Criteria for Extended Essay
J: Abstract: Under 300, RQ, how investigation undertaken (scope) conclusion(s)
(0) Over 300 words or no RQ or no Scope or no Conclusion
(1) Under 300, RQ while Scope /Conclusion stated
(2) Under 300, RQ while Scope/ Conclusion clearly stated.
B: Introduction: Intro makes clear how RQ relates to existing knowledge, Explain how topic is significant & worthy of
investigation
(0) Little/no attempt made to set RQ into context, little/no attempt to explain significance of the topic
(1) Superficial attempt to set RQ in context, some attempt to explain significance of topic and why worthy of investigation
(2) Context of RQ (background) is clearly demonstrated. Clearly explains significance of topic and why worthy of investigation
A: Research Question: Is the purpose of the essay specified, RQ in intro., title and RQ clearly stated and suitable for Economic
Essay and not a double-barreled question?
(0) RQ NOT stated in intro, does not lend itself to a systematic investigation in an EE in particular subject.
(1) RQ stated in intro. or title but not clearly expressed or too broad in scope to be treated effectively within the word limit
(2) RQ clearly stated in intro. Or title, sharply focused, making effective treatment possible within the word limit RQ is stated
as a question.
I: Formal Presentation: Under 4,000, title page, table of contents, page #’s, illustrations, quotations, charts, refs., biblio.,
appendices (if used). Notes: If diagrams are poorly presented or information on the diagram is unclear – deduct one mark.
(0) The formal presentation is unacceptable; or exceeds 4,000 words
(1) Poor – missing 3 or more if the above
(2) Satisfactory – missing 2 of the above
(3) Good – missing one of the above
(4) Excellent
C: Investigation: Extent investigation is planned and appropriate range of sources consulted, data gathered relevant to the RQ.
Little/no evidence that sources consulted/data gathered, little/no evidence of planning in the investigation. Primary data is
used; evidential support with secondary data.
(0) Range of inappropriate sources consulted/inappropriate data gathered, little evidence of investigation planned
(1) Limited range of appropriate sources consulted/data gathered, some relevant material selected, some planning
(2) Sufficient range of appropriate sources consulted/data gathered, relevant material selected, satisfactorily planned
(3) Imaginative range of appropriate sources consulted/data gathered, relevant material carefully selected, well planned
D: Knowledge & Understanding: The topic studied here is principally the primary text(s) that is/are the focus of the essay.
The quality of the student’s understanding of the primary text(s) is the main concern. The use of secondary sources is not an
essential requirement. Knowledge and understanding of the topic, awareness of academic content, diagrams and use of
theory.
(0) None ----- (1) Little ----- (2) Some ----- (3) Good ----- (4) Excellent
E: Reasoned Argument: Ideas presented in a logical and coherent manner, reasoned argument developed in relation to the
RQ. Integration of economic theories and awareness of alternative viewpoints.
(0) No attempt to develop a reasoned argument in relation to the RQ
(1) Limited or superficial attempt to present ideas in a logical/coherent manner or develop a reasoned argument in relation
to the RQ
(2) Some attempt to present ideas in a logical/coherent manner; partially successful development of reasoned argument in
relation to the RQ
(3) Ideas presented in a logical and coherent manner; Reasoned argument developed in relation to the RQ, some weakness
(4) Ideas presented clearly/logical and coherent manner; reasoned and convincing argument in relation to the RQ
F: Analysis: persuasive analysis and argument to support a personal interpretation. Evidence (primary and secondary),
awareness of validity of information and limitations of arguments, assumptions are clearly states, use of diagrams and theories.
Second-hand interpretations that are derived solely from secondary sources will lose marks under this criterion, as will purely
descriptive essays that list examples of literary motifs but fail to analyze them.
(1) None ----- (1) Little ----- (2) Some ----- (3) Sound/Partially Effective ----- (4) Effective & Sophisticated
G: Use of Language: Clarity and precision of communication with correct use of language.
(0) Is accurate and unclear; no effective use of terms appropriate for subject.
(1) Sometimes communicates clearly; not consistently; partially accurate use of terms
(2) For the most part communicates clearly; appropriate/usually accurate use of terms
(3) Communicates clearly; accurate use of terms, occasional lapses
(4) Communicates clearly and precisely; accurate use of terms showing skill and understanding
H: Conclusion: Assess if a relevant conclusion is consistent with the evidence in the essay is provided. No new material is
offered in the conclusion – obvious limitations stated and critical awareness of sample or interview bias.
(0) Little or no attempt made to provide a conclusion relevant to RQ
(1) Conclusion attempted relevant to RQ; not entirely consistent with the evidence presented in EE
(2) Effective conclusion clearly stated; relevant to RQ; consistent with evidence presented; includes unresolved questions,
where appropriate.
K: Holistic Judgement: shows initiative, creativity and insight, even if the essay does not achieve the highest standard overall.
Routine essays on well-worn topics will not score highly under this criterion. Shows initiative, creativity and insight
(0) None ----- (1) Little ----- (2) Some ----- (3) Clear ----- (4) Considerable
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