The International Baccalaureate (IB) Extended Essay is a 4,000-word research paper that provides students with the opportunity to explore a topic of their choice in depth. The Extended Essay (EE) is an integral part of the IB Diploma Programme and allows students to engage in independent research and analysis on a topic of their choosing. The process of writing an Extended Essay requires students to develop skills in research, critical thinking, and organization, making it an excellent opportunity for students to challenge themselves academically and develop important skills for future success.
There are many different topics that students can choose for their Extended Essay, and the best topic will depend on the student's interests and areas of expertise. Some potential ideas for an Extended Essay include:
An analysis of a literary work: Students could choose to analyze a specific work of literature, exploring themes, symbols, and other elements of the text in depth.
A historical investigation: Students could choose to research a specific event or time period in history, analyzing primary sources and exploring the context of the time period.
A scientific investigation: Students could choose to conduct experiments or analyze data to explore a specific scientific concept or theory.
An economic analysis: Students could choose to explore a specific economic theory or policy, analyzing data and examining its impact on society.
A philosophical investigation: Students could choose to explore a specific philosophical concept or theory, analyzing the ideas of key philosophers and examining the implications of their ideas.
An artistic analysis: Students could choose to explore the work of a specific artist or artistic movement, analyzing the themes and techniques used in their work.
A psychological investigation: Students could choose to explore a specific psychological concept or theory, analyzing data and examining its relevance to human behavior.
No matter what topic students choose for their Extended Essay, it is important that they choose a topic that is of interest to them and that they are passionate about. This will help them stay motivated throughout the research and writing process and will ensure that their final essay is of the highest quality.
Thought paper topics can be vast and varied, covering a wide range of subjects and disciplines. Some thought paper topics may be more abstract in nature, such as philosophical inquiries or moral dilemmas, while others may be more concrete, such as scientific or historical analysis. Regardless of the subject matter, thought papers offer an opportunity for students to engage in deep, critical thinking and to express their ideas and opinions on a particular topic.
One potential thought paper topic could be the concept of free will. This topic has been debated by philosophers for centuries and is still a subject of much debate today. Students could explore the various arguments for and against free will, examining the evidence and reasoning behind each position. They could also consider the implications of free will on our understanding of moral responsibility and how it might affect our understanding of the world around us.
Another thought paper topic could be the impact of technology on society. With the rapid advancements in technology in recent years, this topic offers endless possibilities for exploration. Students could consider the ways in which technology has transformed the way we communicate, work, and interact with one another. They could also consider the potential negative impacts of technology, such as the loss of privacy or the potential for technological unemployment.
A third thought paper topic could be the ethics of animal testing. This topic is particularly relevant in the fields of biology and psychology, but it also has broader philosophical implications. Students could examine the various arguments for and against animal testing, considering both the potential benefits and the ethical concerns. They could also consider the role of animal testing in the development of new medications and treatments, and whether there are alternative methods that could be used instead.
Regardless of the specific thought paper topic chosen, it is important for students to approach the topic with an open mind and to carefully consider all sides of the argument. Thought papers are an opportunity for students to develop their critical thinking skills and to express their own ideas and opinions on a particular topic. By engaging in this type of intellectual exploration, students can gain a deeper understanding of the world around them and become more thoughtful and informed citizens.
