The Extended Essay (compulsory component of IB Diploma programme) is an independent research paper of approximately 4000 words in one of the subjects of the IB curriculum. The Extended Essay provides an excellent preparation for the kind of work required at university. Essays are assessed by an external examiner. The extended essay has been a huge benefit to students attending interviews for universities particularly when the topic of the essay links into the course they have applied for. Each student works with the Librarian and a supervisor from the school’s teaching staff who assist and advise with the planning, development and completion of the essay. It is recommended that students should only write an essay in a subject they are studying for the Diploma. A passing grade in the Extended Essay is a requirement for the IB Diploma.

Students have a class in their timetable in 5th year with the Librarian to teach them the necessary skills of research, citing and academic honesty required for a good essay. 

Throughout the process students will have three mandatory reflection sessions with their supervisor culminating in a viva-voce presentation to their supervisor. The students will record their reflections on the Extended essay - Reflections on planning and progress form

All extended essays are externally assessed by examiners appointed by the IB. They are marked on a scale from 0 to 34.

The score a student receives relates to a band. The bands are:

• A – work of an excellent standard.
• B – work of a good standard.
• C –work of a satisfactory standard.
• D – work of a mediocre standard.
• E – work of an elementary standard.

The Extended Essay grade is combined with the Theory of Knowledge grade for the awarding of a maximum of three bonus points using the combinations of grades on the EE/ToK rubric