PrepScholar

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, the complete ib extended essay guide: examples, topics, and ideas.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

body-notes-notetaking-cc0-pixabay

IB students around the globe fear writing the Extended Essay, but it doesn't have to be a source of stress! In this article, I'll get you excited about writing your Extended Essay and provide you with the resources you need to get an A on it.

If you're reading this article, I'm going to assume you're an IB student getting ready to write your Extended Essay. If you're looking at this as a potential future IB student, I recommend reading our introductory IB articles first, including our guide to what the IB program is and our full coverage of the IB curriculum .

IB Extended Essay: Why Should You Trust My Advice?

I myself am a recipient of an IB Diploma, and I happened to receive an A on my IB Extended Essay. Don't believe me? The proof is in the IBO pudding:

body_ibeescore.png

If you're confused by what this report means, EE is short for Extended Essay , and English A1 is the subject that my Extended Essay topic coordinated with. In layman's terms, my IB Diploma was graded in May 2010, I wrote my Extended Essay in the English A1 category, and I received an A grade on it.

What Is the Extended Essay in the IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Extended Essay, or EE , is a mini-thesis you write under the supervision of an IB advisor (an IB teacher at your school), which counts toward your IB Diploma (learn more about the major IB Diploma requirements in our guide) . I will explain exactly how the EE affects your Diploma later in this article.

For the Extended Essay, you will choose a research question as a topic, conduct the research independently, then write an essay on your findings . The essay itself is a long one—although there's a cap of 4,000 words, most successful essays get very close to this limit.

Keep in mind that the IB requires this essay to be a "formal piece of academic writing," meaning you'll have to do outside research and cite additional sources.

The IB Extended Essay must include the following:

  • A title page
  • Contents page
  • Introduction
  • Body of the essay
  • References and bibliography

Additionally, your research topic must fall into one of the six approved DP categories , or IB subject groups, which are as follows:

  • Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
  • Group 2: Language Acquisition
  • Group 3: Individuals and Societies
  • Group 4: Sciences
  • Group 5: Mathematics
  • Group 6: The Arts

Once you figure out your category and have identified a potential research topic, it's time to pick your advisor, who is normally an IB teacher at your school (though you can also find one online ). This person will help direct your research, and they'll conduct the reflection sessions you'll have to do as part of your Extended Essay.

As of 2018, the IB requires a "reflection process" as part of your EE supervision process. To fulfill this requirement, you have to meet at least three times with your supervisor in what the IB calls "reflection sessions." These meetings are not only mandatory but are also part of the formal assessment of the EE and your research methods.

According to the IB, the purpose of these meetings is to "provide an opportunity for students to reflect on their engagement with the research process." Basically, these meetings give your supervisor the opportunity to offer feedback, push you to think differently, and encourage you to evaluate your research process.

The final reflection session is called the viva voce, and it's a short 10- to 15-minute interview between you and your advisor. This happens at the very end of the EE process, and it's designed to help your advisor write their report, which factors into your EE grade.

Here are the topics covered in your viva voce :

  • A check on plagiarism and malpractice
  • Your reflection on your project's successes and difficulties
  • Your reflection on what you've learned during the EE process

Your completed Extended Essay, along with your supervisor's report, will then be sent to the IB to be graded. We'll cover the assessment criteria in just a moment.

body-lightbulb-idea-pixabay-cc0

We'll help you learn how to have those "lightbulb" moments...even on test day!  

What Should You Write About in Your IB Extended Essay?

You can technically write about anything, so long as it falls within one of the approved categories listed above.

It's best to choose a topic that matches one of the IB courses , (such as Theatre, Film, Spanish, French, Math, Biology, etc.), which shouldn't be difficult because there are so many class subjects.

Here is a range of sample topics with the attached extended essay:

  • Biology: The Effect of Age and Gender on the Photoreceptor Cells in the Human Retina
  • Chemistry: How Does Reflux Time Affect the Yield and Purity of Ethyl Aminobenzoate (Benzocaine), and How Effective is Recrystallisation as a Purification Technique for This Compound?
  • English: An Exploration of Jane Austen's Use of the Outdoors in Emma
  • Geography: The Effect of Location on the Educational Attainment of Indigenous Secondary Students in Queensland, Australia
  • Math: Alhazen's Billiard Problem
  • Visual Arts: Can Luc Tuymans Be Classified as a Political Painter?

You can see from how varied the topics are that you have a lot of freedom when it comes to picking a topic . So how do you pick when the options are limitless?

body-pen-A+-test-grade-exam-cc0-pixabay

How to Write a Stellar IB Extended Essay: 6 Essential Tips

Below are six key tips to keep in mind as you work on your Extended Essay for the IB DP. Follow these and you're sure to get an A!

#1: Write About Something You Enjoy

You can't expect to write a compelling essay if you're not a fan of the topic on which you're writing. For example, I just love British theatre and ended up writing my Extended Essay on a revolution in post-WWII British theatre. (Yes, I'm definitely a #TheatreNerd.)

I really encourage anyone who pursues an IB Diploma to take the Extended Essay seriously. I was fortunate enough to receive a full-tuition merit scholarship to USC's School of Dramatic Arts program. In my interview for the scholarship, I spoke passionately about my Extended Essay; thus, I genuinely think my Extended Essay helped me get my scholarship.

But how do you find a topic you're passionate about? Start by thinking about which classes you enjoy the most and why . Do you like math classes because you like to solve problems? Or do you enjoy English because you like to analyze literary texts?

Keep in mind that there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing your Extended Essay topic. You're not more likely to get high marks because you're writing about science, just like you're not doomed to failure because you've chosen to tackle the social sciences. The quality of what you produce—not the field you choose to research within—will determine your grade.

Once you've figured out your category, you should brainstorm more specific topics by putting pen to paper . What was your favorite chapter you learned in that class? Was it astrophysics or mechanics? What did you like about that specific chapter? Is there something you want to learn more about? I recommend spending a few hours on this type of brainstorming.

One last note: if you're truly stumped on what to research, pick a topic that will help you in your future major or career . That way you can use your Extended Essay as a talking point in your college essays (and it will prepare you for your studies to come too!).

#2: Select a Topic That Is Neither Too Broad nor Too Narrow

There's a fine line between broad and narrow. You need to write about something specific, but not so specific that you can't write 4,000 words on it.

You can't write about WWII because that would be a book's worth of material. You also don't want to write about what type of soup prisoners of war received behind enemy lines, because you probably won’t be able to come up with 4,000 words of material about it. However, you could possibly write about how the conditions in German POW camps—and the rations provided—were directly affected by the Nazis' successes and failures on the front, including the use of captured factories and prison labor in Eastern Europe to increase production. WWII military history might be a little overdone, but you get my point.

If you're really stuck trying to pinpoint a not-too-broad-or-too-narrow topic, I suggest trying to brainstorm a topic that uses a comparison. Once you begin looking through the list of sample essays below, you'll notice that many use comparisons to formulate their main arguments.

I also used a comparison in my EE, contrasting Harold Pinter's Party Time with John Osborne's Look Back in Anger in order to show a transition in British theatre. Topics with comparisons of two to three plays, books, and so on tend to be the sweet spot. You can analyze each item and then compare them with one another after doing some in-depth analysis of each individually. The ways these items compare and contrast will end up forming the thesis of your essay!

When choosing a comparative topic, the key is that the comparison should be significant. I compared two plays to illustrate the transition in British theatre, but you could compare the ways different regional dialects affect people's job prospects or how different temperatures may or may not affect the mating patterns of lightning bugs. The point here is that comparisons not only help you limit your topic, but they also help you build your argument.

Comparisons are not the only way to get a grade-A EE, though. If after brainstorming, you pick a non-comparison-based topic and are still unsure whether your topic is too broad or narrow, spend about 30 minutes doing some basic research and see how much material is out there.

If there are more than 1,000 books, articles, or documentaries out there on that exact topic, it may be too broad. But if there are only two books that have any connection to your topic, it may be too narrow. If you're still unsure, ask your advisor—it's what they're there for! Speaking of advisors...

body-narrow-crack-stuck-cc0-pixabay

Don't get stuck with a narrow topic!

#3: Choose an Advisor Who Is Familiar With Your Topic

If you're not certain of who you would like to be your advisor, create a list of your top three choices. Next, write down the pros and cons of each possibility (I know this sounds tedious, but it really helps!).

For example, Mr. Green is my favorite teacher and we get along really well, but he teaches English. For my EE, I want to conduct an experiment that compares the efficiency of American electric cars with foreign electric cars.

I had Ms. White a year ago. She teaches physics and enjoyed having me in her class. Unlike Mr. Green, Ms. White could help me design my experiment.

Based on my topic and what I need from my advisor, Ms. White would be a better fit for me than would Mr. Green (even though I like him a lot).

The moral of my story is this: do not just ask your favorite teacher to be your advisor . They might be a hindrance to you if they teach another subject. For example, I would not recommend asking your biology teacher to guide you in writing an English literature-based EE.

There can, of course, be exceptions to this rule. If you have a teacher who's passionate and knowledgeable about your topic (as my English teacher was about my theatre topic), you could ask that instructor. Consider all your options before you do this. There was no theatre teacher at my high school, so I couldn't find a theatre-specific advisor, but I chose the next best thing.

Before you approach a teacher to serve as your advisor, check with your high school to see what requirements they have for this process. Some IB high schools require your IB Extended Essay advisor to sign an Agreement Form , for instance.

Make sure that you ask your IB coordinator whether there is any required paperwork to fill out. If your school needs a specific form signed, bring it with you when you ask your teacher to be your EE advisor.

#4: Pick an Advisor Who Will Push You to Be Your Best

Some teachers might just take on students because they have to and aren't very passionate about reading drafts, only giving you minimal feedback. Choose a teacher who will take the time to read several drafts of your essay and give you extensive notes. I would not have gotten my A without being pushed to make my Extended Essay draft better.

Ask a teacher that you have experience with through class or an extracurricular activity. Do not ask a teacher that you have absolutely no connection to. If a teacher already knows you, that means they already know your strengths and weaknesses, so they know what to look for, where you need to improve, and how to encourage your best work.

Also, don't forget that your supervisor's assessment is part of your overall EE score . If you're meeting with someone who pushes you to do better—and you actually take their advice—they'll have more impressive things to say about you than a supervisor who doesn't know you well and isn't heavily involved in your research process.

Be aware that the IB only allows advisors to make suggestions and give constructive criticism. Your teacher cannot actually help you write your EE. The IB recommends that the supervisor spends approximately two to three hours in total with the candidate discussing the EE.

#5: Make Sure Your Essay Has a Clear Structure and Flow

The IB likes structure. Your EE needs a clear introduction (which should be one to two double-spaced pages), research question/focus (i.e., what you're investigating), a body, and a conclusion (about one double-spaced page). An essay with unclear organization will be graded poorly.

The body of your EE should make up the bulk of the essay. It should be about eight to 18 pages long (again, depending on your topic). Your body can be split into multiple parts. For example, if you were doing a comparison, you might have one third of your body as Novel A Analysis, another third as Novel B Analysis, and the final third as your comparison of Novels A and B.

If you're conducting an experiment or analyzing data, such as in this EE , your EE body should have a clear structure that aligns with the scientific method ; you should state the research question, discuss your method, present the data, analyze the data, explain any uncertainties, and draw a conclusion and/or evaluate the success of the experiment.

#6: Start Writing Sooner Rather Than Later!

You will not be able to crank out a 4,000-word essay in just a week and get an A on it. You'll be reading many, many articles (and, depending on your topic, possibly books and plays as well!). As such, it's imperative that you start your research as soon as possible.

Each school has a slightly different deadline for the Extended Essay. Some schools want them as soon as November of your senior year; others will take them as late as February. Your school will tell you what your deadline is. If they haven't mentioned it by February of your junior year, ask your IB coordinator about it.

Some high schools will provide you with a timeline of when you need to come up with a topic, when you need to meet with your advisor, and when certain drafts are due. Not all schools do this. Ask your IB coordinator if you are unsure whether you are on a specific timeline.

Below is my recommended EE timeline. While it's earlier than most schools, it'll save you a ton of heartache (trust me, I remember how hard this process was!):

  • January/February of Junior Year: Come up with your final research topic (or at least your top three options).
  • February of Junior Year: Approach a teacher about being your EE advisor. If they decline, keep asking others until you find one. See my notes above on how to pick an EE advisor.
  • April/May of Junior Year: Submit an outline of your EE and a bibliography of potential research sources (I recommend at least seven to 10) to your EE advisor. Meet with your EE advisor to discuss your outline.
  • Summer Between Junior and Senior Year: Complete your first full draft over the summer between your junior and senior year. I know, I know—no one wants to work during the summer, but trust me—this will save you so much stress come fall when you are busy with college applications and other internal assessments for your IB classes. You will want to have this first full draft done because you will want to complete a couple of draft cycles as you likely won't be able to get everything you want to say into 4,000 articulate words on the first attempt. Try to get this first draft into the best possible shape so you don't have to work on too many revisions during the school year on top of your homework, college applications, and extracurriculars.
  • August/September of Senior Year: Turn in your first draft of your EE to your advisor and receive feedback. Work on incorporating their feedback into your essay. If they have a lot of suggestions for improvement, ask if they will read one more draft before the final draft.
  • September/October of Senior Year: Submit the second draft of your EE to your advisor (if necessary) and look at their feedback. Work on creating the best possible final draft.
  • November-February of Senior Year: Schedule your viva voce. Submit two copies of your final draft to your school to be sent off to the IB. You likely will not get your grade until after you graduate.

Remember that in the middle of these milestones, you'll need to schedule two other reflection sessions with your advisor . (Your teachers will actually take notes on these sessions on a form like this one , which then gets submitted to the IB.)

I recommend doing them when you get feedback on your drafts, but these meetings will ultimately be up to your supervisor. Just don't forget to do them!

body-bird-worm-cc0-pixabay

The early bird DOES get the worm!

How Is the IB Extended Essay Graded?

Extended Essays are graded by examiners appointed by the IB on a scale of 0 to 34 . You'll be graded on five criteria, each with its own set of points. You can learn more about how EE scoring works by reading the IB guide to extended essays .

  • Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum)
  • Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum)
  • Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum)
  • Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum)
  • Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum)

How well you do on each of these criteria will determine the final letter grade you get for your EE. You must earn at least a D to be eligible to receive your IB Diploma.

Although each criterion has a point value, the IB explicitly states that graders are not converting point totals into grades; instead, they're using qualitative grade descriptors to determine the final grade of your Extended Essay . Grade descriptors are on pages 102-103 of this document .

Here's a rough estimate of how these different point values translate to letter grades based on previous scoring methods for the EE. This is just an estimate —you should read and understand the grade descriptors so you know exactly what the scorers are looking for.

30-34 Excellent: A
25-29 Good: B
17-24 Satisfactory: C
9-16 Mediocre: D
0-8 Elementary: E

Here is the breakdown of EE scores (from the May 2021 bulletin):

A 10.1%
B 24.4%
C 40.8%
D 22.5%
E 1.4%
N (No Grade Awarded) 0.7%

How Does the Extended Essay Grade Affect Your IB Diploma?

The Extended Essay grade is combined with your TOK (Theory of Knowledge) grade to determine how many points you get toward your IB Diploma.

To learn about Theory of Knowledge or how many points you need to receive an IB Diploma, read our complete guide to the IB program and our guide to the IB Diploma requirements .

This diagram shows how the two scores are combined to determine how many points you receive for your IB diploma (3 being the most, 0 being the least). In order to get your IB Diploma, you have to earn 24 points across both categories (the TOK and EE). The highest score anyone can earn is 45 points.

body-theory-of-knowledge

Let's say you get an A on your EE and a B on TOK. You will get 3 points toward your Diploma. As of 2014, a student who scores an E on either the extended essay or TOK essay will not be eligible to receive an IB Diploma .

Prior to the class of 2010, a Diploma candidate could receive a failing grade in either the Extended Essay or Theory of Knowledge and still be awarded a Diploma, but this is no longer true.

Figuring out how you're assessed can be a little tricky. Luckily, the IB breaks everything down here in this document . (The assessment information begins on page 219.)

40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme

In case you want a little more guidance on how to get an A on your EE, here are over 40 excellent (grade A) sample extended essays for your reading pleasure. Essays are grouped by IB subject.

  • Business Management 1
  • Chemistry 1
  • Chemistry 2
  • Chemistry 3
  • Chemistry 4
  • Chemistry 5
  • Chemistry 6
  • Chemistry 7
  • Computer Science 1
  • Economics 1
  • Design Technology 1
  • Design Technology 2
  • Environmental Systems and Societies 1
  • Geography 1
  • Geography 2
  • Geography 3
  • Geography 4
  • Geography 5
  • Geography 6
  • Literature and Performance 1
  • Mathematics 1
  • Mathematics 2
  • Mathematics 3
  • Mathematics 4
  • Mathematics 5
  • Philosophy 1
  • Philosophy 2
  • Philosophy 3
  • Philosophy 4
  • Philosophy 5
  • Psychology 1
  • Psychology 2
  • Psychology 3
  • Psychology 4
  • Psychology 5
  • Social and Cultural Anthropology 1
  • Social and Cultural Anthropology 2
  • Social and Cultural Anthropology 3
  • Sports, Exercise and Health Science 1
  • Sports, Exercise and Health Science 2
  • Visual Arts 1
  • Visual Arts 2
  • Visual Arts 3
  • Visual Arts 4
  • Visual Arts 5
  • World Religion 1
  • World Religion 2
  • World Religion 3

body-whats-next-stars

What's Next?

Trying to figure out what extracurriculars you should do? Learn more about participating in the Science Olympiad , starting a club , doing volunteer work , and joining Student Government .

Studying for the SAT? Check out our expert study guide to the SAT . Taking the SAT in a month or so? Learn how to cram effectively for this important test .

Not sure where you want to go to college? Read our guide to finding your target school . Also, determine your target SAT score or target ACT score .

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points?   We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download them for free now:

As an SAT/ACT tutor, Dora has guided many students to test prep success. She loves watching students succeed and is committed to helping you get there. Dora received a full-tuition merit based scholarship to University of Southern California. She graduated magna cum laude and scored in the 99th percentile on the ACT. She is also passionate about acting, writing, and photography.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

  • For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Follow us on Facebook (icon)

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

yellow line

2016-2017 IB Extended Essay: Sample IB EE's

  • Workshop 1: Getting started
  • Workshop 2: EE Options
  • Workshop 3: Selecting a topic
  • Workshop 4:Research Questions
  • Workshop 5: Supervisors and Reflections
  • Finding Books & Ebooks
  • Primary Sources
  • Citation Guide
  • Subject guidance
  • Sample IB EE's

  • Biology (2018 new rubric)
  • Biology Light Intensity
  • Does Age Have an Effect on Short-term Memory of 6 to 18 Year Old Students?

Chemistry: 

  • Chemistry 1
  • What are the Alternative Fuels for the Depleting Fossil Fuels and which is the Best Fuel in Accordance with the Energy Output?
  • A Copper Ions
  • Chemistry 3

Design Technology

  • Does Hull Trim and Balance Affect the Speed of a Boat?

Individuals & Society:

  • Market Form of the Retail Petroleum Supply Industry in Parklands
  • Economics 1
  • Economics 2
  • Economics 3

I have an exemplar but the file is too big to upload.  If you are interested in this topic I can share the essay with you.

  • Geography 2
  • History EE (2018 new rubric)
  • To What Extent was the Establishment of the State of Israel in Palestine in 1948, Influenced by Theodor Herzl?

Information Technology in a Global Society

  • Philosophy 1
  • Philosophy 2
  • Philosophy 3
  • Philosophy 4
  • Psychology EE (2018 new rubric)
  • Applied Behavior Analysis and Early Intervention: The Extent of Recovery from Autism
  • Psychology 1
  • Psychology 2
  • Psychology 3

Social & Cultural Anthropology

  • Social & Cultural Anthropology 1
  • Social & Cultural Anthropology 2

World Religions

  • To What Extent do the Core Scriptural Teachings of Sikhism Permit them to Marry Outside of the Religion?
  • World Religions 1
  • World Religions 2

Language Acquisition:

  • French: Les Liaisons Dangereuses

Literature & Language 

  •   Journeys in the Inferno and The Wonderful Wizard of Oz   
  •   Toni Morrison 

Math: 

  •   Cryptography and Rubik's Cube: An Investigative Analysis   
  •   Pascal's Triangle 

Visual Arts: 

  •   How Does the work of Yinka Shonibare Illustrate the Changing Role of African Art in a Global Society? 
  • Ballet's Accessibility and Costumes Affecting Society's View of the Art Form
  • Visual Arts 1
  • Visual Arts 4

Interdisciplinary Essays:

Environmental Systems & Societies

  • ESS Extended Essay (2018 new rubric)

World Studies

  • World Studies EE History, Economics, & Politics  (2018 new rubric)
  • Does the Production of Dairy and Meat from Dairy Cows in the United States affect the Environment and Well Being of Animals and Humans?
  • << Previous: Subject guidance
  • Last Updated: May 2, 2024 12:55 PM
  • URL: https://lewishs-fcps.libguides.com/IBExtendedEssay

Biology Extended Essay Topics and RQs for IBDP

author

Table of contents

  • Writing Metier

It’s time for our exploration of Biology extended essay topics, a resource designed to spark your curiosity and guide your research interests in the vast and vibrant field of biology. 

Whether you’re fascinated by the intricate workings of ecosystems or intrigued by the complexities of cellular processes, this article offers a diverse range of topics collected by expert academic writers to suit your interests. 

NB! If you need assistance with your Biology assignments, you can use our biology essay writing service , which will surely assist you. Now, let’s get back to the main question of the article – BIO EE topic ideas.

Bio EE topic categories

List of biology extended essay topic categories I’ll cover in this article.

  • Impact of Urban Development on Local Ecosystems – Investigating the effects of urban expansion on biodiversity in a specific area.
  • Marine Biology and Ocean Acidification – Studying the impact of changing pH levels on marine life.
  • Invasive Species and Their Impact on Biodiversity – Analyzing how a particular invasive species has affected native wildlife.
  • Conservation Efforts for Endangered Species – Evaluating the effectiveness of current conservation strategies for a specific endangered species.
  • Climate Change and Its Effects on Ecosystems – Researching how a particular ecosystem has been impacted by climate change.
  • Nutrition and Diet’s Impact on Human Health – Exploring the effects of a specific diet on human health.
  • Exercise Physiology – Investigating how different types of exercise affect a particular aspect of human health.
  • Neurobiology of Sleep – Studying the effects of sleep patterns on cognitive functions.
  • Genetic Factors in Diseases – Exploring the role of genetics in the susceptibility to a specific disease.
  • Impact of Environmental Factors on Allergies – Analyzing how environmental changes have influenced the prevalence of allergies.
  • Gene Expression in Cancer Cells – Investigating how gene expression differs in cancerous versus normal cells.
  • Protein Synthesis and Its Regulation – Studying the regulation of protein synthesis in a specific organism or cell type.
  • Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine – Exploring the potential of stem cells in treating a specific condition.
  • Viral Replication and Host Interaction – Examining how a particular virus replicates and interacts with its host.
  • DNA Repair Mechanisms – Investigating the efficacy of different DNA repair mechanisms under various conditions.
  • Photosynthesis Variations Among Plant Species – Comparing photosynthetic efficiency in different plant species.
  • Impact of Climate Change on Plant Growth – Studying how changing climates affect the growth of a specific plant species.
  • Medicinal Properties of Plants – Investigating the medicinal properties of a specific plant.
  • Plant Defense Mechanisms Against Pathogens – Exploring how a particular plant species defends itself against pathogens.
  • Genetic Modification and Crop Improvement – Analyzing the impacts of genetic modification on a specific crop’s traits.
  • Social Behavior in Insects – Studying the social structures and behaviors of a specific insect species.
  • Bird Migration Patterns – Investigating the factors influencing migration patterns of a specific bird species.
  • Physiological Adaptations in Marine Mammals – Exploring adaptations that enable marine mammals to survive in their environments.
  • Impact of Environmental Stressors on Animal Behavior – Analyzing how specific stressors affect the behavior of a particular animal species.
  • Endocrine Regulation in Animals – Studying how the endocrine system regulates processes in a specific animal.
  • Antibiotic Resistance in Bacteria – Investigating the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in a specific bacterial strain.
  • Use of Microorganisms in Bioremediation – Exploring the use of microorganisms in cleaning up environmental pollutants.
  • Genetic Engineering and Its Applications – Analyzing the applications and implications of genetic engineering in a specific field.
  • Role of Microbiome in Human Health – Studying how the human microbiome influences health and disease.
  • Yeast Fermentation and Its Industrial Applications – Investigating the fermentation process in yeast and its uses in industry.
  • Evolutionary Adaptations to Environmental Changes – Exploring how a particular species has adapted to environmental changes over time.
  • Genetic Diversity and Population Health – Studying the impact of genetic diversity on the health of a specific population.
  • Molecular Basis of Inheritance – Investigating the molecular mechanisms of inheritance in a specific organism.
  • Speciation and Genetic Drift – Analyzing the role of genetic drift in the speciation process.
  • Human Evolutionary Biology – Studying aspects of human evolution, such as the development of specific traits.

Every category and its subcategories provide a comprehensive overview, from the microscopic wonders of microbiology to the grand scale of evolutionary biology. 

With the help of our IB writers team, I have managed to collect all these ideas for you, so I hope you will be enjoying this. I aim to inspire your investigative spirit and help you select a topic that  satisfies the IB criteria  and aligns with your passion for biology. 

IB Bio extended essay topics

bio ee topics

So, let’s begin with a list of IB Biology EE topics list.

Ecology and Environmental Science

I’m stoked to talk about Ecology and Environmental Science . It’s all about how living things interact with each other and their surroundings. Think of it like a complex dance of life, where every move affects the whole scene. 

From the hustle and bustle of city ecosystems to the quiet, yet dynamic, world of marine biology, we’ll explore how these interactions shape our planet. We’ll also explore the hot topics of invasive species and their impacts, the heroic efforts in conservation, and the big elephant in the room – climate change. 

So, let’s get ready to explore the intricate tapestry of life that makes our world fascinating!

Impact of Urban Development on Local Ecosystems

  • Research Question: How does the presence of urban green spaces affect bird species diversity in [City Name]?
  • Research Question: What impact do urban heat islands have on the behavior and distribution of [Specific Animal Species] in [City Name]?

Marine Biology and Ocean Acidification

  • Research Question: How does ocean acidification affect coral bleaching events in the [Specific Coral Reef Location]?
  • Research Question: What is the impact of increasing ocean acidification on the shell growth and survival of [Specific Shellfish Species]?

Invasive Species and Their Impact on Biodiversity

  • Research Question: What has been the impact of the invasive Zebra Mussel on native species in the Great Lakes?
  • Research Question: How do invasive plant species [Specify Species] affect the growth and survival of native plants in [Specific Region]?

Conservation Efforts for Endangered Species

  • Research Question: How effective have conservation strategies been in increasing the population of the Giant Panda in China?
  • Research Question: What are the impacts of anti-poaching measures on the survival of Rhinoceros populations in Africa?

Climate Change and Its Effects on Ecosystems

  • Research Question: How is the melting of Arctic sea ice affecting the habitat and migration patterns of polar bears?
  • Research Question: What are the effects of rising global temperatures on plant and animal life in the Alpine ecosystems?

Transitioning from the external world of Ecology and Environmental Science, we now turn to the internal intricacies of Human Physiology and Health. 

This shift brings us from exploring external ecosystems to understanding our body’s inner workings, a world where lifestyle choices meet biological responses.

Human Physiology and Health

Let’s chat about Human Physiology and Health, the amazing science of how our bodies work and how we keep them ticking. We’re diving headfirst into the world of nutrition and diet – what you eat isn’t just about taste, it’s about your health too! 

Then, we’ll check out how exercise, that thing we all know we should do more of, affects our bodies in awesome ways. Ever wondered about the science of sleep and how it messes with your brain when you don’t catch enough Z’s? We’ll cover that, along with the mysteries of genetics in diseases, and how our environment plays a sneaky role in triggering allergies. 

It’s going to be an eye-opening ride through the wonders of our bodies!

Nutrition and Diet’s Impact on Human Health

  • Research Question: How does adherence to the Mediterranean diet affect cardiovascular health indicators in adults?
  • Research Question: What is the impact of a long-term vegan diet on nutrient absorption and health in teenagers?

Exercise Physiology

  • Research Question: How does HIIT affect cardiovascular fitness in young adults?
  • Research Question: What are the effects of regular yoga practice on stress and anxiety levels in college students?

Neurobiology of Sleep

  • Research Question: How does sleep deprivation impact cognitive performance and memory in high school students?
  • Research Question: What is the relationship between sleep patterns and academic performance in IB students?

Genetic Factors in Diseases

  • Research Question: How do specific genetic factors contribute to the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease?
  • Research Question: What is the contribution of genetics to the onset of Type 2 Diabetes in populations with high prevalence rates?

Impact of Environmental Factors on Allergies

  • Research Question: What is the correlation between air pollution levels and the prevalence of respiratory allergies in urban children?
  • Research Question: How has climate change influenced the prevalence and severity of allergic diseases in [Specific Region]?

Moving from Human Physiology and Health, we zoom into the realm of Cellular and Molecular Biology. 

Here, we swap the broader human health perspective for a closer look at life’s building blocks, delving into the microscopic universe that operates within every living being.

Cellular and Molecular Biology

Ready to geek out on Cellular and Molecular Biology? This is where we get down to the nitty-gritty of life – the cells and molecules that make up every living thing. 

We’re talking about the big bad world of cancer cells and what makes them tick, the fascinating process of how our cells make proteins, and the cutting-edge stuff like stem cell research and how viruses play a game of cat and mouse with our bodies. 

Meanwhile, make sure also to check our article with biology research paper topics for all students.

Plus, we’ll unravel the mysteries of how our cells fix their own DNA. It’s like being a detective, but for biology. Trust me, it’s cooler than it sounds!

Gene Expression in Cancer Cells

  • Research Question: How does gene expression in breast cancer cells differ from that in normal breast tissue?
  • Research Question: What role do specific oncogenes play in the development of colorectal cancer?

Protein Synthesis and Its Regulation

  • Research Question: How is protein synthesis regulated in response to physical exercise in human muscle cells?
  • Research Question: How do bacterial cells regulate protein synthesis under environmental stress conditions?

Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine

  • Research Question: What is the potential of stem cell therapy in the treatment of Parkinson’s Disease?
  • Research Question: How can stem cells be used to repair damaged heart tissue?

Viral Replication and Host Interaction

  • Research Question: How does HIV replicate within human cells, and what is its impact on the immune system?
  • Research Question: How does the Influenza virus adapt to host immune responses over time?

DNA Repair Mechanisms

  • Research Question: How do DNA repair mechanisms change as human cells age?
  • Research Question: How effective are DNA repair mechanisms in skin cells exposed to different levels of UV radiation?

After diving into the microcosm of cells and molecules, we transition to Plant Biology. 

This shift steers us from the foundations of life at the cellular level to the diverse world of plants, exploring how these organisms harness and embody basic biological principles.

Plant Biology

Let’s dive into the world of Plant Biology! Plants are not just pretty to look at; they’re the backbone of all life on Earth. 

We’ll be talking about how they turn sunlight into food – a process that’s as important as it is fascinating. Ever wonder how plants are coping with our changing climate or what superpowers medicinal plants have? We’ve got that covered. 

We’ll also explore the secret life of plants, how they defend themselves against enemies, and the science behind making them stronger and better through genetic modification. 

It’s time to get our hands dirty and uncover the secrets of the plant world!

Photosynthesis Variations Among Plant Species

  • Research Question: How does photosynthetic efficiency compare between C3 and C4 plants under varying light conditions?
  • Research Question: What is the effect of varying light intensities on the rate of photosynthesis in [Specific Aquatic Plant Species]?

Impact of Climate Change on Plant Growth

  • Research Question: How are Arctic tundra plants adapting their growth patterns in response to global warming?
  • Research Question: What is the impact of elevated atmospheric CO2 levels on the growth of [Specific Plant Species]?

Medicinal Properties of Plants

  • Research Question: What are the anti-inflammatory properties of [Specific Medicinal Plant] and how can they be harnessed?
  • Research Question: What is the antioxidant capacity of different herbal teas, and how does it affect human health?

Plant Defense Mechanisms Against Pathogens

  • Research Question: How do [Specific Plant Species] defend themselves against fungal infections?
  • Research Question: What role do secondary metabolites play in the defense mechanisms of [Specific Plant Species] against herbivores?

Genetic Modification and Crop Improvement

  • Research Question: How effective are genetically modified crops in resisting drought conditions compared to traditional varieties?
  • Research Question: What is the impact of genetic modification on the nutrient content of [Specific Crop]?

From the stationary life of plants, we now step into the dynamic world of Animal Behavior and Physiology. This change of scene introduces us to the complex behaviors and physiological adaptations of animals, offering a contrasting perspective to plant biology.

Animal Behavior and Physiology

Let’s jump into the wild and wonderful world of Animal Behavior and Physiology. This is where we get to spy on the animal kingdom and learn about their secret lives. 

From the social gossip of insects to the globe-trotting adventures of migratory birds, animals have some amazing stories to tell. 

We’ll also look at how marine animals have adapted to their deep and mysterious homes, how animals respond when their environment goes bonkers, and the hormonal soap operas that dictate their lives. 

It’s like being a fly on the wall in the most interesting nature documentary ever!

Social Behavior in Insects

  • Research Question: How does the social structure of honeybee colonies affect their survival and productivity?
  • Research Question: What are the primary communication mechanisms used in ant colonies, and how do they impact colony efficiency?

Bird Migration Patterns

  • Research Question: How has climate change affected the migration routes of [Specific Bird Species]?
  • Research Question: How do magnetic fields influence the migration patterns of [Specific Bird Species]?

Physiological Adaptations in Marine Mammals

  • Research Question: What physiological adaptations allow sperm whales to dive to extreme depths?
  • Research Question: How do polar bears regulate their body temperature in the Arctic environment?

Impact of Environmental Stressors on Animal Behavior

  • Research Question: How does underwater noise pollution affect the behavior and communication of dolphins?
  • Research Question: What are the effects of urban light pollution on the nocturnal activities of [Specific Nocturnal Animal Species]?

Endocrine Regulation in Animals

  • Research Question: How do hormones regulate the reproductive behaviors in [Specific Bird Species]?
  • Research Question: How do stress-induced cortisol levels affect the behavior of [Specific Wild Animal Species] in their natural habitat?

Leaving the observable world of animals, we enter the less visible but equally important sphere of Microbiology and Biotechnology. This transition takes us from larger life forms to the microscopic, where tiny organisms significantly impact our health, environment, and technology.

Microbiology and Biotechnology

Alright, microbe hunters and tech wizards, it’s time to zoom in on Microbiology and Biotechnology. This is the world of the tiny, where bacteria and viruses hang out, and where science meets innovation . 

We’re going to explore the battleground of antibiotic resistance, how we can use tiny organisms to clean up our messes, and the mind-blowing possibilities of genetic engineering. 

Ever thought about how your gut buddies – the microbiome – affect your health? We’ll get into that too, along with the yeast party that’s behind some of your favorite bread and beverages.

Antibiotic Resistance in Bacteria

  • Research Question: What factors have contributed to the rise of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in hospitals?
  • Research Question: What are the primary mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in Escherichia coli strains found in [Specific Environment]?

Use of Microorganisms in Bioremediation

  • Research Question: How effective are specific bacterial species in the bioremediation of oil spills?
  • Research Question: What is the effectiveness of using fungi in the phytoremediation of soils contaminated with heavy metals?

Genetic Engineering and Its Applications

  • Research Question: What is the potential of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in preventing genetic diseases?
  • Research Question: How has genetic engineering been used to enhance the nutritional quality of [Specific Crop]?

Role of Microbiome in Human Health

  • Research Question: What is the relationship between the gut microbiome and obesity in adults?
  • Research Question: How does the diversity of the human microbiome affect immune system functioning?

Yeast Fermentation and Its Industrial Applications

  • Research Question: How efficient is yeast fermentation in the production of biofuels compared to traditional methods?
  • Research Question: How do different yeast strains affect the flavor profiles in beer brewing?

Finally, we shift from the practical applications in Microbiology and Biotechnology to the historical narrative of Evolution and Genetics. This move links present-day biological understanding to the historical journey of life, unraveling how genetic heritage and evolutionary processes shape all living things.

Evolution and Genetics

Ready to unravel the tales of Evolution and Genetics? This is where we figure out how life on Earth got to be as diverse and fantastic as it is. We’ll be exploring the incredible adaptations organisms have made to survive and thrive, how genetic diversity is crucial for the health of species, and the molecular secrets behind inheritance. 

Ever pondered how new species come into being or what genetics reveal about our own ancient history ? Well, you’re in for a treat. We’re about to walk through time and genes to discover the roots and branches of the tree of life. Buckle up!

Evolutionary Adaptations to Environmental Changes

  • Research Question: What evolutionary adaptations have enabled cacti to thrive in harsh desert environments?
  • Research Question: How have Galápagos finches undergone adaptive radiation in response to their environment?

Genetic Diversity and Population Health

  • Research Question: How does genetic diversity affect the health and survival of animal populations on isolated islands?
  • Research Question: How can conservation genetics be used to enhance the survival prospects of [Specific Endangered Species]?

Molecular Basis of Inheritance

  • Research Question: What is the molecular basis of inheritance for Sickle Cell Anemia?
  • Research Question: How can mitochondrial DNA be used to trace maternal lineage in human populations?

Speciation and Genetic Drift

  • Research Question: What role has genetic drift played in the speciation of cichlids in Lake Victoria?
  • Research Question: How does genetic drift affect the genetic diversity of small, isolated animal populations?

Human Evolutionary Biology

  • Research Question: What evolutionary factors contributed to the development of bipedalism in early humans?
  • Research Question: What are the key genetic adaptations that enable humans to live at high altitudes?

These topics and questions aim to inspire in-depth exploration and research, allowing students to delve into various aspects of biology, from molecular to ecosystem levels. 

Use them as an inspiration for your future Ib extended essay.

Select your topic wisely!

The world of biology is rich with diverse topics suitable for an Extended Essay. From the tiny intricacies of cellular biology to the broad complexities of environmental science, each area offers a unique perspective and a chance for in-depth exploration . 

The key to a successful essay is choosing a topic that not only interests you but also challenges your analytical and research skills.

Need Extra Support?

If you’re seeking guidance with your topic selection, or if you need assistance in writing or editing your Biology Extended Essay , our team at Writing Metier is here to help. 

biology extended essay question examples

Our experienced IB writers are equipped to provide the support you need to refine your ideas and enhance your writing. Contact us for personalized assistance, or simply fill out our online order form with details of your IB EE and ensure your essay is a reflection of your best efforts.

Free topic suggestions

Vasy kafidoff.

Vasyl Kafidoff is a co-founder and CEO at WritingMetier. He is interested in education and how modern technology makes it more accessible. He wants to bring awareness about new learning possibilities as an educational specialist. When Vasy is not working, he’s found behind a drum kit.

Similar posts

100+ ib extended essay topic ideas for your ease.

One of the very important requirements of an IB diploma is the extended essay. This really helps bring up the total score. And one problem students face here is gathering ideas for their IB extended essay. Here is some guiding information that can help with extended essay topics.

Business Management Extended Essay Topic Ideas and RQs

Looking for the perfect topic for your IB Business Management Extended Essay? Dive into our comprehensive guide, covering everything from organizational leadership to the latest trends in 2023. And if you need a bit of extra help, Writing Metier is just a click away to assist with topic suggestions, writing, and editing.

Economics Extended Essay Topic Ideas for IB Students

This article serves as a launchpad for students crafting their Economics Extended Essays, offering a diverse array of topics that span from the intricacies of microeconomic market structures to the broad strokes of macroeconomic policy. It provides a rich tapestry of ideas, inviting exploration into the complex interplay between economic theory and real-world application across various branches such as labor, environmental, and health economics.

English B Extended Essay Topic Ideas

Discover the perfect English B Extended Essay topic with our curated list, designed to spark your creativity and intellectual curiosity. And if you're looking for a bit of expert assistance in crafting your masterpiece, Writing Metier is just a message away. Let's turn your Extended Essay into a standout success!

70+ IB Physics IA Topics and Research Questions

In the realm of IB Physics IA, students have the golden opportunity to explore a diverse range of topics, from the wonders of quantum mechanics to the principles governing our vast universe. This guide has been crafted to assist you in pinpointing a topic that not only piques your interest but also aligns with your academic pursuits. As you sift through these carefully selected topics and research questions, we hope you find that perfect match that leads to a successful and insightful project

37 IB SL Math IA Topic Ideas that Actually Work!

If you are here because you are stuck with an idea for your IB Mathematics Standard Level (SL) essay topic, you have come to the right place. We understand that the IB Math is the toughest subject (no kidding, we feel you) and therefore, we are here to aid you as much as we can.

We rely on cookies to give you the best experince on our website. By browsing, you agree to it. Read more

Banner

Extended Essay: Sciences: Biology

  • Step 1 - Choosing a Subject
  • Step 2 - Choosing a Topic
  • Step 3 - Draft a Research Question
  • Step 4 - Finding Sources
  • Step 5 - Evaluating Information
  • Step 6 - Bibliography & Citation
  • Step 7 - Organizing Information
  • The Arts: Visual Arts
  • Individuals & Societies: Business Management
  • Individuals & Societies: History
  • Individuals & Societies: Psychology
  • Language Acquisition
  • Language and Literature
  • Sciences: Biology
  • Sciences: Sports, Exercise, and Health Sciences
  • Interdisciplinary Papers: World Studies
  • Assessment Criteria
  • Research Questions
  • Investigation

Extended Essay in Biology

Extended Essays in Biology

Choosing a topic

Choosing a Topic

Biology is the science that deals with living organisms and life processes. A biology EE should incorporate biological theory and emphasize why it is relevant today.

The topic must relates specifically to biology. Many topics can be approached from different viewpoints, but for an EE in biology the treatment of the topic must be clearly biological. For example, an EE in an interdisciplinary area such as biochemistry will, if registered under the subject of biology, be judged solely on its biological content.

Disease, for example, could be considered through many different lenses. A biology paper about diseases would focus on their impact on particular organisms or life processes, and not on medical treatment, or the economic effects of the disease on society.

Detergents in the environment The effect of detergent toxicity on soil bacteria
Malnutrition in children A study of malnourished children in Indonesia and the extent of their recovery after a period of supervised improved nutrition
The effect of acidity on plant growth A study of the effect of differing pH levels on the growth of 
Symbiosis The competitive and evolutionary nature of the symbiotic relationship in 
Factors that affect the germination of seeds The effect of banana peel on seed germination
Uses of the gel electrophoresis technique Gel electrophoresis: The construction of an apparatus and the separation of proteins in heat-treated cow’s milk

Approaches to research

All EEs in the sciences should begin with at least one hypothesis based on their research question. Then, a student will conduct either primary or secondary research to test their hypothesis by collecting some kind of data. By analyzing their findings a student should be able to find a scientific answer to their research question.

Primary Research

Essays in biology may be based on data collected by the student through:

experimentation

survey

microscopic observations

biological drawing

fieldwork

fieldwork

Essays that involve lab work, or fieldwork, should include a clear and concise description of the experimental procedure. Students taking an experimental approach must also consult secondary sources.

Secondary Research

Students can base their essays on data or information obtained from literature (secondary studies). However, in this case they should use the data in an original way. Essays that simply restate facts or data taken directly from the sources are of little value.

Enzyme activity in soy beans Antibacterial effects of a plant extract
How does the level of enzyme activity differ between dried and fresh soy beans? What evidence is there for the antibacterial properties mouthwash on  bacteria grown at 20°C?
The enzyme is extracted from dried and fresh soy beans. Activity is measured by monitoring the pH of the solution using a suitable approach such as a pH probe or indicator. Cultures of the bacteria are grown on agar plates. Filter paper discs soaked in various concentrations of mouthwash are placed on inoculated plates and zones of inhibition are measured after a period of incubation.

Biology Sources

Even students doing primary research will still need to reference secondary sources. And students relying entirely on secondary sources will need to find sources not only of written information but also experimental data which they can analyze.

databases offer topic pages and the Topic Finder search feature. 

This video will show you  .

 

 


 

 

databases have two features to help you find search words as well as topics and sub-topics.

Use the "subject guide search" feature in   databases to help you find good search terms. .

Use the "topic finder" to help you find good topics and sub-topics 

 

The NSDL is an open access library of digital content relevant to all aspects of hard and applied sciences.

Writing the Essay

biology extended essay question examples

An essay in the sciences requires is more than just generating and presenting data. Analysis of the data is also essential. The main body of the essay should consist of an argument or evaluation based on the data or information presented . You can gather your own data through a variety of methods, or rely on secondary data. You should use graphs, tables, or diagrams to point out the significance of your findings.

You should ensure that the main body of the essay is well structured and has an obvious logical progression. You can use numbered and headed paragraphs to impose a clear structure. Your evaluation should show that you understand the the data they have collected and its significance to the world.

In your analysis, you should also describe and explain the limitations imposed on the research by factors such as

  • the suitability and reliability of the sources accessed
  • accuracy and precision of measuring equipment
  • sample size
  • validity and reliability of statistics

Students  should also consider biological limitations such as:

  • those arising from the problem of repeatability and control when using living material
  • the difficulties of generalizing from research based on a single type of organism or environment.

Exceptions for Safety and Academic Honesty

biology extended essay question examples

Safety and Ethics in Choosing a Topic

In all cases where human subjects are used as the basis for an investigation, clear evidence of informed consent must be provided in accordance with the IB guidelines.

Some topics may be inadmissible because their means of investigation are unethical. For example, investigations that:

  • are based on experiments likely to inflict pain on, or cause stress to, living organisms
  • are likely to have a harmful effect on health, eg culturing micro-organisms at or near body temperature (37°C)
  • involve access to, or publication of, confidential medical information.

Some topics may be unsuitable because of safety issues. Adequate safety apparatus and qualified supervision is required for experiments involving dangerous substances such as:

  • toxic or dangerous chemicals
  • carcinogenic substances
  • radioactive materials.

Other topics may be unsuitable because the outcome is already well known and documented in standard textbooks.

Assessed Student Work

  • The Antimicrobial Effects of Metals Copper, Barium and Silver on the Growth of Bacteria
  • Effects of different calcium salts in growth solutions on the growth of the stems of basil (Ocimum basilicum) plants grown hydroponically
  • << Previous: Language and Literature
  • Next: Sciences: Sports, Exercise, and Health Sciences >>
  • Last Updated: Apr 18, 2024 6:27 AM
  • URL: https://k497.libguides.com/extendedessay

Clastify logo

IB EE examples for all subjects

Filter exemplars, how does the total energy supplied during ultrasonic cavitation of benzene affect the integrated photoluminescence intensity and quantum yield of graphene quantum dots (gqds), to what extent does the type of alcohol used in the fischer-speier esterification reaction affect the average rate of reaction as measured through back titration., want to get full marks for your ee allow us to review it for you 🎯, to what extent does global self-esteem influence academic performance, to what extent has zoom’s freemium business model influenced its market leadership position in the north american video conferencing market from 2020 to 2021, to what extent does the presence of acetaminophen (tylenol), polymixin b (polysporin), and diphenhydramine hydrochloride (benadryl) in the growth medium of cotoneaster acutifolius affect the average change in leaf length over a period of 15 days in five different concentrations, fast track your coursework with mark schemes moderated by ib examiners. upgrade now 🚀, to what extent do different concentrations of magnesium nitrate (10, 20, 30, 40, 50 mm) affect the concentration of chlorophyll a and b in ocimum basilicum at 645 nm and 662 nm wavelength using spectrophotometer, how does 5g of different types of oils (palm oil, avocado oil, castor oil, and olive oil) contribute to the production of soap bars with a ph level closest to 7 measured at constant temperature (50°c) and after constant time of refluxing (30 minutes) through the saponification process, how have amazon's market strategies contributed in successfully growing its e-commerce business internationally, to what extent has the change in corporate leadership at apple inc. from steve jobs to tim cook impacted the company's innovation and product development, fluid’s density effect on falling objects, to what extent will toyota’s diversification help increase business revenues and market share, to what extent does vivienne westwood's sustainable fashion initiatives provide it with a competitive advantage over other luxury brands, to what extent were queer people liberated in weimar germany, 1919-1933, to what extent does market-oriented approach give netflix, inc. a competitive advantage in the streaming entertainment industry, how is the lift at various angles of attack affected by flap deflection angles, to what extent do different species of chili pepper consumption biologically affect the rate of lipid digestion in terms of ph change within 30 minutes, to what extent do phytochemicals such as resveratrol, glyceollin and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (egcg) possess comparable antibacterial effects against staphylococcus aureus bacteria to a non-prescription otitis externa (oe) treatments such as ciprofloxacin using bacillus subtilis as a prokaryotic model organism, to what extent is blood pressure related to the development of alzheimer’s disease in people in age above 50, to what extent does oxytocin affect interpersonal trust in young adults, how has apple used sustainable innovation to gain a competitive edge, to what extent do extracts of allium sativum (garlic) and zingiber officinale (ginger) reduce antimicrobial activity and how effective it is compared to antibiotics, how do different concentrations of punica granatum extracts: peel, flower and leaves (10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 mg/ml) affect the rate of reaction of α-amylase and compare with metformin (anti-diabetic drug) as measured by a spectrophotometer at 587nm, to what extent do social networking sites increase rates of anxiety in adolescents, what effect does the difference in radius at the top and bottom of the roller coaster loop have on the maximum change in g-force that a passenger experiences, to what extent can four seasons hotel’s success be attributed to its corporate culture and isadore sharp’s leadership style, how does the concentration of harpagoside, which is identified by the surface area of the spot on the chromatography paper, changes in the equine mane over the period of one month after gradual consumption of the supplement “devil’s claw”, what is the relationship between the height of the siphon and the flow velocity out of the siphon, what is the effect of salinity stress (0, 50, 100, 150, 200 mm nacl) measured through microscopic (stomatal aperture) and morphological (leaf area, leaf dry mass, and root length) characteristics on pre-treated radish (raphanus sativus) seeds with magnetopriming (48 hours), to what extent has the launch of disney+ proven successful in advancing disney’s digital presence and establishing market dominance in the subscription-based video on demand (svod) market, how could family-based therapies such as cff-cbt, fft, and fft-hr be implemented in the treatment of pediatric bipolar disorder, to what extent were the nuremberg trials defendants afforded a fair due process, to what extent has google's diversification into the wearables industry increased its profitability, to what extent was the popular violence of the cultural revolution driven by mao’s need to eliminate opposition, to what extent has the vehicular emissions scheme (ves) been effective in increasing the consumption of light electric vehicles between 2018 and 2020 in singapore, how does the type of solvent (ethanol, propanone) and its solvent to water ratio (20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, 100% v/v) in the extraction of polyphenols via ultrasound-assisted extraction (uae), affect the total phenolic content extracted from rosemary (rosmarinus officinalis), quantified by folin-ciocalteu assay, how does altering the curvature of an aircraft wing function to reduce aerodynamic drag and thus aircraft greenhouse emissions, to what extent does varying the duration (0 mins, 5 mins, 10 mins, 15 mins, 20 mins, 25 mins) at which a 25% solution consisting of ethanol-dissolved ayurvedic spices (curcumin and black cumin) is maintained at 60°c affect the antimicrobial activity of these spices against a k12 strain of escherichia coli, to what extent can the growth of disney+ be sustained as the pandemic’s effects begin to wear off, how does increasing the angle of a simple pendulum affect its time period, how do changes in viscosity of fluid affect the speed and amplitude of surface waves that are generated by an impact of spherical object.

100 IB Extended Essay Topic Ideas!

biology extended essay question examples

One of the biggest keys to the Extended Essay is choosing which subject you want to write your work in and developing that crucial research question. Read on to find inspiration for topics across a wide range of subjects.

Extended Essay: The Love/Hate aspect of the IB

One of the biggest keys to the Extended Essay is choosing which subject you want to write your work in and developing that crucial research question. Annoyingly, coming up with that idea and research question can be the toughest part of the entire process. Writing 4,000 words about something you are interested in is a big ask and it often feels impossible to narrow down your thoughts. To make everything super clear, here are 100 Extended Essay Topics for you to draw inspiration from! Use these as a springboard to create your own research question !

Get Support from A Top Tutor Today

At Lanterna we have over 300 tutors who smashed their Extended Essay. They know exactly how to get an A in your EE and can give you tips and tricks on how you can do the same. What are you waiting for? Get your own tutor today !

How to Begin Your IB Extended Essay

To make everything super clear, here are 100 Extended Essay Topics for you to draw inspiration from! Use these as a springboard to  create your own research question !

Get Support from a Top Tutor Today

At Lanterna, we have over 300 tutors who smashed their Extended Essay. They know exactly how to get an A in your EE and can give you tips and tricks on how you can do the same. What are you waiting for? Get your own tutor today!

10 Steps to Writing an Extended Essay

Before we look at specific topics for your essay, let’s recap the 10-steps you’ll need to follow to complete your extended essay.

1. Define the Topic and Draft the Research Question

2. Create a Timeline

3. Identify and gather Sources

4. Set Deadlines

5. Plan the structure according to the total word count

6. Evaluate

7. independent Research

8. Write the extended essay draft

10. Present

By following the steps above, you should be able to produce a logical and coherent rationale to follow when writing the extended essay for your IB diploma programme.

By starting with a solid research question, you’ll be able to put an extended essay of global significance together, from the research and writing process all the way through to your final submission with a favourable extended essay grade.

Below, we’re sharing 10 topics across 10 subjects to inspire your next IB extended essay.

1. How the change of habitat affects an X organism?

2. How does climate affect the growth of X plant?

3. Can photosynthesis take place without sunlight?

4. What is the effect of age and gender on the photoreceptor cells in the human retina?

5. How is climate change impacting the appearance of coral reefs?

6. An evaluation of how  antioxidants  work in our bodies?

7. Does hand sanitizer, hand soap or antibacterial wipes have the greatest ability to inhibit the growth of E. Coli?

8. To what extent do live cultures in yogurts/milk/other dairy products reduce the concentration of lactose present over the course of a 2 hour incubation period at x°C?

9. What is the relationship between  population density  between X and population size of X?

10. What is the relationship between indoleacetic acid, a growth hormone, and the growth of X (a crop)?

11. How does human influence impact an aquatic ecosystem?

12. How can one organize a pollution check along a X canal in X?

13. What is the effect of the increased ecological footprint in the  Amazon ?

14. What are the forest and woodland restoration in Siberia, Russia and which one is most effective?

15. How does human interference cause ecological imbalances in an X city/country/continent?

16. What is the impact of urban development on the  bee population  in X city?

17. What are the differences in the conversation efforts in Yosemite National Park (California, USA) and the Lake District National Park (UK)?

18. To what extent have healthcare policies in X country influenced their human population curve?

19. How have changes in environmental systems influenced the value system of X country?

20. How has X landfill site affected the surrounding terrestrial ecosystem?

21. What is the profitability of  airline companies ?

22. How does unemployment affect the market?

23. Why did X recession occur?

24. How did the financial Policy affect the economy in X?

25. How effective are government policies in reducing overconsumption of alcohol (specifically hard liquor)?

26. To what extent are public buses and subways substitute goods in a country?

27. How did the tax reform in country x affect its growth and development? (many countries to choose from)

28. To what extent was weak government policy responsible for the Latin American financial crisis of 1997?

29. How effective is the  Big Mac Index  in measuring purchasing power parity?

30. To what extent would the UK suffer from leaving the European Customs Union if Brexit happens?

31. Is there an association between viewing violence on television and the display of violent acts?

32. What motivational climate should a coach employ in order to achieve optimal performance in athletes?

33. How does  X hormone affect human behavior ?

34. Compare theories explaining altruism in human behaviour

35. Discuss short-term and long-term consequences of exposure to violence

36. Why do relationships change or end?

37. Discuss how  social variables (poverty, parenting, educational environment) may the affect cognitive environment.

38. To what extent do mirror neurons play a role in empathy? (2014)

39. To what extent does Mindfulness help people cope with General Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

40. To what extent is drug therapy effective in the treatment of bipolar disorder?

41. Does the British Parliamentary reforms act of 1832 deserve its title as the great reform act?

42. To what extent are there similarities in Hitler and Mussolini’s Rise to Power?

43. To what extent did Mao’s tackle the problems which he faced?

44. Was Tsar Alexander II of Russia reforms a success or failure?

45. To what extent was the bombing of Dresden in 1945 justifiable?

46. To what extent can  Sweden be considered neutral during WWII ?

47. The impact of structural economic weakness on the collapse of the Soviet Union.

48. How were women treated differently in 1920s and 1950s Great Britain?

49. Why did Israel win the  Six Day War  of 1967?

50. What role did economics play in the unification of Germany from 1834 to 1871?

English Literature

51. What are the Compare and Contrast Jane Austen Books?

52. How does Joseph Conrad’s portray Racism in A Heart of Darkness?

53. How does Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman critique today’s capitalist society? The American Dream?

54. To what extent does Chris McCandless in Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild escape familial influence?

55. What are the similarities and differences between J.K. Rowling’s characterization of Severus Snape in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows?

56. How does Yaa Gyasi use structure in her novel Homegoing to portray the evolution of time?

57. What is the impact of the social context on Holden Caufield and Huckleberry Finn?

58. How does Sylvia Path’s use of Inanimate objects in Bell Jar?

59. How is the empowerment of Feminine portrayed in the Lord of the Rings?

60. Compare the political rhetoric as used in the inaugural addresses of George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump.

61. The design, construction and calibration of an apparatus for measuring lipid concentration in milk.

62. What is the effect of a change in the optimal lift on the horizontal gliding distance of an aircraft?

63. How does the sugar concentration affect the refractive index of water?

64. How does temperature affect the viscosity of X juice/soda?

65. Is the relationship between temperature and conductivity and insulators and conductors?

66. What is the Oberth Effect?

67. What is the temperature dependence of work performed on an AA battery?

68. How can the rotational frequency of a fan driven by a flame measure distance?

69. Do wine bottles of different shapes behave as Helmholtz resonators?

70. How does the diameter of a wheel affect stability in different weather conditions?

71. What factors influence the location of industries in country/city X?

72. An investigation into the significance of preserving the quality of water in a continent/country/city?

73. An investigation into the degree to which City X can be considered a Sustainable City/Community.

74. To what extent is Biodiversity being managed successfully in city X?

75. To what extent does the education and employment of women affect Country x’s fertility rate?

76. To what extent do gender, educational attainment, and working parameters influence obesity risk?

77. To what extent has urban development affected human thermal comfort levels in Country/city x (a country/city that has developed in a rapid rate over the past decades)?

78. To what extent is the Company x corporate waste management program effective, demonstrating environmental sustainability?

79. To what extent is biodiversity being managed successfully at National Park X?

80. What types of urban design encourage high rates of vandalism in X neighbourhoods?

81. The kinetics of Enzymatic Reactions.

82. How do Iron Intake Diets differ in X country?

83. What are the different factors that affect the iodine values in cooking oils?

84. What is the effect of standing time and temperate on the acid content in X juice or soda?

85. Can caffeine in tea or coffee be reduced?

86. What is the effect of temperature on the souring of milk?

87. What are the sources of error in calorimetry?

88. Does brushing your teeth affect the pH in your mouth after eating?

89. How does changing the concentration of the reagents affect the formation and spacing between Liesehang rings in the reaction between X chloride and X when conducted in a test tube?

90. What effect does the coating of aspirin tablets have on the hydrolysis of aspirin?

Social and Cultural Anthropology

91. How clothing relates to the cultural anthropology of X culture.

92. The extent to which social media networks affect different societies.

93. The relationship between ritual, myths and faith in an X society.

94. The history of rituals in X culture.

95. How different marriage rituals inform the cultural anthropology of X culture.

96. Climate change and its impact on the evolution of different creatures on the planet.

97. Understanding the social and cultural anthropology of the supernatural in X culture.

98. An analysis of body modification in relation to social and cultural anthropology.

100. Chaste systems and social ranks in societies.

There are so many class subjects that can form the basis of your extended essay, including these popular six subjects:

– Information technology

– Computer science

– Health science

– World studies

– Visual arts

– Business management

Extended essays are a great way to improve your writing skills in academic writing. Essays of a high standard that demonstrate critical thinking and in depth analysis can be submitted to academic journals. These have the potential to reach the global society.

Start Writing Your Extended Essay Topic

We hope this gave you some great inspiration for the variation of topics available for your Extended Essay . The research question you select is what will carry you through the entire process, so be sure to choose wisely!

Remember, if you are looking for more help with your Extended Essay, make sure to check out our guide which will tell you exactly how to plan, structure, research and write your Extended Essay!

Grab Free Extended Essay Resources!

No matter the subject groups in your diploma program, we’re here to help all of our IB students. Whether you’re writing about social and cultural anthropology, business management, design technology, or scientific methods for your IB diploma, Lanterna has you covered.

Share article links

Related Articles

  • Most Popular

25 History IA Topic Ideas!

Are you about to start your History internal assessment? We know the struggle. One of the most difficult parts about the task is finding a good History IA topic because it feels like you can just write about anything. The IB breaks it down into 7 main different types of topics that you can choose, […]

  • IB Extended Essay

How to Finish Your Extended Essay Over Summer!

Completing their extended essay before they begin DP2 is the dream of most IB students. In reality, however, few achieve it.  In this blog, we’ll explore how to finish your extended essay over summer without feeling overwhelmed! Part 1: Get Some Rest! Don’t forget that the reason you have a summer break is to take […]

biology extended essay question examples

Top 5 Essentials for Studying Physics

As the school year just started and some people are stressed about their upcoming journey in the IB Diploma Programme, we wanted to take the time to discuss perhaps one of the most infamous subjects for its difficulty … physics. It gets some bad rep and many people think that they’re just not “meant” for […]

help for assessment

  • Customer Reviews
  • Extended Essays
  • IB Internal Assessment
  • Theory of Knowledge
  • Literature Review
  • Dissertations
  • Essay Writing
  • Research Writing
  • Assignment Help
  • Capstone Projects
  • College Application
  • Online Class

Biology EE Topics: How to Choose, Plus Good Examples

Author Image

by  Antony W

September 3, 2022

biology extended essay topics

Have you scoured the web for Biology EE topics but came out empty? Or maybe you’ve considered writing an EE in the subject but you still have no idea what to focus your research on?

You’ve come to the right place.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to choose the best biology extended essay topic to explore in your assignment. In addition, we’ll give you some topic ideas as well as teach you how to treat the topic you choose.  

What’s the Purpose of a Biology Extended Essay? 

An extended essay in biology allows you to apply biological knowledge while conducting research on a topic of personal interest within the area of biology.

A concentration on biology within the framework of a broader scientific research is what defines the nature of a biology extended essay.

How to Choose Biology EE Topics

The following are important considerations to make when selecting a topic for your biology extended essay:

1. Select a Topic Focusing Strictly on Biology

Biology is the scientific discipline concerned with living beings and biological processes. Therefore, a biology extended essay should contain biological theory and underline the subject's fundamental character.

It is essential that the emphasis of the extended essay be clearly biological and not more closely connected to another subject.

Although identical grading criteria apply to all extended essays in the experimental sciences, the topic you choose for a biology extended essay must provide a distinct biological perspective.

2. Avoid Topics That May Cause Harm

Certain topics are inappropriate for research due to ethical concerns. Investigations based on trials that are likely to cause pain or needless stress to living beings are ineligible for submission.

Investigations that are likely to have a negative impact on health, such as microorganism cultivation at or near body temperature, or that may require access to or release of personal medical information are inappropriate.

Some topics may not be acceptable for examination due to safety concerns.

You need to avoid experiments involving the use of poisonous or hazardous chemicals, carcinogenic compounds, or radioactive materials, unless proper safety equipment and trained supervision are available.

3. Avoid Obvious Topics

Other topics may be inappropriate because the conclusion is already well known and documented in standard textbooks.

Biology Extended Essay Writing Help

Are you finding Biology Extended Essay topic selection process tedious? Have you selected a topic but have no idea how to proceed?

Or maybe you have other overwhelming assignments waiting for you and you can’t find the time to complete an EE in this subject?

We’re here to help. 

You can  buy an EE in Biology online   from Help for Assessment and get professional writing help within your time limit Whether you have a week left before submitting your first draft or you’re planning to attend the last reflection meeting to present your final draft, our writers are here to help.

Our writing service involves topic selection, preliminary research, development of a research issue, and writing and editing.

The topic we select is strictly within Biology, and we come up with research issues that we can address within the scope of the Biology Extended Essay assignment. 

10+ Biology Extended Essay Topics

The following are 20+ examples of Biology Extended Essay topics. You can pick a topic from the list, modify it further, and share it with your supervisor for review.

Or you can use this list as an inspiration to help you come up with a topic that would suit your research.  

  • Determine the link between the growth hormone indole acetic acid and the growth of X.
  • How much do living cultures in dairy products such as milk, yoghurt, and cheese lower the lactose content after 2 hours of incubation?
  • The connection between photoreceptor cells in the human retina, “age, and gender."
  • Are commercial techniques of oral rinse (mouthwash) more efficient at preventing the growth of Micrococcus luteus than traditional methods of oral hygiene?
  • Which of hand sanitizer, hand soap, or antibacterial wipes inhibits the development of E. coli the most effectively?
  • Investigating the time necessary for two distinct species of tadpoles to attain metamorphic climax from the pre-metamorphosis stage at four different temperatures
  • How much does a 2-hour incubation at 37°C lower the lactose content in yogurts containing live cultures?
  • The effect do different light combinations on the movement of red-eared sliders, in relation to the position of the light sources.
  • What is the prevalence of nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus among kids at Tanglin Trust School, and what are the related risk factors?
  • Investigate the antibacterial effects of copper, barium, and silver on bacterial growth.
  • Photo acclimation is the capacity of diverse symbiodinium-hosting coral species to endure aberrant light circumstances.
  • Is it feasible for plants in the same ecosystem to act differently?
  • The risk of painkillers and similar medications to the human brain
  • Near hydrothermal vents on the ocean floor are indications of life's development on Earth.
  • Current ideas and evidence concerning the molecular reasons responsible for the rising prevalence of allergy disorders in industrialized nations
  • Blood group relative frequencies in distinct geographic locations used to trace ancient migrations of humans.
  • How millennia of breeding have caused domesticated dogs to respond to eye contact through bonding (by producing oxytocin hormone)
  • An examination of malnourished children in Indonesia and the degree of their recovery following a period of supervised increased nutrition.
  • The competitive and evolutionary nature of Paramecium Bursaria’s symbiotic connection

Related Reading

  • The Complete Guide for Biology Extended Essay
  • Learn About Chemistry EE From This Guide
  • A List of Mathematics Extended Essay Topics

How to Analyze Your Biology Extended Essay Topic

You should explain early in the essay how you formulated the research topic and, if applicable, how you narrowed it by briefly elaborating on any relevant elements.

You should develop one or more hypotheses, especially since a single, well-formulated inquiry can generate a handful of specific hypotheses.

It’s possible to base your biology extended essays on data obtained through experiments, survey, microscopic observations, biological sketching, fieldwork, or any acceptable biological method.

Alternately, you can base the essay on facts or information collected from literature, ideally from primary sources, then alter or analyze in an innovative way. 

If you’re working on an essay that requires laboratory or fieldwork test, you should provide a clear and brief description of the experimental methodology.

Explain how you chose the research technique and methodology, as well as any options that you investigated but rejected.

Final Thoughts

Now that we’ve given you a list of 10+ Biology extended essay topics, it should be easy for you to identify an area to explore.

It can be an area you’re always interested in or a topic that you’ve always wanted to explore.

You should do research for your essay under the direct supervision of a supervisor.

Regardless of where or under what conditions you conduct studies, you must demonstrate your personal contribution to the research methodology and selection of methodologies in the essay.

Generating and presenting data should not be a goal in and of itself. Remember, proper scientific analysis is vital.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

Banner

IB Extended Essay: Research Questions

  • Research Questions
  • Past Essays
  • Notes & Outlines
  • Works Cited Page
  • In-Text Citations
  • Assessment Criteria
  • Reflections
  • Supervisor Info
  • Net Valley Library This link opens in a new window

biology extended essay question examples

IB Command Terms

Command terms are the key terms and phrases used in examination questions. 

See the lists below for the terms and definitions for each IB subject

  • Visual Arts command terms
  • Biology command terms
  • Chemistry command terms
  • Math command terms
  • Language and Literature command terms
  • Economics command terms
  • Physics command terms

Sample research questions

biology extended essay question examples

Source: IBO.org

Question Starters

biology extended essay question examples

Source: Oxford Course Companion, p.17

Research Questions: Class of 2020

Visual Arts: To what extent are the developments in American military aircraft nose designs from World War 2, Vietnam War and Gulf War more connected to individual crew preference than to the visual culture of America, 1940 - 1990?

English A: To what extent does William Shakespeare employ Elizabethan elements in Romeo and Juliet to build towards the eventual tragedy?

English A: To what extent did news media outlets, specifically CNN and Fox News, use different reporting methods to portray the candidates in the 2016 United States presidential election?

English A: How do aspects of real-life societies inform and shape A Clockwork Orange and The Handmaid’s Tale?

English A: How were African Americans portrayed in American sitcoms from 1980 to 2000?

English B: To what extent does 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green reflect 'The Hero's Journey'?

English B: To what extent does social media influence or have an effect on the english language usage?

English B: To what extent does the usage of AAVE affect an individual’s social status and mobility?

English B: To what extent does the development of the Super Bowl mirror specific aspects of American cultural, social, and economic trends?

Psychology: To what extent is the phenomenon of Karoshi, the overworking of office workers in Southeast Asia, interconnected with symptoms of depression?

Psychology: To What Extent is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as an addition to traditional pharmacotherapy necessary for the successful treatment of Schizophrenia?

Psychology: To what extent is Δ9-THC an effective antidepressant that can be used to treat patients with depression?

Chinese B: 论新时代网络语言对现代汉语有何种影响?

Chinese B: 中国嘻哈歌手如何运用歌词传播中华文化?How do Chinese Hip-hop Artists Promote Chinese Culture through Lyrics?

Economics: To what extent have increases in rental prices (2017-2018) shrunken the market for Korean restaurants in Chegongmiao, Shenzhen?

Economics: How does President Moon's minimum wage policy affect convenience store market in Seocho 1-dong, South Korea?

Business: To What Extent Does the WeChat Application in Tencent's Business Model Play a Role in its Success?

Business: To what extent has Samsung's acquisition of Harman Kardon helped in increasing revenue and access to new markets?

Research Questions: Class of 2019

World Studies (Biology & Economics): How does mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) ecotourism support and strengthen local economies while ensuring the mountain gorillas’ health and survival?

English A, Category 3: How are skincare companies like: Neutrogena, Nivea, and Dove promoting white supremacy?

English B, Category 2B: To what extent do the changes in Cersei’s and Daenerys’s character development in the HBO series Game of Thrones show they are ultimately both motivated for and by power?

Visual Arts: To what extent did visual qualities in Coco Chanel’s Little Black Dress 1913, influence black dresses created by Chinese fashion designer Vivienne Tam and haute couture designer Yiqing Yin in regards to development in visual elements and societal acceptances in the 21st century?

Business Management: “To what extent was Apple Inc.’s acquisition of Beats Electronics, LLC an effective growth strategy?”

Math, Group 5: Investigating the Korean MERS outbreak using the SEIR model: How would hypothetical diseases be simulated if variables of the SEIR model were to be altered?

Business Management : To what extent has the benefits offered by Shekou International School helped them retain staff?

Economics: To what extent has the subsidy that was introduced in 2016 for hybrid electric vehicles led to a rise in demand for domestic car producers in Baden Württemberg?

Chemistry: How does the addition of salt (NaCl) which modifies the salinity affects the interfacial tension and stability of oil-in-water emulsion?

World Studies (History & Literature): What aspects of the anti-vaccination movement, and “The Crucible” relate to mass hysteria during the Salem Witch Trials?

Psychology: To What Extent Do Behavioural Addictions Fit The Criteria for ‘The Disease Model of Addiction’?

World Studies (Economics & Politics): To what extent has the political decision to host the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro affected Brazils’ economy and the financial welfare of its citizens?

Physics: To what extent does the volume of water affect the altitude gained by adding a constant pressure?

Psychology: To what extent are sociocultural and biological factors major causes of elderly people’s depressive behavior?

World Studies (History & Economics): To what extent did the LGBTQ community contribute to making attractive neighborhoods in the US and why are they pushed to leave them now?

Economics: To what extent is the cafe market in Shekou, Shenzhen, monopolistically competitive?

Economics: “Which is the most important factor that changes the real estate price rate in Magok-dong, Gangseo-gu, Seoul Korea?”

Business Management: To what extent has McDonald’s marketing strategies played a major role in becoming a prominent fast-food company in Korea?

World Studies (Physics & Geography): To What Extent is the Design of the Standard Houses that Gawak Kalinga Builds Able to Withstand the Seismic Hazards Present in Manila?

World Studies (Economics & Music): To what extent is electronic music’s economy expanding?

Visual Arts: To what extent did artistic influences and material sources impact the chair designs of Gerrit Thomas Rietveld Zig-Zag (1934), Verner Panton Panton S (1956), and Tom Dixon, Capellini, S Chair (1991)?

Business Management: To what extent has Apple Inc.’s prioritization of product innovation and advertising led to sales of iPhone X?

World Studies (Psychology & Geography): How do the combined effects of Socioeconomic Status and Diabetes increase prevalences of Alzheimer’s Disease in different regions within China (PRC)?

  • << Previous: Lessons
  • Next: Past Essays >>
  • Last Updated: Apr 9, 2024 9:39 AM
  • URL: https://sis-cn.libguides.com/ExtendedEssay
  • Alta Loma Elementary School
  • Apache Elementary School
  • Cactus High School
  • Canyon Elementary School
  • Centennial High School
  • Cheyenne Elementary School
  • Copperwood Elementary School
  • Cotton Boll Elementary School
  • Country Meadows Elementary School
  • Coyote Hills Elementary School
  • Desert Harbor Elementary School
  • Desert Palms Elementary School
  • Desert Valley Elementary School
  • Foothills Elementary School
  • Frontier Elementary School
  • Heritage Elementary School
  • Ira A. Murphy Elementary School
  • Ironwood High School
  • Kachina Elementary School
  • Lake Pleasant Elementary School
  • Liberty High School
  • Marshall Ranch Elementary School
  • MET Professional Academy
  • Oakwood Elementary School
  • Oasis Elementary School
  • Parkridge Elementary School
  • Paseo Verde Elementary School
  • Peoria eCampus
  • Peoria Elementary School
  • Peoria Flex Academy
  • The Peoria High School
  • Peoria Traditional School
  • Pioneer Elementary School
  • Raymond S. Kellis High School
  • Sahuaro Ranch Elementary School
  • Santa Fe Elementary School
  • Sky View Elementary School
  • Sun Valley Elementary School
  • Sundance Elementary School
  • Sunrise Mountain High School
  • Sunset Heights Elementary School
  • Vistancia Elementary School
  • Zuni Hills Elementary School
  • Career & Technical Education (CTE)
  • MyLife - Student Resources

Search

Our School is A Rated!

  • Choosing a Topic

Formulating the Research Question

Current IB Students

Page navigation.

  • Subject Guides
  • Supervision Process
  • Protocol for RPPF
  • RRS Examples
  • Search Strategy
  • Citing Sources
  • Time Management
  • Organizing the Essay

Research Question

  • Write a preliminary research question. Try to incorporate an IB command term in the student research question.
  • Make a list of the steps necessary to carry out the research required for writing the IB Extended Essay - choosing the subject and topic, doing the required reading of IB rules and guidelines, writing the initial research question, and more.

RQ Resources:

Steps to Developing a Research Question

Practice Exercise:  Formulating Well-Focused Research Questions

IB Command Terms and Glossaries

Research Question Formats for History Extended Essays

Developing a Research Question

The chosen a subject and topic that interests the student and carried out some preliminary reading.  What are the next steps?

  • Consider the emerging questions. The student should now begin posing open-ended questions about the student topic.  These questions will usually be framed "how", "why", or "to what extent."
  • Evaluate the question.   Once the student has posed possible research questions the student should evaluate them.  This evaluation should be based on whether the question is clear , focused , and arguable .
  • Clear  - Will the reader understand the nature of my research?  Will it direct the research being undertaken?
  • Focused - Will the research question be specific enough to allow for exploration within the scope of the task (that is, the number of words and time available)?
  • Arguable - Does the research question allow for analysis, evaluation and the development of a reasoned argument?
  • Consider research outcomes. Once the student has decided on a research question, the student should start thinking about the direction the research might take.  The student could do this by:
  • suggesting possible outcomes of the student research
  • outlining the type of argument, the student might make and how the student research might support this
  • considering options if the research available is not sufficient to support a sustained argument

Sample Research Questions The table below gives some examples showing the difference between unclear and unfocused research.

What was the impact of Ho Chi Minh's allegiance to Lenin?

To what extent was nationalism the guiding factor in Ho Chi Minh's adoption of Leninism in 1920?

What is the history of Chinese theatre?

How does the legacy of Mei Lan Fang contribute to modern Jingju?

How important is chlorophyll to plant life?

What is the effect of different concentrations of kinetin on leaves aging and the biosynthesis of chlorophyll?

How can the US government's spending policy be reformed?

To what extent did the rising COE prices affect the demand for new and used cars by the consumer population and hence affect the revenue generated by the Singaporean economy for the period 2012-16?

Practice exercise: Formulating well-focused research questions

Developing a narrow, focused research question is an integral part of the extended essay process. A research question will provide a path to guide the student through the student research and writing.

Choose the student subject area

Choose a topic that interests the student

I want to learn about __________________________.

: I want to learn about public funding for the arts.

Suggest a question

I am studying ______________________ because I want to find out (who, what, when, where, whether, why or how) ___________________________.

: I am studying public funding for the arts because I want to find out how accessible the arts are to those people who are on low incomes.

: To what extent are the arts accessible to people who belong to the class of the working poor?

Include a to help form the research question.

Will the student be able to argue a specific position? What are some possible issues or arguments?

Evaluate the question

Is there a range of perspectives on this topic?

Does the research question allow for analysis, evaluation and the development of a reasoned argument?

I am studying __________________ because I want to find out ____________________________ in order to understand (how, why or whether) ________________________________________________.

: I am studying public funding for the arts because I want to find out how accessible the arts are to the working poor, so I can determine whether tax dollars support cultural enrichment for all citizens regardless of their socio-economic status.

Restate the question using a different command term

Review with the supervisor

Reflection

The student must now start some preliminary reading around the issue or topic. Remember that the student will most likely need to revise the research question once the student start to undertake the research. In this sense the research question should always be considered provisional until the student has enough research data to make a reasoned argument.

  • Questions or Feedback? |
  • Web Community Manager Privacy Policy (Updated) |

biology extended essay question examples

  • TTS Libguides
  • Tanglin LibGuides
  • Senior Library

IB Extended Essay (EE)

  • Extended Essay Main Page
  • Business & Management
  • Computer Science
  • Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS)
  • Human Rights
  • Information Technology in a Global Society (ITGS)
  • Mathematics
  • Peace and Conflict Studies
  • Social and Cultural Anthropology
  • Visual Arts
  • World Religions
  • World Studies

Find a password

Students -

Staff -

Excellent Extended Essays - Biology

(2012)
(2012)
(2014)
(2009)
(2012)
(2016)
(2014)
 (2014)
(2018)
(2018)
 (2018)
(2020)
(2020)
(2021)
 (2021)
(2021)
 (2022)

Find example excellent essays

Click on the subjects to browse the list of excellent extended essays..

  • << Previous: Extended Essay Main Page
  • Next: Business & Management >>
  • Last Updated: Oct 18, 2022 9:00 AM
  • URL: https://libguides.tts.edu.sg/EE

ExtendedEssayWriters

Extended Essay Writers

extended essay blog

Biology EE Topics | 40 Ideas

Biology EE Topics

Luke MacQuoid

There are many potential topics for a biology Extended Essay (EE) in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

Topic Ideas

Some possibilities include the following:

  • The effects of pollution on a particular species or ecosystem.
  • The genetic basis of a specific disease or trait.
  • The comparative physiology of a specific mammal and bird.
  • The effects of climate change on a particular species or ecosystem.
  • The impact of human activity on the evolution of a species.
  • The physiology of a specific plant species.
  • The efficacy of a specific medicinal plant.
  • The comparison of the anatomy and physiology of a specific animal species in captivity and in the wild.
  • The impact of a specific invasive species on an ecosystem.
  • The effect of different fertilizers on the growth and development of a specific plant species.
  • The study of the symbiotic relationship between specific species.
  • The effect of different light conditions on the growth and development of a specific plant species.
  • The impact of different temperature conditions on the physiology of a specific microorganism.
  • The study of the genetic diversity within a specific species.
  • The study of the effects of different pH levels on the growth and development of a specific plant species.
  • The impact of human activity on the population dynamics of a specific species.
  • The study of the effects of different soil types on the growth and development of a specific plant species.
  • The study of the impacts of different pesticides on the physiology of a specific species.
  • The study of the effects of different water conditions on the growth and development of a specific plant species.
  • The study of the impact of ocean acidification on the physiology of a specific marine species.
  • Studying the Effects of Acid Rain on Local Flora.
  • The Role of Gut Microbiota in Obesity.
  • Influence of Insecticides on Honey Bee Population Decline.
  • The Effects of Microplastics on Aquatic Food Chains.
  • The Role of Genetics in Determining Human Lifespan.
  • Influence of Habitat Loss on the Genetic Diversity of a Specific Species.
  • The Effects of Light Pollution on Nocturnal Animals.
  • A Comparative Study of Photosynthesis Rates in Different Plant Species.
  • The Impact of Noise Pollution on Avian Communication.
  • Analysis of Biological Controls for Invasive Species.
  • The Effects of Diet on the Gut Microbiota.
  • Understanding the Effect of Climate Change on Disease Vectors.
  • Exploring the Role of Genetics in Athletic Performance.
  • Effects of Pharmaceuticals on Aquatic Ecosystems.
  • The Impact of Urbanization on Local Bird Species.
  • Understanding the Relationship Between Sleep and Immune Function.
  • Studying the Effects of Air Pollution on Lichen Species.
  • The Role of Epigenetics in Aging.
  • The Effect of Vegan and Vegetarian Diets on the Human Body.
  • Investigating the Biological Mechanisms of Meditation and Mindfulness.

It’s important to note that these are just examples of topics for your IB EE in Biology . You should choose a topic that interests you and that you can find enough information on.

biology extended essay question examples

Need help with your Biology extended essay?

From research and analysis to structuring and editing, our skilled mentors will be by your side, helping you craft an exceptional extended essay that not only meets the stringent IB criteria but also reflects your passion for Biology studies.

Additionally, it’s essential to consult with your supervisor to make sure the topic meets the requirements of the Extended Essay and that you have access to the necessary resources to complete the research.

Students can use these themes in their essays by researching and analyzing the specific topic, providing evidence and examples to support their claims, and discussing the implications and potential solutions to the issue at hand.

For example, in an essay on the effects of pollution on a particular species or ecosystem, a student could research the specific pollutants that are affecting the species or ecosystem, analyze the effects those pollutants are having, and discuss potential solutions to mitigate the pollution and its effects.

These are experiments students can use for Biology EE topics:

  • Looking at how pollution impacts a certain type of animal or plant: This would involve checking out pollution levels in a specific place, then watching to see how it affects your chosen species.
  • Understanding how certain genes affect a disease or characteristic: This would mean doing genetic tests to identify the genes involved, and potentially using genetic engineering techniques to change those genes and see what happens.
  • Comparing how a mammal and a bird work: You’d do experiments to see how your chosen mammal and bird are similar or different. You could look at things like brain structure, behaviour, and thinking abilities.
  • Exploring how climate change impacts a certain animal, plant, or ecosystem: This could involve experiments to see how changes in temperature, rain patterns, or CO2 levels affect your chosen species or ecosystem.
  • Studying how people’s actions affect how a species evolves: This might mean looking at how things like habitat destruction, hunting, or pollution impact a species’ genetic diversity and population.
  • Looking at how a certain plant works: You’d do experiments to see how the plant responds to things like light, temperature, or water.
  • Studying how well a medicinal plant works: You’d do experiments to see how good the plant is at killing or slowing the growth of microbes, or reducing pain or inflammation.
  • Comparing a certain animal in captivity and in the wild: You’d look at how being in captivity affects the animal’s body and how it works, and how it behaves.
  • Seeing how an invasive species affects an ecosystem: You’d study how your chosen invasive species impacts the growth, reproduction, and health of native species.
  • Studying how different fertilizers affect a plant: This could involve testing different types of fertilizers to see how they affect the plant’s growth rate, leaf size, and health.
  • Looking at how certain species interact: You’d do experiments to understand the relationship between the species. This could involve seeing what happens when you remove one species, or how different environments affect the relationship.
  • Studying how light affects a plant: This might mean doing experiments to see how different light conditions affect the plant’s growth, leaf size, and health.
  • Looking at how temperature affects a microorganism: You’d do experiments to see how different temperatures impact the microorganism’s growth rate, metabolism, and health.
  • Studying genetic diversity in a species: This could involve using genetic markers to identify genetic variations in the species, and then seeing how these variations affect the organism.
  • Looking at how pH levels affect a plant: You’d do experiments to see how different pH levels impact the plant’s growth, leaf size, and health.
  • Studying how people’s actions affect a species’ population: This might mean looking at how things like habitat destruction, hunting, or pollution impact the species’ population size, growth rate, and health.
  • Looking at how soil types affect a plant: This could involve doing experiments to see how different types of soil affect the plant’s growth, leaf size, and health.
  • Studying how pesticides affect a species: This might mean doing experiments to see how different pesticides impact the species’ growth, reproduction, and health.
  • Looking at how water conditions affect a plant: You’d do experiments to see how different water conditions (like availability, salt levels, or temperature) affect the plant’s growth, leaf size, and health.
  • Studying how ocean acidification affects a marine species: This could involve doing experiments to see how increasing acidity levels impact the species’ growth, reproduction, and health.

Additionally, in an essay on the comparative psychiatry of a specific mammal and bird, a student could research and compare the brain structures, behaviors, and cognitive abilities of the two species and discuss any similarities and differences found.

A student can ask for help from a writing service if they need assistance with their essay. This can bring several benefits to the student, such as:

  • Professional guidance . Writing services often have experienced writers and editors who can provide guidance on the essay topic and structure, as well as help with research and editing.
  • Improved quality . A writing service can help improve the overall quality of the essay, including grammar, punctuation, and formatting.
  • Better grades . With the help of a writing service, a student’s essay is likely to be of higher quality, which can lead to better grades.
  • Time-saving . A writing service can help save time as the student can focus on other responsibilities while the writing service works on the essay.
  • Customization . Writing services can also provide a customized service that can be tailored to the student’s specific needs and requirements.
  • Originality . Professional writers will provide original work that is free from plagiarism, which is important in academic writing.

It is important to note, however, that a student should always ensure that the writing service they use is reputable and that they review and understand the work they receive before submitting it as their own.

' src=

Luke MacQuoid has extensive experience teaching English as a foreign language in Japan, having worked with students of all ages for over 12 years. Currently, he is teaching at the tertiary level. Luke holds a BA from the University of Sussex and an MA in TESOL from Lancaster University, both located in England. As well to his work as an IB Examiner and Master Tutor, Luke also enjoys sharing his experiences and insights with others through writing articles for various websites, including extendedessaywriters.com blog

knowledge issue tok

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

15% OFF your first IB order using the code

biology extended essay question examples

Verify originality of an essay

Get ideas for your paper

Find top study documents

200 Extended Essay Topics, the Essay’s Layout, and Additional Info

Updated 21 May 2024

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an educational foundation with worldwide outreach founded in 1968 and which offers education programs to students or pupils 3 to 19 years old. In 2017, more than 4,650 schools worldwide taught International Baccalaureate programs – this corresponds to roughly 1.4 million IB students in 152 countries. Out of all schools, 1700 are located in the US alone.

An important International Baccalaureate Program (one of the four tracks available) is the Diploma Program aimed at students between 16 and 19 years old – in 2016, roughly 150,000 students worldwide took an IB Diploma Program exam. One of the mandatory IB Diploma requirements is to write an extended essay, which contributes significantly to the total score. Below, we provide some guiding information and a selection of extended essay topics to help you learn how to write an extended essay .

Definition and Purpose

The IB extended essay is part of the core requirements/curriculum of an IB Diploma Program and involves focused independent research by the IB student on a chosen theme. Resulting papers have a typical length of up to 4000 words long (they should tend to reach this, although writing 3500 words can still be acceptable). A low score (E) for the extended paper and/or Theory of Knowledge essay revokes the right to receive an IB Diploma. By contrast, good marks contribute to the overall score, which could impact a student’s college application success.

While submission deadlines for extended essays are set by the IB, schools are free to set their own internal deadlines. Preparation and work on this assignment spans several academic terms – this includes choosing extended essay topics, submitting proposals, designating supervisors, information gathering (e.g. sources from local libraries), writing a draft (for instance, over a summer break), receiving feedback from supervisors, etc.

Extended Essay Topics

IB Extended Essay Layout

There are six required elements in an extended essay layout:

  • Title page – should include the title, research question (e.g. “How did phenomenon A cause phenomenon B?”), subject it is registered in, category (for language essays), essay theme and subjects used (for world studies), total word count.
  • Contents page – should be at the beginning listing headings and subheadings along with corresponding page numbers these can be found on (all pages should be numbered).
  • Introduction – should describe the focus and scope of this research, used sources, line of argument to be presented.
  • Essay body – this is the main section where research, analysis, discussion, and evaluation is being performed. The structure might vary from subject to subject but it is essential that evidence and argument development is presented clearly and in appropriate order.
  • Conclusion – conclusions state what has been accomplished through this research, but also potential limitations, unsolved issues, open questions.
  • References and bibliography – students should adhere to a chosen academic citation style and use it consistently (different citations styles might be required depending on the discipline).

A methodology section or other sections might also be appropriate. Also, there might be an Appendices section if you have supplementary material to add (this is not included in the total word count). Also note that starting with 2018, no abstract is needed – adding it will unnecessarily steal roughly 300 words from the total word count, which will almost certainly prove detrimental (so it’s wise to skip it).

How to Choose a Good Topic

IB students must take six subjects, one from each subject group (there are 6 in total) with the exception that no subject from the sixth group (Arts) is mandatory and can be substituted with a subject from any of the other five groups. IB extended essay topics are normally chosen so that they are related to subjects picked by the student but they must fall into a course belonging to any of the following six subject groups (categories):

  • Group 1: Studies in language and literature – this includes subjects like student's native language, Language and Literature, Literature and Performance (interdisciplinary).
  • Group 2: Language acquisition – this includes an additional language (either deepening existing knowledge or starting one from zero).
  • Group 3: Individuals and societies – includes humanities and social science courses such as Economics, Geography, History, Business Management, Information Technology in a Global Society (ITGS), Psychology, Philosophy, Social and Cultural Anthropology and Global Politics, Environmental Systems and Societies, World Religions (interdisciplinary).
  • Group 4: Experimental sciences - Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Design Technology, Computer Science, Sport, Exercise and Health Science, Environmental Systems (interdisciplinary), Societies and Nature of Science (interdisciplinary).
  • Group 5: Mathematics. Mathematical Studies, Mathematics, Further Mathematics.
  • Group 6: Arts – Dance, Music, Theatre, Foreign Languages, Visual Arts, and Film.

It is highly recommended you choose a topic that interests and motivates you – after all, you’ll be working on and perfecting your extended paper over several months. Some challenge (e.g. unfamiliar fields) is also fine but risks should be reasonable. Choose issues that are narrow enough to be explored and covered comprehensively in 4000 words – attempting to do this with a very broad theme, would look very unprofessional.

In order to pick an interesting topic, it might be very useful to have brainstorm sessions on your own (this will help you focus on your interests) but also to browse the web or other resources for lists of potential themes (especially if you feel confused or stuck) – it could very well happen that one such topic would inspire you to choose a related one, which would be even better adjusted to your interests and goals.

Choosing a topic is not the only challenge encountered while writing an extended essay – writing up in a clear, organized manner and using correct language is also a must. Even if you proofread your extended paper several times, there might still be errors you can skip (occasional comas, wrong spellings, etc.).

Need more writing assistance?

Connect with our top writers and receive a paper sample crafted to your needs.

200 IB Extended Essay Topic Ideas

Below is a list of IB extended essay topic ideas sorted by subject that might help you identify a favorite.

Biology extended essay topics

  • The effects of urban pollution on local flora species diversity.
  • Analyzing the impact of climate change on coral reef ecosystems.
  • Investigating the role of genetics in resistance to antibiotics.
  • The influence of soil pH on plant growth and nutrient uptake.
  • A comparative study of carnivorous plants: Mechanisms and efficiency of prey capture.
  • The impact of invasive species on native biodiversity in a specific region.
  • Examining the symbiotic relationship between fungi and plant roots in nutrient-poor soils.
  • The role of epigenetics in the development of certain human diseases.
  • Investigating the effects of microplastics on marine life fertility rates.
  • The efficiency of different natural pesticides on crop pests.
  • Analyzing the genetic diversity of a local endangered species to aid conservation efforts.
  • The impact of deforestation on the genetic variation of isolated populations.
  • Studying the behavioral patterns of a specific animal species in response to habitat fragmentation.
  • The role of gut microbiota in human health and disease.
  • Investigating the biochemical processes involved in the bioremediation of oil spills.
  • The effects of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis.
  • Analyzing the impact of GMO crops on surrounding natural plant populations.
  • The role of plant hormones in root development and growth.
  • Investigating the mechanisms of aging at the cellular level.
  • The impact of ocean acidification on shellfish calcification processes.
Read also: 170 Interesting Biology Research Paper Topics

Psychology extended essay topics

  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in treating depression.
  • Investigating the psychological impact of social media on teenagers' self-esteem.
  • The role of personality traits in workplace success.
  • Analyzing the effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance.
  • The impact of parental styles on children's emotional development.
  • Investigating the psychological effects of bullying on adolescents.
  • The influence of cultural background on perception and decision-making.
  • Analyzing the role of psychological resilience in coping with chronic illness.
  • The effectiveness of art therapy in reducing anxiety in adults.
  • Investigating the relationship between exercise and mental health.
  • The impact of childhood trauma on adult psychological disorders.
  • Analyzing the psychological factors influencing consumer behavior.
  • The role of implicit bias in social interactions and judgments.
  • Investigating the effects of virtual reality on phobia treatment.
  • The impact of peer pressure on adolescent risk-taking behaviors.
  • Analyzing the psychological aspects of addiction and recovery.
  • The role of emotional intelligence in personal and professional relationships.
  • Investigating the effects of music therapy on stress reduction.
  • The impact of social isolation on elderly mental health.
  • Analyzing the role of genetics and environment in the development of personality.

English extended essay topics

  • The portrayal of women in Victorian literature.
  • Analyzing the use of symbolism in "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee.
  • The impact of colonialism on literature: A case study of post-colonial African literature.
  • Investigating the theme of identity in "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger.
  • The evolution of the tragic hero in Shakespeare's plays.
  • Analyzing the representation of dystopian societies in modern young adult literature.
  • The role of nature in Romantic poetry.
  • Investigating the use of unreliable narrators in modern American literature.
  • The impact of the First World War on British poetry.
  • Exploring the theme of racial discrimination in "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison.
  • The influence of Greek mythology on modern literature.
  • Analyzing the portrayal of mental illness in "The Bell Jar" by Sylvia Plath.
  • The use of stream of consciousness technique in Virginia Woolf's novels.
  • Investigating the theme of existentialism in "The Stranger" by Albert Camus.
  • The depiction of the American Dream in "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
  • Exploring the concept of feminism in "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë.
  • The role of the supernatural in Gothic literature.
  • Analyzing the theme of redemption in "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens.
  • The portrayal of childhood in "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding.
  • Investigating the use of satire in "Animal Farm" by George Orwell.

Save your time! We can take care of your essay

  • Proper editing and formatting
  • Free revision, title page, and bibliography
  • Flexible prices and money-back guarantee

Place order

Banner

Literature extended essay topics

  • The exploration of the American Dream in John Steinbeck's "The Grapes of Wrath."
  • The use of magical realism in Gabriel García Márquez's "One Hundred Years of Solitude."
  • The depiction of female empowerment in Charlotte Perkins Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper."
  • The theme of isolation in Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein."
  • The impact of societal expectations on individual identity in Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice."
  • The exploration of existentialism in Albert Camus's "The Plague."
  • The portrayal of war and its aftermath in Erich Maria Remarque's "All Quiet on the Western Front."
  • The concept of love and sacrifice in Emily Brontë's "Wuthering Heights."
  • The critique of totalitarianism in George Orwell's "1984."
  • The exploration of racial inequality in Toni Morrison's "Beloved."
  • The representation of childhood and coming of age in J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye."
  • The use of the journey motif in Homer's "The Odyssey."
  • The depiction of mental illness in Sylvia Plath's "The Bell Jar."
  • The role of nature in the poetry of William Wordsworth.
  • The exploration of gender roles in Virginia Woolf's "Orlando."
  • The impact of colonialism on identity in Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart."
  • The portrayal of the artist in James Joyce's "A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man."
  • The theme of revenge in William Shakespeare's "Hamlet."
  • The exploration of social class and morality in Charles Dickens's "Great Expectations."
  • The depiction of dystopian society in Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale."
Read also: Literary Analysis Essay Topics for Students

Geography extended essay topics

  • The effects of climate change on coral reef ecosystems in the Caribbean.
  • Urban sprawl and its impact on the environment in a specific metropolitan area.
  • The role of sustainable agriculture in promoting food security in Sub-Saharan Africa.
  • The impact of tourism on natural resources in a national park.
  • The relationship between population density and air quality in major cities.
  • The effects of deforestation on biodiversity in the Amazon rainforest.
  • The impact of renewable energy projects on rural communities.
  • Water scarcity and its effects on agriculture in the Middle East.
  • The role of green spaces in urban environments on mental health.
  • The impact of sea-level rise on coastal communities.
  • The geographical factors influencing the spread of diseases.
  • The effects of industrial pollution on river ecosystems.
  • The role of geographical information systems (GIS) in disaster management.
  • The impact of glacier retreat on water resources in the Himalayas.
  • The relationship between soil erosion and agricultural practices.
  • The effects of urbanization on wildlife habitats.
  • The impact of mining activities on local communities and the environment.
  • The role of ecotourism in conservation efforts.
  • The geographical patterns of renewable energy adoption.
  • The impact of landfills on groundwater quality.

History extended essay topics

  • The impact of the Treaty of Versailles on the Weimar Republic.
  • The role of women in the French Resistance during World War II.
  • The influence of the Silk Road on the cultural exchange between East and West.
  • The causes and consequences of the Cuban Missile Crisis.
  • The impact of the Industrial Revolution on urbanization.
  • The role of propaganda in Nazi Germany.
  • The effects of the Great Depression on American society.
  • The influence of Mahatma Gandhi on the Indian independence movement.
  • The causes and effects of the fall of the Roman Empire.
  • The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on racial equality in the United States.
  • The role of the Catholic Church in medieval Europe.
  • The consequences of the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire.
  • The impact of the Cold War on space exploration.
  • The effects of colonialism on Africa.
  • The role of the samurai in feudal Japan.
  • The causes and outcomes of the Korean War.
  • The impact of the discovery of the New World on European societies.
  • The influence of the Renaissance on art and science.
  • The consequences of the Chernobyl disaster on Soviet society.
  • The role of espionage during the Cold War.

Physics extended essay topics

  • The principles and applications of quantum entanglement.
  • The impact of black holes on theories of space and time.
  • The role of dark matter in the universe.
  • The physics of climate change: Analyzing the greenhouse effect.
  • The principles of superconductivity and its potential applications.
  • The effects of solar flares on Earth's magnetic field.
  • The physics behind renewable energy sources.
  • The principles of aerodynamics in sports.
  • The impact of technological advancements on space exploration.
  • The role of physics in understanding ocean currents and their effects on climate.
  • The principles of sound waves and their applications in medical imaging.
  • The physics of electric vehicles and their impact on the environment.
  • The role of particle accelerators in modern physics research.
  • The principles of nuclear fusion and its potential as an energy source.
  • The physics of earthquakes and seismic waves.
  • The application of thermodynamics in everyday life.
  • The role of optics in modern communication technologies.
  • The principles of electromagnetism in electrical engineering.
  • The physics of sports equipment design.
  • The impact of nanotechnology on future technological developments.

Film extended essay topics

  • The evolution of special effects in cinema and their impact on storytelling.
  • The representation of historical events in films: Accuracy vs. artistic license.
  • The influence of film noir on modern cinematography and narrative styles.
  • The role of music in shaping the emotional landscape of films.
  • The portrayal of gender roles in Hollywood movies from the 1950s to today.
  • The impact of independent films on the global film industry.
  • The cultural significance of foreign films in promoting global awareness.
  • The evolution of the superhero genre in cinema.
  • The depiction of artificial intelligence in science fiction films.
  • The influence of directors' personal styles on the development of film genres.
  • The role of propaganda films in shaping public opinion during wartime.
  • The impact of censorship on film content and its reception by audiences.
  • The representation of mental illness in films and its impact on societal perceptions.
  • The evolution of animation techniques and their impact on storytelling.
  • The portrayal of race and ethnicity in contemporary cinema.
  • The influence of streaming platforms on film production and distribution.
  • The role of documentaries in raising awareness about social and environmental issues.
  • The impact of the French New Wave on contemporary filmmaking techniques.
  • The depiction of futuristic societies in dystopian films.
  • The role of film festivals in promoting independent and international cinema.

Economics extended essay topics

  • The impact of globalization on small businesses in developing countries.
  • The effectiveness of monetary policy in controlling inflation.
  • The role of technology in shaping consumer behavior and market trends.
  • The impact of Brexit on the UK's economic relationship with the EU.
  • The effects of minimum wage laws on employment rates.
  • The role of microfinance in promoting entrepreneurship in developing countries.
  • The impact of trade tariffs on international relations and global markets.
  • The effects of the gig economy on traditional employment models.
  • The role of sustainable development in economic planning.
  • The impact of cryptocurrency on traditional banking and financial markets.
  • The economics of climate change: Costs and benefits of environmental policies.
  • The role of foreign direct investment in economic development.
  • The impact of income inequality on economic growth.
  • The effects of agricultural subsidies on global trade.
  • The role of consumer confidence in economic recovery post-recession.
  • The impact of internet advertising on consumer spending habits.
  • The economics of renewable energy and its impact on fossil fuel industries.
  • The role of government regulation in preventing financial crises.
  • The impact of demographic changes on economic growth strategies.
  • The effects of corporate social responsibility on brand loyalty and profitability.

World religion studies extended essays topics

  • The role of religious rituals in strengthening community bonds.
  • The impact of secularism on religious practices and institutions.
  • The influence of Buddhism on modern mindfulness and meditation practices.
  • The role of women in leadership positions within different religious traditions.
  • The impact of globalization on the spread and adaptation of religions.
  • The ethical implications of religious beliefs on medical decisions.
  • The role of religion in conflict and peacebuilding efforts.
  • The influence of religious education on moral development.
  • The impact of religious tourism on holy sites and local communities.
  • The role of religion in shaping cultural identity.
  • The evolution of Hinduism in the context of contemporary India.
  • The influence of religion on art and architecture throughout history.
  • The role of religious texts in shaping ethical and moral codes.
  • The impact of interfaith dialogue on religious tolerance.
  • The role of animism and indigenous religions in environmental conservation.
  • The influence of the Reformation on the development of modern Christianity.
  • The role of religious leaders in social and political movements.
  • The impact of religious dietary laws on food culture and industry.
  • The role of pilgrimage in different religious traditions.
  • The influence of mysticism and esoteric practices within major world religions.

Need Some Expert Help?

While provided topics might be helpful in inspiring a research subject, don’t forget that you can always use our essay topic generator to explore even more topics from multiple categories. Also, you can choose to delegate the entire task to our writing experts – you can pick them yourself by reviewing their previous performance on our platform).

Our writers could come up with a topic or pick your favorite one, do all related research, and provide you with a final proofread paper. Our policies guarantee as many free revisions as necessary until you are satisfied with your paper (only after this, money is released to your writer). So if you need help with any writing task, don’t hesitate to contact our services.

Was this helpful?

Thanks for your feedback.

Article author picture

Written by David Kidwell

David is one of those experienced content creators from the United Kingdom who has a high interest in social issues, culture, and entrepreneurship. He always says that reading, blogging, and staying aware of what happens in the world is what makes a person responsible. He likes to learn and share what he knows by making things inspiring and creative enough even for those students who dislike reading.

Related Blog Posts

Diversity essay: effective tips for expressing ideas.

In today's interconnected and rapidly evolving world, the importance of diversity in all its forms cannot be overstated. From classrooms to workpla...

Learn how to write a deductive essay that makes you proud!

Learning how to write a deductive essay may sound like a challenging task. Yet, things become much easier when you master the definition and the ob...

Learn how to write an extended essay correctly

This helpful article will provide all the necessary information to show you how to write an extended essay without mistakes. You will learn about a...

Join our 150K of happy users

  • Get original papers written according to your instructions
  • Save time for what matters most

COMMENTS

  1. IB Biology EE examples

    EE Biology A. How do different concentrations of Punica granatum extracts: Peel, Flower and Leaves (10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 mg/ml) affect the rate of reaction of α-amylase and compare with metformin (anti-diabetic drug) as measured by a spectrophotometer at 587nm? EE Biology B. To what extent does varying the duration (0 mins, 5 mins, 10 mins ...

  2. The Complete IB Extended Essay Guide: Examples, Topics, and Ideas

    Here is a range of sample topics with the attached extended essay: Biology: ... research question/focus (i.e., what you're investigating), a body, and a conclusion (about one double-spaced page). An essay with unclear organization will be graded poorly. ... 40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme.

  3. John R. Lewis Library: 2016-2017 IB Extended Essay: Sample IB EE's

    2016-2017 IB Extended Essay; Sample IB EE's; Search this Guide ... Workshop 2: EE Options ; Workshop 3: Selecting a topic ; Workshop 4:Research Questions ; Workshop 5: Supervisors and Reflections ... IB Diploma Program. Extended Essay Research Guide; Class of 2025 - Sample Extended Esssays; Science. Biology. Biology (2018 new rubric) Biology ...

  4. Biology Extended Essay Topics and RQs for IBDP

    List of biology extended essay topic categories I'll cover in this article. Ecology and Environmental Science. Impact of Urban Development on Local Ecosystems - Investigating the effects of urban expansion on biodiversity in a specific area. Marine Biology and Ocean Acidification - Studying the impact of changing pH levels on marine life.

  5. Examples

    These highlight the diverse range of topics covered by International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) students during their extended essays. Some examples are: "An analysis of costume as a source for understanding the inner life of the character". "A study of malnourished children in Indonesia and the extent of their recovery ...

  6. Biology Extended Essay: The Complete Guide for IB Students

    Biology in IB Extended Essay is the examination of living organisms and their life processes. The assignment integrates biological theories and examines the nature of the subject. While you can approach a Biology EE from varying viewpoints, the treatment of the material used in your investigation must be 100% biological.

  7. Sciences: Biology

    Choosing a Topic. Biology is the science that deals with living organisms and life processes. A biology EE should incorporate biological theory and emphasize why it is relevant today. The topic must relates specifically to biology. Many topics can be approached from different viewpoints, but for an EE in biology the treatment of the topic must ...

  8. Extended Essay

    Through the research process for the extended essay, students develop skills in: formulating an appropriate research question; engaging in a personal exploration of the topic; communicating ideas; developing an argument." An extended essay in Biology: Must take the form of a research paper in which primary source data is collected and analyzed

  9. IB EE examples for all subjects

    EE Biology A. Fast track your coursework with mark schemes moderated by IB examiners. Upgrade now 🚀. Promoted. Advertise with Clastify. To what extent do different concentrations of Magnesium Nitrate (10, 20, 30, 40, 50 mM) affect the concentration of chlorophyll a and b in Ocimum basilicum at 645 nm and 662 nm wavelength using ...

  10. PDF Extended Essay Biology

    An extended essay in biology provides you with the opportunity to apply a range of skills while researching a topic of personal interest in the field of biology. Adapted from the IBO Extended Essay Subject Specific Guide for Biology. Choice of Topic. It is important to choose a topic that has a CLEAR BIOLOGICAL EMPHASIS, and is not more closely ...

  11. PDF BIOLOGY EXTENDED ESSAY

    BIOLOGY EXTENDED ESSAY Research Question: How do different Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium (NPK) ratios (1:1:1, 2:1:1, 2:2:1 and water) in aqueous fertilisers affect growth (as measured through a mitotic index) of the onion (Allium cepa), over a 5-week period, in a hydroponics set up? "The important thing is not to stop questioning.

  12. How to answer IB Biology Paper 2 extended response questions

    In this article our author, Ashby Merson-Davies, provides examples of how to successfully answer your IB Biology extended response questions for the command terms Outline, Describe, and Explain. Additional examples can be found in both our Standard Level and Higher Level study guides for IB Biology. The guides also feature comprehensive ...

  13. 100 IB Extended Essay Topic Ideas!

    An analysis of body modification in relation to social and cultural anthropology. 100. Chaste systems and social ranks in societies. There are so many class subjects that can form the basis of your extended essay, including these popular six subjects: - Information technology. - Computer science. - Health science.

  14. Biology EE Topics: How to Choose, Plus Good Examples

    How to Choose Biology EE Topics. The following are important considerations to make when selecting a topic for your biology extended essay: 1. Select a Topic Focusing Strictly on Biology. Biology is the scientific discipline concerned with living beings and biological processes. Therefore, a biology extended essay should contain biological ...

  15. Research Questions

    Research Questions: Class of 2019. World Studies (Biology & Economics): How does mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) ecotourism support and strengthen local economies while ensuring the mountain gorillas' health and survival? English A, Category 3: How are skincare companies like: Neutrogena, Nivea, and Dove promoting white supremacy?

  16. Current IB Students / Formulating the Research Question

    Sample Research Questions The table below gives some examples showing the difference between unclear and unfocused research. Unclear, unfocused, and unarguable research questions ... Developing a narrow, focused research question is an integral part of the extended essay process. A research question will provide a path to guide the student ...

  17. Extended essay

    The extended essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper. One component of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) core, the extended essay is mandatory for all students. Read about the extended essay in greater detail. You can also read about how the IB sets deadlines for ...

  18. PDF IB BIOLOGY: Extended Essay Assessment Criterion A: Focus and Method 6

    answerable within the limitations of resources, time and words at the student's disposal. identified clearly. clearly set within the academic framework of biology. set out prominently at the start of the essay. The student can then use the research question to formulate a hypothesis, or hypotheses, which can be tested.

  19. Tanglin LibGuides: IB Extended Essay (EE): Biology

    Excellent Extended Essays - Biology. Are commercial methods of oral rinse (mouthwash) more effective than the traditional methods of oral hygiene (tea, sesame oil, baking soda, myrrh) in preventing the growth of Micrococcus luteus? (2012) A study on the effect of Indole acetic acid, a growth hormone, on the growth of crop plants, rice (Oryza ...

  20. Biology Extended Essay Topics

    Biology EE Topics | 40 Ideas. Luke MacQuoid. January 24, 2023. There are many potential topics for a biology Extended Essay (EE) in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Topic Ideas. Some possibilities include the following: The effects of pollution on a particular species or ecosystem. The genetic basis of a specific disease or trait.

  21. What I learned from messing up my biology extended essay

    I'm sure all the current and past IB students know the hardship of completing an Extended Essay (EE). And for those who are not familiar with EE, it is actually " an independent, self-directed piece of research ", which culminates into a 4,000-word paper. To many (including me), EE was a real boot camp training because of the effort and ...

  22. Biology Extended Essay

    An extended essay in biology provides you the student with an opportunity to apply a range of skills while researching a topic of personal interest in the field of biology. The nature of an extended essay in biology is characterized by a particular biological emphasis within the more general context of a scientific investigation. Choice of topic.

  23. 200 Extended Essay Topics for Students

    Economics extended essay topics. The impact of globalization on small businesses in developing countries. The effectiveness of monetary policy in controlling inflation. The role of technology in shaping consumer behavior and market trends. The impact of Brexit on the UK's economic relationship with the EU.