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.

5. Body

Section 1: Literature Review
- Overview of Sources: Summarize the key sources you have used.
- Historiography: Discuss different historical interpretations and debates related to your topic.
Section 2: Analysis
- 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.
Section 3: Argument Development
- 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.