Outline for Extended Essay

The introduction should include:

· an indication of why the topic chosen is interesting, important or worthy of study

· some background information and an attempt to place the topic in an appropriate

context

· an indication of whether the topic has been narrowed to a focus of more manageable

proportions

· a clearly and precisely stated research question

· a clear concluding statement of the thesis and argument, i.e. the response to the

research question that will subsequently be developed in the body of the essay.

Body/Development

The essential feature of the major section, or body, of the essay is the systematic development of

a convincing answer to the research question. The structure and the approach to this section will

be shaped by the conventions of the particular subject in which the extended essay is being

undertaken. Some subjects may require sub­headings for major sections within the main body.

For example, scientific investigations will usually have separate sections for method and results.

In some other subjects, however, sub­headings should be avoided because they disrupt the flow

and unity of an essay.

Conclusion

The requirements of the conclusion are that it

· is clearly stated

· is relevant to the research question being investigated

· is substantiated by the evidence presented

· indicates issues, unresolved questions and new questions that have emerged from the

research.