The Extended Essay (EE) is a cornerstone of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, offering students an opportunity to engage in independent research and write a detailed analysis on a topic of their choice. An essential component of the EE process is the reflection, which provides students a structured way to document their thinking, evaluate their progress, and demonstrate the development of their skills. This essay outlines the purpose, structure, and best practices for crafting effective reflections in the EE process.
Purpose of the IB Extended Essay Reflection
The reflection process is more than a simple recount of activities; it is an opportunity for students to:
Demonstrate Engagement: Show how their thinking has evolved and how they’ve grappled with challenges.
Evaluate Progress: Reflect on their research strategies, time management, and academic growth.
Showcase Personal Development: Highlight skills such as critical thinking, self-management, and problem-solving.
Meet Assessment Criteria: Fulfil specific IB requirements, contributing up to six marks in Criterion E (Engagement).
Through thoughtful reflection, students can align their efforts with the EE’s objectives and communicate their intellectual journey effectively to examiners.
Structure of the EE Reflection
Reflections are recorded at three key stages during the EE process:
1. The Initial Reflection (150–175 Words)
The initial reflection focuses on the early stages of the research process, particularly topic selection and research planning.
Content Suggestions:
Why you chose your topic and how it connects to your interests or future aspirations.
Initial research questions and their potential significance.
Early challenges or uncertainties and strategies for addressing them.
Goals for your research and what you hope to learn.
Example: “I chose to investigate the impact of renewable energy policies in Denmark because I have a strong interest in environmental sustainability and plan to study environmental science at university. My initial question explores how Denmark’s policies have influenced carbon emissions over the past decade. A key challenge was narrowing my focus, as the topic is broad. With my supervisor’s guidance, I decided to analyze specific policy measures and their outcomes. My goal is to develop a deeper understanding of how public policies shape environmental outcomes and refine my research skills.”
2. The Interim Reflection (200–225 Words)
The interim reflection addresses the progress made midway through the research process. This is where students assess their methods, identify challenges, and refine their approach.
Content Suggestions:
Key milestones achieved and new insights gained.
How your research question or focus has evolved.
Challenges faced (e.g., insufficient sources, time constraints) and how you overcame them.
Reflection on your use of feedback from your supervisor or other sources.
Example: “At this stage, I have gathered primary and secondary data on Denmark’s renewable energy policies. While initially focusing on broad emission trends, I realised this approach lacked depth. With my supervisor’s input, I refined my research to analyse the role of wind energy subsidies. Finding credible sources was challenging, but access to academic databases proved invaluable. Analyzing policy documents and emission statistics has enhanced my critical thinking and taught me to evaluate data reliability. Moving forward, I aim to integrate more case studies to illustrate the real-world impact of these policies.”
3. The Final Reflection (150–175 Words)
The final reflection captures the culmination of the research process, focusing on lessons learned, personal growth, and the overall experience.
Content Suggestions:
Final thoughts on your research process and outcomes.
Skills developed, such as time management, research techniques, or writing skills.
How the EE has influenced your perspective or future academic/career goals.
Any lingering questions or areas for further exploration.
Example: “Completing my EE has been a transformative experience. Analyzing Denmark’s wind energy policies deepened my understanding of sustainable development and strengthened my analytical skills. I learned the importance of perseverance when encountering data limitations and the value of clear communication in presenting complex ideas. This process has confirmed my desire to pursue environmental policy at university and inspired me to explore how these principles can be applied globally. Although my research answered many questions, it also raised new ones about the intersection of technology and policy, which I hope to investigate further.”
Best Practices for Writing EE Reflections
Be Honest and Reflective
Authenticity is key to a compelling reflection. Instead of writing what you think examiners want to hear, focus on your genuine experiences, challenges, and growth.
Use Specific Examples
Ground your reflections in concrete examples. For instance, describe a particular source that shaped your thinking or a turning point in your research process.
Highlight Personal Growth
Emphasize the skills and insights you gained through the process. Reflect on how the EE challenged you intellectually and personally.
Connect to the Research Process
Tie your reflections back to your research. Show how your decisions and adaptations impacted your investigation and outcomes.
Write Concisely
Given the word count limitations, focus on clarity and brevity. Avoid unnecessary detail and ensure each sentence contributes to your overall narrative.
Revisit and Revise
Take the time to revise your reflections to ensure they are coherent and polished. Seek feedback from your supervisor to refine your writing.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Being Overly Descriptive: Reflections should not simply recount what you did; they should analyze and evaluate your experiences.
Ignoring Challenges: Avoid portraying a flawless process. Acknowledging difficulties and how you addressed them demonstrates resilience and critical thinking.
Superficial Reflections: Go beyond surface-level observations by exploring the deeper implications of your research decisions.
Neglecting the Word Count: Ensure each reflection stays within the recommended word limits.
The reflection process in the IB Extended Essay is an invaluable opportunity to showcase your engagement, perseverance, and intellectual growth. By thoughtfully addressing the initial, interim, and final stages of your research journey, you can provide examiners with a comprehensive view of your development as a researcher. Approach each reflection with honesty, specificity, and depth, and you will not only excel in Criterion E but also gain a deeper appreciation for the learning process.
The IB Chemistry Clinic helps both Higher Level and Standard Level Chemistry students with all aspects of their IB journey. The IB diploma is a highly demanding programme and students are expected to adhere to strict deadlines - both internal and external. Many students feel overwhelmed when they see the sheer amount of preparation they need to do, not only for their coursework (Internal Assessments and Extended Essay) but also for their final exams.
With the guidance of our IB Chemistry Clinic tutors, you will be able to attain a Grade 7 with time and effort! Our tutors have more than 30 years of experience teaching Chemistry, and extensive research experience. This makes our tutors well-equipped to help students with their Internal Assessments (IAs) and their Chemistry Extended Essay. Independent research may be difficult for some students because they do not know where to start. Additionally, they may run into problems with their experimental setup. The IB Chemistry Clinic guides students through the entire process from start to finish, or helps students as their investigations are ongoing.
If you need help with IB Chemistry, WhatsApp us at +65 9616 1651 to book your slot with the IB Chemistry Clinic today!
Commentaires