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Economics Extended Essay Guide: Everything You Need to Learn

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by  Antony W

April 18, 2024

guide for ib economics extended essay

This guide covers everything you need to learn before you write an IB Economics Extended Essay.

We look at the definition, structure, assessment criteria, topic selection, data collection, analysis and evaluation, and reflection.

What is an IB Economics Extended Essay?

An Economics Extended Essay is a 4,000-word autonomous, self-directed report based on a topic of personal interest. This project allows you to:

  • Improve your research skills.
  • Apply economic theories to a real-world issue.
  • Analyze and evaluate the outcomes of your study.

The essay requires 40 hours of preparation and writing. Moreover, you’ll get help from your school-based supervisor throughout this period. The result should be a clear and well-organized analytical essay.

To write a comprehensive Economics EE, you must dedicate time to conduct in-depth research to collect meaningful and reliable data you can use to analyze the context of your theory and research issue.

IB Economics Extended Essay Structure

Your Economics EE should feature a title page, table of contents, introduction, methodology, main body, conclusion, bibliography, and appendices.

  • Title Page: Write the title of the essay, the EE research question , subject, and word count.
  • Table of Contents: Make sure each section mentioned in your table of contents has corresponding page numbers.
  • Introduction: Explain the focus of the essay, the scope of the research, and your line of argument.
  • Main Body: Write reasoned arguments for the issue under investigation. Use subheadings for methodology, analysis, discussion, and evaluation.
  • Conclusion: Communicate what you’ve achieved. Mention the limitation of your research and note what your research question couldn’t answer.
  • Bibliography:   Cite all the EE sources to demonstrate that you engaged in in-depth research and that you care about academic integrity.

IB Economics Extended Essay Assessment Criteria

The assessment criteria for an extended essay in economics examine focus and method, knowledge and understanding, critical thinking, presentation, and engagement. The following table is a complete summary of the marking scheme.

Economics Extended Essay Topic Selection

The best economics EE topic is the one that you find interesting enough to explore, as long as the focus remains on the fundamentals of economic concepts.

We strongly suggest you choose a topic that allows you to apply economic theories, methods and instruments present in the curriculum. Remember, the assignment requires you to conduct secondary research. However, you may also conduct pertinent original research depending on the topic you choose.

Your topic should:

  • Be historical. However, your focus should be on a research issue that’s no more than five years old.
  • Allow you to use economic theories and concepts to answer your research question.
  • Provide opportunities for critical analysis of the information and data collected.
  • Allow enough room for analysis while sticking to the scope of the essay. 

Don’t choose a broad topic because the essay needs critical and reflective thinking and analysis on something specific. And don’t pick an excessively narrow theme because you may not have access to specific data.

So choose your topic wisely, making sure that it isn’t too wide or too narrow to fit within the scope of the EE’s requirements.

Data Collection in Economics Extended Essay

You have to conduct original research on topics covered in the economics curriculum. Therefore, spend just enough time establishing value for your topic in microeconomics, macroeconomics or the global economy.

Doing original research goes a long way to show that the title and the research question is an issue unanswered by secondary sources.

If you’ve decided to write an EE on microeconomics, you may have to use primary research in the form of surveys, questionnaires, or interviews with pertinent businesspeople direct to the study subject.

Themes from macroeconomics and the global economy require more secondary research in the form of data extraction from published academic papers, historical records, government publications, newspaper/online articles, and statistical databases.

Analysis and Evaluation in Economics EE

The analysis of your economics extended essay can only be effective if you use pertinent economic theories to analyze data collected.

You have to incorporate applicable economic theories, models, and methods in your research’s findings.

For example, you can exhibit critical analysis and evaluation by a sound assessment and judgment of the amount to which the applicable economic theory is beneficial in addressing your research question .

If you cannot establish relevant connections between your selected topic and the research question, avoid establishing knowledge claims based on economic theories, models, and instruments.

Criterion C of the assessment instrument requires you to provide precise findings for each analyzed point, and there has to be interim conclusions throughout your writing.

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the limitations of your own research, flaws in the economic theories, and underlying assumptions of the models utilized when developing your arguments. Also, evaluate the extent to which an economic theory may or may not describe your topic.

IB Economics EE Reflection Session 

Being reflective is one of the IB learner profile characteristics, and it is now a formal requirement of the EE evaluation criteria.

IB uses the Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF), which has a 6-point value, to evaluate reflections. This is a substantial amount of points, which can determine the distinction between two grades on the final examination.  

As part of the EE requirements, you will be required to hold three mandatory reflection sessions with your supervisor, and each of these reflection sessions appear on the official RPPF.

Reflection in the EE focuses on the process of the assignment itself.

Consider the following areas of reflection for each portion of the RPPF:

  • How did you overcome the problems, setbacks, and barriers you encountered, and what did you learn in the process?
  • Which of the IB learner profile characteristics apply to you?
  • What did you learn, and did new views emerge?  

The maximum word count for all three reflections is 500. You must write the reflection in your own word and pertain only to your personal learning journey throughout the course.

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.

Economics Essay Topics: 162 Practical Ideas & Useful Tips

best topics for economics extended essay

Essay writing is an inherent part of the economics studying process. Nevertheless, it is quite a challenging task. Are you a high school or college student who is struggling with an economic essay topic choice? Or maybe you are unsure about your writing skills?

We know how to help you .

The following article will guide you in choosing the best topic for your essay on economics. Here, you can find a variety of ideas for high school or college. The economic essay topics are divided into several categories that will help you with your research. And a pleasant bonus from our team! We have created a great guide on how to write an economics essay.

So, don’t miss your chance to write an outstanding economic paper! Check out our essay ideas, read our tips carefully, and be ready to receive your grade A!

  • ⭐ Best Economic Topics
  • 🤝 Socio-Economic
  • 🗺️ International Economics
  • 🛠️ Labor Economics
  • 🌆 Urban Economics
  • ⚽ Sports Economics
  • 💉 Health Economics
  • 💼 Business Economics
  • 🏤 Globalization
  • 🧮 Economic History
  • 💫 How to Write?

⭐ 15 Best Economic Essay Topics

  • 2008 Economic Crisis.
  • Socio-economic policy.
  • Economic systems – Singapore.
  • Racial pay gap.
  • Economic globalization.
  • History of online trading.
  • Child labor policies.
  • The Economic Naturalist.
  • Foundations of economic theory.
  • Impact of unemployment.
  • Universal Basic Income.
  • The role of consumerism.
  • Healthcare economics – Canada’s Medicare.
  • Reasons for recession.
  • Cryptocurrency & environmental issues.

✨ Excellent Economic Essay Topics

Has economics always been a subject of meticulous research? The question is quite controversial, right? There is no specific time when economics started its rapid progress. Generally, economics remains the topic of interest since the establishment of capitalism in the Western world.

Nowadays, the economy is the main engine that moves our world forward. The way we do business determines the geopolitical situation in the world. Moreover, it influences many other parts of our lives.

The skills developed through studying economics are incredibly versatile.

Economics studying is of utmost importance nowadays. It helps to gain a better understanding of processes that put everything in motion.

Economics is quite broad, so it has a great variety of subfields. And this is a fantastic opportunity for us to generate as many essay ideas as possible. Here, you will find great economic topics for your paper. As mentioned before, we have divided them into several sections to ease your selection process. There’s a wide selection of free college essays samples on economics in our database, too. So be sure to check that out.

🤝 Socio-Economic Essay Topics

  • The economic impact of racial segregation in America in the 1950s.
  • Designing a just socio-economic system.
  • Socio-economic status of Hong Kong in modern-day China. Explain how the city of Hong Kong gained a special status in China. Why did it emerge as one of the most important cities in its economy? Comment on the significance of Hong Kong in the international economic arena.
  • Economic growth in the United States in the post-World War 2 period.
  • Mobile banking in Saudi Arabia: towards understanding the factors that affect the sector.
  • The importance of Dior’s bar suit to the women’s fashion industry.
  • Economic problems in the 1980’s Soviet Union. Talk about the significant problems with the economy the USSR had in the 1980s. What role did they play in its collapse?
  • What socio-economic problems did segregation in South Africa cause?
  • History of economic development in the UAE. Discuss the economic miracle in the UAE and Dubai. Explain how the government could turn the city of Dubai into one of the most famous tourist destinations. What strategies were applied?
  • Gender inequality and socio-economic development .
  • The problem of poverty in Venezuela.
  • How the socio-economic and political position of women changed between 1880 and 1940.
  • The economic impact of COVID-19 on global trade.

World trade is expected to fall due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

  • How do the three main economic groups interact with each other? There are three critical economic groups: – Consumers – Producers – Government Analyze the interaction of these groups with each other.
  • Extended essay: how the study of economic data helped our society to advance?
  • Western industrialization socio-economic impacts.
  • Inequality at the top: not all billionaires have the same powers. Analyze billionaires’ net worth, liquidity, political power, and wealth security. Explain why they have unequal social status. What factors determine the influence of billionaires?
  • An analysis of systems that help us measure agricultural development in a country.
  • Is social media a useful tool for brand promotion?
  • The phenomenon of dualism in economic development.

🗺️ International Economics Essay Topics

  • Globalization and its impact on international economic relations. Define the term globalization. What role does globalization play in international economic relations? Provide specific examples of globalization’s impact on the global political economy.
  • The lack of justice for the cheap international labor market. Discuss the issue of cheap labor in various countries. Why do some workers often lack fundamental human rights while others abuse moral norms? Analyze the causes and effects of inequality in the workplace.
  • Japan macroeconomics: problems and possible solutions.
  • The issue of mercantilism in the history of Great Britain. Analyze the rise and development of mercantilism in the history of Great Britain. To solidify your ideas, provide persuasive arguments, and appropriate examples of mercantilism.
  • Why does the problem of environmental protection remain unresolved among global economies?
  • Nissan Motor company’s international business.
  • International environmental concerns in economics: the case of China .
  • The issue of international criminal justice in industry. Explain why international businesses often avoid criminal justice after wrongdoings. Select one case of unethical behavior of a company’s CEO or regular employee. Briefly introduce the problem. What were the causes and effects? How was the issue resolved? Express your own opinion regarding the lack of criminal justice in business.
  • The economy of Singapore and its role in international trade.
  • International microeconomics trade dispute case study: US-China dispute on the exportation of raw materials.
  • The phenomenon of the “gig economy” and its impact on the global economy.
  • The effect of population growth in the international economy.
  • International economics in the context of globalization.

Technological and political changes have chipped away at the barriers separating nations.

  • How does Brexit affect the economy of the European Union? Analyze the immediate impact of Brexit on the EU’s economy. Predict future advantages and disadvantages of Brexit for both: Great Britain and the EU.
  • South Africa: international agribusiness, trade, and financing.
  • Historical essay: the economy of the Dutch East India company.
  • The issue of Mozambique’s economy and possible solutions. Investigate the issue of extreme poverty in Mozambique. What are some possible solutions to the problem of poverty? Base your suggestions on the country’s cultural, historical, and geographical aspects.
  • Imbalances in the global economy. Discuss the imbalances between trading countries on the scale of the global economy. What solutions would you suggest to deal with this issue?
  • How will global economies adapt to China’s growing power?
  • Etihad Airways company managerial economics.

🛠️ Labor Economics Essay Topics

  • Ford Motor company’s labor economics.
  • Labor economics: child labor.
  • The UPS firm perspective: the labor market.
  • Gender inequality of wage rate in modern business. Research how and why gender inequality is still an issue in the modern world of economics. What are some ways to deal with the problem? Present your ideas accurately and effectively. Provide solid arguments and appropriate examples to prove your position.
  • What are the best ways to increase labor productivity in business?
  • Labor unions adverse effects on economics.
  • The decrease of the labor force in modern industries. Talk about the rising rates of robotization in the majority of industries. How will it affect the traditional labor force? Comment on the problem of unemployment caused by labor automatization.
  • Violations of labor rights of workers.
  • Modern labor essay: how can an entrepreneur guarantee the minimum wage to their workers?
  • How can labor geography help develop a special economic zone? Talk about labor geography and its effects on developing an exclusive economic zone. How does the geopolitical location of a particular country influence its level of economic development?
  • Entrepreneurship in the organic cosmetics sphere.
  • Gender-oriented labor trade unions. A case study. Discuss the gender-oriented trade unions and analyze their impact on our society.
  • Child labor in the Turkish cotton industry.

The Syrian refugee crisis increased the risks of child labor in Turkey.

  • The connection between economic growth and demography. Analyze the connection between economic growth and its demographic context. Investigate both sides: – The issue of overpopulation – The problem of low birth rate. From an economic perspective, what problem is more dangerous?
  • The issue of sex discrimination in the workplace.
  • The effects of Landrum-Griffin Labor Act. Explore the labor Act of Landrum-Griffin that was passed in the US Congress in 1959. Discuss its implications and consequences. Discuss its implications and consequences.

🌆 Urban Economics Essay Topics

  • Cities and their role in aggregate economics.
  • Urbanization in Hong Kong and its effects on citizens.
  • The urban planning of the city of New York: a critical analysis. Analyze the urban history of NY. How has the city been developing? Discuss revolutionary solutions to the past and problems of modern times.
  • The impact of a city’s design on the local traffic.
  • Dubai’s spatial planning: creative solutions for building a city in the desert.
  • Globalization, urban political economy, and economic restructuring.
  • How do urban areas affect local wildlife? Comment on how modern production technologies in urban areas impact the natural diversity of wildlife. What impact does the rapid economic progress have on the environment? Suggest possible solutions.
  • Urban sociology: does the city make us better people?
  • Why should people be more careful about investing in real estate? Discuss the issues of overinvestment into real estate. Consider the economic crisis of 2008 as an example.
  • How can regional authorities help improve a city?
  • Urban life and its effects on education.
  • The economic development of a city’s metropolitan area: challenges and solutions.
  • Main factors for the emergence of cities in the Middle Ages.
  • The ethics of relocation: is it justified? Talk about the case of relocating locals when building projects of great magnitude. To what extent can it be justified? Mention its economic and ethical side.
  • The difficulties behind the construction of “green” buildings. Discuss the relatively new phenomenon of environmentally friendly buildings. Analyze both sides: the pros and cons. What obstacles lie behind the “green” building? What opportunities do the “green” buildings offer? Elaborate on your ideas by providing clear arguments or counterarguments.
  • What factors play a critical role in the success of retail productivity in cities?

⚽ Sports Economics Essay Topics

  • Do teams with higher budgets perform better on the field?
  • Corruption in European football leagues: a critical analysis. Investigate the corruption issue in the European football leagues. State reasons and solutions for the problem.
  • The managerial catastrophe of Arsenal F.C.

Discuss the football club of Arsenal.

  • The NextG sports company’s communication planning.
  • Roger D. Blair’s Sports Economics literary review. Write a literary analysis of Sports Economics by Roger D. Blair. Discuss his opinion on the economy of sports. Do you agree or disagree with his position? Provide compelling supportive arguments or strong counterarguments.
  • How significant is the impact factor of a local team on a city’s economy?
  • Kinsmen Sports Centre: marketing metrics innovation.
  • What role does statistical data play in sports? Analyze the part of economic statistical data in different sports organizations. How can statistics help to develop an effective financing plan? Comment on the impact of financing on the performance of a sports club.
  • Sports and energy drinks marketing analysis.
  • Is there a connection between the lack of money and any contemporary issues in a sports team?
  • Performance-enhancing drugs in sports.
  • The business of FIFA: a financial analysis. Investigate the finances of FIFA. What economic factors make them so influential in the modern world of football?
  • The global sports retail industry.
  • The Olympics: logistics and economy. Discuss the logistics behind the Olympics Games event. How the Olympic Games impact the economy of the host country?

💉 Health Economics Essay Topics

  • Is bioprinting the new future of medicine? Analyze the new market of organ printing and discuss its challenges. Investigate bioprinting from an economic perspective. Will the outputs cover the inputs? How will bioprinting impact the financial aspect of the health care sector?
  • Cost-effectiveness of pharmaceutical products in the United States. Comment on the immense cost-effectiveness of pharmaceuticals. What do you think is the price of pharmaceutical products reasonable? Is it ethical to set extremely high prices on the medicals?
  • An economic evaluation of the antibiotics market.
  • Health economics-SIC and NAICS.
  • The financial side of cancer treatment: is it too expensive? Analyze the market for cancer treatment programs in various countries. Explore its costs and complications. What are some possible ways to reduce the price of cancer treatment and make it more affordable?
  • The issue of fast food consumption: a multibillion-dollar market . Fast food has always been one of the notable causes of obesity, diabetes, and other illnesses. Investigate the economic aspect of the issue. Are high profits from fast food production worth peoples’ health conditions?
  • History and evolution of healthcare economics.

Health has become a dominant economic and political issue over the past years.

  • The financial management of a hospital: a case study.
  • The issue of public healthcare in the USA. Write about the long-standing issue of medical sector operation in the USA. Analyze its history, financial, and social aspects.
  • Demand in healthcare economics.
  • What are the economic outcomes of a global pandemic? Taking the COVID-19 outbreak as an example, conduct research on the effects of a pandemic on the economy. How does it affect local economies? What impact does the quarantine have on the international economy? Provide appropriate examples to support your ideas.

💼 Business Economics Essay Topics

  • When does an advertising campaign become unnecessary?
  • Sustainable development of a nation’s economic stability. Discuss how a country can create a sustainable economy. Provide bright examples to solidify your position.
  • How can a small business compete with monopolies?
  • What are the limitations of the Lewis Model?
  • The phenomenon of inflation: inevitable liability or a land of opportunity for our economies? Explore the process of inflation in modern economies. Does it only have adverse effects on the countries’ economies? Are there any advantages of inflation? Analyze it from a positive perspective.
  • Economics, business, and sugar in the UK.
  • The shadow economy of the finance sector. Dive into the backstage of the finance sector and research various “grey” areas where business can be done.
  • Chinese and Japanese business systems comparison.
  • Oil demand and its changes in the XXI century: a critical analysis. Analyze the oil sector and write about its fluctuation in the XXI century. How did the changes in oil demand affect the global economy?
  • The social and economic impact of mass emigration.

🌠 40 More Good Economic Essay Topics

Scrolled through our ideas, but can’t find a suitable topic for yourself? No worries! We have more issues to share with you.

So, don’t stress out. Take a look at our list of economical essay topics. Here are 40 more ideas focusing on globalization and the history of economics.

🏤 Economic Globalization Essay Topics

  • The impact of globalization on the tourist industry in the Caribbean . Analyze both: the positive and negative effects of globalization on the Caribbean. To make your paper well-structured, explore two advantages and two disadvantages. Don’t forget to improve your essay with strong evidence and appropriate examples!
  • Toyota Motor Corporation: impacts of globalization.
  • What are the effects of globalization on developing countries? To what extent do developing countries profit from globalization? Research the subject by comparing various examples.
  • Defining globalization and its effects on current trade.
  • Economic growth as a result of globalization: proper financial strategies. How can a country successfully achieve prosperity with globalization? Discuss proper economic strategies.
  • The socio-political significance of the IT industry’s globalization.
  • Human trafficking in developing nations as a result of globalization.

Modern-day trafficking of humans has become more rewarding for traffickers due to globalization.

  • Globalization and criminal justice policy.
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of globalization?
  • Globalization challenges and countermeasures.
  • The effect of globalization on worldwide trade and employment rates.
  • Economic integration within the European Union: a critical analysis. Talk about the history of economic integration within the EU. What are the negative and positive outcomes of economic integration?
  • Globalization and food in Japan.
  • Does globalization bring negative effects to cultural heritage and identity?
  • The Industrial Revolution as the first step towards globalization. Focus on the Industrial Revolution in Europe. Discuss its precursors and consequences. Why is the revolution considered to be a starting point of globalization? Provide specific examples of globalization processes that occurred in the economic sector after the Industrial revolution.
  • Globalization 2.0 an analysis of a book by David Rieff.
  • Globalization effects on fundamentalism growth.
  • Does direct investment by foreign businesses come with strings attached? Dive into the shady area of globalization and discuss how to direct foreign investment can bring problems of geopolitical scale.
  • Effects of globalization on sexuality.
  • Alibaba’s globalization strategy: an economic analysis.

🧮 Economic History Essay Topics

  • The rapid economic growth of Europe during the Age of Discovery. Analyze the factors that brought economic growth to Europe during the Age of Discovery. What factors contributed to the dynamic economic progress of that time?
  • Brazil’s economic history.
  • History of capitalism: from the Renaissance to the United States of America. Discuss the origins of capitalism and its centuries-long path towards XXth century America. How the establishment of capitalism impacted the economy of the USA?
  • Max Weber: economic history, the theory of bureaucracy, and politics as a vocation.
  • 2008 Economic Crisis: origins and fallout. Talk about the 2008 Financial Crisis. Discuss its causes and outcomes. What should have been done differently to avoid the global crisis? Comment on the economic strategies countries used to recover from it.
  • The economic marvel of Communist China: from rags to riches.
  • What made world economic growth of the Renaissance possible?

Renaissance Europe had a very diverse economy.

  • The economic history of Canada: how did the settlers facilitate economic growth?
  • What did the major powers of the XIXth century base their economies on?
  • The Rothschilds: political and financial role in the Industrial Revolution. Research the dynasty of Rothschilds and how they came to power. What was their role in Europe’s Industrial Revolution?
  • The link between the “oil curse” and the economic history of Latin America.
  • Roman Empire’s monetary policy: a socio-economic analysis.
  • How did the demand for different goods change their value in the 2000s years? Analyze the demand for goods in the 2000s years and their change in value. Why do these fluctuations in demand for products and services occur?
  • The history of economic thought.
  • Soviet Union’s economic timeline: from the new Economic Policy to Reformation. Discuss the economic issues of the Soviet Union from the historical perspective. Why did the Soviet Union collapse? What improvements in the financial sector should have been done?
  • History of France economics over the past 20 years.
  • The history of economic analysis.
  • The concept of serfdom and slavery as the main economic engine of the past. Dive into the idea of feudalism and serfdom. Discuss its social and economic aspects.
  • The World Bank’s structure, history, activities.
  • The history of Islamic banking: concepts and ideas.

💫 How to Write an Economics Essay?

Generally, essay writing on economics has the same structure as any other essay. However, there are some distinctive features of economic papers. Thus, it is essential to figure them out from the very beginning of your work.

You might be wondering what those aspects of the economic paper are. Well, we have an answer.

An economic essay usually relies on the common essay structure.

Below, you will find a detailed plan that explains the fundamental concepts of the essay writing process. So, don’t hesitate to use our tips! They are indeed helpful.

Pick a topic and dissect it. Picking the right topic is the very basis of writing a successful essay. Think of something that you will be interested in and make sure you understand the issue clearly. Also, don’t forget to check our ultimate economics essay topics and samples list!

Research it. After selecting the right idea from our economical essay topics, research your subject thoroughly. Try to find every fascinating and intriguing detail about it. Remember that you can always ask your fellow students, friends, or a teacher for help.

Come up with a thesis statement. A thesis statement is an essential element of your essay. It will determine your focus and guide the readers throughout your paper. Make your thesis secure and try to catch the reader’s attention using context and word choice.

Outline your essay. Never underestimate the power of a well-structured outline! Creating an essay outline can significantly help you to determine your general plan. Evaluate which economic framework you will be using to address the issue. State the main points of your thesis and antithesis. Make sure that they answer the central question of your work.

Write your introduction. First and foremost, a practical introduction should capture the readers’ attention and state the essay’s key topic. So, put enough effort to develop an outstanding introduction. It will create the first impression of your paper.

Moreover, an introduction should include a thesis statement. As we have mentioned above, a thesis plays a crucial role. Thus, make sure it is clearly stated.

Another significant feature of the introduction is its coherence with the body of your essay. Consequently, the introductory paragraph’s last statement has to present the subject of the next section, generically. Also, keep in mind that no more than three key points can be discussed in a paper, even if it is an extended essay.

Thoroughly work on the body paragraphs. Usually, the body of the essay contains several paragraphs. The number of these paragraphs will depend on the nature of your question. Be sure to create one section for every critical point that you make. This will make your paper properly-structured, and the reader will quickly get your ideas. For your convenience, we created a plan to develop your ideas in each paragraph, So, use it and make your writing process easier!

  • Argument. Present your argument in the topic sentence of the paragraph in a way that directly answers the question. A hint: the most effective way to introduce the critical point is to place the topic sentence at the beginning of the paragraph. This will help the readers to concentrate their attention on a specific idea.
  • Comment and discussion. Explain the meaning of your argument and provide an economic analysis. Present clear evidence and persuasive arguments to solidify your position.
  • Connection. Link your comments with the vital point of the paragraph. Demonstrate the coherence of your evidence with the point.
  • Diagrams, tables, charts. If necessary, provide the reader with visual aids. Sometimes, an appropriate diagram or a suitable chart can say more than words. Besides, your paper will look more professional if you use any kind of visual aids.

Conclude your essay. In your conclusion, summarize and synthesize your work by restating your thesis. Also, it is crucial to strengthen it by mentioning the practical value of your findings. Remember to make your essay readable by choosing appropriate wording and avoiding too complex grammar constructions.

Create a reference list at the bottom of your economic essay if you referred to sources.

Thank you for visiting our page! Did you enjoy our article and learned something new? We are glad to help you. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share the article with others!

🔗 References

  • High School Economics Topics: Econlib, The Library of Economics and Liberty
  • Guide to Writing an Economics Essay: The Economics Tutor
  • How to Write the Introduction of Your Development Economics Paper: David Evans, Center For Global Development
  • Senior Essay: Department of Economics, Yale University
  • Developing A Thesis: Maxine Rodburg and The Tutors of the Writing Center at Harvard University
  • Academic Essay Writing, Some Guidelines: Department of Economics, Carleton University
  • The Writing Process: Writing Centre Resource Guide, LibGuides at Dalhousie University
  • Research Papers: KU Writing Center, the University of Kansas
  • Unpacking the Topic: University of Southern Queensland
  • Economic Issues: PIIE, Peterson Institute for International Economics
  • Areas of Research: EPI, Economic Policy Institute
  • Top 100 Economics Blogs Of 2023: Prateek Agarwal, Intelligent Economist
  • Current Environmental Economic Topics, Environmental Economics: US EPA, United States Environmental Protection Agency
  • Hot Topics in the U.S. Economy: The Balance
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best topics for economics extended essay

IB Extended Essay Topics: Economics

extended essay economics

As someone with a background in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, I’ve come to appreciate the unique challenges and opportunities it presents, especially regarding the IB DP Economics Extended Essay (EE). From my extensive experience, I can say that choosing the right topic is an essential step in achieving a high score. That’s why I’m happy to share some ideas on engaging and researchable IB Economics Extended Essay topics.

The Basics of an Economics Extended Essay

Let’s talk about what an Economics EE involves. According to the general IB criteria, this essay requires you to conduct independent research on a topic of interest in Economics, culminating in a 4,000-word paper. From my perspective, the beauty of IB DP Economics EE lies in its ability to explore complex global issues through the lens of economic theory and principles.

In my experience, the most successful economics EEs are born from a genuine passion for the subject matter. Here’s a non-exhaustive list of considerations that might help to choose a topic:

  • Aim for a topic that reflects ongoing discussions within the field of economics. It could range from the impact of blockchain technology on financial markets to the economic consequences of climate change policies.
  • Ensure sufficient data is available to support your research. Topics with accessible and reliable data sources allow for a more in-depth analysis and a stronger argument.
  • Choose a topic that allows you to apply economic theories and concepts. It may involve analyzing market structures, evaluating economic policies, or exploring consumer behavior factors.
  • Your topic should spark curiosity and engagement. Writing about something you’re genuinely interested in can make the research process more enjoyable and fulfilling.
  • Consider the feasibility of your topic within the given word count and time constraints. Find a topic broad enough to explore in depth but narrow enough to be thoroughly analyzed within 4,000 words.

A high-grade economics EE doesn’t just summarize data or describe an economic situation. It critically engages with economic theories and models to analyze that data. It might involve applying the concepts of supply and demand, elasticity, market structures, or the theories of consumer choice to your chosen topic.

Topics to Read:

  • How IB Prepares Students for University?
  • Can You Retake the IB Exams? Guide for IB Students
  • Stress Management and Well-Being for IB Students
  • How to Manage Time Effectively as an IB Student
  • The Benefits of Pursuing the IB Diploma Programme
  • IB vs. National Curriculum. The Benefits of an International Perspective
  • What Are the Average IB Acceptance Rates? Insights from an IB Expert
  • What Are the IB Internal Assessment Deadlines for 2024?
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Extended Essay Topics in Economics: The Best Ideas

As mentioned above, creating an engaging and rigorous IB Extended Essay in Economics starts with choosing a theme for investigation. Below are some topics and research questions spanning various aspects of economics.

extended essay topics economics

These ideas can inspire and guide IB students in their quest for a fascinating research project:

  • The Impact of COVID-19 on Small Businesses in New York City . How have small businesses in New York City adapted to the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic?
  • Cryptocurrencies and the Global Economy . How do Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies influence global trade and financial markets?
  • Sustainable Agriculture and Economic Development in India . Can sustainable agriculture significantly contribute to economic development in India?
  • The Economics of Renewable Energy in Germany . How cost-effective are renewable energy sources compared to traditional fossil fuels in Germany?
  • Globalization and Local Economies in Mexico . What is the impact of globalization on Mexico’s manufacturing sector?
  • Minimum Wage and Employment Rates in the UK Retail Industry . How does introducing a minimum wage affect employment rates in the UK retail industry?
  • Economic Implications of Climate Change Policies in the European Union . How have climate change policies impacted economic growth in the European Union?
  • Consumer Behavior and E-commerce in China . How has the proliferation of online shopping platforms like Alibaba changed consumer behavior in China?
  • Market Structure and Competition in the Telecommunications Industry of South Korea . How does the market structure affect consumer prices and service quality in South Korea’s telecommunications industry?
  • Income Inequality and Economic Growth in Brazil . Does income inequality hinder economic growth in Brazil?
  • The Economics of Education and Its Impact on Economic Growth in Finland . How does the level of education affect economic growth in Finland?
  • Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Economic Development in Vietnam . What role does FDI play in Vietnam’s economic development?
  • Tourism Economics and Economic Development in Thailand . How does tourism contribute to the economic development of Thailand?
  • Economic Impact of Health Crises on the Healthcare Sector in Italy. What are the long-term economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Italy’s healthcare sector?
  • Technology Startups and Economic Growth in Silicon Valley, USA . How do technology startups contribute to economic growth in Silicon Valley?
  • Trade Policies and Agricultural Exports in Kenya . How do trade policies affect agricultural exports in Kenya?
  • Inflation and Consumer Purchasing Power in Argentina . How does inflation affect consumer purchasing power in Argentina?
  • The Gig Economy and Labor Markets in the United States . How does the gig economy impact traditional labor markets in the United States?
  • Public Debt and Economic Stability in Greece . How does high public debt affect economic stability in Greece?
  • Economic Sanctions and Their Effectiveness Against Iran . How effective are economic sanctions in achieving political objectives against Iran?
  • Gender Inequality in the Workforce and Economic Development in Japan . What impact does gender inequality have on economic development in Japan?
  • Economics of Recycling and Waste Management Policies in Sweden . How does the economics of recycling impact waste management policies in Sweden?
  • Housing Markets and Economic Cycles in Canada . How do housing markets affect economic cycles in Canada?
  • Impact of Social Media on Consumer Spending Among Teenagers in the United States . How does social media influence consumer spending habits among teenagers?
  • The Role of Microfinance in Poverty Reduction in Bangladesh . How effective is microfinance in reducing poverty in Bangladesh?
  • The Economic Effects of Urbanization in Lagos, Nigeria . How does rapid urbanization affect economic development and living standards in Lagos?
  • Brexit and the UK’s Financial Services Sector . What has been Brexit’s impact on London as a global financial hub?
  • The Economics of Plastic Ban Policies in Rwanda . How have plastic ban policies impacted the environment and economy in Rwanda?
  • The Role of Women Entrepreneurs in Economic Development in Jordan . How do women entrepreneurs contribute to economic growth and job creation in Jordan?
  • Impact of Digital Currency on Traditional Banking in Sweden . How is the rise of digital currency affecting traditional banking services in Sweden?
  • Agricultural Subsidies and Food Security in India . How do agricultural subsidies impact food security and farmer welfare in India?
  • Economic Impact of Cultural Tourism in Kyoto, Japan . What role does cultural tourism play in Kyoto’s economy?
  • Child Labor and Economic Growth in Pakistan . How does child labor affect economic growth and development in Pakistan?
  • The Effectiveness of Anti-Smoking Policies on Public Health Expenditures in Australia . Have anti-smoking policies significantly reduced public health expenditures in Australia?
  • The Gig Economy and Urban Transportation in New York City . How has the gig economy transformed urban transportation in New York City?
  • Renewable Energy Adoption and Job Creation in Germany . How has the shift towards renewable energy affected job creation in Germany?
  • The Economic Consequences of Ageing Populations in Japan . What are the economic challenges and opportunities faced by an aging population in Japan?
  • The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Manufacturing Jobs in China . How is artificial intelligence reshaping the manufacturing sector and employment in China?
  • The Influence of Social Media Marketing on Consumer Spending in the Fashion Industry . How does social media marketing influence consumer spending in the fashion industry?
  • Water Scarcity and Economic Development in Egypt . How does water scarcity impact agricultural productivity and economic development in Egypt?
  • The Economics of Space Exploration . What are the economic benefits and costs of investing in space exploration?
  • Impact of Sports Events on Local Economies . Case Study of the Olympics in Tokyo: How do major sports events like the Olympics affect the local economy of the host city?
  • Sustainable Fishing Practices and Economic Viability in Norway . How do sustainable fishing practices impact the economy and environment in Norway?
  • The Role of E-commerce in Rural Development in China . How does e-commerce contribute to economic development in rural areas of China?
  • Economic Impacts of Natural Disasters in the Philippines . How do natural disasters affect economic growth and recovery in the Philippines?
  • The Relationship Between Social Inequality and Economic Growth in South Africa . How does social inequality affect economic growth in South Africa?
  • The Effect of International Sanctions on North Korea’s Economy . How have international sanctions impacted North Korea’s economy?
  • Economic Benefits of Bilingualism in Canada . How does bilingualism contribute to economic opportunities in Canada?
  • The Impact of Veganism on the Meat Industry in the United States . How is the rise of veganism affecting the meat industry and economy in the United States?
  • Mobile Banking and Financial Inclusion in Kenya . How has mobile banking contributed to financial inclusion and economic development in Kenya?

These topics and research questions are intended to promote critical thinking and lay the groundwork for a thorough inquiry into various economic concerns. You can tailor these ideas to your interests and data availability for Extended Essay research.

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International Baccalaureate (IB)

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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:

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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.

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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?

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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...

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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!

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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.

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

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.

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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

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IB Economics EE examples

Filter exemplars, 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, to what extent is the effectiveness of nudges in uk schools in order to increase higher gcse outcomes and is there any relation to school x, want to get full marks for your ee allow us to review it for you 🎯, to what extent did the covid-19 pandemic influence the levels of unemployment in kenya’s economy in 2020, to what extent does the provision of covid-19 vaccines by the government of malaysia through the national covid-19 immunisation programme (ncip) effective to recover the gdp and reduce the unemployment rate in malaysia, how are savings the major determinant of the productivity of home-based garment workers in south delhi, fast track your coursework with mark schemes moderated by ib examiners. upgrade now 🚀, following covid-19, which market structure best describes the structure of bangkok's cinema industry today, assessing the differences in economic performance between north and south korea caused by their contrasting economic systems, investigating the effect of china's recent steel cap policy on both global iron ore prices and brazil's iron ore export quantity, determined by analyzing the relationship between brazil's iron ore exports and china's steel production on prices from 2017-2021., to what extent have grain farmers in brandon, manitoba, canada, been positively affected by supply-side shocks in the wheat and rapeseed market following the russian invasion of ukraine, to what extent has the eu ban of russian coal imports impacted the export performance of indonesian coal to the eu, to what extent did the (first) covid-19 lockdown reduce negative externalities caused by car use in portugal, to what extent were canadian energy-rich provinces’ revenue losses from the oil crash of 2020 offset by gains in the net export market, to what extent did china’s tariffs on american seafood imports impact the export performance of pakistani seafood in china, what are the main factors that affect consumers’ demand for public transport in bratislava, to what extent has slovak government intervention been successful in reducing the negative externality resulting from cigarette consumption in slovakia, effect of seasonality on the real estate market in riga, what market structure best represents ice cream parlours in the old town of bratislava, how has the 'punjab regulation of wood based industries rules, 2019' enacted by the punjab government had an effect on the wood furniture manufacturers of nabha , are direct taxes the best way to address overconsumption of demerit goods, to what extent does the presence of other cocoa processing firms in cameroon’s cocoa processing industry affect the economy of the “sic cacaos”, to what extent has the covid-19 pandemic affected the pricing of the residential housing market in the austin-round rock metropolitan statistical area since march 2020”, to what extent did microcredit create economic growth and development in dhaka, bangladesh through the empowerment of women before and after the covid-19 pandemic, to what extent and why has covid-19 made india substitute cash with digital modes of payment through upi and what are its spillover effects, to what extent pm kisan samman nidhi yojana (pmksny) has affected debt, income and expenditure on education and healthcare raising the living standards of farmers in sitapura ramoli village and achanchukya village in jaipur from 2020-2021, what have been the economic consequences of covid-19 on the hotel industry in new york city, to what extent did selected implemented government policies in australia, france and singapore achieve optimal covid-19 vaccination rates in 2021, impact of the “make in india” campaign on growth and development of india., to what extent has the state of california government’s policy to permit electric vehicles in “high occupancy lanes” been effective in reducing negative externalities of internal combustion vehicles in los angeles city, to what extent has the extensive spread of social media changed consumer habits and therefore the composition of marketing activities of avon hungary from 2018 to 2021, to what extent is the recent introduction of toll gates within abu dhabi an effective response to market failure, to what extent has the provision of pmjay-cmchis health insurance scheme of 2018 improved the health and thereby the living conditions of the residents of jallipatti village, tiruppur district, india, how has the polish government’s 500+ policy impacted the standard of living in wilanow district in 2016-2019, the government regulation (lex uber bill) and its impact on the hire-car (uber) market 2019, how do weather conditions impact the price of mushrooms in two different localities in poland, to what extend does a vaping tax encourage cigarette smoking, how did covid-19 trigger an e-commerce turning point in the u.s, tax on fat to reduce healthcare cost in britian, examining government intervention to increase consumption of low-emission cars in germany, the effect of the imposition of the carbon cess on the electricity consumption of the sports good industry of meerut.

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How to Write an Economics Extended Essay? A Complete Guide

Choosing a topic for your Economics extended essay is an important step.

Luke MacQuoid

Today, I’d love to share my insights on how to make an impressive Economics extended essay. According to general IB criteria, it’s about showcasing your knowledge and getting into your topic. So, where should you start?

Introduction to the Economics Extended Essay

From my experience, the extended essay is your chance to demonstrate critical thinking, research skills, and genuine interest in your subject. And believe me, there’s no better subject than Economics to showcase these abilities. Why? Well, economics constantly interacts with our daily lives, influencing our decisions and shaping our world.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Economics extended essay has a maximum word count of 4,000 words. However, some sections are not included in it:

  • The abstract.
  • Footnotes and endnotes.
  • Bibliography or works cited.
  • Appendices.

Students must adhere to this word limit to avoid potential penalties in the assessment process. Always double-check the specific requirements and guidelines provided by the IB and your school to ensure compliance.

All Economics Extended Essay Features

Based on both general IB criteria and my experience with the IB program, here are some key features of an Economics extended essay:

  • The research question should be sharply focused and relevant to economic theory. Ideally, the question will address microeconomic and macroeconomic perspectives, but it could focus solely on one.
  • The essay should not just be descriptive but should apply relevant economic theories or concepts. For instance, if the topic is about market structures, discussing monopoly, oligopoly, perfect competition, etc., using supply and demand graphs and even mathematical calculations is apt.
  • An Economics essay should be rooted in real-world data. It could involve case studies, statistical data, or surveys. Analyzing this data in the context of the chosen topic is vital.
  • More than merely presenting data is required. The student should analyze, interpret, and evaluate the data in light of their research question. It involves discussing the data’s implications, limitations, and potential biases.
  • Students should cite various sources , including textbooks, journal articles, news articles, and interviews. This section is crucial to demonstrate the depth and breadth of the research undertaken.
  • The essay should reflect critical thinking by considering different viewpoints and assessing the strengths and weaknesses of arguments.
  • If primary research is conducted, such as surveys or interviews, the student should consider the ethical implications and ensure that participants’ rights and confidentiality are respected.

In conclusion, an Economics extended essay requires a blend of theoretical knowledge, practical data analysis, and a deep understanding of the economic landscape. It’s a rigorous academic exercise, but it can be rewarding for IB students with the right approach and passion.

Choosing the Right Topic for Your Economics Extended Essay

Every IB student faces an age-old question: “Which topic should I choose for my Economics extended essay?” I’ve been there, and as someone who has spent considerable time around the IB system, I understand the gravity of this decision. With many potential IB extended essay Economics topics floating around, the choice can be overwhelming.

However, based on my insights, always let your passion guide you. Don’t just chase complex or trendy topics; ensure you are genuinely interested in the subject. The most insightful extended essay Economics ideas are often birthed from personal experiences or recent events that resonate with you. These subjects can provide a fresh perspective and often yield profound insights.

Aligning with Personal Interest

The world of Economics is vast and varied. From the ebbs and flows of international trade to the microcosm of local markets, a topic can kindle anyone’s curiosity. In my opinion, the passion with which you approach your subject can be a game-changer. An inspired researcher will undoubtedly dig deeper with more zest, leading to more significant insights. Remember those moments when a particular news headline about economic reforms or market shifts caught your attention? Therein might lie your perfect topic!

Ensure your Economics extended essay reflects your unique perspective.

Feasibility and Scope

However, enthusiasm alone isn’t enough. From my experience, the feasibility of your chosen topic is paramount. You might be fascinated by a niche area of economics, but if there’s a shortage of research material or data, you could find yourself in a tricky spot. It’s balancing choosing a subject you love and ensuring enough information exists to support your claims. The general IB criteria prioritize evidence-based arguments, so having ample resources is crucial.

Here are some potential topics to consider:

  • The impact of Brexit on the UK’s economic landscape.
  • The economic implications of the gig economy.
  • Green economics: The cost and benefits of sustainable energy.
  • The influence of cryptocurrency on traditional banking.
  • A study on the wage gap: Factors and future implications.
  • The economic aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Fast fashion and its economic and environmental costs.
  • A comparative analysis of universal basic income models.
  • The role of microfinance in developing economies.
  • Economic consequences of population aging in Japan.
  • The effects of automation and AI on employment rates.
  • Tourism economics: A case study on [specific country or region].
  • Price discrimination in online retailing.
  • Economic challenges and opportunities of hosting the Olympics.
  • The role of government interventions in preventing economic recessions.

Choosing a topic for your Economics extended essay is a significant first step in wrapping up. Take your time to follow your interests, but always be practical in ensuring you have the resources and scope to produce an insightful paper.

Structuring Your Essay: How to Get the Highest Grade

Once you’ve picked a topic, the next step is understanding how to structure an Economics extended essay.

Crafting a Strong Introduction

From my years around the IB community, I’ve seen countless essays; trust me, first impressions count! Your introduction is more than just a paragraph — it’s your audience’s first taste of your work. Start by setting the context; why did you choose this topic? What relevance does it have in today’s world?

Then, concisely present your research question. This initial clarity not only piques the interest of your reader but also firmly establishes the path you’re about to tread upon. An introduction is like the cover of a book; it should invite the reader to turn the page.

Building a Compelling Body

In this section, you lay out your arguments, analyses, and findings. Each paragraph should have a distinct point seamlessly linked to the next. But how do you ensure your ideas hold water? The answer is evidence. Whether it’s data from renowned economic journals, findings from credible institutions, or even case studies, always back up your claims. Here are a few additional tips:

  • Clarity is Key . Use concise and clear language. Avoid jargon unless necessary, and always explain complex concepts.
  • Stay Objective . While it’s okay to have a stance, ensure your essay is balanced, considering various perspectives and counterarguments.
  • Proofread . A simple yet often overlooked step. Ensure your essay is free from grammatical errors and is coherently structured.

Using good sources for an Economics extended essay is like constructing with quality bricks; it strengthens your narrative. Remember to not just present data but interpret it. Ask yourself, “What story is this data telling? How does it relate to my research question?” From my experience, this analytical approach differentiates good essays from great ones.

Concluding with Impact

In my opinion, a conclusion is not an end but a new beginning. Instead of a mere summary, offer your readers a fresh insight or a different perspective based on your findings. It may raise additional questions that future researchers might consider. What are the broader implications of your research in the grand scheme of things? A firm conclusion leaves a lasting impression, making readers reflect upon your work long after reading.

Tips and Tricks for a Stellar Extended Essay

From my experience, a few strategies can improve your paper. While good extended essay topics for Economics are crucial, how you present them is equally vital.

best topics for economics extended essay

Need help with your IB 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 wordcount and stringent IB criteria but also reflects your passion for selected IB group .

Engaging Your Audience

One thing becomes crystal clear: the importance of connection. Your examiners sift through many essays, so what can make yours memorable? Originality, yes, but also the art of storytelling. Incorporate real-life examples and thought-provoking questions that give a human touch to economic theories. Each paragraph should pull the reader into the next, creating a seamless flow of ideas. Remember, it’s not just about what you say but how you say it.

Ensuring Originality

The heart and soul of the IB program lie in its emphasis on original thought. Plagiarism is a strict no-no, but originality goes beyond that. It’s about showcasing your unique perspective, analytical prowess, and personal reflections. While secondary research will form the backbone of your essay, your interpretations, conclusions, and insights should stand out, offering a fresh perspective on a well-trodden topic.

Critical Evaluation

Always question your sources and the data you encounter. Instead of accepting information at face value, get into its implications, biases, and limitations. Critical evaluation showcases your ability to think beyond the obvious and challenges the status quo, a trait highly valued in the IB criteria.

Crafting a remarkable Economics extended essay is no small feat. But with passion, the right resources, and a clear structure, it’s an enriching experience. So, to all budding economists, I wish you the best of luck on this academic adventure!

This article serves as a guide, combining my years of experience as an IB tutor at ExtendedEssayWriters.com with essential tips to help students write a stellar Economics extended essay . Remember, the path is as significant as the destination!

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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

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100 IB Extended Essay Topic Ideas!

best topics for economics extended essay

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.

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Economics Extended Essay Topics

Selecting the right topic for the economics IB extended essay can be a daunting task, but it is also a crucial step. The topic you choose should accurately reflect the scope of the essay and should be interesting to you as a student. When selecting a topic, it is important to keep in mind that the economics IB extended essay requires students to have an advanced understanding of economic theories and concepts. Therefore, it is essential to research potential topics thoroughly in order to ascertain the level of complexity required and the availability of information.

When deciding on a topic, there are a few aspects that should be considered. First, think about what kind of economic phenomenon or problem you are interested in exploring. Pick a topic that is relevant to current economic debates and has relevance to the real-world. Additionally, consider the resources available to you – such as books, journals, research papers, and other sources. Evaluate how much of the research is already done and if there is enough material to cover your chosen topic. Finally, think about how much time you are willing to commit to your essay – it is important to select a topic that is manageable, given the time and effort you are willing to put into it.

In conclusion, selecting the right topic for the economics IB extended essay is essential in order to ensure a successful essay. When looking for a topic, take into account the requirements of the essay and your own interests, resources available, and the time commitment needed. With the right topic, you can make the most of your economics IB extended essay.

Economics Extended Essay Topics

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Overview of Economics IB Extended Essay Requirements

Doing an extended essay on economics can be a great way to get an in-depth understanding of the subject. But, with great power comes great responsibility – and there are certain requirements that must be met in order to make sure it’s done properly.

In this section, we’ll go through the various requirements of the economics IB extended essay, so that you understand the expectations that come along with it.

Length and Content

Firstly, the essay should be a maximum of 4,000 words long, so you’ll need to make sure you get your point across quickly and effectively to stay within the word limit. You’ll also need to make sure that the essay is relevant to the topic you have chosen.

Organization

Next, the essay should be well-organized and easy to read. You’ll need to ensure that it has a distinct structure, with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Additionally, include a table of contents and page numbers to ensure that it looks professional.

Finally, a minimum of eight reliable sources should be used in the economics IB extended essay. This can include books, articles, academic journals, or websites. Be sure to cite all sources correctly, as this will help demonstrate your understanding of the material.

Doing your extended essay on economics can be a great way to gain insight into the subject. By following the outlined requirements, you’ll be one step closer to success!

Different Types of Economics IB Extended Essays

When it comes to writing an Economics IB extended essay , there are several different types you can choose from. It’s important to understand the key differences between the types to ensure that you select the correct one for your essay.

Here are the three main types of economics extended essays:

  • Experimental: This type of essay involves researching and testing a hypothesis. You will need to collect data, use statistical methods, and present your findings in order to back up your hypothesis.
  • Analytical: This type of essay requires you to evaluate data and develop an analysis based on the results. You may also need to draw conclusions from your results.
  • Descriptive: This type of essay focuses on describing a particular concept or situation. You will need to consider various factors and theories in order to provide an accurate description.

It is important to remember that your economics extended essay should be tailored to the requirements of the IB. For example, some topics may require an empirical approach, while others may require a theoretical approach. Make sure that you understand the requirements of your essay before deciding on the type.

How to Choose the Right Economics IB Extended Essay Topic

Choosing the right economics IB extended essay topic can be a daunting and time-consuming process. To make it easier, here are some tips that students can follow to help them choose the right topic.

Start with an Interest

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a topic for your economics IB extended essay is your personal interests. If you take the time to think about what interests you the most in the field of economics, you’ll have a much easier time coming up with an appropriate topic. Think about topics such as international trade, labor markets, financial markets, public policy, or macroeconomics.

Do Your Research

It’s important to do your research before settling on a topic. You want to make sure that there is enough material available to write a successful essay. If you find a topic that interests you but there’s not enough available information, it’s probably best to choose a different topic.

Think About the Topic from Different Perspectives

When you’ve narrowed down your list of potential topics, it helps to think about the topic from different perspectives. For example, how does the topic affect people in different parts of the world? What are the economic implications? This will help you come up with a more comprehensive and well-rounded essay.

Discuss Ideas with Your Supervisor

Once you’ve identified a few potential topics, it’s important to discuss them with your supervisor. They can provide valuable insight, help identify any potential issues or suggest ways to improve your essay structure.

By following these steps, you can select the right economics IB extended essay topic that is interesting and relevant. Remember to always get the approval of your supervisor before you start writing the essay. Good luck!

Topic Ideas for the Economics IB Extended Essay

When it comes to picking the right topic for your economics IB extended essay, there are lots of great options. Here is a comprehensive list of potential topics, along with a brief explanation of each:

  • Microeconomics: This field focuses on small-scale economics, looking at individual households, firms, and markets. Topics in this field could include studying the effects of minimum wage, price elasticity, economic inequality, and more.
  • Macroeconomics: This field looks at large-scale economics, such as the national economy, inflation, and employment. Topics in this field could include examining how government and monetary policies affect macroeconomic variables, how the global economy is interconnected, or how technological advances affect the economy.
  • International Economics: This field covers the economics of international trade, such as exchange rates, free trade agreements, and protectionist policies. Topics in this field could include discussing why certain countries are more prosperous than others, why tariffs are imposed, or the impact of foreign direct investment.
  • Financial Economics: This field looks at the economics of financial markets and institutions, such as the stock market, insurance, and banking. Topics in this field could include researching the effects of interest rates or studying the structure of the bond market.
  • Public Economics: This field covers the economics of public policy, such as taxation, healthcare, and education. Topics in this field could include analyzing the effectiveness of government programs, or exploring the impact of government spending on economic growth.
  • Environmental Economics: This field focuses on the economics of natural resources, such as pollution, climate change, and renewable energy. Topics in this field could include discussing the economics of global warming, or researching the effectiveness of different environmental policies.

When selecting a topic for your economics IB extended essay, you should choose something that interests you and that you can research thoroughly. You should also make sure to select a topic that falls within the scope of the IB extended essay requirements. Good luck!

Tips for Writing an Effective Economics IB Extended Essay

Writing a great economics IB extended essay requires careful preparation and research. By following the tips and techniques provided below, you can ensure that your essay will be well-crafted, clear and organised, providing readers with the best possible impression.

Create Outlines

Before you start writing, create an outline. This will help to structure your essay and make sure that all important information is included. Having an outline also allows you to see where each section is going and helps you to stay on track. Remember to include any relevant references and citations as you go.

Start with the Introduction

The introduction of your EB extended essay should summarise the main points of the essay and provide a little background knowledge. It should also introduce the central argument or thesis statement which will be discussed throughout the essay.

Write Clear and Concise Paragraphs

Each paragraph of your essay should have a single focus, making sure to cover each point in depth. Stick to short sentences and get straight to the point. Make sure each sentence adds something to the overall essay and avoids ambiguity.

Use Evidence and Examples

Include evidence from reliable sources to back up each of your points. Provide examples and quotes to demonstrate your knowledge. Doing this will help to prove your argument and provide readers with a more well-rounded image of the topic.

Edit and Proofread

Before submitting your economics IB extended essay, it is essential to edit and proofread your work. Check for any spelling and grammar errors, as well as any inconsistencies or loose ends. This will help to give your essay a polished and professional look.

By following the steps outlined above, it is possible to write an effective and well-crafted economics IB extended essay.

Writing a great economics IB extended essay is no easy feat, but it is definitely achievable with some hard work and dedication. It’s important to select the right topic for your essay, and to understand the various requirements of the task in order to write an effective essay.

When looking for potential topics, students should ensure they select something that sparks their interest and is relevant to their chosen field of study. When writing the essay, it’s important to be organized, follow the rubric, and include any necessary references or citations. Finally, all essays should end with a clear and concise conclusion which summarizes the key points discussed throughout the essay.

This guide provided an overview of economics IB extended essay requirements, tips on how to choose the right topic, and a comprehensive list of potential topics for students to explore. We hope this guide has enabled you to better understand the expectations of the economics IB extended essay, and hopefully develop a better idea of the type of essay you would like to write. Best of luck with your essay!

One of the most important parts of writing an economics IB extended essay is to make sure you reference your sources properly. This means that you need to include the sources you have used in your essay, in order to show where you have gotten your research from. All sources should be cited correctly so that the reader can easily find the source and verify its accuracy.

It is important to make sure that all sources you use are reputable and up-to-date. Additionally, it is critical that you use a variety of sources from different fields in order to build a strong argument. This can include books, articles, websites and videos, as long as you make sure to cite them correctly.

It is also important to differentiate between primary and secondary sources. Primary sources are those which were created at or near the time of the event in question, while secondary sources are those which are based on other sources. Make sure you acknowledge both types of sources.

When referencing sources, it is best to use a uniform format throughout the essay. There are several different referencing methods such as MLA, APA and Harvard, so choose one that is most suitable for your essay and stick with it. Finally, make sure to double-check all of your references to ensure they are correct.

FAQs about Economics IB Extended Essay Topics

  • Q: What is an economics IB extended essay? A: An economics IB extended essay is a scholarly paper written by a high school student that covers a specific topic related to their IB curriculum. Students must present a well-researched argument with data to support their point of view in order to receive a good grade.
  • Q: How long should an economics IB extended essay be? A: The economics IB extended essay should be between 3,000 and 4,000 words in length.
  • Q: What are the different types of economics IB extended essays? A: There are three types of essays students may choose from when writing an economics IB extended essay: experimental, analytical, or descriptive.
  • Q: What should I consider before choosing an economics IB extended essay topic? A: It’s important to select a topic that can be adequately covered in the space of the essay and that’s interesting enough to sustain your attention throughout the writing process. Make sure to pick a topic that you’re passionate about and that speaks to a greater overarching theme or concept.
  • Q: What topics can I write about for my economics IB extended essay? A: Some potential topics include the study of economic growth in emerging markets, fiscal and budget policies, international trade, poverty alleviation, labor economics, environmental impacts of economic policies, and development economics.
  • Q: What tips can I use to write a strong economics IB extended essay? A: To ensure you submit an effective essay, make sure to come up with an informative and engaging thesis statement, research thoroughly and present reliable evidence to back up your claims, use reputable sources and proper citations, stay organized and proofread your work, and follow all instructions given by your teacher.
  • Q: Where can I find further information on economics IB extended essay topics? A: You can view online resources such as the International Baccalaureate official website or read through past student essays to get a better understanding of the topic.
  • Q: Are there any external grades students can receive for completing an economics IB extended essay? A: Yes, students can receive an external grade of up to three points based on their essay.
  • Q: Is there an example of an economics IB extended essay? A: Yes, there are numerous examples available online, including on the official International Baccalaureate website.
  • Q: How should I organize a good economics IB extended essay? A: A good essay should include an introduction with a clear thesis statement, body paragraphs that discuss each point in depth, and a conclusion that ties everything together. Additionally, make sure to cite all sources used and adhere to proper formatting guidelines.

Valerie Green

Valerie Green

Valerie Green is a dedicated educator who spends her time helping high school and college students succeed. She writes articles and guides for various online education projects, providing students with the tools they need to excel in their studies. Friendly and approachable, she is committed to making a difference in the lives of students.

myp and ib dp

What Is the Difference Between MYP Personal Projects and DP Extended Essays?

While the MYP Personal Project allows students to express their personal interests in a creative and individualized way, the DP Extended Essay requires rigorous academic research in specific subject areas. Understanding these differences is crucial for IB students who wish to maximize their learning experience.

graphs in extended essay

How Can You Enhance Your EE with Graphs, Charts, and Tables?

In academic research, particularly in the IB Extended Essay, graphs, charts, and tables are strategic tools for communicating complex data effectively and persuasively. These visual aids help break down intricate datasets into comprehensible visuals and engage the reader by adding a dynamic layer to the narrative.

Recognizing Plagiarism in EE

What Steps Should You Take If Plagiarism Strikes Your Extended Essay?

Finding plagiarism in your Extended Essay can be disconcerting, but addressing it promptly and effectively is crucial to maintaining your academic integrity. Whether the plagiarism is accidental or not, it’s important to take immediate steps to correct it.

Plagiarism in the EE

What Tools and Techniques Can You Use to Avoid Plagiarism in the EE?

As an experienced IB writer, I’ve gained essential insights into how to avoid plagiarism in EE. From using advanced plagiarism detection software like Turnitin and Grammarly to identify and correct potential integrity issues, to mastering the art of paraphrasing, these tools and techniques will ensure that your work maintains its academic integrity.

Extended Essay Time Management

How To Write Your Extended Essay Efficiently with Time Management?

Mastering the art of time management is key to writing your Extended Essay efficiently. As an experienced IB writer, I can attest that the process involves more than just putting pen to paper. It requires careful planning, strategic organization, and discipline. Here are a few crucial tips that can help streamline the essay writing process.

ib ee research question

Tips for Creating a Compelling Research Question for Your IB EE

By following these tips, you can create a research question that not only meets the criteria of the IB Extended Essay, but also sets you up for a rewarding research experience. Remember that a well-conceived research question is the first step towards a successful and insightful Extended Essay.

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  • Extended essay
  • The IB core

Introduction to the extended essay in economics

best topics for economics extended essay

Many of you will be aware of the extended essay and what it includes. The extended essay consists of a 4000 (maximum) word essay on a topic of your choosing and concludes with a viva voce or short interview to confirm the candidates level of competence in the topic area chosen.  You are also required to provide two additional reflections during the process.

The extended essay provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge on a particular topic or area of study and is chosen from a list of approved subjects.

Before starting work on the essay you are advised to complete the following tasks:

  • Read the assessment criteria carefully.
  • Where possible ask your teacher or IB coordinator to let you read previously completed essays in economics.  Many school libraries keep an archive of extended essays previously written by students.
  • Work on a research question and discuss this with your supervisor.  This is a very important part of the process.  A good research question will go a long way to helping you towards a good finished essay.  A bad research question; one that is too broad in scope or where original data is difficult to obtain will make it significantly more difficult to achieve a high score in your finished essay.
  • Decide how you will collect the research that you need for your essay and check the validity of this research with your supervisor.
  • Write down a brief structure for your essay and discuss this with your supervisor before sitting down to write your essay.

How to choose a subject and research question to study?

The first piece of advice must be to pick a subject and a research question that is something you will enjoy researching and writing about. The EE involves a considerable amount of work - approximately 40 hours as an average.

In terms of selecting a research topic, why not ask the following question: ‘What is it that I am interested in?  What research question am I genuinely interested in finding out?’.  What topic(s) do I enjoy? 

What to do next?

Having completed all the preparation that you need, having written your research question and essay plan and had all of this approved by your supervisor you are ready to begin.

The essay should be no more than 4000 words in length but this does not include the following:

Contents page, acknowledgements, formulas, calculations, diagrams, tables, the bibliography, citations and references.

Essays can actually achieve a reasonable score just by following these simple rules:

  • state the research question
  • analyse your results
  • discuss your results
  • have a conclusion
  • keep to about 4000 words
  • present it well
  • cite all sources appropriately.

What makes a good title in economics?

best topics for economics extended essay

Opportunities for analysis

The topic that you chose should provide an opportunity for you to demonstrates some critical analysis of the information that is gathered. You should avoid any topic that depend entirely on summarizing secondary data, because this leads to an essay that is overly descriptive in nature.  A good way of making your essay more unique is to restrict the scope of the essay, so that it focuses on, for example, a specific business, area or demographic.

Suitable areas of economics

Macroeconomics topics can be chosen, but any research question must be narrowed to a particular part of the economy and is not on the economy as a whole.  An extended essay on economic development would be recommended but the research question would need to relate to a particular aspect of development or a limited area.  It would not be suitable, for example, to examine the effect of some government policy on the development of the whole economy.

The following are some examples of extended essay titles which are suitable for use an economics extended essay.  You will notice that each of these are locally based on an area in which the student is familiar and allow the candidate to investigate their own primary research, applying it to conventional economic theory.  You will also be expected to complete secondary research as part of their essay.  You should also formulate your own critical arguments as well as construct a conclusion, consistent with the findings displayed during the main body of the essay.

  • What is the relationship between the volume of livestock and the wholesale price of meat in Erzurum county?
  • The impact of the 2018 rise in minimum wage on employment levels in London’s catering and restaurant industry?
  • What is the MPC (marginal propensity to consume) of guest workers working on a construction site in Singapore?
  • To what extent do the ski lodge hotels in Palandoken practise John Nash’s game theory when setting prices during the tourist season?
  • How has the declining value of the £ affected the Airbnb market in Leeds?
  • What is the PED for tobacco products amongst different age groups in Istanbul, Turkey.  How might this influence government policy aimed at reducing consumption of tobacco products?

Final questions to ask yourself before deciding on your RQ

best topics for economics extended essay

Before answering this question, consider how you might collect information to answer your question. For example, how confident are you that you can actually access the information? Remember that any information gained from businesses might be confidential. Some economic questions are also difficult to research because isolating the particular variable is difficult.

When conducting primary research you need to very clear about who your sample frame is going to be and can you get access to those people?  For instance when completing research on the viability of solar panels, your sample frame must be those potential purchasers e.g. those who own their own home with a roof large enough to accommodate it and not just your friends and family.

Can this topic be completed in 4000 words?

4,000 words may seem like a dauntingly large amount but you will be surprised how quickly the words go.  Some topics are far too broad in their scope to tackle in 4,000 words and some economic theory maybe too complex to cover adequately within the word limit.  Try to stay clear of topics more suited to essays in Business Management or Psychology and you will be disadvantaged, unless you also take those subjects as part of your Diploma. Some of these topics would be more suited to a multi-disciplinary approach of World Studies and combining Economics and Psychology.

You also need to be cognisant that this is a project where you should spend around 40 hours. For some topic it would be impossible to survey enough interested people, without giving up your entire summer vacation.

Is your topic academically rigorous enough?

One of the skills of writing the essay is connecting to an area of the syllabus with sufficient complexity so you can demonstrate your ability to critically evaluate and analyse like an economist. Remember that essays which are too descriptive are unlikely to score well.

For more information about completing an extended essay in economics including a sampler essay read the remainder of the pages in this section.

Candidates should expect to spend approximately 40 hours completing their essay.

50+ IB ESS Extended Essay Topic Ideas

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Table of contents

  • Writing Metier

Hey ya, I know that you have been searching for a list of good IB ESS extended essay topics, haven’t you? My team has collected this awesome list of more than 50 completely different options that can be used for inspiration while working on your Environmental Systems and Societies EE for IB.

Today, I will share this list curated by our IB professionals from Writing Metier team.

For your ease, I have created this list of categories that will be used for navigation through the article. I believe it will surely help you find an option or at least inspiration 😉

Categories of IB ESS EE Topics

Climate change.

  • Impacts of Climate Change on Biodiversity : Examining the effects of climate change on species diversity in a specific ecosystem.
  • Mitigation Strategies for Climate Change : Analyzing the effectiveness of various strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Climate Change and Human Health : Investigating the relationship between climate change and the prevalence of diseases.

Water Resources

  • Water Scarcity and Conservation : Exploring the causes of water scarcity and evaluating conservation methods in a specific region.
  • Water Quality and Pollution : Assessing the impact of pollution on water quality and aquatic life in a freshwater system.
  • Sustainable Water Management : Examining sustainable water management practices in agriculture or urban areas.

Energy Resources

  • Renewable Energy Solutions : Evaluating the potential of renewable energy sources (e.g., solar, wind) in a specific region.
  • Impact of Fossil Fuels on the Environment : Analyzing the environmental consequences of fossil fuel extraction and consumption.
  • Energy Efficiency and Conservation : Investigating strategies for improving energy efficiency in homes or industries.

Biodiversity and Conservation

  • Habitat Loss and Fragmentation : Examining the impact of human activities on habitat loss and its effect on biodiversity.
  • Invasive Species and Ecosystems : Investigating the impact of invasive species on native ecosystems and biodiversity.
  • Conservation Strategies for Endangered Species : Evaluating the effectiveness of conservation strategies for a specific endangered species.

Pollution and Waste Management

  • Plastic Pollution in Marine Environments : Assessing the impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems and species.
  • Air Quality and Urban Pollution : Investigating the sources and effects of air pollution in a specific urban area.
  • Sustainable Waste Management Practices : Evaluating the effectiveness of sustainable waste management practices in reducing environmental impact.

Agriculture and Food Systems

  • Sustainable Agriculture Practices : Examining the environmental benefits of sustainable agriculture practices (e.g., organic farming, agroforestry).
  • Impact of Pesticides on the Environment : Analyzing the ecological consequences of pesticide use in agriculture.
  • Food Security and Climate Change : Investigating the relationship between climate change and food security in a specific region.

Human Population and Environment

  • Urbanization and Environmental Impact : Exploring the environmental challenges posed by rapid urbanization in a specific city.
  • Ecological Footprint and Sustainability : Assessing the ecological footprint of a specific community and exploring ways to reduce it.
  • Population Growth and Natural Resources : Investigating the impact of population growth on the availability and sustainability of natural resources.

In the next section, I’m going to stick to these categories.

IB ESS Extended Essay Topic Ideas

ess extended essay topics

No more introductions and no needed words; here are three unique and manageable topics with corresponding research questions for each subcategory in IB Environmental Systems and Societies, designed to meet the IB Extended Essay criteria . Ready? Let’s go!

Welcome to the section on Climate Change, where we examine the impacts of global warming on our planet. This area challenges us to understand the changes happening around us and to consider solutions for a sustainable future.

Impacts of Climate Change on Biodiversity

  • Research Question: How do increasing sea surface temperatures associated with climate change affect the biodiversity of coral reef ecosystems?
  • Research Question: How has climate change impacted the migratory patterns and habitats of bird species in a specific region?
  • Research Question: How does the melting of glaciers due to climate change influence the biodiversity of alpine ecosystems?

Mitigation Strategies for Climate Change

  • Research Question: How effective are urban green spaces in sequestering carbon dioxide and mitigating urban heat island effects?
  • Research Question: What is the potential of afforestation projects in reducing atmospheric CO2 levels, and what are the challenges involved?
  • Research Question: How has the adoption of renewable energy sources impacted carbon emissions in a specific country or region?

Climate Change and Human Health

  • Research Question: How does climate change influence the prevalence and distribution of vector-borne diseases, such as malaria or dengue fever?
  • Research Question: What are the public health impacts of heatwaves in a specific urban area, and how can cities adapt to protect vulnerable populations?
  • Research Question: How does climate change affect global food security, and what measures can be taken to ensure food availability?

From the atmospheric concerns of climate change, we move to the vital element of life: water. In the Water Resources section, we’ll explore challenges and solutions related to water scarcity, quality, and management.

In this section, we focus on Water Resources, looking at the issues surrounding the availability and quality of water . It’s an opportunity to explore sustainable management practices and ensure access for all.

Water Scarcity and Conservation

  • Research Question: How do agricultural practices contribute to water scarcity in arid regions, and what sustainable solutions can be implemented?
  • Research Question: What are the most effective urban water conservation strategies, and how have they impacted water usage in a specific city?
  • Research Question: How effective is desalination as a solution to water scarcity in coastal regions, and what are its environmental impacts?

Water Quality and Pollution

  • Research Question: How do industrial effluents affect the water quality and aquatic life of a specific river?
  • Research Question: How does agricultural runoff contribute to eutrophication in freshwater lakes, and what measures can mitigate its impact?
  • Research Question: What are the main sources of microplastics in marine ecosystems, and how do they impact marine life and human health?

Sustainable Water Management

  • Research Question: How effective are rainwater harvesting systems in enhancing water sustainability in urban areas?
  • Research Question: How does integrated water resources management (IWRM) improve water sustainability in a specific river basin?
  • Research Question: How do wetlands contribute to water purification and conservation, and what are the challenges in protecting these ecosystems?

Transitioning from water, we turn our attention to Energy Resources. Here, we’ll investigate the balance between meeting our energy needs and minimizing environmental impacts.

The Energy Resources section tackles the complexities of powering our world.

From renewable sources to the consequences of fossil fuels, this area encourages us to think about the future of energy and its role in environmental sustainability.

Renewable Energy Solutions

  • Research Question: How feasible is solar energy as a solution for rural electrification in a specific developing country?
  • Research Question: What is the potential of wind energy in coastal regions, and what challenges need to be addressed for its successful implementation?
  • Research Question: What are the social and environmental impacts of hydropower projects on local communities and ecosystems in a specific region?

Impact of Fossil Fuels on the Environment

  • Research Question: What are the short-term and long-term environmental consequences of oil spills in marine ecosystems?
  • Research Question: How does air pollution from coal power plants affect the health of nearby communities, and what mitigation measures can be implemented?
  • Research Question: What is the ecological footprint of natural gas extraction in a specific region, and how does it impact local ecosystems?

Energy Efficiency and Conservation

  • Research Question: How do energy-efficient buildings contribute to reducing carbon emissions in urban areas?
  • Research Question: How effective are energy conservation programs in reducing energy consumption in schools, and what are the key factors for success?
  • Research Question: What strategies are most effective in promoting energy efficiency in transportation, and how do they compare across different regions?

Next, we explore the Biodiversity and Conservation, where we’ll examine the rich diversity of life on Earth and the efforts to protect it.

Biodiversity and Conservation celebrate the diversity of life and examine the threats it faces. It’s an opportunity to understand the importance of conservation efforts in maintaining ecosystem health.

Habitat Loss and Fragmentation

  • Research Question: How does deforestation affect biodiversity and ecosystem services in the Amazon Rainforest?
  • Research Question: How does urbanization contribute to habitat fragmentation and its effects on wildlife populations in a specific region?
  • Research Question: How effective are protected areas in mitigating habitat loss and conserving biodiversity in a specific region?

Invasive Species and Ecosystems

  • Research Question: What are the ecological impacts of a specific invasive plant species on native vegetation and ecosystem dynamics?
  • Research Question: How do invasive aquatic species affect the biodiversity and functioning of freshwater ecosystems?
  • Research Question: What are the most effective management strategies for controlling invasive species in protected areas, and what are the challenges involved?

Conservation Strategies for Endangered Species

  • Research Question: How effective are captive breeding programs in contributing to the conservation of endangered species?
  • Research Question: How does community-based conservation impact the protection and recovery of endangered species in a specific region?
  • Research Question: How do wildlife corridors contribute to enhancing biodiversity conservation and facilitating species movement in fragmented landscapes?

From the natural world, we move to human impacts in the Pollution and Waste Management section. Here, we’ll look at the challenges of pollution and strategies for effective waste management.

Pollution and Waste Management confront the consequences of our consumption and explore ways to reduce our environmental footprint.

It’s a critical area that requires appropriate management knowledge to ensure a cleaner and healthier planet.

Plastic Pollution in Marine Environments

  • Research Question: What are the main sources of microplastics in coastal waters, and how are they distributed across different marine habitats?
  • Research Question: How does plastic pollution affect marine wildlife and ecosystems, and what are the long-term consequences?
  • Research Question: What are the most effective strategies for reducing plastic pollution in marine environments, and how can they be implemented?

Air Quality and Urban Pollution

  • Research Question: How do vehicle emissions contribute to air pollution in urban areas, and what measures can reduce their impact?
  • Research Question: How does indoor air quality in urban settings affect human health, and what factors contribute to poor air quality?
  • Research Question: How does green infrastructure, such as urban parks and green roofs, contribute to improving air quality in cities?

Sustainable Waste Management Practices

  • Research Question: How effective are zero waste initiatives in reducing the generation of municipal solid waste, and what are the key factors for success?
  • Research Question: What are the challenges and opportunities in managing and recycling e-waste, and how can sustainable practices be promoted?
  • Research Question: How effective is composting as a sustainable waste management practice in urban areas, and what are the factors influencing its adoption?

From waste management, we shift to the source of our sustenance in Agriculture and Food Systems. This section will focus on the environmental aspects of how we produce and consume food.

Agriculture and Food Systems examine the link between farming practices and environmental sustainability.

It’s a chance to explore how we can feed the world while protecting our planet.

Sustainable Agriculture Practices

  • Research Question: How do the environmental impacts of organic farming compare to those of conventional farming practices?
  • Research Question: How does agroforestry contribute to biodiversity conservation and soil health in agricultural landscapes?
  • Research Question: How does the adoption of sustainable agriculture practices impact food security in developing countries?

Impact of Pesticides on the Environment

  • Research Question: How do neonicotinoid pesticides affect the health and populations of pollinators, such as bees and butterflies?
  • Research Question: What are the effects of pesticide runoff on aquatic ecosystems and the organisms that inhabit them?
  • Research Question: What are the most effective alternatives to chemical pesticides in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies?

Food Security and Climate Change

  • Research Question: How does climate change impact crop yields and food production in a specific agricultural region?
  • Research Question: How does climate-smart agriculture contribute to enhancing food security in the face of climate change?
  • Research Question: How does water scarcity affect food security in arid regions, and what strategies can be implemented to address this challenge?

Finally, we’ll consider the broader context of Human Population and Environment, looking at how our growing numbers interact with the natural world.

Human Population and Environment reflect on the relationship between people and the planet. It’s an area that challenges us to think about how we can live in harmony with the environment as our global population continues to grow.

After this read, you can also check our article about anthropology extended essay topics and various research question ideas.

Urbanization and Environmental Impact

  • Research Question: What are the environmental consequences of rapid urbanization in a specific developing country, and how can they be mitigated?
  • Research Question: How does sustainable urban planning contribute to reducing the environmental impact of cities?
  • Research Question: What is the role of green spaces in promoting biodiversity and environmental sustainability in urban environments?

Ecological Footprint and Sustainability

  • Research Question: How do different diets (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, omnivorous) compare in terms of their ecological footprint?
  • Research Question: How does consumer behavior in a specific region affect the ecological footprint, and what strategies can promote more sustainable consumption patterns?
  • Research Question: What measures can be taken to reduce the ecological footprint of tourism in protected areas while preserving their natural and cultural heritage?

Population Growth and Natural Resources

  • Research Question: How does population growth contribute to water resource depletion in a specific region, and what are the implications for sustainable water management?
  • Research Question: How does population growth affect deforestation rates in tropical rainforests, and what are the consequences for biodiversity conservation?
  • Research Question: How can sustainable resource management practices address the challenges posed by population growth in a specific region?

Each of these topics and research questions aims to inspire IB ESS students to explore the complexities of environmental systems and societies and contribute to the understanding of global environmental challenges. 

Whether you are interested in the intricacies of climate change, the sustainability of water resources, or biodiversity conservation, these topics provide a solid foundation for an insightful and impactful Extended Essay in ESS.

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English B Extended Essay Topic Ideas

  • Global Politics Extended Essay Topics and Research Questions

This walkthrough of the various aspects of environmental systems and societies is not just about understanding the challenges we face; it’s about inspiring action for a sustainable future. Every category offers a unique perspective on the environmental issues that shape our world and invites us to think critically about the solutions.

Select IB ESS EE Topics and RQs Wisely

This is the end of our discussion of IB Environmental Systems and Societies Extended Essay topics; I hope you’re feeling motivated and ready to investigate your chosen area of interest. ESS is not just about uncovering answers; it’s about developing the skill to ask meaningful questions. 

At Writing Metier, we are committed to supporting you as you explore the complexities of your research and writing tasks. Our team of experts is here to offer guidance, provide feedback, and assist you with writing your extended essay or any other IB assignments on any topic. 

As you select your topic and initiate your research, remember that you’re starting an intellectual quest that promises to broaden your perspective and deepen your appreciation for environmental issues. 

With Writing Metier by your side, your exploration into environmental systems and societies is more than an academic requirement; it’s an opportunity to engage meaningfully with critical questions that impact our planet.

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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.

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Great Economics Essay Topics for Deeper Insight and Understanding

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Table of contents

  • 1 Economic History Topics
  • 2 Macro and Microeconomics Essay Topics
  • 3 Healthcare Economics Essay Topics
  • 4 Socio-Economic Analysis Essay Topics
  • 5 Consumerism-Related Topics for Research Papers
  • 6 Public Economic Development Essay Topics
  • 7 Topics for Finance Economic Paper
  • 8 Essay Topics about Taxes
  • 9 Economic Analysis on Human Development Paper Topic Ideas
  • 10 Labor and Economic Growth Essay Topics
  • 11 Essay Topics on the Economic Theory of Employment
  • 12 Conclusion

If you have difficulties coming up with a topic for your writing – paper writing service is here for you. In the process of studying, you will often encounter the need to write an economics essay in various fields. Among the variety of economics research directions and a wide range of problems to study, it is sometimes difficult to formulate the research topic when writing essays. In this article, we will consider the most relevant and interesting essay topics for study.

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Economic History Topics

The study of economic history implies a detailed consideration of the very phenomenon of science. With the help of historical and statistical methods, you have to study the links between modern economies and historical events, the economic marvel that affected the course of global economic development.

  • The Industrial Revolution: Analyzing the Economic and Social Transformations of the 19th Century.
  • The Great Depression: Understanding the Causes and Consequences of the Economic Crisis of the 1930s.
  • Examining the Costs and Benefits of Military Conflict on National Economies.
  • The Rise and Fall of Communism: Analyzing the Economic and Political Implications of Socialist Systems.
  • Understanding the Economic Impacts of Increasing International Trade and Investment.
  • Examining the Impacts of Imperialism on Economic Development.
  • Evolution of Currency and Monetary Systems.
  • The Origins of Capitalism: Understanding the Economic and Social Forces that Shaped Modern Markets.
  • Economic and Agricultural Impacts of Technological Innovations in Farming.

Macro and Microeconomics Essay Topics

Let’s look at the broadest scientific field for economics research. The subject of studies of Macroeconomics is the global economy. It examines the economic data of entire countries and unions, studying international economics. While Microeconomics explores the individual level in the context of an enterprise, small and medium businesses. It also discovers such components of the market as international trade, stock market, microeconomics of migration industrial organization microeconomics.

  • Fiscal and Monetary Policy: The Role of Government in Influencing the Economy through Tax Policies and Monetary Policy.
  • International Trade: The Impact of Globalization on the Economy, Including the Effects of Tariffs, Trade Agreements, and Currency Exchange Rates.
  • Business Cycles: The Natural Fluctuations of the Economy and the Causes and Consequences of Booms and Busts.
  • Inflation and Deflation: The Impact of Changes in the Price Level of Goods and Services on the Economy and Its Consumers.
  • The Factors That Contribute to the Long-Term Growth of an Economy and the Importance of Investment, Innovation, and Productivity.
  • The Distribution of Wealth and Income in an Economy and the Impact of Policies Aimed At Reducing Income Inequality.
  • The Role of Banks, Stock Markets, and Other Financial Institutions in the Economy and the Impact of Financial Crises.
  • The Impact of Government Debt on Economic Growth.
  • Exploring the Functions and Policies of Central Banks and Their Impact on the Economy.
  • Primary Economic Endeavors of the Geographic Area Colonies Lumber
  • Macroeconomic Effects of International Capital Flows.
  • Theories of Economic Growth: Analyzing Different Theories of Economic Growth, Including Endogenous Growth Theory and Neoclassical Growth Theory.
  • Exploring Methods and Techniques for Forecasting Key Economic Variables Such as GDP, Inflation, and Employment.
  • Examining the Different Types of Market Failures, Including Externalities, Public Goods, and Monopolies, and Exploring Different Policy Approaches for Addressing Market Failures.
  • Investigating How Firms Produce Goods and Services and Exploring How Production Costs Impact Market Outcomes.
  • Analyzing the Conditions Necessary for Perfect Competition and Exploring the Implications for Market Outcomes.
  • The Economics of Oligopoly: Examining the Behavior of Firms in Oligopoly Markets and Exploring the Impact on Market Outcomes.
  • The Future of Work: Microeconomic Impacts of Automation and Artificial Intelligence.
  • The Economics of Education: Analyzing the Costs and Benefits of Higher Learning.
  • The Effects of Macroeconomics on the Housing Market.

Healthcare Economics Essay Topics

Healthcare economics is based on the study of factors affecting the cost of the industry as well as pricing policy depending on the current spending. This implies the economic research of complicated healthcare systems with the aim of financial analysis. You can choose to analyze patient satisfaction economics, international criminal justice, sports economics, and talent economics as important healthcare issues.

  • The Rising Cost of Healthcare: Analyzing the Impact of Inflation and Technology.
  • Examining the Economic Benefits and Challenges of Single-Payer Systems.
  • Understanding the Economics Behind the Cost of Prescription Drugs.
  • Health Insurance Markets: Analyzing the Role of Competition and Regulation.
  • Healthcare Workforce: Examining the Economics of Physician Shortages and Nurse Staffing.
  • The Economics of Medical Innovation: Balancing Costs and Benefits.
  • The Role of Prevention in Healthcare Economics: Cost Savings and Quality of Life.
  • Examining the Costs and Benefits of Investing in Behavioral Health Services.
  • The Economics of Happiness: Measuring the Relationship Between Income and Well-Being.

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Socio-Economic Analysis Essay Topics

Socio economic essay topics revolve around the analysis of key economic features, the causes and consequences of financial decisions, and their significance for society. The ultimate goal of economics research is to evaluate the social and economic impact and to detect malicious features that can undermine a nation’s economic stability.

  • Social and Economic Impacts of Unequal Distribution of Wealth.
  • Socio-Economic Implications of Independent Work and Flexible Labor Arrangements.
  • Analyzing the Impacts of Migration on Social and Economic Outcomes.
  • The Sociology of Poverty: Understanding the Causes and Consequences of Economic Deprivation.
  • Social Entrepreneurship: Examining the Role of Business in Addressing Societal Challenges and Inequalities.
  • Understanding the Social and Economic Implications of an Aging Population.
  • Examining the Socio-Economic Differences Between Rural and Urban Areas.
  • The Impact of Migrant Remittance on Economic Development .

Consumerism-Related Topics for Research Papers

This branch of economics research studies consumer behavior trends, namely the impact of personal economics on the common good. For example, some scientists believe that increased consumption has a positive effect on production trends. While other experts believe that such inequalities are unacceptable and adhere to the economic policy of sustainable development. A sustainable economy has recently become the center of scientific concern and a vast amount of economic essay topics.

  • The Psychology of Consumerism: Understanding the Emotional Drivers Behind Shopping Habits.
  • Sustainable Consumerism: Examining the Economic and Environmental Impacts of Ethical Consumption.
  • Analyzing the Influence of Marketing on Purchasing Decisions.
  • Examining the Economic Costs and Social Consequences of Overconsumption.
  • The Economics of Branding: Understanding the Value of Brand Names and Logos.
  • The Sharing Economy: Analyzing the Economic Impacts of Collaborative Consumption.
  • The Rise of E-commerce: Examining the Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Shopping.
  • The Consumer Society: Analyzing the Role of Materialism in Modern Culture.
  • The Future of Consumerism: Exploring Emerging Trends and Their Economic Implications.

Public Economic Development Essay Topics

If you’re choosing public development as your economics essay subject, you should include an economic evaluation of basic concepts that are related to social welfare. This area may include the city’s economy comparative analysis as a part of urban economics, law enforcement studies, and many other social domains.

  • Fiscal Policy and Economic Growth: Analyzing the Role of Government Spending and Taxation.
  • Public Debt and Deficits: Examining the Economic Impacts of Government Borrowing.
  • Taxation and Social Welfare: Balancing Economic Efficiency and Equity.
  • The Economics of Government Procurement: Analyzing the Costs and Benefits of Public Contracting.
  • The Economics of Healthcare Financing: Understanding the Costs and Benefits of Different Payment Systems.
  • Municipal Finance: Analyzing the Economics of Local Government Budgeting and Expenditure.
  • Sovereign Debt Crises: Analyzing the Economic Implications of Debt Defaults and Restructurings.

Topics for Finance Economic Paper

Your economics essay in financial management is going to revolve around the system of planning and apportionment of funds in markets. You can choose anything from urban finance and aggregate economics to critical analysis of foreign direct investment in inter international economy.

  • The Future of Fintech: Exploring Emerging Trends and their Financial Implications.
  • Examining the Economic Impacts of Government Oversight and Policy.
  • Investment Banking: Analyzing the Economics of Securities Underwriting and Capital Raising.
  • The Economics of Real Estate Investment: Understanding Property Markets and Valuations.
  • Risk Management: Examining the Economics of Hedging Strategies and Portfolio Diversification.
  • Financial Markets and Globalization: Analyzing the Economic Implications of International Capital Flows.
  • The Economics of Venture Capital: Understanding the Role of Risk Capital in Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

Essay Topics about Taxes

Economic essay topics about taxes imply a comparative analysis of different taxation systems. Research on this topic will concern not only the tax system itself but also the study of bypass schemes, offshore zones, and other tricks. One example of intriguing economics topics is the study of the detrimental effects of taxes on ecology, as the problems of environmental protection remain unresolved.

  • Examining the Relationship between Government Revenue and Entrepreneurship.
  • The Costs and Benefits of Different Tax Systems.
  • The Ethics of Taxation: Analyzing the Social and Economic Implications of Taxation on Income Distribution.
  • Understanding the Economics of Offshore Tax Evasion and Avoidance.
  • The History of Taxation: Examining the Evolution of Taxation Systems from Ancient Times to the Present.
  • The Economic Impacts of Taxes on Carbon Emissions and Pollution.
  • Impacts of Sales Tax and Value-Added Tax on Consumer Behavior.

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Economic Analysis on Human Development Paper Topic Ideas

Human development centers on the role of the public in economic convergence. You are supposed to concentrate on critical analysis of the progress of humanity, the level of life in developed and developing countries, track of economic behavior that leads to rapid economic growth, as well as the correct usage of scarce resources for general well-being.

  • The Role of Gender Equality in Economic and Social Progress.
  • Analyzing the Measurement and Evolution of Global Human Development.
  • Understanding the Cognitive and Emotional Factors that Shape Human Growth.
  • Analyzing the Role of Government Policies in Promoting Human Well-being.
  • Supporting Women’s Economic Empowerment in Fragile States .
  • The Relationship between Health Outcomes and Economic and Social Progress.
  • Positive and Negative Impacts of Technological Advances on Human Progress.
  • Exploring Emerging Trends and Challenges in Promoting Sustainable Human Development.

Labor and Economic Growth Essay Topics

Labor economics essay topics involve analysis of the labor force as an integral part of production. Among the topic ideas, you can study such economic problems as the correlation between population growth and surplus labor force in developing nations.

  • Economic Impacts of Freelance Work and Contingent Labor.
  • Impacts of Immigration on Labor Markets and Economic Growth.
  • Understanding the Factors that Contribute to Pay Disparities between Men and Women.
  • The Role of Unions in the Labor Market.
  • Examining the Economic Impacts of Minimum Wage Laws on Employment and Wages.
  • Labor Mobility: Understanding the Impacts of Labor Migration on Regional and National Labor Markets.
  • The Economics of Discrimination: Impacts of Race, Ethnicity, and Gender on Labor Market Outcomes.
  • Technological and Demographic Change on the Labor Market.

Essay Topics on the Economic Theory of Employment

Economics topics that consider the theory of employment study the decisions in the field of the labor force. In the coursework of research, you may study the services that individuals provide, the benefits of a cashless economy and its payment methods, and which role statistical data play in fulfilling the labor market needs.

  • Analyzing the Impacts of Technological and Demographic Changes on Employment.
  • Factors that Contribute to Employment Growth.
  • Economic Benefits in Attracting and Retaining Employees.
  • Examining the Economic Impacts of Employment Policies and Programs.
  • Understanding the Impacts of Workplace Environment and Culture on Employee Performance.
  • Impacts of Aging Populations and Retirement Trends on the Labor Market.
  • Capitalism and the Use of Disaster to Increase Economic Power .

Whatever topic you choose for your economics research, make sure it is within your field of interest. Scientific work always goes smoothly when you are motivated to bring newness to the underlying concepts. We wish you good luck with this difficult choice, as all economics essay topics are fascinating, and your task as a research paper writer is to bring your individual perspective to science.

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  • 600 EPQ Ideas – The Ultimate List For an A*

best topics for economics extended essay

So, this is it. You’ve decided to do an EPQ and now you’re sitting at a blank computer screen with the entire spectrum of human knowledge at your disposal. You could write about any topic on any subject in the dizzying realms of the known universe. But there’s just one problem… how do you begin?

An EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) allows A-Level students to write either a 5,000 word essay on any question or subject of their choice. Alternatively, students can create an artefact or product, and write a shorter essay explaining it. The EPQ is equivalent to half an A-Level.

EPQs are a fantastic way of proving to universities that you are the best prospective student for them, and that you deserve a place on one of their courses. An EPQ requires a huge amount of independent research (which proves that you can handle university-style work) and allows you to showcase your original thoughts and academic rigour, which is exactly what universities are looking for.

Even more importantly, an EPQ counts for extra UCAS points . This means that if you don’t get the grades you expect at A-Level, a strong EPQ grade could help you meet the conditions of a university place offer. Feeling inspired now? We’ve got 600 EPQ ideas for multiple different subjects, to get those ideas rolling.

What are some top EPQ ideas for a guaranteed A*?

Some strong EPQ ideas for a guaranteed A* are specific and original topics like “Should parents be allowed to genetically change their child’s gender” for an EPQ in medicine, and “Is the media making suicide aspirational?”, for a psychology EPQ.

You could also consider EPQ questions like, “Was the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki justified?” for History, and “Should we legalise human organ trade?” for Economics.

We’ve got a list of 600 EPQ ideas for a guaranteed A*, so scroll down and get inspired. We’ve searched all over the internet and interviewed students to get the most pressing topics for each subject. You should just use these EPQ ideas to give you an idea of what you could research, and it’s up to you to come up with your own title.

EPQ Ideas For Medicine

  • Is gene therapy ethical?
  • Should parents be allowed to genetically alter their child’s gender?
  • Can cannabis use in adolescence cause schizophrenia?
  • To what extent does the sugar tax reduce sugar consumption in the UK?
  • Why are the death-rates from Covid-19 worse in places with higher air pollution?
  • Why does emetophobia primarily affect women?
  • Could the legalisation of cannabis improve mental health?
  • Should we allow only UK citizens to use the NHS?
  • Can plastic surgery ever solve body dysmorphic disorder?
  • Do care home environments worsen the affects of Dementia and Alzheimer’s?
  • What are the links between obesity and parents criticizing their children’s bodies?
  • If a woman who wanted a child freezes her eggs and then happens to die, should a relative be allowed to use her eggs to conceive a child?
  • Is it right that mothers of Down’s syndrome babies are allowed to abort them up until birth?
  • Are anti-depressants a quick fix problem in an overwhelmed healthcare system?
  • Should the NHS provide IVF for women over 40?
  • To what extent are Black women discriminated against when giving birth?
  • Should counsellors have a qualification in psychology before being allowed to practice?
  • Why are girls so chronically misdiagnosed when it comes to autism?
  • Did the ancient Egyptians have a comprehensive understanding of mental health and illness?
  • Could electroshock therapy be the most effective method of treating depression?
  • Should we prioritise ICU places to people with children and dependents?
  • What are the similarities between Reactive Attachment Disorder and Autism?
  • A study of medical practices in North Korea
  • A comparison of different cancer treatments: surgical removals and chemotherapy to immunotherapies.
  • Is hypnotherapy ever a viable anaesthetic for surgery?

Students interested in taking medicine further should consider studying at one of our award winning Medicine Summer Schools to strengthen their application.

EPQ Ideas for Psychology

  • Is the media making suicide aspirational for young people?
  • To what extent does having social workers intervene in a family affect a child’s life outcomes?
  • Is talking therapy nearly ineffective for treating panic disorder?
  • Should children be allowed to decide if they can be taken into care?
  • Are the children of alcoholics more likely to become hoarders?
  • Is there a link between undiagnosed Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and alcoholism?
  • Can non-violent psychopaths have successful relationships?
  • Given how they change behaviour, should advertising and marketing be made illegal?
  • How has social media altered our brains since its inception?
  • Does the Stanford Prison Experiment prove that we should promote rehabilitation over punitive incarceration?
  • Are attachment issues in neglected children irreversible?
  • Can unschooling be classed as child neglect?
  • Can authoritarian parenting styles lead to overeating in adulthood?
  • Is technology making us more depressed?
  • Do gender-neutral toys lead to children with less stereotypical views of gender roles?
  • Can music help ease the effects of Dementia?
  • What are the long term effects of bullying?
  • Can studying people’s behaviours pre-suicide help prevent suicide?
  • Should crime-predicting algorithms be banned for their bias?
  • A study of the effects of living in an overcrowded household during Covid-19 lockdown.
  • Do memories alter when we recall them?
  • How does intergenerational trauma effect cortisol levels?
  • Do the negative affects of racism begin in the womb?
  • What can Savant Syndrome tell us about the multi-faceted nature of intelligence?
  • Do all humans have some level of body dysmorphia?

EPQ ideas for Law

  • Should defendants be allowed to represent themselves?
  • Is the internet an ungovernable wilderness when it comes to Law?
  • Why secret trials are a form of abuse
  • Should CCTV be made illegal?
  • Is the use of juries inevitably flawed when it comes to reaching a just verdict?
  • Should mass media be banned from high profile investigations?
  • Should we replace juries with AI-powered robots?
  • Should Donald Trump go to prison?
  • Could the police be classed as a gang in America?
  • How we can stop criminalising victims of sex trafficking.
  • Should we bring back the death penalty?
  • How much should a child’s desire to live with one parent or another affect the court’s decision?
  • Should people who see child abuse but don’t report it be subject to the law?
  • Should male partners sue their female partners for abortion?
  • Should organ donation be mandatory for everyone?
  • When should one country legally intervene in another, when it comes to human rights abuses?
  • Should marriage be banned until the age of 21?
  • Should lie detector results be legalised in UK courts?
  • Could the government be legally obliged to pay women for their unpaid labour that contributes to the economy?
  • If embryos are capable of feelings and sensations, should abortion be forbidden at any stage?
  • Should minors trafficked to the UK from a dangerous country or situation be given immediate residency?
  • Could euthanasia be legalised, whether or not someone is critically ill and close to death?
  • Should parents be legally obliged to leave money to their children?
  • Should the inheritance tax be abolished?
  • Should people with dual citizenship automatically receive diplomatic protection from both countries?

Students interested in becoming a lawyer should consider studying at one of our Law Summer Schools on campus at top UK and US universities.

EPQ ideas for primary school teaching

  • Should boys receive exclusive lessons on feminism in primary school?
  • How can we teach primary school students about internet safety?
  • How can we teach primary school students about their rights over their own bodies?
  • Is the way we teach obesity in school harmful to overweight or obese children?
  • Is the Education system indoctrinating students?
  • The importance of girls in primary school having role models in STEM.
  • Why banning mobile phones in school does more harm than good.
  • Why our education system fails to pick up students with dyspraxia.
  • Why we should allow students to move around the classroom as they learn.
  • Is the Montessori childrearing method of any use in mainstream primary school?
  • Should every school have access to a Forest School?
  • Why primary schools should teach skills such as cooking and home management to every child.
  • Are school uniforms too institutionalising for children?
  • Should school uniforms be enforced as a way of giving children routine?
  • The importance of failing well.
  • Should school be only three days a week?
  • Should children be able to choose what subjects they want to study at any time?
  • How exams unfairly disadvantage girls in primary school.
  • Should we abolish sets in primary school?
  • How can we teach healthy eating to children?
  • How can we teach anti-racism to primary school students?
  • A study of anxiety disorders in primary school students due to Covid-19.
  • How the education system can better accommodate students with high-functioning autism.
  • Why we need a better understanding of selective mutism in primary school.
  • Should primary schools in the UK become bilingual to enhance language learning?

EPQ ideas for Secondary School Teaching

  • Should school start and end later for teenagers?
  • Why students should never have to ask to go the bathroom.
  • Could a four day school week improve mental health among secondary school students?
  • Is the secondary school curriculum creative enough?
  • Why we should be teaching healthy communication to secondary school students.
  • Should parents be allowed to choose for their children not to receive sex education?
  • Should sports be compulsory at secondary school?
  • When does strict teaching become bullying?
  • Should modern languages be compulsory at secondary school?
  • Could Pathological Demand Avoidance explain why students who are bright aren’t meeting their potential?
  • Should we ban school uniform in secondary school?
  • Should we decolonise the secondary school curriculum?
  • Are their enough teachers of colour in secondary schools?
  • What is the effect of divorce on a student’s learning and development?
  • How to narrow the technology poverty gap among secondary school students.
  • How to create educational support for looked-after children.
  • How does having less money than your peers affect your identity as a secondary school student?
  • The effects of overcrowded and poor housing on educational attainment.
  • The effects of homelessness and insecure housing on educational attainment.
  • What effect does the assessment and exam structure in UK schools have on students’ mental health?
  • Are exams an unfair form of assessment for students with a specific learning difficulty like dyslexia or dyspraxia?
  • How does ADHD link to cleverness and giftedness in students?
  • Is our method of diagnosing autism in students informed enough?
  • How can we tackle perfectionism and fear of failure in female students?
  • Do exams unfairly advantage boys, and why?

EPQ ideas for Biology

  • Why we don’t have enough evidence for evolution.
  • Is Covid-19 more deadly than Ebola?
  • Are animals as intelligent as humans?
  • Is abortion murder?
  • Is homosexuality genetic or social?
  • What can the oldest living creature on earth teach us about biological immortality?
  • Does incest always create biological issues?
  • The use of parasites in weight loss attempts
  • How long would it take you to die if you ate the same thing and nothing else for years?
  • What causes diseases in trees?
  • Could we ever grow food on walls?
  • If your spouse died, what would the ethical implications be of cloning them?
  • A study on identity crises in identical twins.
  • Is obesity a genetic issue?
  • How does sepsis attack the body?
  • Will artificial hearts ever be a viable solution to chronic heart problems?
  • Could brain transplants ever be a viable option?
  • How do certain drugs affect cellular interactions?
  • A study of courting behaviours in different species.
  • How did different cellular mechanisms regulate different physiological processes?
  • Is obesity a modern phenomenon?
  • Can gene therapy cure Cystic Fibrosis?
  • Can gut microbiota influence host appetite?
  • What is the impact of invasive species on ecosystems?
  • What is the biology of laughter?

EPQ Ideas for History

  • Why poor dental hygiene in the middle ages was a myth.
  • Was the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki Justified?
  • Is it right to topple the statues of slave owners, in order to erase history?
  • Who does history belong to?
  • Why did the USA join World War Two so late?
  • How have male and female romantic relationships changed over time?
  • How has the role of marriage changed over time?
  • Should a country be allowed to teach its own history?
  • How did the British Empire expand so much?
  • Should museums return all their historical artefacts to their country of origin?
  • Were the Suffragettes the biggest force in women getting the vote?
  • Is religious warfare ever Justified?
  • How medieval fashion influences our outfits today
  • Was Anne Boleyn the main reason that Henry VII left the Catholic church?
  • Did Henry VII suffer from a genetic disease that prevented him from conceiving healthy children?
  • Why do we hold on to so many myths in History?
  • A study of propaganda in History textbooks in UK history.
  • Why is History important to the future?
  • To what extent did the purchase of commissions affect the fighting power of the British army between 1760-1860?
  • What is the validity of historical fiction and romance?
  • How did secret churches operate in Mao’s China?
  • How did 19th Century attitudes towards madness affect society’s treatment of ‘hysterical’ women?
  • What is the holocaust’s relationship with literature?
  • Were the liquidators who helped clean up the Chernobyl explosion used as human collateral?
  • How did the pill help women’s liberation?

EPQ Ideas For Economics

  • From an economic perspective, should we legalise human organ trade?
  • Can an increase of wealth directly influence happiness levels?
  • Could stock analysts be replaced by artificial intelligence?
  • How do socio-economic factors determine someone’s health in adulthood?
  • Who is to blame for the 2008 financial crisis?
  • Is illicit trade with China the only factor preventing the North Korean economy from total collapse?
  • How would we recover economically if the internet ceased to exist?
  • How did the 2008 financial crisis make house buying impossible for the majority of millennials?
  • Is the poverty trap impossible to get out of?
  • Can we compare the trickle-down economy to a pyramid scheme?
  • Does a lack of wealth in childhood really hold you back in life?
  • Is the gig economy leading to job insecurity a myth?
  • To what extent does women’s unpaid labour prop up the UK economy?
  • How has Brexit affected the UK economy?
  • Should we legalise a Universal Basic Income?
  • How quickly did the UK economy recover from the effects of World War Two?
  • Are all socialist economies doomed to fail?
  • How would the legalisation of Marijuana affect the world economy?
  • How does a lack of free speech negatively affect China’s economy?
  • Should there be a minimum wage?
  • Should there be a maximum wage?
  • Should billionaires be allowed to exist?
  • How has the global demand for oil changed over time?
  • What effect does illegal immigration have on the UK economy?
  • Why a lack of childcare support for women hurts the economy.

EPQ Ideas for Business Studies

  • Should businesses expanding to developing countries be forced to pay their employees the same amount they would at home?
  • What does Foxconn show about the human cost of business?
  • How should we hold businesses to account for unethical behaviour?
  • Should we have a single, global currency?
  • How can companies become more eco-friendly?
  • Should we lower the corporate income tax?
  • Will Google kill the journalism industry?
  • Why apprenticeships should pay more
  • Why every business leader should take a course in empathy.
  • How successful is it when businesses rebrand?
  • Should companies interfere in their employees’ private lives?
  • How churches like Hillsong became multi-million pound businesses.
  • Should CEOs have a salary limit?
  • Is the American government a big business?
  • How has e-commerce affected bookshops?
  • Does corporate social responsibility have an impact on company sales and profits?
  • A study of businesswomen in the 18th Century
  • When do business marketing practices become unethical?
  • Should multi-million pound businesses have taken advantage of the government’s furlough scheme during the Covid-19 lockdown?
  • How do corporations influence politics?
  • Should a business ever own a town or city?
  • Start your own small business – perhaps on eBay or Etsy – and write your EPQ on an aspect of it.
  • Should private healthcare be allowed to exist?
  • Could marketing be considered a mass human experiment?
  • To what extent does colour effect audience response to branding and logos?

If you want to study economics, business or marketing to a higher level, consider joining Oxford Royale this summer for a Business Summer School .

EPQ Ideas for English Literature

  • The evil stepmothers in fairy tales were actually mothers in the original texts. What does this tell us about society’s anxieties and perspectives on motherhood?
  • To what extent is the state of Gilead in The Handmaid’s Tale based on real life?
  • Is writing an act of magic?
  • Can works of literature oppress their fictional, female characters?
  • Can the mistranslation of literature create a liminal world – a place that is not quite one thing and not quite another?
  • What does the rise of the digital book teach us about literature?
  • Can we ever ‘eat’ literature?
  • Do you need to be able to read and write to be an author?
  • Are stories living things?
  • Discuss the gender politics in George Eliot’s Middlemarch.
  • How is the sensory experience of dyslexia presented in literature?
  • Is English Literature considered a ‘feminine’ subject?
  • As an English student, is it your job to always work out what an author means?
  • Is the author dead?
  • Could journalists be replaced by AI-reporters?
  • Do we need to overhaul the literary canon?
  • Do we really need spelling and punctuation in literature?
  • Should mass media be allowed to be biased?
  • How helpful is the idea of literary genres to understanding a text?
  • How George Orwell hid his dissenting view of communism in Animal Farm.
  • Why learning to read is a human right.
  • Can a novel ever be timeless?
  • Does literary form exist just so that writers can subvert it?
  • Is rhythm in a poem a separate language?
  • Explore Plath’s portrayal of depression in The Bell Jar.

EPQ ideas for Art

  • Should Banksy be allowed to graffiti on walls?
  • Who decides the value of art, and should we standardise it?
  • Has photography always been a form of art?
  • To what extent is mathematics art?
  • Why do people consider art to be an easy subject?
  • Can art reverse the effects of mental illness?
  • Can anything be art?
  • Is all graffiti a form of art?
  • Why the common perception of medieval people being bad at art is misguided.
  • How does the commercialisation of the art industry change art itself?
  • How does the perception of a career in art as worthless affect the life choices of students?
  • Does an audience’s gaze change a piece of art?
  • Are art and beauty essentially related?
  • Is art supposed to be a visual and sensory experience, or something that we think about and define a meaning for?
  • Who decides that a piece of art is ‘good’?
  • Does art have a purpose?
  • Can art help fight climate change?
  • Why does it matter that children are exposed to art?
  • What is the effect of producing art on a child’s brain?
  • If nobody ever saw your artwork, would it be worth creating?
  • Does a piece of art necessarily have a relationship with its creator, or can it detach itself?
  • Is art a language?
  • What does the disdain for modern art teach us about people’s stereotypes of art?
  • Are philosophers artists?
  • Could the world itself count as a work of art?

EPQ Ideas for Foreign Languages

  • Where did language come from?
  • Do idioms prove that languages can never truly be translated?
  • Is body language universal across all countries?
  • Should everyone be made to learn sign language?
  • Why did Esperanto fail as a language policy?
  • Which is the hardest language to learn and why?
  • Do multi-lingual children grow up to be more economically successful?
  • Why does having dyspraxia make language learning difficult?
  • Should the whole world be made to speak one language?
  • How does an influx of immigration alter the language of a region?
  • What is the effect of trading on local dialects?
  • Should everyone be made to learn a foreign language at school?
  • What does the Korean language, when compared in North and South Korea, teach us about the evolution of language?
  • Is there such a thing as a ‘correct’ way of speaking a language, when languages never stop evolving with culture?
  • Could a language be classed as a living thing?
  • Why is English such a dominant language across the world?
  • Is Latin a dead language?
  • What caused the English language to evolve so drastically over time?
  • What is the hardest language to learn, and why?
  • What does baby-talk in different foreign countries teach us about the acquisition of language?
  • Why does China have several dialects, but only one alphabet?
  • Did grammar always exist?
  • What is the link between being good at maths and being good at language learning?
  • Why are young children such natural language learners?
  • Is learning a language cultural appropriation?

EPQ Ideas for Sport

  • How sports stars experience an identity crisis after they retire
  • Should soldiers be paid more than footballers?
  • How do psychological factors influence performance in sport?
  • What do fans react to their team winning a football match as though they won it themselves?
  • Are national and international sports a misuse of resources?
  • How does struggling with sports in primary school affect children’s self esteem?
  • Should women be allowed to compete against men in professional sports?
  • Is the ability to run fast purely a genetic advantage?
  • Why do we fail to take women’s sports seriously as a society?
  • Should children be forced to do sports in school?
  • How can the presence of media affect the outcome of a game?
  • Should referees be replaced by AI-powered robots, to decrease bias?
  • How does a lack of female representation in sport prevent girls from seeking it out as a career?
  • What is the effect of parents’ motivation a child’s enjoyment of sport?
  • What are the long term effects of the Olympics on the host country’s tourism?
  • How does a lack of ability at sports correlate to bullying?
  • Why do we have less interest in women’s sports?
  • A history of sport in pandemics
  • How does a long-term sports injury affect an athlete’s mental health?
  • Can a star athlete succeed without a coach?
  • Should cheerleaders be banned?
  • Is racism being taken seriously in sport?
  • Can you still be a top athlete with a poor diet?
  • Who decides when something is a sport?
  • Why is netball predominantly considered to be a sport for women?

EPQ Ideas for Architecture

  • How does the design of a building influence its inhabitants emotions?
  • Should city-dwellers without gardens be given free access to national parks at all times?
  • What is the link between Brutalist style architecture and anxiety and depression?
  • What is the link between mathematics and art in Architecture?
  • How is a building affected by the people who live in it?
  • How does the style of council housing feed into class stereotypes?
  • Can architecture cause social dysfunction?
  • Would smart cities be a breach of privacy?
  • Could we create a building the size of a city, to house an entire population?
  • Make an architectural model of a zero-carbon home and write an essay describing how its functions avoid the use of carbon.
  • Should the local government have the right to pull down a building if the community who live there oppose it?
  • Is it ethical to spend millions of pounds creating a building in a city with high levels of quality?
  • Were houses built in the 1930s of superior quality?
  • Should councils have been allowed to remove tenement dwellers from their homes in the post-war era, when the enforced move was traumatic?
  • Can we adapt Japanese smart space efficient buildings to western buildings?
  • What were the influences on architecture in China?
  • How did communism during Mao’s China change the country’s cityscapes?
  • How can we build environmentally-friendly housing in LEDCs?
  • Can zero carbon housing ever really exist?
  • Should public playgrounds exist for people of every age?
  • Was Grenfell tower a total architectural failure?
  • What house styles in different areas tell us about gender forms of the time.
  • How does technology affect architecture?
  • What was the effect of feminism on architecture?
  • Should houses worth over a million pounds be built with some benefit to the whole neighbourhood?

Join our Oxford Architecture Summer School for the chance to learn architecture amongst the dreaming spires of the city of Oxford.

EPQ ideas for Maths

  • Is the golden ratio a racist idea?
  • What is the maths behind cryptocurrencies?
  • What are the links between foreign language learning and maths?
  • What are the links between mathematics and art?
  • Has maths always existed?
  • How can we use statistical analysis to predict a child’s outcomes in life?
  • Should children be forced to take maths at A-Level in the UK?
  • Should maths be optional at secondary school in the UK?
  • Why do some people say that maths is beautiful?
  • Does money really exist?
  • An exploration of chaos theory.
  • Can maths explain how the universe came into existence?
  • How can calculations improve the safety of commuters who cycle in Oxford over the next 5 years?
  • Explore conflict and co-operation in The Prisoner’s Dilemma.
  • Which is more important, e or pi?
  • Can we calculate infinity?
  • An exploration of orbital mechanics.
  • Is maths a pointless subject if we don’t apply it to something?
  • Is learning Maths more important than learning English in primary school?
  • What was the role of maths in the code-breaking of Bletchley Park?
  • How do fractals work in modelling systems?
  • Can we reverse dyscalculia?
  • Can mathematical systems ever be illogical?
  • Did people discover maths?
  • Could maths ever prove the existence of a parallel universe?

Those keen on studying maths in the heart of the silicon valley can join our Mathematics programme for 15-18 year olds on campus at our Berkeley Summer School in 2024.

EPQ ideas for Physics

  • How does String Theory explain the universe?
  • How can physics help us prevent climate change?
  • What is the relationships between maths and physics?
  • What was the role of Mileva Maric Einstein, Albert Einstein’s wife, in his scientific findings?
  • Build a quadcopter with remote control.
  • How can emergency whistles be optimised for design and use in rural environments?
  • What would happen to the solar system when the sun dies?
  • How can physics help us provide electricity to parts of rural India?
  • Is time an illusion?
  • Discuss the different interpretations of quantum mechanics.
  • Could humans ever live on Mars?
  • Design and build a functioning robot.
  • How soon will we have flying cars?
  • What are some feasible methods for cleaning up space junk?
  • Where did the universe come from?
  • How can physics prove the existence of God?
  • How did Einstein’s theory of relativity influence Physics?
  • Now that NASA has confirmed there is water on the moon, could it be a feasible tourist destination?
  • Given their devastating effects, should we eliminate nuclear weapons from the earth?
  • What contributed to the Cleddau bridge disaster?
  • How can we solve the pay gap in the field of physics?
  • A study of star formation and star death.
  • Is time travel possible?
  • How far can humans realistically explore space?
  • Mathematical knot theory and its applications.

EPQ ideas for Chemistry

  • What was the impact of optical isomerism in the drug Thalidomide, which led to fetal abnormalities?
  • An assessment of the safety of fluoride in water.
  • To what extent did the government in Louisiana cover up the danger of the petrochemical plants in Louisiana’s ‘cancer alley’?
  • Should Aspartame (E951) be allowed in our food and drink?
  • When do chemicals become hallucinogens?
  • An assessment of hydrogen storage within Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs).
  • An extraction of limonene from citrus fruits.
  • Make a collection of esters that smell pleasant.
  • Will graphene have a significant influence on the future?
  • To what extent have inventions in Chemical Engineering impacted our lives?
  • As assessment of the total synthesis of natural products.
  • An experiment in polymer chemistry.
  • An assessment of molecular dynamics
  • An assessment of solid state structure
  • Could we ever create a plastic that decomposes?
  • A research project on hydrogen fuel cells
  • Why doesn’t plastic decompose?
  • What are the chemical processes behind purifying water?
  • An exploration of the chemistry behind food allergies in humans?
  • What are the chemicals involved in human attraction?
  • How does cortisol affect the human body?
  • Should pesticides be ethically permissible?
  • What are the advantages of computer aided fragment based drug design?
  • How can click chemistry be used to improve drug synthesis?
  • How has the discovery of pharmaceutical chemicals changed over the past 200 years?

EPQ ideas for Engineering

  • Should we teach Engineering in primary school?
  • Why is there a gender imbalance in Engineering, and how can we fix it?
  • Is there an oversaturation of engineers in India, and if so, why?
  • Was everything in the world built by an engineer?
  • Do we need to expand our definition of engineer?
  • Can Engineering solve the mystery of Malaysian Airlines flight 370?
  • Can Engineering explain the disappearance of Emilia Earhart?
  • Did Engineering faults contribute to the sinking of the titanic.
  • Build your own model plane, boat or high altitude balloon.
  • Could hot air balloons become a mainstream method of travel?
  • Discuss the hydraulics paradox.
  • How have innovations in airframe design increased safety in commercial aircraft?
  • How do architects and engineers collaborate?
  • Should we be allowed to develop robots that can mimic human emotion?
  • What would it mean for an engineer to be ethical when building something?
  • How has Civil Engineering changed over time?
  • How can chemical engineers improve energy efficiency?
  • How could alterations in chemical Engineering have prevented the Deepwater Horizon oil spill?
  • As assessment of the sustainability of London’s tube system.
  • How much of our countryside should we sacrifice for better transport links?
  • Will we have enough oil for future generations?
  • Would energy provided entirely by a wind farm system run the UK economy?
  • What are the reasons for the pay gap in Engineering, and how can we solve them?
  • How can we get pre-school children interested in Engineering?
  • Design a system to enhance plastic recycling.

Prospective engineers can join our Engineering Summer Schools for a two-week immersion in the core principles of the subject.

EPQ ideas for Computer Science

  • Why we should teach children how to code at the same time we teach them to write.
  • Create a website design and code it.
  • Is one coding language superior to another?
  • How can we reduce computer illiteracy in poorer areas?
  • Why internet access is a human right.
  • Are AI-driven robots responsible for their own actions?
  • Are Ai-assessed job interviews inevitably biased?
  • How soon will handwriting become totally irrelevant?
  • Are companies upskilling fast enough to cope with the digital demands of Covid-19?
  • It’s more important to learn to code than to learn to write
  • Is Computer Science a more relevant subject than Physics?
  • How will quantum computers change our way of life?
  • Should silicon valley companies be criminalised for our widespread addiction to technology?
  • What would happen if all technology was wiped out?
  • Will we ever be able to search Google through a microchip in our brains?
  • What new jobs will Ai create in the next ten years?
  • What is increased automation doing to our jobs?
  • Develop your own game.
  • Should we allow AI-writing assistants like Grammarly to change the way we express ourselves?
  • What are the positive effects of machine learning on healthcare?
  • How does AI differ from human intelligence?
  • Is it ethical to use social care robots to alleviate loneliness?
  • Is it ethical to create an app which offers you an AI friend?
  • What is the most efficient way to track down cyber criminals?
  • How do cyber criminals cover their tracks on the internet?

EPQ ideas for Ethics

  • Should people be able to sue their parents for bringing them into the world?
  • Do men automatically have the right to be present at their child’s birth?
  • Should we be allowed to dispose of spare embryos in IVF?
  • Should we be allowed to use embryos for stem cell research?
  • Should machines with AI have their own rights?
  • Are Siri and Alexa slaves?
  • Should we be allowed to mix human and animal DNA?
  • Should we be allowed to clone humans?
  • Do we have the right to experiment on animals?
  • Do we have the right to visit other planets and the moon?
  • Should a father have rights over an unborn child?
  • Should there be an assessment process before people have children?
  • Is sterilisation unethical in every circumstance?
  • Should we be allowed to cuddle babies if they can’t give verbal consent?
  • Should an embryo have protected rights under the law?
  • Do we have the right to prevent someone from committing suicide?
  • The disturbing eugenics around birth control
  • Should parents be allowed to edit out genetic conditions before a child’s birth?
  • Should testing fetuses for Down’s Syndrome be legal?
  • Are our moral decisions innate or socially conditioned?
  • Should we have the right to decide when life begins?
  • If you need a heart transplant and you’re hoping for a heart, does that mean you’re hoping for someone else to die?
  • Should we put a limit on the number of children people have?
  • Does the means justify the end?

EPQ ideas for Politics

  • Why has the USA never had a female president?
  • If we colonised Mars, who would govern it?
  • Has Great Britain lost its status as a world power?
  • Are the government’s counter-terror policies effective?
  • Is it acceptable to teach British values in primary schools?
  • How does nepotism negatively affect politics?
  • How has Donald Trump changed politics?
  • Should there be universal freedom of information?
  • Why did Brexit happen?
  • What are the dangerous effects of conspiracy theories like Q-Anon on the public?
  • Should it be illegal to publicly shame politicians?
  • Will there ever be a viable mid-ground between socialism and capitalism?
  • Would global governance be a better policy than individual governments?
  • How are female politicians and prime ministers perceived?
  • Should there be freedom of speech at all costs?
  • Should countries be allowed to ban religion?
  • An assessment of the case for anarchy.
  • Should the UK’s land belong to everyone?
  • An analysis of political cartoons in the UK
  • Should everyone have to vote by law?
  • Should politics be taught in primary school?
  • Should everyone be made to take politics in secondary school?
  • Should National Service be mandatory in Singapore?
  • How did the war on drugs affect inner city US communities?
  • How was Twitter revolutionised politics?

Sociology EPQ ideas

  • How can we reverse stereotypes over drug use and misuse in different communities?
  • What is the impact of the media on our perception of women from Muslim communities?
  • Evaluate Marx’s account on the origins of the industrial revolution in Britain?
  • Is it fair for today’s feminists to criticise the lack of gender commentary in classical sociology?
  • How do human ideas, customs and behaviour come together to make culture?
  • How do gender, class, race and sexuality affect us and our social relations today?
  • A study of the effects of polyamorous family settings on children.
  • Have sociologists neglected emotion in their studies of human behaviour?
  • Do emotions come from society, or from within us?
  • How do different models of socialisation affect children?
  • Are eating disorders a social phenomenon?
  • Should we ban face-altering apps?
  • Should teenage pregnancy be so vilified?
  • Can upbringing create a narcissist?
  • Is perfectionism more prevalent in girls than boys, and how does that relate to the way we socialise either gender?
  • Should we ban gendered toys?
  • How can we assuage the social causes of substance abuse?
  • An exploration of the sociology of food.
  • Is it right to try and get someone out of a cult?
  • How racial segregation in cities enforces poverty, and prevents upward mobility.
  • What is the relationship between race and class?
  • The effects of interracial marriage in the 1950s.
  • The cultural diaspora of mixed race children.
  • How Disney made princesses key role models for girls.
  • Should weddings have to be registered to be legal?

EPQ ideas for Geography

  • How did Hurricane Catrina change the New Orleans community?
  • Is there such a thing as collective trauma after a natural disaster?
  • Does the earth belong more to humans than animals?
  • To what extent should be allow deforestation?
  • A study on how we will survive and adapt to climate change in 3020.
  • Does the way we categorise developing countries increase stereotypes?
  • How have the demand for super-crops impacted the agricultural systems in the countries where we grow them?
  • Should companies be allowed to expand to developing countries if they won’t pay workers the same wage as at home?
  • How does tourism affect a country’s culture?
  • Should all new houses be built with solar panels?
  • How can we reduce the effects of coastal erosion?
  • How has global warming changed the world’s physical features?
  • What are the socio-economic and political implications of migration policies for the UK?
  • Should borders between countries exist?
  • Are countries doing enough to meet their MDG targets?
  • Can a country ever become fully developed?
  • How does living as an illegal immigrant affect mental and physical health?
  • To what extent is global warming caused by human beings?
  • Was the civil war in Syria caused by climatic factors?
  • Could the National Geographic be considered exploitative?
  • A comparison of two earthquakes in different decades. to observe how advances in technology have impacted responses.
  • How does climate change affect different biomes and ecosystems around the world?
  • What are the environmental and social impacts of natural gas fracking?
  • A prototype for the generation of sustainable energy.
  • The effects of littering on marine health.

EPQ ideas for Religious Studies

  • Why materialism can’t disprove the existence of God.
  • Why science and religion are part of the same entity.
  • Paley provides the best argument to issues surrounding the existence of God.
  • To what extent can Freud’s view of religion and God be said to be accurate?
  • Is C.S Lewis’ claim that atheism is weaker than theism correct?
  • Is the belief in nothing still a belief?
  • Can we reach God through the via negativa?
  • Is atheism just ignorance?
  • Can we prove that the universe exists outside our mind?
  • Is the Catholic catechism biblical truth?
  • How did the history of the church shape our society today?
  • Should Religious Studies be compulsory in primary school?
  • The existence of life on earth is evidence of the existence of a higher being.
  • How do you explain the goodness of God in the light of the world’s evil?
  • What are the boundaries between a cult and a religion?
  • Should the church always be subject to the government?
  • Should the Queen be head of the protestant church?
  • Should the church form its own political party?
  • Are expensive religious buildings insensitive to those living in poverty?
  • Does baptising a baby save its soul?
  • Should politicians interfere in religious conflicts?
  • Is religion nothing more than a comfort blanket against death?
  • Can you ever justify taking a life?
  • Is religion the same as morality?
  • Is religion just a set of rules disguised as something greater?

So, there you have it. 600 EPQ ideas to enhance your passion and imagination for this exciting qualification. Now get ready to kickstart your academic future with an amazing EPQ idea of your own. Don’t forget to fill out that activity log as you go along!

Extended Essay

Extended Essay Topics

Nova A.

Get Inspired: 110 Unique Extended Essay Topics and Ideas

14 min read

Published on: May 7, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

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Are you struggling to choose an interesting topic for your extended essay? Do you feel overwhelmed by the vast array of options and the pressure to excel in your research?

Students often struggle with finding a good, researchable topic for their extended essays. But don't worry!

This blog offers 110 best extended essay topics and ideas, along with expert tips for success. With this read, you can easily get started on your extended essay. 

So, read on and discover a wide range of topics!

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IB Extended Essay Topics

IB extended essay topics are diverse, interdisciplinary, and self-directed. They can be chosen from a wide range of subjects and must be grounded in academic research. 

The topics are broad but feasible for in-depth research and writing. Writing an extended essay develops students' skills in critical thinking, and research, and prepares them for the future.

Here are extended essay topics categorized by subjects.

Biology Extended Essay Topics 

Here is a list of extended essay topics biology:

  • Investigating the effectiveness of different types of natural insecticides on pest control.
  • Analyzing the effect of X diet on gut microbiome composition and health.
  • Examining the role of gut microbiota in human health and disease.
  • Studying the genetic basis of addiction and its implications for treatment.
  • Exploring the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing for disease prevention and treatment.
  • Analyzing the effects of different types of stress on the human body and mind.
  • Examining the impact of X medication on the functioning of the Y organ system.
  • Investigating the potential of stem cells in regenerative medicine.
  • The effects of X substance on the behavior of Y cell type.
  • Analyzing the ecological impact of invasive species on native ecosystems.

English Extended Essay Topics

Here are some extended essay topics English literature:

  • Analyzing the use of symbolism in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter.
  • Investigating the role of gender in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.
  • How does Shakespeare use the theme of fate in Romeo and Juliet?
  • Examining the impact of colonialism in Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart.
  • Analyzing the Theme of Power in J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings.
  • How does F. Scott Fitzgerald critique the American Dream in The Great Gatsby?
  • Investigating the representation of race in Toni Morrison’s Beloved.
  • Analyzing the use of narrative structure in Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude.
  • How does George Orwell use satire to critique totalitarianism in Animal Farm?
  • Examining the use of magical realism in Isabel Allende’s The House of the Spirits.

Psychology Extended Essay Topics 

Check out this list of extended essay topics psychology:

  • Investigating the impact of childhood trauma on adult mental health.
  • Analyzing the relationship between personality traits and career success.
  • Investigating the effects of social media on adolescent self-esteem and body image.
  • Analyzing the impact of X drug on brain chemistry and behavior.
  • Analyzing the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating anxiety disorders.
  • Examining the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety disorders.
  • Investigating the relationship between X personality trait and addiction.
  • Investigating the role of nature vs. nurture in the development of sexual orientation.
  • Examining the effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance and mood.
  • Investigating the impact of X's environmental factor on the development of Y's mental health condition.

Economics Extended Essay Topics 

Here is a list of extended essay topics in economics:

  • Exploring the relationship between government policies and income inequality in a particular country.
  • Investigating the relationship between X income inequality and economic growth.
  • Evaluating the effects of trade protectionism on domestic industries and consumers.
  • The impact of X technology on employment and labor markets.
  • Investigating the relationship between taxation and corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices.
  • Examining the role of innovation and entrepreneurship in driving economic growth.
  • The effectiveness of X price discrimination strategy in increasing firm revenue.
  • Exploring the role of corporate mergers and acquisitions in industry consolidation and market power.
  • Investigating the relationship between X tax policy and small business growth.
  • Assessing the impact of government regulation on the growth and development of emerging technologies.

Chemistry Extended Essay Topics

  • Investigating the effects of different types of sunscreen on UV radiation protection.
  • Analyzing the efficiency of different types of water filtration systems in removing contaminants.
  • Exploring the chemistry behind the flavors and aromas of different types of wine.
  • What are the chemical reactions involved in food preservation techniques?
  • Assessing the impact of different types of fertilizers on soil pH and plant growth.
  • Examining the chemistry of fermentation and its applications in the production of different types of alcoholic beverages.
  • What is the impact of air pollution on atmospheric chemistry and climate change?
  • Analyzing the chemical properties of different types of plastics and their environmental impact.
  • What is the chemistry behind the synthesis and properties of superconductors?
  • Studying the chemistry of batteries and their applications in energy storage.

Physics Extended Essay Topics

Here are some extended essay topics for physics:

  • Investigating the physics of fluid dynamics and its applications in aerodynamics.
  • Exploring the properties and applications of different types of superconductors
  • The effect of X wavelength on the speed of light in a medium.
  • The physics of magnetic levitation and its applications in transportation.
  • Investigating the relationship between X surface area and the rate of evaporation.
  • Exploring the properties and applications of different types of lasers.
  • Investigating the physics of nuclear fusion and its potential as a clean energy source.
  • Studying the relationship between the X spring constant and the period of oscillation of a mass-spring system.
  • Exploring the physics of quantum computing and its potential applications in computing and cryptography.
  • Analyzing the efficiency of heat engine technology.

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Extended Essay Topics Business

Here is a list of business management extended essay topics:

  • Examining the Relationship Between Corporate Culture and Employee Motivation
  • Assessing the Effects of Social Media Marketing on Consumer Behavior and Brand Awareness
  • Investigating the Factors that Contribute to Successful International Joint Ventures
  • Evaluating the Effectiveness of Talent Management Strategies in Recruiting and Retaining Top Employees
  • Analyzing the Impact of E-Commerce on Traditional Retail Business Models
  • Studying the Role of Emotional Intelligence in Effective Leadership and Team Management
  • Exploring Strategies for Managing Workplace Diversity and Inclusion
  • Investigating the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Job Displacement and Workforce Development
  • Exploring the Benefits and Challenges of Strategic Partnerships for Business Growth and Innovation
  • Analyzing the Effects of Government Regulations on Business Operations and Profitability.

History Extended Essay Topics 

Here is some extended essay topics history:

  • Analyzing the Impact of the Opium Wars on China's Relationship with the West
  • Studying the Factors that Contributed to the Fall of the Roman Empire
  • Examining the Legacy of the Haitian Revolution and its Influence on Global Anti-Colonial Movements
  • Evaluating the Role of Women in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States
  • What Were the Causes and Consequences of the Spanish Civil War
  • Investigating the Factors that Led to the Rise of Fascism in Italy
  • The Impact of the American Indian Movement on Indigenous Rights in the United States
  • Evaluating the Success and Failures of the United Nations in Promoting International Peace and Security
  • What Became The Causes and Consequences of the Partition of India in 1947
  • Investigating the Role of Propaganda in Shaping Public Opinion during World War II.

Extended Essay Topics Computer Science

  • Enhancing Cybersecurity with Artificial Intelligence: An Investigation
  • Social Media Algorithms and User Behavior: An Analysis of Political Polarization
  • Ethical Implications of Facial Recognition Technology: An Examination
  • Detecting Financial Fraud with Machine Learning Algorithms: An Evaluation
  • Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management: A Study
  • Quantum Computing and Cryptography: An Investigation into Data Security
  • Computer Science and Sustainable Energy Technologies: A Review
  • Predictive Analytics for Healthcare: A Comparative Study of Data Mining Techniques
  • Autonomous Vehicles: An Exploration of Ethical and Social Implications
  • Assistive Technologies for People with Disabilities: A Critical Assessment of Computer Science Contributions.

Extended Essay Topics Global Politics

  • Assessing the effectiveness of UN peacekeeping missions in resolving conflicts
  • The impact of social media on political activism and social movements in the digital age
  • The role of international organizations in promoting human rights and humanitarian aid
  • The influence of neoliberalism on global economic policies and its impact on developing countries
  • Investigating the root causes of terrorism and strategies for combating it in the modern world
  • The impact of climate change on global politics and the role of international cooperation in addressing it
  • An Evaluation of China's Belt and Road Initiative and its impact on global economic and political power dynamics
  • The Role of soft power in shaping international relations and Diplomacy
  • Analyzing the ethical implications of drone warfare and targeted killings in contemporary warfare
  • The challenges and opportunities of refugee resettlement policies in developed countries.

Extended Essay Topics Geography

  • The relationship between tourism and environmental conservation in a specific region or national park.
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of different methods for managing and reducing plastic waste in coastal cities.
  • The impact of sea level rise on coastal communities and infrastructure in a particular location.
  • Comparing the effectiveness of different renewable energy sources for powering a specific region or country.
  • Assessing the impact of deforestation on the water cycle and water availability in a particular region.
  • Examining the impact of urbanization on the microclimate of a specific city or urban area.
  • Studying the potential impact of a future earthquake or volcanic eruption on a particular region or city.
  • What is the effectiveness of various adaptation strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change on agriculture in a particular region or country?
  • Investigating the relationship between air pollution and respiratory health in a specific urban area or region.
  • Assessing the impact of mining on the environment and local communities in a particular region or country.

Research Questions for Extended Essay 

Here is a list of research questions for extended essays:

  • To what extent has social media impacted political participation and activism among young people?
  • How does the representation of mental illness in literature reflect changing societal attitudes toward mental health over time?
  • What is the impact of the use of technology in the classroom on student learning outcomes?
  • To what extent do cultural factors shape perceptions of beauty and body image, and what are the potential negative effects of these perceptions on individuals and society?
  • How has the #MeToo movement impacted the legal and social responses to sexual harassment and assault?
  • What are the ethical implications of using artificial intelligence to make decisions in fields such as medicine or finance?
  • How has globalization impacted economic inequality both within and between countries?
  • To what extent do historical events such as colonization continue to shape contemporary social and economic disparities in certain regions or countries?
  • What is the psychological impact of exposure to violent or graphic media on children and adolescents?
  • How do cultural attitudes towards mental health differ across different regions or countries, and what are the implications of these differences for the treatment of mental illness?

Good Vs. Bad Research Questions

When creating research questions, it's important to know that they're not the same as essay topics. Good research questions have certain qualities that make them effective, while bad ones can lead to unsuccessful research. 

Let's talk about how to tell the difference!

Characteristics of a Good Extended Essay Topic

Choosing a good extended essay topic is crucial to the success of your project. Here are some characteristics to keep in mind:

  • Personal interest: Select a topic that you find interesting and fascinating. This will make the research and writing process much more enjoyable.
  • Feasibility: Choose a topic that is feasible within the given time and resource constraints. Consider factors such as access to information and availability of sources.
  • Originality: Aim for a topic that is original and unique. Avoid choosing a topic that is too broad or generic.
  • Significance: Select a topic that is significant and relevant to the subject area. The topic should have relevance beyond the extended essay itself.
  • Research potential: Choose a topic that has ample scope for research and analysis. This will ensure that you have enough material to write a comprehensive essay.

By considering these characteristics, you can select an extended essay topic that will result in a rewarding project.

How to Choose an Extended Essay Topic?

The extended essay is an opportunity to explore a topic of personal interest and develop research skills while demonstrating its understanding.

Here are some things IB students should consider when choosing an EE topic:

Understand the EE Guidelines

To choose an appropriate topic for your extended essay, you must first familiarize yourself with the requirements set by the IB program. 

You can refer to an extended essay guide for this. This will ensure that your chosen topic is within the scope of the program and meets the necessary academic standards.

Brainstorm and Narrow Down Options

Brainstorming is a crucial step in selecting an extended essay topic. Start by generating a list of ideas based on your interests and passions. 

Narrow down options by considering feasibility, resources, and research questions.

Consider Personal Interests

Selecting a topic that matches your interests can enhance your extended essay research and writing process.

Consider your strengths and weaknesses when choosing a topic to ensure successful completion of the project.

Evaluate the Feasibility and Scope of Topic

It is essential to evaluate the feasibility and scope of your chosen topic before committing to it fully. 

Consider factors such as the availability of resources, potential research questions, and the time and effort required to complete the project. Make sure that your chosen topic is manageable and realistic within the given timeframe.

By carefully picking the right topic, you can take the first step towards ensuring a good extended essay grade.

With the list of topics provided and the tips on how to choose, you are well-equipped to begin your extended essay journey. 

However, if the process still seems overwhelming, don't hesitate to reach out to our college essay-writing service for help. 

Our AI essay writer can write your extended essay on any topic you need.

Also, our writers can guide you in choosing a topic, conducting research, and crafting a well-structured essay that meets the requirements. 

With our extended essay writing service , you’ll get a top-quality essay that earns you the grade you deserve. 

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

What is a good extended essay topic.

A good extended essay topic is one that aligns with your personal interests and passions, and allows for in-depth research and analysis.

What is the easiest extended essay topic?

There is no one "easiest" extended essay topic, as the level of difficulty can vary based on individual strengths and weaknesses. However, selecting a topic that you have a strong background knowledge in can make the process easier.

Is it easy to get an A in an extended essay?

It is possible to get an A in an extended essay, but it requires a strong understanding of the chosen topic, thorough research, and well-structured writing that meets all the requirements.

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Splendid Ideas for Extended Essay Topics

As opposed to ordinary essays, extended essays require more factual backup. Therefore, writing a solid extended essay requires considerably more dedication and research, as well as more critical thinking and experimentation. When writing an extended essay, it is crucial to keep in mind all the existing relevant theories and keep all the facts you refer to substantiated.

Here are some examples of possible topics in various fields of study for a splendid extended essay for you to choose from:

  • How photosynthesis can take place without sunlight
  • How does a plant grow differently when it has to share its habitat with others
  • How to store cow milk safely
  • How does change of habitat affect an organism
  • How are land plants different from aquatic ones
  • Is remote pollination possible
  • How various drugs affect human brain
  • How plants can heal disease
  • Can flowers be manufactured
  • How climate affects the reproduction process of plants
  • Trade policies in different countries
  • What does the industrial policy mean
  • The overall influence of fiscal policy on the economy
  • Expansionary fiscal policy and when it can be used
  • Taxes and Spending: The tools to make it more effective
  • How big is the government sector in economy and is it justified
  • Why does personal income tax go to the federal budget
  • How do transfer payments work
  • How does the business cycle cause instability in the labor market
  • Why does recessionary gap occur
  • Racial Conflict and racism throughout the 20th century
  • Spirituality Attitudes of People
  • Ethnic and sexual identity in the 1990s
  • How ideas of social Darwinism got translated into politics
  • The significance of the literary function of a language
  • How does media portrayal influence everyday life
  • Female empowerment in Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings
  • Why is it important to learn English literature
  • John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars
  • Sarah Dessen’s Just Listen
  • Lisa Kleypas’s Devil In Winter
  • The Importance of Dance in Emma by Jane Austen
  • Possible parallels between Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein monster and Gregor Samsa from Franz Kafka’s Metamorphosis
  • Noblemen and noble traits. Illustrated by three exemplary characters
  • Religion and religious imagery in Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights
  • Racism as illustrated by James Baldwin
  • Exploring Jane Austen
  • Inanimate objects in Sylvia Plath’s Bell Jar
  • How did the continents come to their present-day location
  • What factors influence the location of industries
  • The impact of economic development on the environment
  • Levels of cultural interaction between the neighboring nations
  • How geography affects the relationships between people
  • Does gendered economy have any connection to geography
  • How are nations with access to the sea different from the ones without
  • Oceanography and its significance for preserving the quality of water
  • How the knowledge of the terrestrial crust has evolved in the past 100 years
  • Why is it important to explore the seabed

extended essay topics

  • Why did the USSR fall apart
  • The bias in the Salem witch trials
  • The Treaty of Versailles and its significance
  • Cuban missile crisis and its consequences
  • The pact between Stalin and Hitler and its realization
  • Why was Pearl Harbor a game-changing checkpoint in the 2nd World War
  • The evolution of perception of opium as a rural culture
  • Political motives in Shakespeare's drama
  • The reasons for the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki
  • How the Roman Empire conquered Britain
  • Spirograph and curves
  • Using color polynomials to distinguish knots
  • Voting polynomials and fairness of constitution
  • Methodology employed by statistics
  • Why planets move the way they do
  • Egyptian forces in arithmetic
  • Symmetries of plane tessellations
  • General relativity and cosmology
  • Egyptian fractions and their significance for arithmetic
  • General functions of the theory of partitions
  • Understanding the terminology of physics
  • The basics of dynamics: forces and motion
  • How energy can be conserved
  • The phenomenon of heat
  • The nature of electricity and electrical energy
  • The nature of magnetism and magnetic force
  • Particles and their interactions
  • The nature and behavior of light
  • Main stages in the development of the physical thought
  • The scientific methods employed by modern physics
  • How parental negligence leads to child obesity
  • Why are we so obsessed with fast food
  • How narcissist mother influences her child
  • How is television connected to obesity
  • Preterm delivery and adjacent stress
  • Types of suicidal behaviors and how they develop
  • How not to allow an abortion damage the mental health
  • Violence and other abuse among teenage couples
  • Difference between male and female schizophrenia
  • Psychological reasons causing depression
  • Intelligent machines essay
  • How global food crisis affects our everyday lives
  • How to tell that an issue is of global significance
  • How local factors influence the developing expressions
  • How to make globally appreciated contributions
  • How global climate changes affect our view of the world
  • Global terrorism: Its causes and consequences
  • Why energy security is necessary
  • Health safety precautions every traveler should know
  • The importance of ongoing cultural exchange
  • Immigration and emigration: Causes and consequences

There are your ultimate topics for extended essays in English, History, Mathematics, and other subjects. The final word of advice while choosing an extended essay topic on any of those subjects would be to pick something that you feel passionate about. And, of course, you have to make sure that the scope of your topic meets the number of pages you have to write. Say, for example, you are a high school student, and you are supposed to write a 3-page essay. Obviously, you will not be able to dig into many details; so choose accordingly.

If you are feeling uncertain that you can write an excellent grade extended essay yourself, you are welcome to employ our assistance in this issue. We cooperate only with top experts with a Ph.D. degree or higher in the topic that they are to write about, and being an English native speaker is another key requirement, so our writers writing skills are also unsurpassed. So, if there is any reason why you cannot have your extended essay written on time yourself, all you need to do is place your order on our website, and leave the rest to us! If you are curious how to write a definition essay feel free to explore our blog.

Top 100 Excellent Topics for Illustration Essay

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best topics for economics extended essay

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    best topics for economics extended essay

  4. 205 Excellent Economics Essay Topics and Ideas For Students To Consider

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  1. Economics Extended Essay Guide: Everything You Need to Learn

    An Economics Extended Essay is a 4,000-word autonomous, self-directed report based on a topic of personal interest. This project allows you to: Improve your research skills. Apply economic theories to a real-world issue. Analyze and evaluate the outcomes of your study.

  2. Economics Extended Essay Topic Ideas for IB Students

    We will help you with your Economics extended essay. Here are 12 potential categories for IB Economics Extended Essay topics: Microeconomics. Market Structures (e.g., Monopolies, Oligopolies) Market Failure (e.g., Externalities, Public Goods) Elasticity (e.g., Price Elasticity of Demand/Supply) Macroeconomics.

  3. Economics Essay Topics: 162 Practical Ideas & Useful Tips

    ⭐ 15 Best Economic Essay Topics. 2008 Economic Crisis. Socio-economic policy. Economic systems - Singapore. Racial pay gap. Economic globalization. ... Also, keep in mind that no more than three key points can be discussed in a paper, even if it is an extended essay. Thoroughly work on the body paragraphs.

  4. Top Extended Essay Topics Economics Guide

    As mentioned above, creating an engaging and rigorous IB Extended Essay in Economics starts with choosing a theme for investigation. Below are some topics and research questions spanning various aspects of economics. These ideas can inspire and guide IB students in their quest for a fascinating research project: The Impact of COVID-19 on Small ...

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

    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.

  6. IB Economics EE examples

    EE Economics A. Examining government intervention to increase consumption of low-emission cars in Germany. EE Economics. The effect of the imposition of the Carbon Cess on the electricity consumption of the sports good industry of Meerut. EE Economics A. High scoring IB Economics Extended Essay examples. See what past students did and make your ...

  7. Economics Extended Essay: IB Tutor's Ultimate Guide

    In conclusion, an Economics extended essay requires a blend of theoretical knowledge, practical data analysis, and a deep understanding of the economic landscape. It's a rigorous academic exercise, but it can be rewarding for IB students with the right approach and passion. Choosing the Right Topic for Your Economics Extended Essay.

  8. How to Structure an Economics Extended Essay

    Body Part 1: The "course concepts" part. Include 3 to 5 course graphs that help you answer your RQ. As you write, you'll be using economics diagrams and concepts to help to answer your question. By the end of each tool-section, you'll want to include some data and analysis on your case.

  9. 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 ...

  10. 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.

  11. Economics Extended Essay Topics

    When selecting a topic, it is important to keep in mind that the economics IB extended essay requires students to have an advanced understanding of economic theories and concepts. Therefore, it is essential to research potential topics thoroughly in order to ascertain the level of complexity required and the availability of information.

  12. DP Economics: Extended essay

    The extended essay consists of a 4000 (maximum) word essay on a topic of your choosing and concludes with a viva voce or short interview to confirm the candidates level of competence in the topic area chosen. You are also required to provide two additional reflections during the process. The extended essay provides you with the opportunity to ...

  13. 50+ IB ESS Extended Essay Topic Ideas

    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.

  14. 8 Economics Essay Examples

    Economics Extended Essay Examples. In an economics extended essay, students have the opportunity to delve into a specific economic topic of interest. They are required to conduct an in-depth analysis of this topic and compile a lengthy essay. Here are some potential economics extended essay question examples:

  15. 100 Economics Essay Topics for Deeper Insight and Understanding

    The Economics of Branding: Understanding the Value of Brand Names and Logos. The Sharing Economy: Analyzing the Economic Impacts of Collaborative Consumption. The Rise of E-commerce: Examining the Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Shopping. The Consumer Society: Analyzing the Role of Materialism in Modern Culture.

  16. 220 Economics Essay Topics for the Best Paper in 2024

    Among the main topics you can discuss in economics research are: Fundamental economics, cost to benefit analysis, and importance of decision-making; Macroeconomics, supply, and demand; Microeconomics, market structure, and strategies, competition; International economics, trade, market, and more; Personal economics, spending habits, personal ...

  17. 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.

  18. 180 + Economics Essay Topics for Your Next Essay

    Economics Essay Topics High School. The role of consumer choice in shaping market demand and supply. Analyzing the impact of international trade on the domestic economy. The relationship between economic growth and standard of living. Exploring the causes and consequences of inflation on the economy.

  19. 600 EPQ Ideas

    An EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) allows A-Level students to write either a 5,000 word essay on any question or subject of their choice. Alternatively, students can create an artefact or product, and write a shorter essay explaining it. The EPQ is equivalent to half an A-Level. EPQs are a fantastic way of proving to universities that you ...

  20. 110 Inspiring Extended Essay Topics for Research

    This blog offers 110 best extended essay topics and ideas, along with expert tips for success. With this read, you can easily get started on your extended essay. So, read on and discover a wide range of topics! On This Page. ... Here is a list of extended essay topics in economics:

  21. Best 200 Extended Essay Topics: Ideas, Examples, Writing Tips

    Here are some examples of possible topics in various fields of study for a splendid extended essay for you to choose from: Biology. How photosynthesis can take place without sunlight. How does a plant grow differently when it has to share its habitat with others. How to store cow milk safely.