Korea until 1941 . This topic interested me, was unique, and had ample resources, checking off all of the recommendations! 

2. Use a broad range of sources

Now that you’ve chosen a topic, it’s time to start researching. When you compile resources, try to get a diverse mixture of primary and secondary sources. 

Primary sources are “immediate, first-hand accounts of a topic, from people who had a direct connection with it”; they may include newspaper articles, interviews, photographs, and more. 

Secondary sources are usually produced later on, and talk about a historical event retrospectively and with a layer of “interpretation and analysis”. A prominent historian’s book, for example, is a good secondary source. (Pro tip: if you struggle to find primary sources, many secondary sources will reference or excerpt primary sources, so you can find a lot of them from there!) 

Don’t use textbooks or Wikipedia, as these are considered tertiary sources. Dig a little deeper! 

It’s also important to have a diverse range of sources. In my case, since I was looking at Japan’s colonial policies in Korea, I consulted both Japanese and Korean sources to look at “both sides” of history. By using many different sources, you will show a deeper understanding of your chosen topic. 

3. Have a thesis

Okay, this one seems pretty obvious, but it’s actually easy to forget to have a thesis after so much researching and planning. Remember: you aren’t writing a history report, you’re writing a history essay. A good IB History teacher will constantly wisely remind you: don’t write a narrative. Don’t simply recount the events that happened; instead, say something about the events. After doing all your research and preparation, think about what argument you’ll be developing throughout your essay. 

4. Focus on structure

The EE is 4000 words long, so organization is key if you want to get your points across effectively. I recommend choosing a few key areas within your topic that you want to address. Turn these areas into your “chapters” to give your essay a coherent structure. Here’s an example from my History EE’s table of contents: 

As you can see, I divided up my essay into 4 main chapters with certain subsections. By structuring my EE in this way, my goal was to make it easier for the reader to follow the essay. I recommend creating a table of contents page before you even start your EE, as this will allow you to follow a set structure as you write, improving your organization. 

5. Address multiple perspectives

If you’re aiming to achieve a high mark on your History EE, try to integrate multiple different perspectives into your essay. This shows that your arguments are nuanced and you’ve taken into account contrasting viewpoints before arriving at your conclusion. For example, if you’re arguing that economics was the primary cause of World War I, you should also consider the political and social situation in Europe at the time. But don’t leave it at that! After addressing the counterarguments, you should then discuss why your main thesis statement still stands and is the strongest argument. This will actually make your essay more persuasive. 

These are just some of the tips you should keep in mind as you approach your History EE. While the EE may feel daunting and stressful at times (trust me, I’ve been there), if you think of it as an opportunity to study and write about anything you want to, it can actually become a fun and engaging process. Good luck with your EE! 

Read Tiffany’s overview of the Extended Essay here .

Read Bryan, Nikki, Bianca, and Victoria’s experiences of the EE here .

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IB Extended Essay: 250+ Ideas and Guide

Charles Whitehouse

What is the IB Extended Essay?

The Extended Essay , along with the Creativity, Activity, Service component and Theory of Knowledge , forms an integral part of the IB Diploma Programme . It offers IB high school students an opportunity to explore a topic of personal interest in-depth, develop research and writing skills, and experience the rigours of academic investigation.

One of the distinguishing features of the IB Extended Essay is its length. It requires students to write a substantial essay of up to 4,000 words, which is equivalent to about 16-20 pages. This allows students to delve into their chosen subject matter and demonstrate their ability to engage with complex ideas.

Over 88,000 IBDP students across the globe undertook the Extended Essay in 2022 as part of their IB Diploma requirements. It has been lauded as an effective preparation for university-level research and writing, helping students develop critical thinking, analytical, and independent research skills.

The Extended Essay is an opportunity for students to apply the knowledge and skills gained from their chosen subjects in a multidisciplinary manner. It encourages interdisciplinary exploration, enabling students to connect different areas of knowledge and develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

In order to successfully complete the Extended Essay, students must adhere to a structured process that includes selecting a research question, conducting thorough research, organising their findings, and presenting their analysis and conclusions in a coherent manner. By undertaking the IB Extended Essay, students not only enhance their academic skills but also develop essential skills such as time management, critical thinking, and independent inquiry.

How to Choose Your Extended Essay Research Question?

Choosing a research question for your IB Extended Essay is a crucial step that sets the direction and scope of your investigation. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when selecting your research question:

1. Personal Interest: Choose a topic that genuinely interests you. Passion for the subject matter will fuel your motivation and dedication throughout the research process.

2. Feasibility: Ensure that your research question is manageable within the constraints of the Extended Essay. Consider the availability of resources, time required for research and analysis, and the scope of the topic.

3. Specificity: Formulate a research question that is focused and specific. A broad question may lead to a lack of depth in your analysis, while a narrow question may limit the availability of relevant sources and data.

4. Relevance: Select a research question that is relevant to the subject you are investigating. It should align with the objectives and content of the chosen subject area.

5. Novelty: Aim for a research question that offers a unique perspective or contributes to existing knowledge. Originality in your approach and analysis can make your Extended Essay stand out.

6. Consultation: Seek guidance from your teachers, mentors, or IB tutors . They can provide valuable insights and help you refine your research question.

Remember that your research question will shape the entire trajectory of your Extended Essay, so take the time to carefully consider and refine it before proceeding with your research.

Now, let's explore a variety of ideas for each subject, providing you with a diverse range of potential topics to consider for your IB Extended Essay.

Top 10 IB Extended Essay Subjects in 2022

Extended Essay Ideas for Each Subject

1. How Do Fibonacci Sequences Apply in Real World Scenarios?

2. Do Fractals Have a Role in Modelling Weather Patterns?

3. Is the Monty Hall Problem Really Counter-Intuitive? A Statistical Analysis.

4. To What Extent Does the Golden Ratio Appear in Architecture?

5. How Does Bayesian Probability Predict Election Outcomes?

6. The Role of Game Theory in the Cold War: A Mathematical Perspective.

7. Can Catastrophe Theory Model Stock Market Crashes?

8. How Effective are Neural Networks in Predicting Future Events?

9. A Study of the Mathematical Strategies Employed in Chess.

10. Comparing the Accuracy of Different Numerical Methods for Solving Differential Equations.

11. Is Bitcoin's Value Deterministic or Stochastic?

12. How Does Voronoi Diagram Optimize Emergency Service Locations?

13. Using the Markov Chain to Predict Weather Patterns.

14. To What Extent is RSA Encryption Secure?

15. How Does Linear Algebra Apply in Computer Graphics?

16. An Investigation into the Math Behind Google's PageRank Algorithm.

17. How Effective is the Math Behind Machine Learning Algorithms?

18. Exploring the Effect of Maths in Optimising Traffic Flow.

19. Are There Mathematical Patterns in Successful Lottery Numbers?

20. How Efficiently Can Prime Numbers Be Generated?

Have a look at our comprehensive set of IB Study Notes and IB Practice Questions , developed by expert IB teachers and examiners!

English Literature

1. The Role of Feminism in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.

2. A Study of Racial Identity in Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye.

3. Is Hamlet Truly Mad or Just Pretending? An Analysis.

4. The Impact of Post-Colonialism in Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart.

5. How Does Orwell Use Language to Depict Dystopia in 1984?

6. The Influence of Gothic Elements in Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights.

7. The Depiction of Mental Illness in Sylvia Plath's The Bell Jar.

8. The Role of Nature in William Wordsworth's Romantic Poetry.

9. The Effect of Social Hierarchy in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby.

10. How Does Harper Lee Convey Themes of Racial Injustice in To Kill a Mockingbird?

11. Exploring Gender Stereotypes in George Eliot's Middlemarch.

12. The Role of Supernatural in Shakespeare's Macbeth.

13. Exploring the Influence of Marxism in George Orwell's Animal Farm.

14. A Study of Homosexuality in Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray.

15. How Does Virginia Woolf Explore Feminism in Mrs Dalloway?

16. The Depiction of War in Erich Maria Remarque's All Quiet on the Western Front.

17. The Role of the American Dream in Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman.

18. The Use of Symbolism in Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter.

19. A Study of Isolation in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.

20. The Impact of Social Class in Charles Dickens' Great Expectations.

1. How Do Different pH Levels Affect the Activity of Enzymes in Yeast?

2. Investigating the Effects of Light Intensity on the Rate of Photosynthesis.

3. How Does Temperature Affect the Germination of Seeds?

4. Impact of Varying Salinity Levels on Brine Shrimp Survival Rates.

5. The Role of Epigenetics in Gene Expression: Case Study on Identical Twins.

6. To What Extent Do Different Antibiotics Inhibit Bacterial Growth?

7. How Does Caffeine Affect the Heart Rate of Daphnia?

8. An Investigation into the Impact of Pollution on Local Plant Diversity.

9. The Impact of Various Drugs on the Pulsation Rate of Lumbriculus variegatus.

10. Comparing the Efficacy of Natural Vs. Synthetic Pesticides on Plant Growth.

11. The Role of Gut Microbiota in Obesity: A Literature Review.

12. Does the Level of Vitamin C in Oranges Change Over Time?

13. How Do Different Types of Soil Affect Earthworm Activity?

14. Investigating the Correlation Between Altitude and Plant Biodiversity.

15. Analysis of Microplastic Concentration in Local Freshwater Bodies.

16. Impact of Noise Pollution on Birdsong: A Case Study.

17. A Comparison of Antibacterial Properties in Manuka Honey Vs. Regular Honey.

18. The Effect of Different Light Wavelengths on the Growth of Pea Plants.

19. How Does Exercise Intensity Impact Blood Glucose Levels?

20. Is There a Correlation Between Water pH and Aquatic Life Diversity?

1. How Does Temperature Affect the Rate of Reaction in the Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide?

2. Investigating the Effectiveness of Different Antacids on Stomach Acid.

3. A Comparative Study on the Vitamin C Concentration in Different Citrus Fruits.

4. How Does Cooking Time Affect the Vitamin C Levels in Vegetables?

5. To What Extent Does Enzyme Concentration Affect the Fermentation of Yeast?

6. Analysis of Caffeine Content in Different Types of Tea .

7. The Effect of Different Factors on the Corrosion of Iron.

8. How Does the Concentration of Sodium Chloride Affect the Electrolysis of Water?

9. Comparing the Energy Output of Different Biofuels.

10. The Effect of Temperature on the Crystal Size in the Recrystallisation Process.

11. Comparing the Acidities of Natural and Processed Foods.

12. Investigating the Effect of Various Catalysts on the Rate of Hydrogen Peroxide Decomposition.

13. Synthesis of Aspirin: A Study on the Purity of the Product.

14. Comparing the Efficiency of Different Types of Solar Panels.

15. Investigating the Impact of Carbonation on pH Levels in Various Soft Drinks.

16. The Effect of Chelating Agents on the Solubility of Metal Ions.

17. A Study on the Photodegradation of Dyes Using Titanium Dioxide.

18. How Do Different Sugar Types Affect Fermentation Rates in Yeast?

19. Analysis of Water Hardness in Various Local Water Supplies.

20. Investigating the Efficacy of Different Water Filtration Methods in Removing Heavy Metals.

1. Investigating the Relationship Between the Drop Height and Crater Size in a Simulated Impact.

2. How Does the Angle of Incidence Affect the Efficiency of a Solar Panel?

3. Analysing the Relationship Between the Length of a Pendulum and Its Period.

4. To What Extent Does the Mass of a Projectile Affect Its Range?

5. Investigating the Factors Affecting the Drag Force on a Falling Object.

6. A Study on the Efficiency of Different Insulating Materials in Reducing Heat Loss.

7. How Does the Depth of Water Affect Wave Speed?

8. The Relationship Between the Angle of Release and the Distance Traveled by a Trebuchet.

9. Investigating the Effect of Surface Area on Terminal Velocity.

10. How Does the Thickness of a Wire Affect Its Electrical Resistance?

11. The Impact of Varying Air Pressure on the Lift Force of an Airfoil.

12. Analysing the Relationship Between the Magnitude of an Earthquake and the Distance from the Epicentre.

13. Investigating the Factors Affecting the Speed of Sound in Different Media.

14. How Does the Concentration of a Solution Affect Its Refractive Index?

15. The Effect of Various Materials on the Absorption of Radiation.

16. A Study on the Efficiency of Wind Turbines at Different Wind Speeds.

17. Investigating the Effect of Temperature on the Viscosity of Liquids.

18. How Does the Type of Material Affect the Transmission of Sound Waves?

19. The Relationship Between the Angle of a Ramp and the Frictional Force Acting on an Object.

20. A Study on the Factors Affecting the Strength of Electromagnets.

1. The Impact of Social Media on Teenagers' Mental Health: A Cross-Cultural Study.

2. Investigating the Role of Parenting Styles in Child Development.

3. The Effect of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Performance.

4. How Does Classical Conditioning Apply in Advertising Strategies?

5. The Impact of Colour on Consumer Behaviour: A Study in Retail Settings.

6. The Role of Social Support in Coping with Stress.

7. To What Extent Does Personality Influence Career Success?

8. Investigating the Effect of Group Dynamics on Decision Making.

9. The Impact of Music on Cognitive Task Performance.

10. A Study on the Effectiveness of Different Techniques for Reducing Test Anxiety.

11. The Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Academic Performance.

12. Analysing the Impact of Stereotype Threat on Test Performance.

13. Investigating the Factors Affecting the Formation of False Memories.

14. How Does the Bystander Effect Manifest in Online Settings?

15. The Role of Mindfulness in Reducing Stress and Anxiety.

16. Analysing the Impact of Gender Stereotypes on Occupational Choices.

17. Investigating the Influence of Cultural Background on Conflict Resolution Styles.

18. The Impact of Video Games on Aggression: A Meta-Analysis.

19. A Study on the Factors Affecting Altruistic Behaviour.

20. The Role of Attachment Styles in Romantic Relationships.

1. Investigating the Impact of Unemployment on Crime Rates in Urban Areas.

2. The Effect of Immigration on Wage Levels: A Case Study.

3. To What Extent Does Government Spending Influence Economic Growth?

4. A Comparative Analysis of the Economic Impact of Tourism in Coastal Vs. Inland Regions.

5. Assessing the Impact of Brexit on the UK's Trade Balance.

6. The Role of Microfinance in Alleviating Poverty in Rural India.

7. Investigating the Effects of Minimum Wage Policies on Small Businesses.

8. The Impact of Covid-19 on the Global Supply Chain: A Study on the Auto Industry.

9. How Do Oil Prices Affect Inflation Rates? A Historical Analysis.

10. A Study on the Relationship Between Income Inequality and Economic Growth.

11. The Effect of Trade Tariffs on Domestic Industries: The Case of US-China Trade War.

12. The Role of Foreign Direct Investment in Economic Development of Emerging Markets.

13. To What Extent Does Education Contribute to Economic Productivity?

14. The Impact of Climate Change Policies on the Energy Sector.

15. Evaluating the Effectiveness of Fiscal Policy in Combating Recessions.

16. The Role of the Informal Economy in Urban Development: A Case Study.

17. Investigating the Correlation Between Real Estate Prices and Economic Growth.

18. The Impact of Population Aging on Healthcare Expenditure .

19. Assessing the Economic Consequences of Natural Disasters: A Case Study.

20. The Effect of Technological Advancements on Employment Rates in the Manufacturing Sector.

Business Management

1. The Impact of Leadership Styles on Employee Motivation in Tech Start-ups.

2. How Does Corporate Social Responsibility Influence Brand Image?

3. The Role of Human Resource Management in Employee Retention.

4. Investigating the Impact of E-commerce on Traditional Retail Businesses.

5. How Do Changes in Interest Rates Affect Small Business Financing?

6. The Role of Innovation in the Competitive Advantage of Businesses.

7. Investigating the Effects of Workplace Diversity on Team Performance.

8. The Impact of Organisational Culture on Employee Job Satisfaction.

9. How Does Supply Chain Management Affect the Profitability of Manufacturing Firms?

10. The Role of Digital Marketing in Enhancing Customer Engagement.

11. Assessing the Impact of Brexit on the Business Strategy of UK-based Companies.

12. The Effect of Ethical Practices on Business Reputation.

13. Investigating the Role of Strategic Alliances in Enhancing Market Position.

14. The Impact of Covid-19 on Remote Work Policies: A Case Study.

15. How Does Customer Relationship Management Influence Customer Loyalty?

16. The Effect of Government Regulations on Startup Ecosystem.

17. Evaluating the Role of Corporate Governance in Financial Performance.

18. The Impact of Merger and Acquisition on Employee Morale.

19. The Effect of Green Initiatives on Business Sustainability.

20. The Role of Business Intelligence in Decision-making.

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1. Investigating the Impact of Urbanisation on Local Biodiversity: A Case Study.

2. The Role of Climate Change in the Spread of Vector-borne Diseases.

3. The Effect of River Diversions on Local Ecosystems.

4. Assessing the Impact of Deforestation on Local Climate: A Case Study.

5. The Role of Tourism in the Sustainable Development of Coastal Regions.

6. Investigating the Impact of Gentrification on Urban Neighbourhoods: A Case Study.

7. The Effect of Climate Change on the Availability of Freshwater Resources.

8. Assessing the Impact of Agricultural Practices on Soil Erosion in Rural Areas.

9. Analysing the Relationship Between Population Density and Transportation Infrastructure.

10. The Role of Renewable Energy in Reducing Carbon Emissions: A Case Study.

11. Investigating the Impact of Land Reclamation on Coastal Ecosystems.

12. The Effect of Urban Sprawl on Air Quality in Major Cities.

13. Assessing the Vulnerability of Coastal Communities to Sea Level Rise.

14. The Impact of Industrialisation on River Water Quality: A Case Study.

15. How Does Waste Management Affect the Sustainability of Urban Areas?

16. Investigating the Relationship Between Income Inequality and Spatial Segregation.

17. The Role of Urban Green Spaces in Enhancing Residents' Well-being.

18. The Impact of Natural Disasters on Economic Development in Small Island Nations.

19. Analysing the Factors Affecting the Distribution of Earthquakes and Volcanic Activity.

20. The Effect of Land Use Change on Flood Risk in Urban Areas.

Computer Science

1. Evaluating the Effectiveness of Different Machine Learning Algorithms in Predicting Stock Prices.

2. Investigating the Impact of Encryption Techniques on Data Security.

3. The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Automating Routine Tasks.

4. How Does the Implementation of Blockchain Technology Affect Supply Chain Management?

5. Assessing the Impact of Social Media Algorithms on User Behaviour.

6. The Effect of Augmented Reality on the User Experience in Mobile Applications.

7. Investigating the Feasibility of Quantum Computing in Solving Complex Problems.

8. The Role of Big Data Analytics in Enhancing Business Decision-making.

9. Analysing the Factors Affecting the Adoption of Cloud Computing by SMEs.

10. The Impact of Cybersecurity Measures on the Prevention of Data Breaches.

11. Investigating the Ethical Implications of Facial Recognition Technology.

12. The Effect of Internet of Things on Energy Efficiency in Smart Homes.

13. Assessing the Impact of Virtual Reality on Gaming Industry.

14. The Role of Natural Language Processing in Enhancing Human-Computer Interaction.

15. How Does the Development of Autonomous Vehicles Affect Traffic Management?

16. Investigating the Scalability Issues in Distributed Systems.

17. The Effect of Software Development Methodologies on Project Success Rates.

18. The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Job Market: A Case Study.

19. Analysing the Factors Affecting the Performance of Mobile Networks.

20. The Role of Bioinformatics in Personalised Medicine.

Environmental Systems and Societies

1. Investigating the Impact of E-waste on Soil and Water Quality.

2. The Effect of Climate Change on Coral Reef Ecosystems.

3. Assessing the Impact of Invasive Species on Native Biodiversity.

4. The Role of Sustainable Agriculture in Reducing Environmental Degradation.

5. Analysing the Factors Affecting the Ozone Layer Depletion.

6. The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Life: A Case Study.

7. Investigating the Feasibility of Carbon Capture and Storage Technologies.

8. The Role of Urban Planning in Reducing Air Pollution in Cities.

9. The Effect of Overfishing on Marine Ecosystems: A Case Study.

10. Assessing the Impact of Renewable Energy Sources on Carbon Emissions.

11. Investigating the Relationship Between Deforestation and Climate Change.

12. The Impact of Industrial Pollution on Local Communities' Health: A Case Study.

13. The Role of Waste Management in Reducing Ocean Pollution.

14. The Effect of Pesticides on Soil Microorganism Diversity.

15. Assessing the Impact of Dams on River Ecosystems.

16. Investigating the Efficacy of Reforestation Efforts in Carbon Sequestration.

17. The Role of Environmental Education in Promoting Sustainable Consumption Behaviours.

18. The Effect of Acid Rain on Forest Ecosystems: A Case Study.

19. Analysing the Impact of Mining Activities on Local Water Quality.

20. The Role of Green Infrastructure in Enhancing Urban Sustainability.

Social and Cultural Anthropology

1. Investigating the Impact of Globalisation on Indigenous Cultures: A Case Study.

2. The Role of Language in Shaping Cultural Identity.

3. Analysing the Influence of Cultural Practices on Gender Roles.

4. The Effect of Migration on Cultural Assimilation: A Case Study.

5. The Impact of Western Media on Body Image Perceptions in Non-Western Societies.

6. Investigating the Relationship Between Religion and Social Norms in a Given Society.

7. The Role of Cultural Traditions in Shaping Food Habits.

8. The Impact of Social Media on Cultural Exchange: A Case Study.

9. Analysing the Influence of Socioeconomic Status on Educational Attainment.

10. The Effect of Colonialism on Cultural Diversity: A Case Study.

11. Investigating the Role of Folklore in Preserving Cultural Heritage.

12. The Impact of Urbanisation on Traditional Social Structures: A Case Study.

13. The Role of Music and Dance in Cultural Expression.

14. Analysing the Influence of Cultural Factors on Mental Health.

15. The Effect of Cultural Beliefs on Healthcare Practices: A Case Study.

16. Investigating the Impact of Tourism on Local Cultures.

17. The Role of Rituals and Ceremonies in Social Cohesion.

18. The Impact of Legal Systems on Gender Equality: A Comparative Study.

19. Analysing the Cultural Adaptations of Immigrants in a New Society.

20. The Role of Art and Literature in Reflecting Social Changes.

Visual Arts

1. Investigating the Influence of Social Issues on Banksy's Street Art.

2. The Impact of Japanese Art on Claude Monet’s Painting Style.

3. Analysing the Representation of Women in Renaissance Paintings.

4. The Role of Surrealism in Salvador Dali's Artistic Expression.

5. Investigating the Cultural Symbolism in Frida Kahlo’s Self-portraits.

6. The Impact of Pop Culture on Andy Warhol's Art .

7. Analysing the Use of Light and Shadow in Caravaggio's Paintings.

8. The Role of Spirituality in Wassily Kandinsky's Abstract Art.

9. The Influence of African Art on Picasso's Cubist Period.

10. The Depiction of War and Its Aftermath in Otto Dix's Works.

11. Investigating the Use of Colour in Mark Rothko’s Abstract Paintings.

12. The Role of Indigenous Culture in Emily Carr's Landscape Paintings.

13. Analysing the Evolution of Political Themes in Chinese Contemporary Art.

14. The Effect of the Harlem Renaissance on Aaron Douglas' Art.

15. Investigating the Use of Geometric Shapes in Kandinsky’s Abstract Art.

16. The Role of Dutch Culture and Society in Vermeer's Paintings.

17. The Depiction of Nature in Georgia O'Keeffe's Works.

18. Analysing the Impact of Feminism on Barbara Kruger's Art.

19. Investigating the Influence of Post-Impressionism on Vincent van Gogh’s Style.

20. The Representation of the American Dream in Edward Hopper's Paintings.

World Studies

1. Investigating the Global Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Mental Health.

2. The Effect of Climate Change on Food Security in Sub-Saharan Africa.

3. Analysing the Influence of Globalisation on Indigenous Cultures.

4. The Role of International Law in Resolving Border Disputes: A Case Study.

5. Investigating the Impact of Global Trade Policies on Developing Economies.

6. The Effect of Globalisation on Income Inequality: A Comparative Study.

7. Analysing the Influence of Western Media on Global Perceptions of Beauty.

8. The Role of International Organizations in Addressing the Refugee Crisis.

9. Investigating the Global Response to the Rise of Cybercrime.

10. The Impact of Climate Change on Natural Disaster Frequency and Severity Worldwide.

11. Analysing the Influence of Globalisation on Language Diversity.

12. The Role of Technology in Bridging the Education Gap in Developing Countries.

13. Investigating the Global Impact of Antibiotic Resistance.

14. The Effect of International Trade on Cultural Exchange: A Case Study.

15. Analysing the Impact of Global Warming on Polar Ecosystems.

16. The Role of the United Nations in Promoting Global Gender Equality.

17. Investigating the Impact of Social Media on Political Activism Worldwide.

18. The Effect of Globalisation on the Sustainability of Traditional Crafts.

19. Analysing the Global Strategies for Wildlife Conservation.

20. The Role of International Cooperation in Space Exploration.

How to Write a Great IB Extended Essay

Crafting an exceptional IB Extended Essay requires a combination of strategic planning, critical thinking, and effective writing. In this guide, we will provide you with valuable insights and practical advice to help you excel in your writing journey and produce an outstanding essay.

1. Develop a Clear and Coherent Structure : Creating a well-organised structure is crucial to convey your ideas effectively. Start by outlining the main sections and subtopics of your essay. Ensure a logical flow of information, with each paragraph building upon the previous one. This will guide the reader through your arguments and analysis smoothly.

2. Conduct Thorough and Methodical Research : Thorough research forms the foundation of a strong Extended Essay. Dive into reputable sources, including academic journals, books, and credible websites. Gather evidence, data, and expert opinions to support your arguments. Take meticulous notes and properly cite your sources to maintain academic integrity.

3. Apply Critical Thinking and Evaluation : Engage in critical analysis by examining and evaluating the evidence you've gathered. Assess the strengths and weaknesses of different viewpoints, theories, or methodologies. Develop your own informed perspective and present a well-reasoned argument supported by reliable evidence.

4. Craft Engaging and Coherent Paragraphs : Each paragraph should focus on a specific idea or argument, clearly stated in a topic sentence. Support your claims with evidence, examples, and relevant data. Use smooth transitions between paragraphs to ensure a cohesive and coherent essay.

5. Revise, Edit, and Proofread : Give yourself ample time for revising, editing, and proofreading your essay. Review your work for clarity, coherence, and consistency. Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Consider seeking feedback from teachers, peers, or mentors to gain valuable insights and improve your essay further.

We asked one IB teacher what they had to say about writing a great essay:

"The key is to choose a topic that truly ignites your curiosity, one that you are passionate about exploring. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and delve into uncharted territories. Remember, this is your chance to showcase your unique perspective and make a meaningful contribution to your chosen field. Embrace the research process, be diligent in gathering reliable sources, and let your creativity shine through in your writing. And most importantly, enjoy the journey of discovery and growth that the Extended Essay offers."

Remember, the IB Extended Essay is an opportunity to demonstrate your intellectual curiosity, research skills, and ability to present a coherent argument. Choose a topic that genuinely interests you, stay organised throughout the process, and invest time in thoughtful analysis and writing. To maximise your chances of success, you may also want to purchase an Extended Essay textbook or get the help of an IB Extended Essay tutor .

IB Extended Essay Grade Distribution in 2022

Finding Reliable Sources for Your Extended Essay

When writing your IB Extended Essay, it is essential to rely on credible and trustworthy sources. Follow these strategies to find reliable information:

1. Use Academic Databases: Access reputable databases like JSTOR and PubMed to find scholarly articles and research papers relevant to your subject.

2. Consult Library Resources: Take advantage of books, encyclopaedias, and reference materials available in your school or local library.

3. Explore Digital Libraries: Visit digital libraries such as the Digital Public Library of America and Europeana for access to a wide range of digitised resources.

4. Evaluate Websites Carefully: Verify the credibility of the author or organisation, check for peer-reviewed articles or references, and consider the domain (.edu, .gov, or .org) for reliable information.

5. Utilise Scholarly Search Engines: Utilise specialised search engines like Google Scholar and Microsoft Academic to find academic publications.

6. Consult Subject-Specific Journals: Look for reputable journals in your field and review their latest issues for current research.

7. Seek Guidance from Librarians and Experts: Librarians and subject experts can offer valuable assistance in finding reliable sources and publications.

By following these strategies and critically evaluating the sources you find, you can ensure the credibility and integrity of your Extended Essay research. Reliable sources will strengthen your arguments and provide a solid foundation for your essay.

Strategies for Conducting Primary and Secondary Research

To conduct comprehensive primary and secondary research for your essay, consider the following strategies:

Primary Research

Surveys and Questionnaires: Create well-designed surveys or questionnaires to collect data directly from participants. Utilise online survey tools like Google Forms or SurveyMonkey for wider reach and convenient data analysis.

Interviews: Conduct interviews with subject experts, professionals, or individuals relevant to your research topic. Prepare insightful questions and record their responses for later analysis.

Experiments and Observations: Design and conduct controlled experiments or observations to gather firsthand data. Document procedures, measurements, and observations accurately.

Secondary Research

Literature Review: Conduct a thorough review of existing scholarly articles, books, and reports. Analyse and synthesise the information to identify research gaps and contribute to the existing knowledge.

Online Databases: Utilise reputable academic databases such as PubMed, JSTOR, and IEEE Xplore to access peer-reviewed articles and research papers specific to your subject area.

Government and Institutional Sources: Explore official government websites, research repositories of educational institutions, and databases of international organisations for reliable data, reports, and statistics.

Subject-Specific Sources: Identify subject-specific journals, publications, and conferences related to your research topic. These sources provide up-to-date research and insights from experts in the field.

Remember to consider ethical considerations throughout your research process, including obtaining necessary permissions, maintaining confidentiality, and respecting the rights and privacy of participants. Documentation of your research methods, sources, and any challenges faced is crucial. Analyse and interpret your findings critically, using them as evidence to support your arguments and contribute to your overall analysis.

Formatting and Structure Guidelines for the IB Extended Essay

To ensure a well-organised and coherent IB Extended Essay, consider the following structure as a guideline:

1. Title Page : Include essential information such as the title, subject, research question, and candidate number. Refer to the official IB Extended Essay Guide for specific requirements.

2. Abstract: Provide a concise summary of your essay, outlining the main research question, methodology, key findings, and conclusions. Limit the abstract to 300 words.

3. Table of Contents : Create a clear and accurate table of contents that outlines the structure of your essay, including sections, subheadings, and page numbers.

4. Introduction : Start with an engaging introduction that presents the research question, provides background information, and explains the significance of the topic. Clearly state the aim and objectives of your research.

5. Body : The body of your essay should delve into your research in-depth. Organize your content into coherent paragraphs, each addressing a specific aspect of your research. Consider the following elements:

a. Literature Review: Provide an overview of the relevant literature and theories related to your research topic. Analyse existing research, highlight key concepts, and discuss any debates or gaps in knowledge.

b. Methodology: Describe the research methodology employed, including the research design, data collection methods, and ethical considerations. Explain why the chosen methods are appropriate for addressing your research question.

c. Data Analysis and Findings: Present your findings based on the data collected. Use appropriate analysis techniques, such as statistical analysis or qualitative coding, to interpret your data and draw meaningful conclusions. Include tables, charts, or graphs to support your findings.

d. Discussion: Analyse and interpret your findings in the context of your research question. Explore the implications of your results, compare them with existing research, and discuss any limitations or challenges encountered during the research process.

6. Conclusion : Summarise your key findings, address your research question, and draw meaningful conclusions based on your analysis. Reflect on the implications and broader significance of your research. Highlight any recommendations for future research or areas for further exploration.

7. References : Include a comprehensive list of all sources consulted in your research. Follow the appropriate citation style (e.g., MLA, APA, or Chicago) for in-text citations and the bibliography. Accurately cite all sources, including books, articles, websites, and any other references used.

8. Appendices (if applicable): Include any supplementary materials, such as raw data, charts, graphs, or additional supporting evidence that are relevant to your research.

Typically, the Extended Essay has a word limit of around 4,000 words. It is important to note that this word count does not include footnotes, citations, and the bibliography. Additionally, the essay should be formatted using a standard font (e.g., Times New Roman or Arial) and a font size of 12 points. It is recommended to have double-spacing throughout the essay and to include page numbers.

The IB Extended Essay Assessment Criteria and Grading

The IB Extended Essay is assessed by examiners appointed by the IB on a scale of 0 to 34. Your essay will be evaluated based on five criteria, each carrying a specific point value. It is crucial to comprehend these criteria and how they relate to letter grades to gauge your performance accurately. Here's an overview of the assessment criteria:

Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum) Demonstrate a clear research question and a well-defined approach. Show how you applied appropriate research methods to investigate your topic.

Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum) Display a strong understanding of the subject matter, relevant concepts, and theories. Support your arguments with accurate and relevant evidence.

Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum) Apply critical thinking skills to analyse and evaluate information, theories, and arguments. Demonstrate the ability to consider alternative viewpoints and draw well-reasoned conclusions.

Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum) Organize your essay effectively with a clear and logical structure. Use proper formatting, referencing, and citation methods consistently.

Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum) Engage in a reflective process throughout your research and writing. Show awareness of the strengths, limitations, and implications of your research.

To determine your letter grade, it is important to understand how the rubric assessment points correlate to the overall score. Here is a rough estimation of how the point values align with letter grades:

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

However, relying solely on these point values is not sufficient. It is crucial to thoroughly read and comprehend the specific grade descriptors provided by the IB. These descriptors offer comprehensive information about the expectations and criteria that examiners consider when assigning letter grades.

The grade you receive on your IB Extended Essay contributes to your overall International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme points score. The Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge combined are worth up to 3 points of the total 45 points available for the IBDP .

IB Extended Essay and TOK points matrix

Final Thoughts

The IB Extended Essay is a challenging yet rewarding endeavour that allows high school students to showcase their research and analytical skills. With proper guidance and adherence to the assessment criteria, students have the opportunity to excel and achieve outstanding results. Embrace this opportunity to delve into a topic of interest, conduct in-depth research, and present your findings in a well-structured and engaging manner. Remember to consult reputable sources, seek guidance from your supervisor, and enjoy the journey of exploration and academic growth through the IB Extended Essay.

Is the IB Extended Essay hard?

The IB Extended Essay is undoubtedly a challenging undertaking, requiring significant effort and dedication, and is one of the hardest IB subjects . It is estimated that between 70% and 80% of IB students successfully complete the Extended Essay each year. Less than 14% of students received an A in the extended essay in 2022, showing its difficult.

Can you change your research question after starting the Extended Essay?

Yes, it is possible to change your research question after starting the Extended Essay. However, it is important to consult with your supervisor and ensure that the new research question still meets the requirements and aligns with the subject area you are pursuing.

When is the deadline to submit the Extended Essay?

The deadline to submit the Extended Essay can vary depending on the policies and timelines set by individual schools. In most cases, schools establish internal deadlines to ensure students have ample time to complete and revise their essays before the final submission. The typical deadline for submitting the Extended Essay is often set in the first half of the senior year, ranging from November to January. It is essential to check with your school's IB coordinator or Extended Essay coordinator for the specific deadline applicable to your academic institution.

Can you fail the Extended Essay?

Yes, it is possible to fail the Extended Essay if the work does not meet the required standards or does not fulfil the assessment criteria set by the IB. It is important to carefully follow the guidelines, seek guidance from your supervisor, and ensure your essay demonstrates strong research, analysis, and critical thinking skills. In 2022, 1.1% of students did not received no grade for their Extended Essays.

Can you fail the Extended Essay and still pass the IB?

Yes, it is possible to fail the Extended Essay and still pass the overall IB Diploma Programme. The Extended Essay contributes to a maximum of 3 points out of the total 45 points available for the diploma. Failing the Extended Essay means not earning any points from this component, but it does not necessarily mean failing the entire IB Diploma.

Can you collaborate with other students on the Extended Essay?

The IB allows limited collaboration with other students on the Extended Essay. While you can seek advice and support from others, it is important to maintain individual responsibility for your research, writing, and analysis. Collaboration should not compromise the integrity of your work, and any collaborative effort should be properly acknowledged and cited in your essay.

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Written by: Charles Whitehouse

Charles scored 45/45 on the International Baccalaureate and has six years' experience tutoring IB and IGCSE students and advising them with their university applications. He studied a double integrated Masters at Magdalen College Oxford and has worked as a research scientist and strategy consultant.

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Filter exemplars, to what extent has satya nadella's transformational leadership style contributed to creating a "growth mindset" at microsoft corporation, to what extent does the tension being applied on a wire affect the resonance frequency, want to get full marks for your ee allow us to review it for you 🎯, how does the total energy supplied during ultrasonic cavitation of benzene affect the integrated photoluminescence intensity and quantum yield of graphene quantum dots (gqds), to what extent was the british government responsible for the collapse of the sunningdale agreement of 1973, to what extent does the type of alcohol used in the fischer-speier esterification reaction affect the average rate of reaction as measured through back titration., fast track your coursework with mark schemes moderated by ib examiners. upgrade now 🚀, to what extent does global self-esteem influence academic performance, to what extent has zoom’s freemium business model influenced its market 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the change in corporate leadership at apple inc. from steve jobs to tim cook impacted the company's innovation and product development, fluid’s density effect on falling objects, to what extent will toyota’s diversification help increase business revenues and market share, to what extent does vivienne westwood's sustainable fashion initiatives provide it with a competitive advantage over other luxury brands, to what extent were queer people liberated in weimar germany, 1919-1933, to what extent does market-oriented approach give netflix, inc. a competitive advantage in the streaming entertainment industry, how is the lift at various angles of attack affected by flap deflection angles, to what extent do different species of chili pepper consumption biologically affect the rate of lipid digestion in terms of ph change within 30 minutes, to what extent do phytochemicals such as resveratrol, glyceollin and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (egcg) possess comparable antibacterial effects against staphylococcus aureus bacteria to a non-prescription otitis externa (oe) treatments such as ciprofloxacin using bacillus subtilis as a prokaryotic model organism, to what extent is blood pressure related to the development of alzheimer’s disease in people in age above 50, to what extent does oxytocin affect interpersonal trust in young adults, how has apple used sustainable innovation to gain a competitive edge, to what extent do extracts of allium sativum (garlic) and zingiber officinale (ginger) reduce antimicrobial activity and how effective it is compared to antibiotics, how do different concentrations of punica granatum extracts: peel, flower and leaves (10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 mg/ml) affect the rate of reaction of α-amylase and compare with metformin (anti-diabetic drug) as measured by a spectrophotometer at 587nm, how effective is the cone repair technique when treating ebstein’s anomaly in comparison to other treatments, to what extent do social networking sites increase rates of 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Extended Essay Writers

How to Write a History Extended Essay for IB Success?

Luke MacQuoid

Having been through the IB program’s roller coaster, I’ve picked up a thing or two about writing the ideal History extended essay. Now, let me share my experience to guide you on this academic task.

IB History Extended Essay: Assessment Criteria & Word Count

First and foremost, let’s talk about the word count. The maximum limit for an IB extended essay is 4,000 words . However, this does not include the abstract, footnotes, bibliography, or appendices. Sticking to this limit is crucial; any essay exceeding this will be penalized in the assessment. It taught me an invaluable lesson in brevity and precision, ensuring every word served a purpose.

Regarding assessment criteria, the IB History extended essay is evaluated based on specific benchmarks. These include:

• Focus/Method (6 points) . It assesses the clarity of your research question, the scope of your study, and the method deployed for the research.
• Knowledge and Understanding (6 points) . Here, the emphasis is on your grasp of the chosen topic and its context. 
• Critical Thinking (12 points) . It’s a very hefty one. It evaluates the analysis, discussion, and evaluation of the essay.
• Presentation (4 points) . While content is king, presentation is equally crucial. It assesses the structure, layout, and formal elements of the essay.
• Engagement (6 points) . It reflects your engagement with the topic and how well you’ve reflected on the research process.

The IB History extended essay is not just an academic task; it’s a rite of passage for every IB student. It teaches discipline, research acumen, analytical prowess, and, most importantly, the art of presenting complex ideas in an accessible manner.

Importance of Picking the Right Extended Essay History Topics

Selecting a topic isn’t just about ticking off a checklist. It’s about laying the groundwork for an essay you’ll be invested in for months. The right topic is akin to a guiding star, keeping your research and writing focused. It’s not an overstatement to say that half the battle is won when choosing a topic that aligns well with the IB criteria and your interests.

Tips for Choosing Engaging Extended Essay Topics in History

While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, some general pointers have stood the test of time. Remember that the topic should have sufficient resources available for research, yet it shouldn’t be so broad that it becomes overwhelming.

From what I’ve seen and experienced, topics rooted in a specific event, person, or period often yield the most compelling essays. For instance, instead of attempting to cover the entirety of World War II, you might focus on a particular campaign or a leader’s strategic decisions.

Furthermore, topics that challenge popular narratives or introduce fresh perspectives can be enriching. Not only do they offer a chance to showcase your analytical skills, but they also highlight your ability to think critically.

Lastly, always be open to feedback. Discuss your potential topics with teachers, peers, or mentors. An outsider’s perspective often clarifies or introduces angles you hadn’t considered. And if you want to find some actual History extended essay topics , follow this link to another article in our blog.

Structuring Your IB History Extended Essay

Now, onto the nitty-gritty – the structure. An organized essay is like a well-oiled machine. Each section plays a pivotal role. Start with a compelling introduction, follow it up with solid arguments, and conclude in a manner that leaves an impression. Here’s a guide on how to structure your IB History extended essay to maximize clarity and coherence.

1. Introduction: Setting the Stage

Your introduction should be clear and captivating. Begin with a brief overview of the topic to give readers a context. Follow this with your research question, setting the tone for the investigation. It’s also a good place to briefly hint at the significance or relevance of your topic in a broader historical context. Remember, the introduction is your first impression; make it count!

2. Research Question or Hypothesis

Clearly state the question you intend to answer or the hypothesis you aim to test. It provides direction and purpose to your essay.

3. Background or Historical Context

Before getting into the core arguments, provide readers with a brief background of the period, event, or phenomenon you’re examining. This foundation ensures that readers, regardless of their prior knowledge, understand the backdrop against which your research unfolds.

4. Body: The Heart of Your Essay

Each paragraph should present a distinct argument or point substantiated with evidence. Start each section with a clear topic sentence, followed by evidence and your analysis. Ensure that the evidence you present directly supports your arguments.

5. Conclusion: Tying It All Together

Reiterate the significance of your research question and concisely summarize your main arguments. Discuss the implications of your findings and hint at areas for future research. The conclusion should leave the reader with a sense of closure and completeness.

6. Bibliography or Works Cited

Always list all the sources you consulted. Adhere to a specific citation style (like MLA, APA, or Chicago) as guided by your instructor. This section is crucial for academic integrity and to acknowledge the works of scholars and researchers you’ve referenced.

7. Appendices

If you have additional data, charts, or images that supplement your essay but might disrupt its flow, include them in the appendices.

How to Write History Extended Essay: Research and Sources

At the heart of every compelling History extended essay lies a foundation of robust research. The right blend of primary and secondary sources can enrich your narrative, offering your arguments diverse perspectives and concrete evidence. However, not all sources are created equal. In my time grappling with historical essays, I learned that the credibility of your sources could make or break your work:

• Primary sources – like letters, diaries, treaties, artifacts, or contemporary records – offer firsthand accounts of the events. They’re the raw materials, providing a direct window into the past. While they are invaluable, it’s essential to approach them with a critical lens, considering the context in which they were produced and potential biases they might carry.
• Secondary sources , such as books, academic papers, and historians’ interpretations, provide a step back. They offer analyses, building upon primary sources and prior research. These are great for understanding the broader context and seeing where your research fits into the larger historical discourse.

However, a word of caution! In the digital age, while access to information has become more accessible, so has the proliferation of inaccurate or biased content. Constantly evaluate the reliability of your sources. Who’s the author? What’s their background? Is the publication reputable? Cross-referencing facts with multiple reliable sources is an excellent habit to cultivate.

Organizing Your Research Effectively

Research for an extended essay isn’t done in a day or two; it’s a prolonged process, and without a system, it’s easy to lose track or get overwhelmed. So, start with a research log. Whenever you find a potential source, jot down its details and key points or quotes you might want to reference. It saves time later and ensures you keep track of valuable information.

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 .

Another helpful tactic is categorizing sources based on themes or arguments they’ll support in your essay. It can be done using physical index cards, digital tools like Evernote, or simple spreadsheets. Color coding can also be a visually effective method to differentiate between primary and secondary sources or historical themes.

Remember to refine and prune your sources constantly. Only some things you come across will make the final cut. As your essay evolves, specific sources might become redundant or less relevant. It’s okay to let them go.

Lastly, back up your research. There’s nothing worse than losing weeks of work to a technical glitch. Regularly save your work on cloud storage, external drives, or printed copies.

Writing IB History EE with Clarity and Precision

Historical writing is a dance between fact and narrative.

Here are some techniques that have stood me in good stead:

• Thesis Statement . Every History extended essay should have a clear thesis or central argument.
• Topic Sentences . Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence. It directs the paragraph and makes your essay more navigable for readers.
• Concrete Evidence . Always back up your claims with evidence from reliable sources. Quoting primary sources lends authenticity to your arguments.
• Different Sentence Structures . While clarity is critical, variety keeps the reader engaged. Mix short, impactful sentences with longer, more descriptive ones.
• Consistent Tense . In historical writing, it’s easy to jumble past and present tenses. Decide on a tense (usually past for historical events) and stick to it.
• Active Voice . While passive voice isn’t incorrect, active voice makes your writing more dynamic and direct.
• Transition Phrases . These are the bridges between your ideas, ensuring a smooth flow. Phrases like “furthermore,” “however,” or “in contrast” guide the reader through your arguments.
• Personal Insight . While working within the boundaries of historical facts, feel free to offer your interpretations or insights, especially if you can back them up with evidence.

And, of course, as I’ve come to value deeply over the years, proofread, proofread, and proofread some more. It isn’t just about catching typos but refining arguments, improving flow, and ensuring clarity.

History Extended Essay Examples: Learning from the Best

Examining stellar History extended essay examples is one of the best ways to understand what works. They offer a practical insight into structure, content, and presentation. Reading a well-crafted essay can sometimes spark ideas or approaches you hadn’t previously considered.

While samples are invaluable, remember to maintain your unique voice. The individual touch, rigorous research, and clarity will make your IB History EE stand out.

In wrapping up, always reflect upon your path in writing a History extended essay. From my experience, the process often offers as much learning as the content itself.

There’s a world of resources out there for the keen IB student. Be it books, online databases, or writing tools, always rely on reputable sources. Your essay reflects your hard work; ensure you give it the best. You can always contact us if you need help writing an extended essay .

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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IB Extended Essay Ideas

What’s covered:, what is the ib extended essay, extended essay examples, how is the ee scored, how does the extended essay affect my admission chances.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP or IB) is a rigorous high school program considered to be equivalent to the AP system, if not harder. Along with coursework and examinations in this two-year long program, there are expectations to write an in-depth essay on one subject of your selection, called the Extended Essay (EE). The following article is about the EE and presents ideas for topics to write about. 

The EE is an essay required to gain the IBDP and pass the course. It’s not like any regular essay, as it gives the student a chance to write a college-level research paper at an earlier point of their lives, giving them useful exposure for their future endeavors in further education. The essay is written in a single subject of your choosing, giving you six options to choose from. The EE is usually done in one of your HL classes, as it could have more scope to produce a more in-depth paper based on the increased amounts of coursework available in HL. 

The essay is expected to be around 4,000 words long, making it not only lengthy to read but time-intensive to produce. This means students must usually figure out which subject they’re writing for early, to give them time to start earlier. The process of planning a draft, along with your appointed EE supervisor, can take up most of your time in the first year of IB (11th grade). It’s common to not start the actual writing until our 2nd year, where you not only have learned enough coursework for the subject, but have also drafted enough to create a well-written essay. 

Choosing a topic for the EE can be difficult, but hopefully the ideas and examples in this article can give you some inspiration to create your own. 

Given there are 6 subject groups in IB, each with numerous options for those groups it would be nearly impossible to suggest examples for each subject, instead we will show examples for popular subjects. These examples can serve as blueprints for crafting your own ideas! 

Example EE Topic 1 – Math HL

Example Topic: Practical Applications and Implementations of the Golden Ratio

This irrational number is often represented visually as such: 

This image contains fibonacci vectors, a visual representation of the golden ratio. It’s an interesting concept because it’s a shape/ratio that our brains are seemingly wired to prefer things to take form in, a subconscious level of attraction. Many architects and artists today use this ratio to produce visually appealing works of art, but what other practical applications have risen from this mathematical concept? An EE would be a great way to learn more about this and present it in an interesting manner! 

Example EE Topic 2 – Physics SL

Topic: Build Your Own Radio

This topic requires some fundamental understanding of circuitry and electronics, a big component of physics SL and HL. Building a radio requires thorough understanding of currents, resistances and circuit design aspects that are usually best understood through practical, hands-on learning. 

This project could also demonstrate your knowledge in waves, specifically radio and microwaves required to operate the radio. If documented right throughout the whole process, this could make for not only a very extensive and interesting EE, but fun as well! 

Example EE Topic 3 – English SL/HL

Topic: The Effects Of Shakespearean Literature On Modern English

English EE topics are a bit more difficult than other subjects because it may be the least objective class to write about. That being said, it can also be the most creative EE to write for, with this topic being an ideal example. 

Shakespeare contributed lots to literature and writing, especially in the form of plays and dramas, but how can these be observed in modern day literature? Focus on how forms of comedy from Shakespeare’s plays are implemented in modern comedy, or how some forms of artistic expression from that era could be considered problematic today. 

To make this better suited for HL, try going more in depth about other forms of literature that draw from Shakespearean influence, and more specific implementations of humor, such as slapstick (just an example of many). 

Talk about how literature personally influences you, because this EE is an opportunity to not only present information through research, but to also indulge the reader about yourself and your personality! 

IB scores the EE out of 34 points, with 5 letter grades being assigned as boundaries:

EE and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) are graded together along with CAS, to form the “core” of IB which is worth a total of 3 out of 45 points. The following table details this:

The EE doesn’t have much direct influence on your chances of admission, but learning how to write a great essay through the EE can. The admissions process requires writing a great quality essay to showcase yourself to the office of admissions as best as you can. The EE not only teaches you how to write an informative essay, but a high quality one as well! More factors are also responsible for your chances of admission, and for more info on this check out CollegeVine’s admissions calculator ! This intuitive tool uses your standardized test scores, GPA and more to calculate your chances of admission into a university of your choosing!

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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 19, 2024 10:10 AM
• URL: https://lewishs-fcps.libguides.com/IBExtendedEssay

The IB Extended Essay: Topic ideas and research Questions

• Details of the EE
• Topic ideas and research Questions
• Subject Guides & documents you need
• Writing a research paper
• Check the list of available subjects  here
• Read the IB's criteria for your subject
• Read an exemplar essay in your subject
• Decide on a topic within this subject
• This means you will need to do some research!
• During the first meeting with your advisor, discuss the research you've done, your ideas, and the requirements for your subject.
• Your revised research question proposal is due May 16.

Adapted from O'Farrell, Finbar.  Approach your assessment the IB Way: Extended Essay.  pg. 13

Examples of marked EEs in all subjects

• From the IB website Have a look at the specific subject you plan on writing your EE for a marked example. You will be able to identify what you need to be successful.

Design Technology

• Guide on writing an EE in DT The pdf explains everything clearly and is full of ideas and topics to write about.

Question: Has the introduction of new materials improved the performance of modern racing bicycles?

  Question:  What are the most ethical and efficient methods--through current technologies--private organizations can use to make Mars habitable for Human life?

History or Geography

Question : In what ways did the Cold War impact American public education? Question:   To what extent have Maori non-violent struggles for their land been effective? Question: How could the UN intervention in the Rwandan genocide be justified?  Question :Is it politically possible for the US government to win the drugs war? (Politics)

Question:  How are the depictions of Marie Antoinette in politics and portraiture significant to the French revolution and the fall of the French Monarchy? 

Question:  To what extent was film able to further pro-Nazi sentiment in Germany during the early 1930s to mid 1940s?

Question:  To what extent were the Vietnam War and cultural shifts occurring in the 1960s and early 1970s vital factors in the development of the student activism on college campuses in the United States and abroad?

Question:  To what extent was Matthew Perry’s 1853 arrival in Edo Bay the leading motivator for Japan’s rapid modernization during the Meiji Restoration?

Question:  What made the Federal Theatre Project such a success when after only four years of operation it was disbanded by the House of un-American Activities Committee?

Question:  To what extent were Kepler’s scientific discoveries revolutionary and how did they impact the development of science in Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries?   

Question:  In what ways did the Hitler Youth organization impact the youth of Nazi Germany?

Question:  How did the works of classical Greek philosophers influence the domestic policy of Thomas Jefferson?  

Question:  How did the Bushido Code influence the meaning of tattoos in Asian culture?

Question:  In what way did the Catholic Church affect politics in the Kingdom of Spain during the Dark Ages?

Question:  What are the impacts of melting ice in the North and South Poles on the coastlines of the continental United States?

English EEs - ideas for Language and Literature

The EE Guide says the following on p 112 (EE Guide 2018, revised Jan 2017) - remember EACH subject has their own EE guides too.

   Quote The EE may relate to work students have already completed during the course, but they must also demonstrate relevant wider reading and individual study. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that the topic of their EE does not overlap with any other work they are preparing for assessment in language A—for example, the written assignment in the literature course, or the written task in the language and literature course.   

Question:  How did Eugene Gladstone O'Neill express the themes of family relationship and sadness in his work Long Day's Journey Into Night?

Question:  How does the writing of Japanese horror artist and novelist Junji Ito contrast with the writing of American horror novelist Stephen King?

Question:  How do the final movies of the Harry Potter series compare to the final book? What has been changed or depicted differently in terms of characterization and storylines?

Sport Science

Question:  How does age affect the process of instant muscle reaction?

Economics or ITGS

Question:  What impact does public healthcare have on low income households in the United States compared to those in Canada?

Question:  To what extent has deforestation influenced Indonesia's economic and environmental growth?

Physics, Chemistry or Biology Ideas

Question:  How have climate change and forestry practices contributed to the spread of the mountain pine beetle in the Pacific Northwest in recent decades, and what does the outbreak show us about the ecological intricacies of climate change? 

Question:  What evidence is there to support the theory of life on Mars?

Question:  How does the DNA sequence of a transthyretin (TTR) gene affect whether Familial Amyloidotic Polyneuropathy (FAP), Familial Amyloidotic Cardiomyopathy (FAC) or Senile Systemic Amyloidosis (SSA) form?

Arts - Visual/Performing

Question : What female stereotypes did Brecht employ in his plays, and how can these be compared and contrasted in performance, based on an analysis of a selection of Brecht's plays? Question : Picasso: individual genius or cultural thief? 

Question:  How does Rachmaninoff apply thematic development in his composition, Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini ?

Question:  How do the Peanuts comics, written by Charles Schultz, show visual language?

Question:  How did the casting of the leading lady in Cole Porter's Anything Goes affect each production on Broadway?

• << Previous: Details of the EE
• Next: Subject Guides & documents you need >>
• Last Updated: Apr 25, 2024 7:30 AM
• URL: https://disdubai.libguides.com/c.php?g=923128

110 Original History Essay Questions: Examples and Topics

When looking for history essay topics, people often think about the world-famous military and political events. However, there is so much more to history than battles and international affairs. Plenty of small but engaging incidents are hiding in plain sight, and yet, people usually miss them.

What are those intriguing aspects?

In this article, our team has prepared a list of interesting history essay questions with examples. They are all about unusual events and historical viewpoints. To help with your academic writing, we divided the article into subheadings. Here, you’ll find topics according to your essay type.

• Top History Topics
• 🔍 Extended Essay
• ✒️ Historiographical Essay
• 📌 Persuasive Essay
• ⚙️ Technology Topics
• 🎶 Music Topics
• 🌄 American History
• 🏰 European History
• 🔥 5 In-Class Essay Tips

🤩 Top 15 History Essay Topics

• Julius Caesar.
• Middle Ages.
• World Wars.
• Holy Inquisition.
• US Independence.
• 20 th Century.
• Bronze Age.
• Thomas Edison.
• Slave Trade.
• Russian Revolution.

💁 Topics for Various Essay Types

There are many types of essays for an academic assignment. It may be a simple short essay or a long structured essay. Each one has its format and rules. Here, we are going to talk about essays that you might have questions about.

🔎 History Extended Essay Topics

An extended essay (EE) is an obligatory part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP). For an IB diploma, a student should do extensive research. It should be finished with a 4000-word paper.

The extended essay provides practice for undergraduate research. Besides, it gives a chance to explore a topic of personal interest. You may check out some examples in a free essays database to get a reference of how they actually look like. Here, we dive into history EE topics.

• Oldest human settlements according to archeological sources.
• The suffrage movement in the United States of the early XXth century.
• How Dior’s bar suit revolutionized women’s fashion.
• History of Chemistry in Europe during the Age of Enlightenment.
• Psychology essay: evolution of treatment for various mental disorders. Psychological methods and medicine.
• Development of black rights following the US Civil War.

• History of physics: from Antiquity to modern times.
• Principles of medieval economics: a historical analysis. Analyze the financial structure in medieval Europe and the Middle East.
• How did industrialization affect global climate change?
• Expansion of traffic jams in China. The root of a problem and China’s solution.
• The effects of capitalism on Caribbean republics. Study the history of capitalism in the Caribbean. What were the effects of plantation produce on their economy?
• The use of sun reflection in the military. A historical analysis of the utilization.
• Analysis of Victorian literature and culture by Carolyn Williams.
• Biology in warfare. The use of biological weapons from Antiquity to modern times.
• A study of malnourishment in African societies. Explore the historical roots of malnutrition in Africa. How did it affect their societies?
• Research question: why Western countries have dominated the world in modern history?
• Otto Skorzeny. How did Nazi Germany’s most effective agent become Mossad’s advisor? Dive in the biography of Otto Skorzeny. Analyze his character and post-war activity.
• The history of visual arts in Christianity. How did religion shape the art of Western civilization?
• Six-Day War of 1967. Examine the strategies of Israel and The United Arab States.
• Imperial Japan in the late period of WWII. Its non-standard means of warfare.

📝 Historiographical Essay Topics

Now, let’s look into another type of essay—a historiographical essay. It analyzes and evaluates how scholars interpret a historical topic. Usually, the essay is problem-centered. So, compare the viewpoints of two or more historians on the same event.

Here you will find good topics for historiographical essays:

• The Soviet internment camps of the Stalin Era.
• What is the classification of a “historical fact?”
• The fate of Japanese Americans during WWII.
• Mongolian aid to the Soviet Union during World War II.
• An analysis of the main areas of historical research.
• What defined a nation’s sovereignty in the XIXth century?
• The activity of Pamela Parsons in the 70s.
• “The Life of the Prophet” by Ibn Hisham.
• The history of Earth: from its formation to modern times. Make detailed research on the history of Earth. Talk about major geophysical and chemical processes. What did impact the Earth’s formation and evolution?
• An argumentative essay. How substantial was the Allies’ aid of “Land Lease” to the USSR in WWII?
• Things to know when studying cultural heritage.
• Processes of detecting historical excavation sites.

📌 History Persuasive Essay Topics

A persuasive essay is a piece of academic writing where you list two or more points of view on a subject. In such a paper, you use facts and logic to support your perspective.

• An argumentative essay on American involvement in WWI. How crucial was it in defeating the German Empire and its allies? Analyze the impact of America’s contribution to WWI.

• Slavery played one of the key roles in Ancient Rome’s rise to power. Discuss the structure of slavery in Ancient Rome. Provide evidence for/against this argument.
• Festivals in India are an essential part of the nation’s identity. Analyze the role of local and national Indian festivals. Did they form identities of different cultural groups?
• Why did the Soviet Union lose the Cold War? Could it be because of its involvement in Afghanistan? Explore the impact of the Soviet-Afghan War on countries of the Warsaw Pact.
• Psychedelic substances allow people to think more creatively. Discuss the effects of different drugs on the human mind. Examine notable cases and experiments with drug testing.
• The presentation of the American Revolution in movies. Research a few pieces of cinematography about the American Revolution. Analyze their historical accuracy.
• Bipolar disorder essay and Vincent Van Gogh. Analyze activity and medical records of Vincent Van Gogh. Give arguments for/against the aforementioned idea.

• Florentine art history. How did the noble patronage of artists contribute to Florentine art? To prove your perspective, examine several famous art patrons of Florence.

⚙ History of Technology Essay Topics

Technology has been the cornerstone of powerful civilizations that moved the world forward. Advancement of technology is a curious phenomenon. It moved at a faster pace with every century of the last millennium.

Here, we will take a look at thought-provoking topics on the history of technology. Besides, you’ll see a few history essay questions on technology.

• Advancement of farming technology in the Bronze Age.
• Technological advancements of Ancient Rome. Discuss Roman technological inventions. How did they impact the world for many centuries?
• Structure of a Roman road. Explain the structure of a Roman road. Discuss how the road system connected the Empire. Did it help to spread Christianity?
• The history of genetically modified food: corporation profits and risks.
• The history of sanitation in Paris. A tale of revolutionary engineering solutions.
• Evolution of heart surgeries.
• The scientific contribution of Dr. Ivan Pavlov to physiology.
• Avicenna (Ibn Sina) and the history of medieval medicine. Talk about Avicenna’s contribution to medicine. How accurate were his thoughts on it?

• The trebuchet: the deadliest siege weapon of Medieval Europe.
• The history of limb surgery: from pirates to modern medicine.
• Japanese experiments on humans during WWII. Did they provide humanity with valuable data on the human organism?
• Naval technology throughout human history. Research military and civic solutions of naval engineering during various periods. Consider Antiquity, Middle Ages, Age of Discovery, Age of Enlightenment, etc.
• Rapid European scientific advancement of the Age of Enlightenment. Why did the advancement of science and technology in Europe increase in the 18-19th centuries?
• History of blimps: strengths and weaknesses.
• First computers of WWII. Study the first computer systems of WWII. Explain their technical capabilities and flaws.
• How did the new technology make WWI so high with casualties?
• The science of an atomic bomb: a case study.
• How online social media impacted global society in the 2010s?
• How China introduced new types of censorship with the creation of the Internet.
• Compare college education of the XIXth century and modern times.
• The city of Tenochtitlan. The technological marvel of the Aztecs.

🎶 Music History Essay Topics

Music is one of the most effective examples of human genius. People have made music to express their emotions to each other. Thus, the history of music is extensive and rich in detail. Exploring it can be just as fascinating as listening to music.

Below, you’ll find the best ideas on the history of music to talk about:

• Jazz, New Orleans, and the Roaring Twenties: a musical phenomenon. Discuss the genre’s origins and technical aspects.
• The music of the Antiquity of the Mediterranean region. From Egypt and Greece to Rome.
• The use of music in Ancient Rome.

• Techniques a style of Mozart and Beethoven. A critical analysis.
• Studio 54 – a story of disco, glamour, and exclusivity.
• The history of organum and organ music.
• Advancement of music technology in the early XXth century.
• Baroque music and its famous composers. Analyze the technical details behind baroque music. Give examples of its notable composers.
• Music theater as the main source of musical innovation of the late classical era.
• Detailed analysis of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. Examine the composer’s final symphony. Explore Beethoven’s health complications during the last years of his life.
• Religion and music: how Christianity employed the vocal skills of monks. Research the history and characteristics of the Gregorian chant.
• The golden era of classical music of the XVIIth-XIXth centuries in Germany and Austria.
• The musical experiments by Andy Warhol.
• The musical instruments of the Renaissance and modern times. What are the similarities and differences?
• Musical instruments and chants of Bronze Age Mesopotamia.
• Bohemian Rhapsody: a musical analysis. Discuss the story behind the creation of Queen’s famous song.
• Lively music and deadly drugs. How did narcotics become a part of the music industry in the 60s and 70s?
• The history of the club culture of New York. Discuss the history of clubs in New York. How did the advocates for gay rights start the new idea of clubbing?
• The emergence of hip-hop and rap in Uptown Brooklyn and the Bronx. Analyze how the new genre started commenting on the reality of streets and black rights.
• The history of Woodstock – America’s most iconic music festival.

👍 Good History Essay Questions

Writing an essay about countries should be divided into European and American theaters. Each region has a history rich in events and personalities.

Below, there are great European and US history essay questions for your paper:

🌄 American History Essay Questions

• How did medics deal with casualties during the US Civil War? Talk about the organization of medical staff on both sides of the war. Analyze the treatment methods applied to wounded soldiers.
• What factors contributed to the victory in the American Revolution?
• US economy and culture of the 1920s. How did it develop?
• How did civil rights develop during the Reconstruction era?

• Why was slavery so popular in the southern states? Analyze the economy of the southern states in America. Explain why slavery has such deep roots there.
• Why did the United States emerge as a superpower after WWII?
• Who were the main benefactors of the US economy in the early 20th century?

🏘 European History Essay Questions

• The Renaissance essay. Why and how did naturalistic beauty become the main element of art?
• What are the key ideas in Robin Briggs’s historical research on witchcraft?
• The Modern European history question. How did the Mafia operate in Italy? Analyze the roots of Italian Mafia, its organizational structure. What were its spheres of influence?
• Which scientific innovations were discovered in the late XIXth and early XXth century Europe?
• Tudor history: what caused the English Reformation?
• How did colonization transform the economies of European empires?
• Which economic and political benefits were introduced at the creation of the European Union? Elaborate on the history of the EU. Analyze its economic and political aspects.

🔥 5 Tips for Writing an Essay in Class

For whatever reason, you need to write an in-class essay. It could be an exam or an ordinary assignment. It doesn’t matter as the goal remains the same. You have to compose a coherent paper in a short amount of time under supervision.

What is the best way to handle working under such pressure? By following our tips:

1. Practice beforehand

Any sort of training makes a person comfortable with the upcoming task. Practice writing an essay so that you memorize the format. Keep in mind how to outline the paper and some useful words for transitions. Even when you’re unfamiliar with the topic, you’ll still know where to begin without thinking.

2. Forget to panic

Students can lose time by bracing themselves. By staring on the blank page with the essay question can help no one. The sooner you start the task, the better. Don’t let your brain panic!

3. Plan before you write

Starting the essay right away may be tempting and promising, but that’s how you make mistakes. Reread and analyze the given question, notice the keywords. Make sure you’re answering what’s asked, not more or less. Come up with a thesis statement and make an outline.

Properly organizing your paper saves your time and reduces stress. It ensures that you addressed every issue. Plus, it shows whether you connected every argument to the thesis statement. Besides, putting topic sentences and transitions in the outline makes them less repetitive in the essay.

4. Keep in mind your writing speed

Remember the first tip? This one comes naturally from practicing. The more you write, the better you understand your pace. Learn how much time you need to complete each part of the essay writing. Try not to exceed the estimated time for an outline, an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

5. Proofread

Writing in a rush, you may forget about your spelling and punctuation. Save some time for rereading your paper thoroughly. Pay attention to logical reasoning and grammar errors. Add sentences if necessary. Your paper may look messy as long as you do so to improve your writing and ensure the perfect flow.

Thank you for taking some time to read this article. We hope that it will help you in your academic studies. If this article proved to be informative to you, leave a comment below. Share it with others who might need some guidance in their studies.

🔗 References

• How To Write a Good History Essay: Robert Pearce for History Today
• Elements of an Effective History Exam Essay: Mark Brilliant, Department of History, Program in American Studies, University of California, Berkeley
• UChicago Supplemental Essay Questions: College Admissions, University of Chicago
• Tips for Writing Essay Exams: Writing Center, University of Washington
• Popular Application Essay Topics: The Princeton Review
• Historiographical Essays: Center for Writing and Speaking, Campbell Hall
• Persuasion Essays: Sheldon Smith for Eapfoundation.com
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15 Examples Of Good Topics For An Extended Essay In History

A good history essay topic is much more important than you may think. It determines a lot in the process of working, in the search for arguments, and so on. The choice of a good topic for an extended project is somewhat easier in case you are offered a list of ready suggestions by your teacher. If you are told to find a good one on your own, it can be a challenge. You need to either create it yourself or get professional help from this website.

Where to Search for Good Topics?

The Internet offers access to numerous resources that deal with academic writing. With their help, you can handle many diverse writing matters, starting with the choice of a good essay topic and ending with formatting matters. Besides them, you can find numerous essay topic generators that can provide you with interesting ideas.

Give preference to unique ones that attach the subjects that have not yet been overly discussed by other students. It’s a useful tip that will help you make your own project interesting and valuable from the scientific point of view.

Below, you can also find a list of interesting history topic suggestions that you may use.

• How did it come that the Catholic Church lead the governance in the medieval Europe?
• Is it correct to call the Middle Ages a Dark Age of complete regression?
• How did the plague pandemics influence the development of culture and technologies in the medieval world?
• How did Buddhism influence the development and establishment of the Chinese Empire?
• Which factors allowed William the Conqueror win in Britain?
• Was there any connection between the result of WWI and the preconditions of WWII?
• What as the influence of the Golden Age on the development of the civilization in America?
• Which factors have neared the end of the South African apartheid?
• How did the relationship between China and Japan develop through time?
• What’s the reason why totalitarian governance should be banned in any of its forms?
• What was the cause of the industrialization of Europe?
• Why was an average life so short in the Middle Ages?
• What did James Cook expect to find when he discovered Australia?
• Can a war be justified? Have there been any wars in the history that can be justified?
• What can the humanity do to prevent tragedies like Holocaust?

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