visual arts extended essay guide

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Visual Arts Extended Essay: The Complete Guide for IB Students

by  Antony W

May 8, 2023

An extended essay in visual arts allows you to conduct study in a particular area of visual arts that is of interest to you. The conclusion of the study should be a clear and structured piece of writing that tackles a topic or research question pertinent to the visual arts in an effective manner.  

The strongest EE in arts is the one that demonstrate a thoughtful selection of socially and culturally relevant topics, which frequently have a personal significance for the candidate in respect to his or her cultural identity, a potential university program, or present creative interests, such as studio work.

It is discouraged to rely solely on textbooks and the Internet, and no long essay in visual arts should rely solely on such sources.

You should only read your textbooks to the extent that they generate unique ideas, give models of disciplined, organized, and informed methods, and foster direct and personal engagement with the essay topic.

Choice of Arts Extended Essay Topic

When it comes to choosing a visual arts extended essay, we strongly recommend that you avoid themes that rely solely on summarizing generic secondary sources and those that are likely to result in an essay that is mostly narrative or descriptive in nature.

You must address a pertinent subject or research question and reach a specific, ideally individual, conclusion.

Choosing a topic that encompasses several areas of art history or a lengthy time span is likewise unlikely to result in a great essay. Restriction of the essay’s scope will help you to establish a clear focus and create opportunities for exhibiting in-depth comprehension and critical evaluation of your extended essay.

How Should You Treat Visual Arts Extended Essay Topic?

The topic you choose must have a clear and direct connection to visual arts. If the relationship is only tenuous, you risk introducing irrelevant material, which will confuse the investigation and undermine the case.

You should construct a research issue that is of personal interest and use a range of materials to support your claims, including textual analysis, the study of actual artworks or designed artifacts, and interviews with practitioners and subject-matter experts.

Questions that do not provide a systematic examination that exhibits critical creative analysis and in-depth comprehension are unlikely to be appropriate. In certain cases, it may become apparent early in the research process that there are insufficient sources to conduct such an examination. In such situations, consider a shift in emphasis.

In visual arts extended essays, the incorporation and discussion of pertinent visual reference material is of special relevance. However, such material must directly support and be relevant to the analysis/argument. It should be cleanly presented, appropriately acknowledged, and appear as near as feasible to the first reference in the body of the essay.

To stimulate personal investment in the extended essay, your work should include local and/or original sources wherever feasible. However, you may not have access to original materials in some circumstances. In such instances, high-quality replicas, movies, films, or photographs/Internet pictures are acceptable sources.

An argument should be well supported, with remarks and conclusions supported by evidence that is relevant and well-founded, as opposed to being based only on preconceived notions.

Visual Arts Extended Essay Topics Examples

Now that you know about the kind of topic you should choose for you visual arts extended essay, let’s consider some good and bad examples.

The worst example can be something like:

• The variation within human perception
• Architecture is functional art.
• Postmodernism
• Islamic architectural design

You want avoid these types of examples because they’re broad and therefore can’t fit within the scope of extended essay requirements .

You want to consider only the best topic for the project, particularly making sure you pick a subject that’s specific enough to form a research question that you can answer within the respective scope of the assignment.

Some of the best examples include but not limited to the following:

• What role did national themes have in the creative activity of Russian avant-garde artists associated with the Knave of Diamonds society?
• How did men and women’s clothes communicate National Socialist ideals?
• How does Yinka Shonibare’s work represent the evolving importance of African art in a global society?
• What are the origins of Romanesque architecture in Arles?
• Are there pop art elements in the design of Pakistani trucks?
• Titles for Protracted Essays
• Appropriateness of Picasso’s usage of the Mbangu mask in ‘Les Demoiselles d’Avignon’ in terms of cultural borrowing
• How does Ketna Patel’s work reflect the increasing influence of media culture on Asian cultures?
• How does Yinka Shonibare’s work represent the evolving significance of African art in a global society?
• How far did Andy Warhol’s “Death and Disaster” series develop his interest in morbidity?
• How Jesse Trevino’s cultural experiences influenced his artwork
• How would one identify the crucial balance between design and function for four pedestrian bridges of the 21st century?
• In what way does Damien Hirst’s art tackle the themes of Life and Death? (2013)
• To what degree has Federation Square’s design proven successful?
• When does photojournalism become an art form?
• How does Fra Angelico’s picture of The Annunciation represent him in Renaissance Florence?

Tips for Writing a Visual Arts Extended Essay

You are supposed to assess critically the sources you consulted while writing the essay by asking yourself the following questions:

• Which sources are essential to my ideas, beliefs, and assertions?
• Which sources are irrelevant to the analysis?

For the research question, you can:

• Utilize primary and secondary sources to develop and evaluate diverse perspectives.
• Use these primary sources to explore and explain particular aspects of the visual arts, with emphasis on a particular aspect of the visual arts collecting and analyzing reproductions of artwork.

You must also exhibit an understanding of various topics associated with the studied work.

• Demonstrate a knowledge of the worth and limitations of the work you’re studying by analyzing its origin and function
• Show a continuous high level of creative comprehension by addressing the study subject comprehensively and effectively.

Relevant findings from this analysis must feature in your argument, not to mention that you should carefully support the arguments.  

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.

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

International Baccalaureate (IB)

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:

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.

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?

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...

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!

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.

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

What's Next?

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

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

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

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

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Current Unit: DEVELOPING YOUR EXHIBITION

Extended Essay

Visual arts and ee.

An extended essay in visual arts provides you with an opportunity to undertake research in an area of the visual arts of particular interest to you.

The outcome of the research should be a coherent and structured piece of writing (with appropriate illustrations) that effectively addresses a particular issue or research question, appropriate to the visual arts (broadly defined also to include architecture, design and contemporary forms of visual culture).

The research may be generated or inspired by your direct experience of artwork, craftwork or design, or interest in the work of a particular artist, style or period. This might be related to your own culture or another culture. Personal contact with artists, curators and so on is strongly encouraged, as is the use of local and/or primary sources.

The strongest EEs often show careful choice of socially and culturally interesting subjects, which often had a special meaning for the candidate either in relation to your own cultural identity, a future university program, or for a current artistic reason, e.g. your personal studio pursuits.

Whatever you choose your question needs to be narrowed down and strictly focused in order for the rest of the criteria - investigation, analysis, evaluation, a valid argument, and purposeful understanding of the question, to be treated effectively. Without a strong focused research question it is difficult to collect data and evaluate sources for comparison.

Absolute reliance on textbooks and the Internet is discouraged and no extended essay in visual arts should be based exclusively on such sources. Textbooks should be consulted only insofar as they may stimulate original ideas, provide models of disciplined, structured and informed approaches, and encourage direct and personal involvement with the essay topic.

Choice of topic

Topics that are entirely dependent on summarizing general secondary sources (such as universal art history textbooks, and encyclopedias), and topics that are likely to lead to an essay that is essentially narrative or descriptive in nature, should be avoided. Biographical studies of artists must address a relevant issue or research question and arrive at a particular, and preferably personal, conclusion. Choosing a topic that covers many aspects of art history and/or a long period of time is also unlikely to result in a successful essay. Restricting the scope of the essay will help to ensure a clear focus and will provide opportunities for demonstrating detailed understanding and critical analysis.

The following examples of titles for visual arts extended essays are intended as guidance only. The pairings illustrate that focused topics (indicated by the first title) should be encouraged rather than broad topics (indicated by the second title).

“How did Wassily Kandinsky use colour?” is better than “The Bauhaus”

“In what way did African art influence on the work of Henry Moore” is better than “20th-century British sculpture”

“What is the artistic significance of recent poles raised by the First Nations of Haida-Gwai?” is better than “The art of Native North American people”

It may help if you define the topic chosen for study in the form of a more specific research question, followed by a statement of intent that indicates which broad process is going to be used in answering the question. In this way, the approach to the topic chosen may be even further clarified. Some examples of this could include the following.

Topic Cultural influences on Pablo Picasso’s work

Research question Picasso: individual genius or cultural thief?

Approach An investigation of the extent to which selected images in Picasso’s work may have been appropriated from other cultural sources.

Topic The influence of Renaissance architecture in Montreal

Research question Cathédrale Marie-Reine-du-Monde, Montreal: a replica of St Peter’s, Rome?

Approach An original investigation into the stylistic similarities in the architecture of these two buildings.

Topic The impact of immigration on an artist’s work

Research question What is the impact of transcultural experience on the art of Gu Xiong?

Approach An investigation into the effects of migration on a selected artist’s work.

Treatment of the topic

It is essential that the topic chosen be clearly and directly related to visual arts. If the connection is only incidental, you risk introducing material that is of only marginal relevance, and will confuse the inquiry and weaken the argument. You should formulate a research question of personal interest and draw on a variety of sources to support your arguments, such as textual analysis, study of original artworks or designed artifacts, and interviews with practitioners or authorities on the subject. Research questions that do not allow a systematic investigation that demonstrates critical artistic analysis and detailed understanding are unlikely to be suitable. In some instances, it may become clear at an early stage in the research that too few sources are available to permit such an investigation. In such cases, a change of focus should be made.

The inclusion and discussion of appropriate visual reference material is of particular importance in visual arts extended essays. Such material must, however, be directly supportive of, and relevant to, the analysis/argument. It should be neatly presented, properly acknowledged, and should appear in the body of the essay, as close as possible to the first reference.

In order to promote personal involvement in the extended essay, the use of local and/or primary sources should be encouraged wherever possible. However, it is appreciated that, in certain situations, you may not necessarily have access to primary sources. In such situations, reproductions, videos, films or photographs/Internet images of a high quality are considered acceptable sources. An argument should be well substantiated, with comments and conclusions supported by evidence that is relevant and well-founded, not based simply on your preconceptions.

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Examples of good EE titles

• What part did national motifs play in the creative work of Russian avant-garde artists of the Knave of Diamonds society?
• Should the old neon signs of Warsaw be moved to a new Museum of Modern Art?
• In what ways did men’s and women’s fashion convey the ideals of National Socialism?
• How does the work of Yinka Shonibare illustrate the changing role of African art in a global society?
• Le Corbusier: Chapel at Ronchamp. How does Le Corbusier use both cubist and organic architecture to create aesthetic and functional harmony?
• What were the origins of the Romanesque in Arles?
• Are there influences of pop art in the decorations on Pakistani trucks?

The following examples are more appropriate for the Comparative Study rather than an EE topic

• The Orient in the works of three orientalist artists and their diverging perspectives – Jean-Auguste Dominique Ingres, Jean-Leon Gerome, Osman Hamdi Bey.
• A comparison of the marriage of high art and fashion in the designs of Sonia Delaunay and Yves St-Laurent.

Examples of weak EE Titles

• The Variation within perception amongst human beings.
• Architecture: Art with a purpose.
• Salvador Dali. (in fact any purely biographical study of a very famous artist - what more can you say that has been written already in countless books)
• Postmodernism.
• Islamic architecture.

Writing the EE

You are expected to evaluate critically the resources consulted during the process of writing the essay by asking yourself the following questions.

• Which sources are vital to the support of my ideas, opinions and assertions?
• Which sources do not contribute to the analysis?

Many different approaches to the research question can be appropriate, for instance:

• use of primary sources (artwork and artists) and secondary sources (material about the visual arts) in order to establish and appraise varying interpretations
• analysing sources (primary and secondary) in order to explore and explain particular aspects of the visual arts
• using primary source material for an analysis, with emphasis on a particular aspect of visual arts
• collecting and analysing reproductions of artwork, possibly leading to a comparison of similar or different images.

You should also demonstrate awareness of other issues surrounding the art studied.

• Do I show an awareness of the value and limitations of the art I am studying through analysing its origin and purpose?
• Do I show a consistently good artistic understanding in setting the research question into context and addressing it fully and effectively?

Relevant outcomes of this analysis should be integrated into the your argument.

• The argument should also be well substantiated:
• With what evidence do I support my comments and conclusions?
• Is this evidence relevant and well founded, and not based simply on my preconceptions?

Extended Essay Titles

Borrowing culture: the appropriateness of Picasso's use of the Mbangu mask in 'Les Demoiselles d'Avignon' (2008)

Can Luc Tuymans be classified as a political painter?

How does the work of Ketna Patel illustrate the growing impact of media culture on Asian cultures? (2014)

How does the work of Yinka Shonibare illustrate the changing role of African art in a Global Society? (2008)

How far Andy Warhol's interest in morbidity explored in his "Death and Disaster' series? (2014)

How the cultural aspects of Jesse Trevino's life impacted his artwork (Part1, Part2) (2008)

How would one determine the essential balance between form and function in the cases of four 21st century pedestrian bridges? (2014)

The influence on the Casa Batllo (1904-6) by the architect Antoni Gaudi (Part1, Part2, Part3, Part4) (2011)

Is the distortion of Francis Bacon and Jenny Saville's artwork gender related? (Part1, Part2, Part3) (2011)

To what extent has Damien Hirst explored the themes of Life and Death in his work? (2013)

To what extent has the design of Federation Square been a success?

To what extent have Jungian theories of the unconscious archetypes, influenced Rotho's 'The Omen of the Eagle, 1942' and 'No. 18, 1948,' and in what ways are they expressed? (2012)

To what extent was Toulouse-Lautrec's lithograph 'Dican Japonais' influenced by the culture of Montmartre and technical developments of 'Belle-Epoque'? (2013)

When does photojournalism transcend into art? (Part1, Part2, Part3) (2011)

How does Fra Angelico present himself within Renaissance Florence though his depiction of The Annunciation? ( 2017)

Extended Essay: The Arts: Visual Arts

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

Extended Essays in the Arts

Extended Essays in the Visual Arts

Choosing a Topic

The visual arts are here broadly defined also to include architecture, design and contemporary forms of visual culture. The outcome of a student's research should be a coherent piece of writing that effectively addresses a particular research question appropriate to the visual arts, and including any relevant images or illustrations.

The research may be generated or inspired by the student’s direct experiences of creating visual artworks, or by their interest in the work of a particular artist, style or period. This might be related to the student’s own cultural context or another cultural context.

Personal contact with artists, curators and other active participants in the visual arts is encouraged, as is the use of local and primary sources.

Students can choose an extended essay topic related to an area of their visual arts course, but students can also choose to explore other areas of the subject. Crucially, the topic must reflect their particular interest and enthusiasm within the visual arts.

Approaches to Research

It is vital that the methodology of the EE is tailored to the research question and allows for an in-depth exploration. Many different approaches to the research question can be appropriate. Students will often use a combination of primary and secondary research to answer their research questions.

Visual Arts Sources

Even students doing primary research will still need to reference secondary sources. These may include established artistic interpretations or criticisms, biographical and/or historical information.

Writing the Essay

Beyond individual interpretations, students should also demonstrate awareness of other issues surrounding the artworks they study such as:

• Considering the origin and purpose of an artwork to discuss its value and limitations
• Contextualizing the research question to demonstrate good artistic understanding 

Relevant outcomes of this analysis should be integrated into a well-substantiated argument.

• Using primary or secondary evidence to justify the argument
• Ensuring that cited evidence is relevant, well founded, and not simply based on preconceptions

The emphasis of the EE should always be on written analysis, interpretation, evaluation and the construction and development of a sound argument.

Visual Reference Material

It is required that students include visual references to any artworks they discuss, provided it is relevant to the analysis or argument. Images should be appropriately presented and acknowledged and should appear in the body of the essay, as close as possible to the first reference.

In order to promote personal involvement in the EE, the use of local and primary sources should be encouraged wherever possible. (i.e. a picture of the artwork taken by the student themself). In the case where students do not have access to the artwork they may rely on high-quality reproductions or images.

Students are expected to evaluate critically the resources consulted during the process of writing the EE by asking themselves the following questions:

• Which sources are vital to the support of my ideas, opinions and assertions?
• Which sources do not contribute to the analysis?

Assessed Student Work

• Marina Abramovic and her audience: An investigation into her diverse techniques to connect with her public.
• To what extent did Japanese aesthetics and fashion have an influence on contemporary Danish fashion?
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Gr. 11-12 Extended Essay

• Reflections
• Choose a Subject
• Choose a Topic
• Draft a Research Question
• Develop Your Search Strategy
• Computer Science
• Visual Arts

Visual Arts EE Overview

• World Studies
• Introduction
• Academic Integrity
• Common Questions
• For Supervisors
• EE Examples
• Visual Arts EE: Workflow and Expectations
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IBDP Visual Arts

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Updated 24 May 2024

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• The Extended Essay
• Course Components

Students can choose from the subject areas on offer and as an IB Visual Arts teacher you will probably be asked to supervise one or more essays of those students who chose a Visual Arts topic. The EE is compulsory for all Diploma Programme studentsThe extended essay is an in-depth study on a topic chosen from the list of approved Diploma Programme subjects. This piece of writing is intended to help students learn research...

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IB Visual Arts EE examples

Filter exemplars, to what extent does the street art in downtown athens, greece politically and socially charge the city, how did pablo picasso develop intimacy with the original audience and the impact on the contemporary audience through his artworks during his blue period, want to get full marks for your ee allow us to review it for you 🎯, to what extent did the mughal architectural style influence the hindu temple architecture of india, to what extent was gaudi's iconographic program on the example of the basilica of the sagrada familia different from gothic solutions on the example of the seville cathedral, to what extent can artificial intelligence create original fine art, fast track your coursework with mark schemes moderated by ib examiners. upgrade now 🚀, to what extent did hilma af klint’s artworks (1906-1922) bridge science and spiritualism, to what extend does gender impact omani artists, to what extent did edvard munch apply formal elements of art therapy such as color,shape, and repetition to create symbolism and purpose in the scream, how did zofia and oskar hansen’s architectural vision of przyczółek grochowski estate translate into practice and with what effect, how do andy warhol and thierry guetta's artwork demonstrate the controversies between intertextuality and plagiarism in pop art culture, to what extent has the indian culture influenced the architect gajanan b mhatre in the design of the empress court in mumbai during the british colonization, an exploration into the theme of motherhood in art during the early weimar republic, as seen through the works of otto dix and käthe kollwitz, how does frida kahlo portrya her devotionb to communism, the influence of nature on caso batlo by architect antoni guadi, "how did the dynamic style of zaha hadid's original abstract paintings introduce her unique architectural design of the jockey club in hong kong"..

How to write a Visual Arts Extended Essay [2022 Ultimate Guideline]

Table of Contents

Choosing a topic. 2

So what’s a good topic Visual Arts Extended Topic. 2

How to write a Visual Arts Extended Essay [2022 Ultimate Guideline]. 4

Introduction. 4

Methodology. 4

Historiography analysis. 6

Arguments. 6

Conclusion. 7

Presentation and formatting. 8

Criterion for marking the Extended Essay. 9

Criteria A: The Introduction. 9

Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding. 9

Criterion C: Critical thinking. 9

Criterion D: Structure and Layout. 10

Criterion E: Engagement. 10

Five tips for writing a better-extended essay in IV Visual Arts. 10

Use Current Sources. 10

Use Contemporary Sources. 11

Contact Organizations such as Museums. 11

Stick to the Topic on Visual Arts. 11

Edit and proofread your essay. 11

Visual Arts Extended Essay topics. 12

Visual Arts Extended Essay

The visual arts extended essay includes architecture, design, and contemporary visual culture. It’s important to note that film is not included in this essay, so ensure that you remember this when selecting your topic.

Additionally, your institution might provide materials or instructions on writing this essay. Ensure you follow these instructions, visit your supervisor frequently, and review your progress. Remember that utilizing various ideas, works of art, challenges, and creations will greatly enhance the study of artists.

You don’t necessarily need to be a student of the visual arts for this, but your personal experience as one will undoubtedly add some weight to this essay. The emphasis of this article should be on the evidence of learning. Ultimately, the essay’s goal is to let the reader see your process of learning, analyzing, and studying the subject you’ve selected.

Choosing a topic

Make sure you have access to the necessary research when deciding what kind of topic or issue you will write about in your essay.

This is a crucial step in the planning process since it ensures that everything you need to write the essay will be available to you when you begin.

Speaking with artists who are specialists is a fantastic approach to truly deepen your investigation of the subject or topic you’ve selected. Additionally, this will make your essay much more intriguing and engaging because you’ll have primary sources, interact with people, and visit galleries or people’s studios to view their art.

This distinguishes your essay from others as its unique which makes it more interesting.

When it comes to extremely specific knowledge, Google is very constrained.

When talking about two artists there should be a framework through which you see these two artists. As a result, there ought to be both parallels and distinctions. Some contrast ought to exist. Consider whether they use a wide range of materials for their art or originate from different historical periods.

Alternatively, they may have explored related subjects from totally different angles. Maybe their cultures are very distinct from one another. There should be a connection between the two artists you choose and some distinction.

Last but not least, avoid topics that have already been well explored. There are admirers of Banksy, French impressionists, and Andy Warhol. These artists enjoy enormous popularity. Many individuals have written about them.

You’ll have to work much more to write an essay that is truly original and unique if you decide to choose any of these folks, which will be very difficult to do.

So what’s a good topic Visual Arts Extended Topic

It needs to be something you are enthusiastic about. You’ll spend much time on your essay, just as you would with your body of work in the visual arts. Make sure it’s something about which you are truly fascinated and want to learn more about.

Finding a topic pertinent to your field of work is the goal. If you had two artists, would there be any theories, thoughts, or other things you wanted to look into further regarding the two artists?

The most crucial step is creating a clear question because it will assist the center of the entire concept at the outset.

For instance, if you are considering an artist’s work but are unsure what to focus on or which components of their ideas you are considering. The greatest artists always have multiple layers. It is acceptable to take a cursory look at the work of people you like.

But make sure their work has enough layers and complexity for you to analyze in a 4000-word essay. Ensure the artists, architects, and other professionals you’re considering have a body of work that can stand up to scrutiny. Don’t solely rely on your personal preference.

Please avoid questions that ask you to quantify something, as this is extremely vital and relevant when creating the questions. So, for instance, a question such as; how much has an architect influenced modern architecture?

You need to ask yourself how you will measure, illustrate, or talk about the extent to which he has implemented something. How much someone implements something cannot be demonstrated.

Therefore, it’s preferable to phrase the question differently. ‘What impact has he had on modern architects?’ That is a more pertinent query. Although it’s still too nebulous, it’s a start. So perhaps at that point, you can specify the type of contemporary art you’re referring to.

You must formulate your question using reason along those lines. It must be detailed. 

You must demonstrate and document your knowledge, critical thinking, innovative and creative thinking, and ability to craft a compelling argument backed up by research.

Make no claims that you cannot support. At this time, you are not regarded as a subject-matter authority. It would help if you wrote something like ‘according to so and so…’.

You can locate someone who has committed their entire life to research a subject using their words, arguments, or conclusions to back up your own. That is the main focus. This is not a piece of writing about your opinions or what you enjoy and find objectionable.

Another point I want to make is that the research should concentrate on your subject and the visual arts. Feminism, for instance, has a history and a place in the visual arts. It advances and develops on its own. It would help if you considered using that to bolster your points. This is suitable since you are examining a particular subject because you are examining the particular things that are especially relevant to the visual arts. 

Another important subject is plagiarism. This occurs when you use content and fail to indicate the source. Ensure that you attribute it to the source if you use information or even an image. 

Introduction

Ask a thoughtful question. Learning how to frame a scientific question properly is difficult, particularly so early in your academic career as high school.

However, given that the IB curriculum emphasizes helping students improve their inquiry skills, four years of International Baccalaureate (IB) instruction should have equipped you with the tools you need to formulate a good question.

Discuss your difficulties with your professors and fellow students and receive their opinions.

Now, consider the following advice:

a) a) Within the field of interest, what are you most curious about learning more? Do you have any queries or believe you need additional information on the topic you are keen to know more about? Is there a subject that interests you that you may use to guide your future career while you plan for university programs?

b) b) Once you have settled on a particular topic you are interested in learning more about, conduct a fast search to check if the historical literature has already offered a sufficient response. Conduct a short and quick assessment of history textbooks and research the secondary literature on Google Scholar to find out what’s already been known about this problem.

• Ascertain whether the studied sources provide a precise, reliable, and valid answer to the question. Do you think, for example, that the secondary sources and the textbook sufficiently handled the issue? Are there any areas of knowledge that need more research? Are there any biases or misrepresentations in the primary and secondary sources that would have lowered the credibility of the response, given that your research question might shed some light on?
• Create a question that could guide your further research and analysis of this topic if you identify a need for extra investigation due to knowledge gaps in the literature or questionable sources for the solutions provided. Summarize your work 

The opening paragraph of a successful extended essay should discuss how skillfully the question was crafted and why it is important. Show the examiner what is already known about the subject in the body of published studies and what fresh understanding and information your question will add to the canon of historical writing.

Remember to provide due credit to any primary or secondary materials (textbooks, Google Scholar articles, etc.) you utilized to investigate the state of knowledge on the subject.

Methodology

Make a scientific strategy to answer your query. After the question has been adequately answered in an extended essay, the author’s approach to responding to the question must be discussed.

You must outline your process so that the examiners may perform a similar search and get the same results to assess your findings’ validity.

This is an important stage in science to ensure the reliability of your findings. Here are some guidelines to assist you in creating the methodology:

Ask about the trustworthy sources that deal with the topic of your inquiry. You might consult a university librarian, a local public library, or even one of the history teachers for help with this stage.

Create a list of the scholars with the best reputations and the works they published on the subject you are interested in. Identify each scholar and then explain why their name or the name of their text is an important source for your investigation.

Use Google Scholar to look through every paper written by a scholar that tries to address the question. You will have to cite your search phrases in your extended essay, so maintain a record of them.

After that, download a text that is relevant to your query. If you go to a public or academic library, you can read the books without paying anything.

List the resources you have found and indicate beside each one why it is important to your inquiry.

To come up with the answer to your question, decide if you need to consult any primary sources, such as a government document, journalistic accounts of the events, official interviews held in front of a public audience, and first-person accounts of the actions by historians or regular people, etc.

Search for these resources online, at your neighborhood library, or in a library at a university. Create a list of the materials you’ve found and explain why each one is important to your investigation next to each one.

Briefly describe how you searched for your resources inside the body of your lengthy essay.

Your approach ought to be stated scientifically, making it easy to replicate so that the examiner feels confident they could reproduce your study and find the same sources.

Don’t forget to describe how you found the trustworthy secondary sources, the Google Scholar search phrases you used to find additional secondary sources, and the procedures you followed to find primary sources.

Historiography analysis

A thorough analysis of your sources should follow the description of your method. Assess any prejudice, distortion, etc., by analyzing the historiography of both secondary and primary sources.

Summarize the findings of the historiography analysis in the extended essay’s body, citing significant secondary and primary sources especially to show their reliability as sources.

It is a smart idea to incorporate an in-depth analysis of the crucial sources (either primary or secondary) that you will rely on most to address your point, in addition to the thorough survey historiography analysis of all your bases.

Continue your historiography study by providing a thorough response to the question you presented in part 1.

a. Critically respond to the query you made in part 1 with several supporting points.

To begin, thoroughly read your main and secondary sources. After reading each source, summarize the most important details it contains for you, answering your question on a separate piece of paper.

Using this technique, you may begin to lay out what the other source has to say regarding the subject you have posed. Using this method will also make it simple to properly reference primary and secondary sources when developing your history extended essay ideas.

b When you evaluate each source, consider the importance and worth of the data it provides based on your assessment of its lack of bias and distortion in the historiography research you conducted in section 3.

c. After that, utilize the information you have acquired from the sources, look for long-term trends uniformly true across all the bases, and indicate a suitable answer to your question.

The scientific phrase for this is identifying the signal among the noise. The motion for the right response can be detected within the background noise of lies (distortions, biases, gaps in knowledge, etc.).

Once you have determined the pattern of sincere responses to your question, develop the main arguments that will help offset the explanation in point 1.

For each argument point, cite the relevant primary or secondary sources you used to support your position.

The essay’s body should be organized as a rational argument. This can take many forms depending on the essay’s topic. Still, as the idea is developed, it should be apparent to the reader what pertinent evidence has been found, where/how it has been found, and how it supports the argument. 

Subheadings within the main body of the essay will aid the reader in understanding the argument in some disciplines, such as the sciences (and will also help the student to keep on track). Students must structure their extended essays according to the accepted standards of the subject they are registered for.

Once the essay’s main body is complete, it is possible to finalize the introduction (which tells the reader what to expect) and the conclusion (which says what has been achieved, including notes of any limitations and questions that have not been resolved). 

Appendices, footnotes/endnotes, and other information crucial to the argument should not be used as supporting information. The examiner won’t read notes and appendices. Therefore an essay that isn’t finished on its own will be graded lower overall.

Each argument point should be written in a paragraph and included in the body of your lengthy essay.

• Condense your main points of contention in a thesis statement. The thesis statement needs to be expressed as follows: I’ll argue that XYZ is the right response to the query based on Arguments 1, 2, 3, and so on.
• Based on how many arguments you have created). The body of your extended essay should contain both the thesis statement and an introduction to the question you addressed in point 1.
• In scientific studies, the thesis statement serves as the reader’s road map while they read the article. It outlines how you will persuade the reader that the proposed solution is accurate by giving a methodical and trustworthy description of how you concluded (the methodology) and what credible evidence you have found to support the truthfulness of the response (historiography analysis) (the argument points).

In conclusion, you should restate your thesis statement, which was stated following your part 1 introduction to the question.

If there were any shortcomings in your approach, knowledge, or understanding of the topic that kept you from providing a complete response in the lengthy essay, explain them in your conclusion and explain why.

This will make it easier for other researchers to revise and build on your response. Additionally, it will help the examiner understand how honest your answer is.

Additionally, it demonstrates to the examiner that you are a competent, experienced researcher dedicated to the scientific goal of acquiring precise knowledge and conscious of their shortcomings in communicating that knowledge.

In your conclusion, make recommendations for further study on your question. What else about your inquiry and response do we need to know? What else should future research be focused on?

This demonstrates to the examiner that you are aware of your affiliation with the scientific community, and that investigation is a team effort that necessitates understanding.

Explain how the knowledge presented in your lengthy essay may be applied to improve society in your conclusion.

What immediate steps can you take to promote enterprises, organizations, governments, industries, research, technology, etc., using the knowledge you have gained?

This will show that you are a socially responsible student interested in using science to enhance society.

Presentation and formatting.  

1. When you’re finished with your extended essay, ensure it is presented and easy to read.

2. On the cover page, include the title, author’s name, and word count. Think about including a concise visual representation of your subject.

3. Add a page number to each page.

4. Describe the document’s contents. 

5. Write an abstract of approximately 250 words that includes your thesis statement, your question, why it is important and relevant, a description of your methodology, a synopsis of your historical research, a report of your points of disagreement, and a summary of your findings. Add the abstract after the table of contents.

Give the segments of the extended essay—including the abstract, introduction, mythology section, historiography section, arguments section, and conclusion, references, and appendix— clear titles to make them easier to read.

Criterion for marking the Extended Essay.

Criteria a: the introduction.

Once you understand what the essay genuinely attempted to do, it becomes much simpler to write the introduction. The introduction should briefly describe what you’re attempting to accomplish.

You’re stating what you’ll be looking at or exploring. Then, throughout the essay’s main body, you create a highly logical, distinct argument that is not confusing.

Show that you can think critically and know that this is not science. It’s not something that you have to prove. You learn more about it by researching it and by looking into it. And that is the main idea behind your essay.

Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding  

This section emphasizes the setting of your argument. So, do you consider how the argument is situated inside an external or influential context? Do you consider the variables your argument is being affected by?

Consequently, if you’re writing a paper on a fashion designer, make sure you comprehend or are clear about the design’s context.

Criterion C: Critical thinking

This is about the research analysis discussion on evaluation. The inquiry, analysis, discussion, and evaluation of ideas are all parts of critical thinking. The examiners will evaluate the coherence of your vocabulary, composition, and argument.

Once more, there must be evidence of knowledge with cultural studies, art history, and art criticism. As a result, your grade will also depend on how plainly and precisely your argument relates to the question.

Ask yourself, “Am I concentrating on addressing the question?” Because it’s so simple to stray from the subject, always check your work after finishing it to see whether you’ve answered the question and concentrated solely on the relevant facts.

To examine and study your subject, you may conduct interviews with artists, do site visits, or go to an artist’s studio, exhibition, museum, or other location. Naturally, anything you use to back up your case, including written research, articles, books you read, films you view, and so on, should come from a reliable source.

Ensure that anyone you quote or use to support your point is a good source. Avoid mentioning biographies as much as possible. Biographies should be used as a reference but not as the main subject of your essay because they are a presentation of facts, and you cannot challenge anything in them.

Criterion D: Structure and Layout

The technical aspect is where you need to ensure your essay has followed the rules, that you are checking all the boxes, that your structure and format are correct, and that there is no vagueness when formatting your essay.

This concerns the specifics of how you are addressing the written work, the essay. In some respects, it’s the easiest portion of the essay because you’re essentially presenting it in a method that is spelled out for you.

Citations and other elements like following a citation style guide or giving acknowledgment to the author, owner, or creator of the work you’re discussing are undoubtedly part of this requirement.

Again, talk to your supervisor if you are experiencing difficulties doing this. You can style your essay using a website called EasyBib, but you should first seek assistance from your supervisor.

Criterion E: Engagement

This is where the RPPF comes into play. It is essentially a form you will fill out while writing your essay, and you will be writing assessments on it based on the three primary sessions you have had with your mentor.

These will constitute your reflections and evaluate your concentration, level of interest in the subject, and level of insight you will offer to the composition of this essay. It will also consider your originality, uniqueness, and how maturely you will approach the task. The form has to include each of these items.

You concentrate on aspects like the tactics you employed when drafting your reflections. How did you approach doing certain things in your experience? How effective were these tactics for you? What problems did you encounter? Please describe how you overcame them.

Also, indicate the questions that have come up as a result of your research and your alternative approaches. 

Five tips for writing a better-extended essay in IV Visual Arts

Here are 10 Tips on how to write a good Geography Extended Essay and Common Mistakes You Should Avoid.

Use Current Sources

The first advice is to try to use current sources or current resources. Verify that the sources and references are up to date. Use sources that are not older than ten years as things change quickly, especially in the field of art. Since the debates are still going on, you must set your paper in the present.

Use Contemporary Sources

If you’re looking at a certain artist or an art movement in which the creators were prominent in the past, set them in a modern setting. It would be preferable if you could modernize that artist or art trend.

How do you go about that? Perhaps by conducting interviews with modern artists influenced by that individual or that art movement? They will be capable of speaking from a modern perspective and perhaps touch upon the legacies, influences, or effects that these artists or this art movement had on the current conversation surrounding art. 

Contact Organizations such as Museums

Don’t be afraid to get in touch with organizations like museums. You have absolutely nothing to lose by getting in touch with such organizations and requesting more details; they might be able to give you access to primary sources.

Ask an employee for an interview. Again, contact those individuals; most of them will be pleased to respond to you as a student as long as you present yourself well.

If you want information from the Louvre in Paris, consider reaching out to the one in Abu Dhabi. Because it’s considerably smaller and newer, there’s a good chance that people there are eager to connect with others worldwide to publicize the gallery.

Try smaller institutions instead of a large ones like the Louvre in Paris because you might have more luck doing so.

Stick to the Topic on Visual Arts

Ensure your essay relates to the visual arts and not any other discipline. The topic is about visual art, not something else, like film or history. For instance, to discuss a historical picture, focus on the art rather than the actual event it portrays.

The same holds for film studies; for instance, while studying a director, be cautious since film studies depend on visuals. While those visuals can be evaluated, you can easily find yourself discussing the film and how filmmakers generate or use pictures rather than the visual arts. It would be best if you struck the correct balance. 

Edit and proofread your essay

This is a very important step as it refines and eliminates any errors and mistakes. Use a read-aloud app to check your extended essay; you’ll be amazed at how much more understandable your arguments become.

To determine if your extended essay is successful or not, particularly in its initial draft, this is a great tool. 

Visual Arts Extended Essay topics

Topic Cultural influences on Pablo Picasso’s work

Research question Picasso: individual genius or cultural thief?

Approach An investigation of the extent to which selected images in Picasso’s work may have been appropriated from other cultural sources.

Topic   The influence of Renaissance architecture in Montreal

Research question Cathédrale Marie-Reine-du-Monde, Montreal: a replica of St Peter’s, Rome?

Approach An original investigation into the stylistic similarities in the architecture of these two buildings.

Topic   The impact of immigration on an artist’s work

Research question What is the impact of transcultural experience on the art of Gu Xiong?

Approach An investigation into the effects of migration on a selected artist’s work.

Topic: Cultural influences on Pablo Picasso’s work

Research question: Picasso: individual genius or cultural thief?

Approach: An investigation of the extent to which selected images in Picasso’s work may have been appropriated from other cultural sources.

Topic: The influence of Renaissance architecture in Montreal

Research question: Cathédrale Marie-Reine-du-Monde, Montreal: a replica of St Peter’s, Rome?

Approach: An original investigation into the stylistic similarities in the architecture of these two buildings.

Topic: The impact of immigration on an artist’s work

Research question: What is the impact of transcultural experience on the art of Gu Xiong?

Approach: An investigation into the effects of migration on a selected artist’s work.

• How were Sir Richard Rogers and Renzo Piano influenced by the Maison de Verre designed by Pierre Chareau in their design and construction of the Centre Pompidou in Paris? 
• To what extent is Grady Gerbracht’s assertion that the role of an artist is: “to become the embodiment of a person, a citizen, a metaphor” particularly embodied in interactive artworks? 
• A comparison of Darren Aronofsky’s works “Black Swan” and “Requiem for a Dream.” How does Aronofsky successfully employ film techniques and devices to engage the audience?
• The painter, the model and the viewer: an investigation into the iconography and use of art elements in Velazquez’s original “Las Meninas” and Pablo Picasso’s first variation of the work. 
• The London of John Nash: To what extent do the technical and aesthetic elements of John Nash’s master plan continue to provide functionality within the infrastructure of central London. 
• Painting the head: a narrative journey into Basquiat’s universe. Why has Basquiat’s head of 1981 become his most celebrated painting? 
• How has Gunmar Asplund contributed to the architectural landscape of Stockholm in the 20th century? 
• The sculptures of Dennis Oppenheim: a conceptual genius or attention-seeking examples of contemporary artwork in modern societies. 
• Is the use of shock tactics a legitimate contemporary strategy?
• To what extent has the design of Federation square been a success?
• Can Luc Tuymans be classified as a political painter?
• Borrowing Culture: The Appropriateness of Picasso’s Use of the Mbangu Mask in ‘Les Demoiselles d’Avignon’

Here is a list of Visual Arts Extended Essay Topics .

We also have an article on tips and guidelines for writing a Visual Arts Extended Essay , we really give you some nice pieces of advice.

Read more on other extended essays on our blog if visual arts is not something you are passionate about.

You can also read samples on the visual arts extended essay from IB.

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Extended Essay Essentials

• Individuals and Societies
• Interdisciplinary
• Mathematics

Contact Your Librarian

Trish Pearson

she/her/hers

[email protected]

What's in this guide?

In this guide, you will find essential documents for writing the EE in the following subjects

Visual Arts

Essential documents include Subject Specific Guidelines and Sample Essays for each course.

Introduction to the EE in Arts

From the Guide:

An extended essay (EE) in the arts gives students an opportunity to undertake an in-depth investigation into a topic within an arts subject of particular interest to them.

The EE must demonstrate in-depth understanding of the subject matter studied. This should be shown in the form of:

• a coherent analysis and interpretation of their chosen area in relation to a posed research question
• the testing and validation of the research and consideration of its effect on the practice of the investigated area of the arts
• development and exploration of its effect on the practice of the investigated area of the arts
• development and exploration in a disciplined and imaginative way of an area of study specifically appropriate to the curriculum area chosen
• a link to a practical dimension.

The research outcome should always include a link with a practical dimension. Where relevant and possible, students may wish to consult practitioners and professionals, such as performers, directors, researchers, writers, designers, painters, sculptors, composers or critics; or they may wish to visit theatres, galleries, museums and arts centres.

For a longer general overview of an arts-related EE, see The arts: An introduction . This document contains information on:

• Topic Selection
• Literature Review
• The Research Question
• Research Methods
• A Framework for the EE in Arts

• Film Subject Specific Guidelines - A short guide on how to write the Film EE
• Score Reports - See what students did (and did not do well) in these short reports from the chief examiner.
• Sample Papers - Read sample EE papers provided by IB and see how they scored.
• Film Subject Specific Guidelines
• 2018 Film Score Report
• 2021 Film Score Report

• Music Subject Specific Guidelines - A short guide on how to write the Music EE
• Sample Papers  - Read sample EE papers provided by the IB and see how they scored.
• Music Subject Specific Guidelines
• 2018 Music Score Report
• 2021 Music Score Report

• Film Subject Specific Guidelines  - A short guide on how to write the Theatre EE
• Score Reports  - See what students did (and did not do) well in these short reports from the chief examiner.
• Sample Papers  - Read sample EE papers provided by IB and see how they scored.
• Theatre Subject Specific Guidelines
• 2018 Theater Score Report
• 2021 Theater Score Report

• Visual Arts Subject Specific Guidelines  - A short guide on how to write the Visual Arts EE
• Sample Papers  - Read sample EE papers provided by IB and see how they scored
• Visual Arts Subject Specific Guidelines
• 2018 Visual Arts Score Reports
• 2021 Visual Arts Score Report
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• Next: Individuals and Societies >>
• Last Updated: Mar 26, 2024 1:52 PM
• URL: https://uwcchina.libguides.com/extendedessayessentials

50+ Visual Arts Extended Essay Topics for IBDP

Table of contents

• Writing Metier

Finally, this is our exploration of Visual Arts Extended Essay topics. As you set out on this creative path, you’re about to enter a world where art meets identity, emotion intertwines with nature, and spirituality dances with performance. 

Suppose you’re fascinated by how artists express their cultural roots, intrigued by the emotional power of expressionism, or curious about the role of art in fashion. In that case, this article is your gateway to many inspiring topics. 

With the help of IB experts from Writing Metier, we’ll venture into the realms of art conservation, examine the interplay between art and performance, and even delve into the ethical considerations of art restoration. 

Art and Identity

• Cultural Identity : Exploring how artists express cultural identity through their work.
• Personal Identity : Investigating the role of art in shaping and reflecting personal identity.
• National Identity : Analyzing how art is used to construct and communicate national identity.

Art and Emotion

• Expressionism : Exploring how expressionist artists convey emotion through their work.
• Art Therapy : Investigating the therapeutic effects of art on mental health.
• The Sublime in Art : Analyzing the concept of the sublime and its emotional impact in art.

Art and Nature

• Land Art : Exploring the relationship between land art and environmentalism.
• Botanical Illustration : Investigating the scientific and artistic aspects of botanical illustration.
• Animal Representation : Analyzing the symbolic and aesthetic representation of animals in art.

Art and Spirituality

• Sacred Art : Exploring the role of art in religious and spiritual practices.
• Mysticism in Art : Investigating the influence of mysticism on artistic expression.
• Art and Meditation : Analyzing the use of art as a meditative and contemplative tool.

Art and Performance

• Performance Art : Exploring the evolution and significance of performance art.
• Theatre Design : Investigating the role of visual art in theatre production and design.
• Dance and Visual Art : Analyzing the intersection of dance and visual art in interdisciplinary performances.

Art and Fashion

• Fashion Illustration : Exploring the artistic techniques and impact of fashion illustration.
• Art and Haute Couture : Investigating the relationship between art and high fashion design.
• Street Art and Fashion : Analyzing the influence of street art on contemporary fashion trends.

Art Conservation and Restoration

• Art Conservation Techniques : Exploring the methods and challenges of art conservation.
• Restoration Ethics : Investigating ethical considerations in the restoration of artworks.
• Preserving Digital Art : Analyzing the strategies for preserving and archiving digital art.

These categories offer a broader range of topics for an Extended Essay in Visual Arts, allowing students to delve into various aspects of the subject and contribute to the understanding of complex artistic issues.

Each category offers a unique lens through which to view the vibrant tapestry of visual arts. 

So, grab your palette and brush (or pen and paper) as we set the stage for a journey into the heart of artistic exploration.

IB VA EE Topic Ideas and RQs

Our team has carefully compiled a diverse range of ideas spanning various artistic mediums, cultural contexts, and conceptual frameworks. In this block, you will find three topics and research questions for each category for an IB Visual Arts Extended Essay:

 In “Art and Identity,” we’ll dive into the fascinating ways artists express themselves and their cultural, personal, and national identities through their art. It’s all about exploring how art can be a mirror reflecting who we are and where we come from.

Cultural Identity

• Research Question: How have contemporary Australian artists incorporated indigenous art elements to express cultural identity?
• Research Question: How did African American artists during the Harlem Renaissance use art to express and shape their cultural identity?
• Research Question: How does calligraphy function as a tool for expressing cultural identity in Islamic art?

Personal Identity

• Research Question: How does Frida Kahlo use self-portraiture to explore and express her personal identity?
• Research Question: How do émigré artists represent the impact of migration on their personal identity through their artwork?
• Research Question: How do contemporary artists use visual art to explore and express gender identity?

National Identity

• Research Question: How do Canadian landscape paintings reflect and shape the national identity of Canada?
• Research Question: How has postcolonial art contributed to the construction of national identity in India?
• Research Question: How did propaganda art in Soviet Russia shape and reflect national identity during the 20th century?

Here, we’ll uncover how artists channel their feelings into their creations , from the raw intensity of expressionism to the healing power of art therapy. Let’s delve into the emotional depths of art and its impact on our hearts and minds.

Expressionism

• Research Question: How does Edvard Munch’s “The Scream” embody the principles of expressionism and convey emotion?
• Research Question: How do expressionist artists use color to convey emotion in their paintings?
• Research Question: How does Egon Schiele’s portraiture reflect expressionist themes and the human psyche?

Art Therapy

• Research Question: How effective is art therapy as a treatment for anxiety disorders compared to traditional therapies?
• Research Question: How does art therapy facilitate trauma recovery and emotional healing in children?
• Research Question: How does art therapy contribute to enhancing mental well-being and reducing feelings of loneliness in elderly populations?

The Sublime in Art

• Research Question: How do Romantic landscape paintings, such as those by Caspar David Friedrich, depict the concept of the sublime?
• Research Question: How do contemporary digital art installations create a sense of the sublime for viewers?
• Research Question: How does the concept of the sublime influence the emotional impact of Mark Rothko’s color field paintings?

In “Art and Nature,” we’re going to explore the beautiful interplay between the natural world and artistic expression.

From land art that harmonizes with the environment to botanical illustrations that capture nature’s details, this section is all about art’s green side.

• Research Question: What is the environmental impact of Robert Smithson’s “Spiral Jetty,” and how does it interact with its natural surroundings?
• Research Question: How has land art been used as a tool to promote environmental awareness and conservation?
• Research Question: How does Andy Goldsworthy’s use of site-specific natural materials in his sculptures enhance the viewer’s connection to the environment?

Botanical Illustration

• Research Question: How did botanical illustration in the 19th century contribute to scientific knowledge and artistic expression?
• Research Question: How have botanical illustration techniques evolved from traditional media to digital media, and what are the implications for scientific accuracy and artistic expression?
• Research Question: How can contemporary botanical illustration be used as a tool for environmental education and promoting biodiversity conservation?

Animal Representation

• Research Question: How are animals symbolically represented in indigenous art, and what cultural meanings are associated with them?
• Research Question: How has wildlife photography contributed to conservation efforts and public awareness of endangered species?
• Research Question: How does anthropomorphism in children’s book illustrations influence children’s perceptions of animals and nature?

Here, we’ll delve into the sacred side of art, exploring how it intersects with religious practices, mystical experiences, and meditative contemplation. It’s a journey into the soulful dimensions of artistic expression.

• Research Question: How does iconography function in Christian sacred art to convey theological concepts and spiritual experiences?
• Research Question: How are Hindu deities represented in Indian temple architecture, and what is their significance in religious practices?
• Research Question: How is art used in Buddhist meditation practices to enhance spiritual experiences and understanding?

Mysticism in Art

• Research Question: How are mystical experiences represented in medieval art, and what do they reveal about the spiritual beliefs of the time?
• Research Question: How do Kandinsky’s artworks reflect his interest in theosophy and mystical concepts?
• Research Question: How is Sufi symbolism expressed in Persian miniature paintings, and what does it convey about Sufi mystical teachings?

Art and Meditation

• Research Question: How are mandalas used in art therapy and meditation to promote mental well-being and spiritual growth?
• Research Question: How does the practice of Zen calligraphy serve as a form of artistic expression and mindfulness meditation?
• Research Question: What are the therapeutic effects of engaging in the creative process of art-making on mindfulness and stress reduction?

“Art and Performance” is where we’ll dive into the dynamic world of performance art, theatre design , and the interplay between dance and visual art. Get ready to discover how artists bring their visions to life on stage and beyond.

Performance Art

• Research Question: How has performance art evolved in the 20th century, and what are the key themes and innovations that have shaped its development?
• Research Question: How has performance art been used as a medium for feminist expression and activism?
• Research Question: How does audience participation impact the meaning and experience of performance art?

Theatre Design

• Research Question: How does set design influence audience experience and immersion in theatrical productions?
• Research Question: How is digital technology integrated into contemporary theatre design, and what are its implications for storytelling and audience engagement?
• Research Question: What are the sustainable practices being implemented in theatre design and production, and how do they impact environmental sustainability?

Dance and Visual Art

• Research Question: How do collaborations between choreographers and visual artists influence the creation and interpretation of dance performances?
• Research Question: How do visual elements such as costumes, lighting, and set design contribute to the aesthetics and narrative of contemporary dance?
• Research Question: How has dance been represented in visual art throughout history, and what does this reveal about the cultural significance of dance?

In this section, we’ll explore the stylish intersection of art and fashion, from the creativity of fashion illustration to the haute couture runway.

>via GIPHY

Let’s unravel the threads that weave together the worlds of art and fashion.

Fashion Illustration

• Research Question: How have fashion illustration techniques evolved from traditional methods to digital media, and what are the implications for the fashion industry?
• Topic: The Role of Fashion Illustration in Brand Identity
• Research Question: How does fashion illustration contribute to the development and communication of brand identity in the fashion industry?
• Research Question: How has the rise of social media platforms influenced the style, visibility, and relevance of fashion illustration?

Art and Haute Couture

• Research Question: How have specific art movements, such as Art Deco or Surrealism, influenced the design and aesthetics of haute couture collections?
• Research Question: How do collaborations between contemporary artists and fashion designers impact the creative process and final designs in haute couture?
• Research Question: How does haute couture contribute to the preservation and innovation of traditional artisanal techniques in fashion?

Street Art and Fashion

• Research Question: How has street art influenced urban fashion trends and the development of streetwear brands?
• Research Question: How is graffiti used in fashion design and branding to convey urban identity and cultural messages?
• Research Question: How do collaborations between street artists and fashion brands impact the artistic value and commercial appeal of fashion collections?

“Art Conservation and Restoration” is all about the science and ethics behind preserving art for future generations. We’ll dive into the techniques used to conserve and restore artworks, and the challenges faced in keeping art alive and authentic.

Art Conservation Techniques

• Research Question: What are the challenges in conserving contemporary art, and what innovative techniques are being used to address them?
• Research Question: How is technology being used to enhance art conservation practices and extend the lifespan of artworks?
• Research Question: What ethical considerations arise in the conservation of cultural heritage, and how are they addressed by conservators?

Restoration Ethics

• Research Question: What are the ethical debates surrounding the restoration of damaged artworks, and how do different approaches impact the integrity of the original piece?
• Research Question: How does the restoration process affect the authenticity and historical value of paintings?
• Research Question: What ethical dilemmas arise in the restoration of religious artifacts, and how are they navigated by conservators and religious communities?

Preserving Digital Art

• Research Question: What are the challenges in preserving digital art, and what strategies are being developed to ensure its longevity?
• Research Question: How are museums adapting their conservation practices to accommodate and preserve digital media art?
• Research Question: What methods are being used to archive and document digital artworks to maintain their accessibility and integrity over time?

All these topics and research questions are designed to inspire IB Visual Arts students to engage in meaningful and manageable research projects that contribute to their understanding of various aspects of art while meeting the IB Extended Essay criteria.

Final Thoughts

At WritingMetier, we firmly believe that the Visual Arts extended essay is a transformative experience that nurtures critical thinking, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for the boundless realms of artistic expression. 

As you peruse through this list, allow your curiosity and passion to lead the way, and remember that the true essence of the extended essay lies in your ability to articulate your unique artistic vision and contribute to the ever-evolving discourse within the Visual Arts community. 

If you need further assistance in finding the perfect topic or even require a custom-written IB Visual Arts extended essay, WritingMetier is here to help . Our team of experts can guide you through the process, ensuring your extended essay is well-researched, engaging, and aligns with all the IB’s requirements .

So, let your creativity flow, and set out on this artistic voyage with confidence and enthusiasm. Your journey through the visual arts is bound to be as colorful and dynamic as the subjects you choose to explore. 

Free topic suggestions

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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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Extended Essay

• Mathematics
• Studies in language and literature
• World studies extended essay
• Visual arts
• Language Acquisition

Visual Arts: Sample A

Visual arts: sample b, visual arts: sample c.

• Last Updated: Oct 14, 2021 3:31 PM
• URL: https://keystoneacademy-cn.libguides.com/extended-essay

This comprehensive and unique Extended Essay (EE) guide aims to help you and your tutors learn more about the EE in detail in just one webpage. By reading this guide, you will learn about the steps you need to take, your responsibilities, and the  common pitfalls and mistakes . We have written this by consulting dozens of documents. Enjoy!

What is Extended Essay in IB Curriculum?

The extended essay is a  compulsory and externally assessed  component of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, in which candidates are required to present a formal piece of academic writing with a 4,000-word limit and a reflection form with a 500-word limit. The writing process occurs within a span of 2 years and about 40 hours of work (different schools follow different models). Students are guided by an assigned supervisor (generally a teacher in the school).

AIM AND SIGNIFICANCE

The Extended Essay is not the same format and style as an Internal Assessment (IA). Therefore, you should adopt a different strategy for writing your EE. It must be based firmly on published research and, if applicable, your own experiments, while skillfully integrating and evaluating the information you collect and extract from the references and your own interpretive/experimental work.

PERMITTED SUBJECTS

•   Studies in language and literature
• Language acquisition, including classical languages
• Individuals and societies: Business management; Economics; Geography; Global politics; History; Information technology in a global society (ITGS); Philosophy; Psychology; Social and cultural anthropology; World religions
• The Sciences: Biology; Chemistry; Computer science; Design technology; Physics; Sports, exercise, and health science
• Mathematics
• The arts: Dance; Film; Music; Theatre; Visual arts
• Interdisciplinary subjects: Environmental systems and societies; Literature and performance; World studies

The Research and Writing Process

1. Choose an approved DP subject.

2.   Choose a topic in consultation with your supervisor (first meeting and RPPF entry).

3. Undertake preparatory reading.

4. Formulate a well-focused RQ.

5. Plan the research and writing process.

6 . Structure the essay (i.e., outline headings, main arguments).

7.   Carry out the research and writing with feedback from your supervisor (second meeting and RPPF entry).

8. Conduct your viva voce with your supervisor (third meeting).

9. Complete the final entry in your RPPF.

Structure of the Essay

The final piece of writing is required to contain the following elements:

1. Title Page

    – The title page should include: 

• The title of the essay
• Your research question
• The subject the essay is registered under.
• The word count

2. Contents Page

3. Introduction

    – The introduction should include:

• The focus of the essay
• The scope and methodology of the research
• An indication of the line of argument

4. Body of the Essay (research, analysis, discussion, and evaluation)

   a. The body of the essay should be presented in the form of a reasoned argument.

   b. Many candidates will include sub-headings to organize and present the evidence supporting the essay’s line of argument.

5. Conclusion The conclusion must contain: i. A final, summative statement/conclusion that clearly answers the RQ ii. Any limitations or questions that have not been solved (can act as extensions for future research)

6. References and bibliography

The most common citation styles are MLA, APA, and Chicago.  Visit this website for guidance. In consultation with your supervisor, use the style that is most appropriate for your subject.

HERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER:

1: In the final version of your essay, neither your name nor the name of your school should appear on any page.

2: While the word limit is 4,000, the following are NOT included in the word count: contents page, tables, equations/formula/calculations, citations/references, bibliography, footnotes, maps, charts, diagrams, annotated illustrations and headers.

Developing a research question (RQ)

Developing a clear and focused RQ is one of the most important stages of your entire writing process. All students, regardless of the subject, must present their RQ as a question . It’s important to remember that your research question will very likely evolve and develop as you move through each stage of the research and writing process—as you continue to discover new insights into your research, you will likely find that your RQ needs to reflect and adapt to these insights. You will likely begin with a preconceived notion of the question you intend to answer but then discover eventually what question you are actually answering. This is a natural facet of being reflective about and responsive to your essay’s transformation.

Recommended steps for crafting your RQ:

1. Choose a subject and topic of interest. 

2. Carry out the preliminary reading while considering the following questions:

• What has already been written about this topic?
• Is there a wide range of sources available (not just website links)?
• Is there a range of views or perspectives on the topic (i.e., is it debatable?)

3. Consider the emerging questions by focusing on the keywords “to what extent”, “how”, and “why” (these words are often present in the RQ). 

4. Evaluate the question by asking yourself:

• Will my RQ be specific enough to allow for an exploration with the limited number of words and time available?
• Does my RQ allow for analysis, evaluation, and the development of a reasoned argument?

5. Consider the possible direction(s) and outcomes of your research by asking yourself:

• Based on the evidence available, what is my main argument?
• How will I answer my RQ?

Here are some examples of RQs that are unclear, too broad, or unarguable (URQ) vs clear, focused, and debatable RQs capable of in-depth and focused research and analysis (CRQ):

URQ: What is the history of Chinese theatre?

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

URQ: How important is chlorophyll to plant life?

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

URQ: Is Bitcoin the future?

CRQ:  Will Crypto Replace Gold As The Go-To Inflation Hedge In 2025?

As the examples above indicate, a well-formulated RQ should be specific enough to provide scope for analysis and a reasoned argument within a 4000-word essay.

Additionally, you must directly answer your RQ as a final summary statement in your conclusion. For example:

RQ1: To what extent did the policies and actions of Joseph Stalin improve women’s standard of living?

Final Summary Statement1: Stalin’s policies and actions did not improve women’s standard of living based on the two criteria, liberty and equality, as stated in the introduction.

RQ2: How does Barbara Streisand’s 1983 filmic transformation of Issac Bashevis Singer’s short story ‘Yentl, the Yeshiva Boy’ demonstrate the differing cultural perspectives of modern American Jewry from traditional Yiddishkeit?

Final summary statement2: Streisand’s interpretation of Yentl gives Yentl the opportunity to have a future as a woman and restart her life in a new world. The dichotomy of Streisand and Singer’s Jewish experiences frames this transformation: Singer’s Yiddish status reflected in Yentl’s “outsider”-ness, and Streisand’s ability to maintain her Jewish identity alongside her Hollywood “insider” success—both translating into Yentl’s ability to start a new life by assimilating her womanhood with her desire for study.

You should state your RQ in the introduction verbatim and refer to it throughout the essay to ensure that your analysis is consistently on task.

The Title vs. The Research Question

The title page must contain both a title and a research question (RQ). The title differs from the RQ in that it should be a clear statement summarizing the research, which gives an indication of the research topic. It must not be phrased as an RQ. Here are some examples:

Title: An exploration of evil as a motivating force in drama

RQ: How effectively does Christopher Marlowe present his view of evil in Dr. Faustus?

Title: The feasibility of wireless networking in a city-wide context

RQ: To what extent is wireless networking a feasible alternative to cabled networking within a whole-city context?

Title: An exploration of an aspect of the narrative voice in Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita

RQ: How far and to what effect does Humbert’s narration of the erotic vignettes change over the course of Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita?

Title: The effects of transnational corporations on urban areas

RQ: To what extent has the influx of technological and financial transnational corporations in the Grand Canal Dock area given rise to disparities between this and the Irishtown-Ringsend area?

Title: Comparative study of availability of public services in Districts of Warsaw

RQ: What is the pattern of availability of public services, measured by access to healthcare, education and public transport in the districts of Warsaw, and does this pattern correlate  with the average prices of real-estate properties?

Title:  An analysis of J.L. Mackie’s refutal of Alvin Plantinga’s Free Will Defence

RQ: To what extent has J.L. Mackie refuted Alvin Plantinga’s Free Will Defence ?

Title: Prediction and investigation of the time required to completely drain a cylindrical tank filled with water

RQ: What is the relationship between the height of water in a cylindrical tank and the time needed to completely drain the tank?

Title: The Mathematics of Musical Consonance

RQ: Why are some Musical Intervals More Consonant than Others?

Title: Assessing government intervention to reduce negative externalities of car use in Moscow

RQ: How effective has state-owned Moscow Metro’s pricing strategy been in reducing the negative externalities of car use in the city?

Title: Calculating the reaction between methyl azide and propyne, with and without homogeneous catalysts

RQ: Can we gain insight on how the rate of the reaction between methyl azide and propyne differs with and without a homogeneous catalyst?

Academic Honesty & Effective Referencing

It is critical that the extended essay reflect the principles of academic honesty; the precise sources of quotations, ideas, and images must be referenced (either using in-text parenthetical citations or numbered footnotes), and a bibliography must be included.

*Inaccurate referencing will be viewed as academic misconduct and will be investigated by the IBO. Inaccurate referencing will be viewed as academic misconduct and will be investigated by the IBO. Plagiarism can result in a failing condition for the EE and thus the entire diploma. *

1. Bibliography 

A bibliography—with each item listed alphabetically—is found at the end of the essay before any appendices you might include (appendices are not required). Separating your primary and secondary sources is recommended in some subjects.

2. In-Text Citations

In addition to a bibliography, you must also include in-text parenthetical citations and/or footnotes to show the specific places in the essay where you either quoted or paraphrased each source listed in the bibliography.

Extended Essay Assessment Criteria

The Extended Essay is assessed out of 34 marks; here are the 5 specific criteria that contribute to your score:

Criterion A: Focus and method (maximum mark: 6)

This criterion focuses on the development of the topic, RQ, and methodology. According to IBO, to achieve full marks in this criterion, candidates must ensure that:

1. The topic is communicated accurately and effectively.

    a. A title is present.     b. The purpose and focus of the research are clear and explicitly outlined in the introduction.     c. There is an explanation of WHY the topic is worthy of investigation.

2. The research question (RQ) is clearly stated and focused.

 a. It is clearly stated, focused, and allows for in-depth investigation and evaluation.

3. Methodology of the research is complete.

a. An appropriate AND sufficient range of sources is used.

“Appropriate” refers to using sources that align with the academic standards for the subject of concern. That does not include popular magazines or newspapers for science essays!

       Example) For a biology essay, it would be expected to include more scientific reports, but in a history essay, secondary and primary sources should be used more often instead.

“Sufficient” refers to the amount of each type of source that should be used.

      Ex) In an economics EE, it would not be sufficient to use textbooks only; you should include reports and data based on specific case studies. In a literature or music EE, your secondary sources should include a combination of monographs (published books) as well as a range of peer-reviewed journal articles.

EEs in the sciences should discuss the theory behind the techniques and methods they have used and why they chose them to demonstrate their understanding of the science. They should use correct units and a correct number of significant figures. You should write your methodology in a way that others could replicate it.

EEs in the humanities should explain how the arguments voiced among the main secondary sources inform your own individual interpretation/line of argument. Be careful not to make your EE into a mere survey of what others have already said—you need to explain how the main critics you are using either support, qualify, or refute your own position regarding the primary source(s).

Criterion B: Knowledge and understanding (maximum mark: 6)

This criterion assesses the extent to which the essay uses appropriate terminology and concepts specific to the subject. According to IBO, to achieve full marks in this criterion, candidates must ensure that:

1. Knowledge and understanding are excellent.

  • There is a demonstration of relevant selection and application of a wide range of sources. If a range of sources has not been used, the students should justify choosing the limited selection.

  • The context of the research is relevant and accurate.

2. Use of terminology and concepts is good.

• Understanding is demonstrated through appropriate subject-specific terminology. 

         Ex) In an economics essay, using terminology such as “subsidies”, “negative externality”, “welfare loss”, etc. In a literature essay, using terminology such as “representation”, “transformation”, “symbolism”, etc.

Poor selection of reliable references and/or lack of effective use of sources, especially in the discussion, is one of the most common problems that leads students to receive lower scores. Using too many quotations from the references instead of integrating them selectively and strategically into their discussions is another put-off for examiners.

In science EEs, consistent terminology—including symbols, variables, units, scientific notations, uncertainties, and annotated diagrams—is vital to getting a high mark in this criterion. 

In humanities EEs, ensuring a consistent differentiation between the interpretations among the secondary critics, whether in paraphrase or embedded quotes, and your own argumentative through-line is the foundation for your success in Criterion B.

Criterion C: Critical thinking (maximum mark: 12)

This criterion is the most important criterion and assesses the extent to which critical and analytical thinking skills have been applied to evaluate the chosen research question. According to IBO, to achieve full marks in this criterion, candidates must ensure that:

1. The research is excellent.

   a. Research undertaken is focused on the research question.

   b. The research is sufficient enough to allow the examiner to understand the topic and analysis.

2. Analysis is excellent.

    a. The analysis of the research is effective and focused on the research question.

    b. All analysis is supported by evidence.

3. Discussion/evaluation is excellent.

a. A reasoned argument is formulated from the research.

b. The argument is well-structured and coherent, demonstrating evidence of critical thinking.

c. The conclusion is supported by the evidence and analysis.

In science EEs, if students are using their own practical methods of experimentation, they not only need to explain the reasons for choosing this specific method but also to demonstrate awareness of alternative techniques/methodologies and how these may have affected the findings. 

In humanities EEs, students should follow the ‘Four Is of Evidence’ in each body paragraph after the topic sentence: Introduction of evidence, Integration of evidence, Interpretation(s) of evidence, and Implication(s) of evidence.

Losing focus on the research question often leads students toward writing a descriptive essay rather than an analytical and critical one, especially in English A.

In their conclusion, students should assess the limitations of their work and the areas that could be improved, changed, or built upon. It is not a summary of the whole text but a synthesis of it. In science EEs, experimental errors are inevitable; students should explain their significance and the possibility of avoiding or correcting them either in future works or in the current EE. In humanities EEs, conclusions offer an opportunity to explore the global relevance or impact of the analysis.

Criterion D: Presentation (maximum mark: 4)

This criterion assesses the extent to which the structure of the essay allows for effective communication and whether it follows the standard format expected for academic writing. According to IBO, to achieve full marks in this criterion, candidates must ensure that:

1. Presentation is good.

    a. Structure: structure of the essay is compatible with the expected conventions of the research paper and its subject.

      Example: In a history essay, the section “Background Information” may be required.

   b. The EE’s layout —title page, contents page, introduction, the body of essay, conclusion, references & bibliography—is present (see  “ Structure of Essay ” section for more details).

    c. The appropriate bibliography format is used consistently (see “ Academic honesty & Effective Referencing ” section for more details).

    d. Word limit: The EE has not exceeded the maximum word limit of 4,000. It should be noted that examiners are instructed to ignore any parts of the essay that exceed 4,000 words . Some students tend to put some material in the appendix that belongs in the body; examiners penalize students who attempt to evade the word limit this way.

Here are some reasons why students receive lower scores in Criterion D: • splitting a table over two pages • ending a page with a heading • breaking an equation into two lines • not using appropriate mathematical notations • not integrating/embedding quotations properly • exceeding 4000 words • putting essential or irrelevant/unnecessary material in the appendices • not labeling or captioning figures/diagrams/data tables/graphs/images

Criterion E: Engagement (maximum mark: 6)

This criterion assesses the student’s engagement with the research process and their ability to reflect upon the successes and challenges they encountered.

Examiners determine this mark by looking at the whole essay in connection with the three student reflections (500 words maximum) and the supervisor’s comments in the  Reflections on planning and progress form (RPPF)  (see “Formal R eflection Sessions ” below for more details).

According to IBO, to achieve full marks in this criterion, candidates must ensure that:

1. Engagement is excellent.

    a. The student has evaluated decisions made throughout the process.

         Example: Explaining why they chose the topic and specific primary and/or secondary sources.

    b. Improvements and alternative pathways are suggested based on the challenges experienced.

    c. There is evidence of intellectual initiative and a creative approach to the essay’s planning and structure.

    d. The student’s own unique voice, rather than the supervisor’s and tutors’, is present in the reflections.

         Example: Explaining in their reflections HOW they became interested in their topic. 

Assessment Grade Descriptors

All extended essays are externally assessed by an examiner appointed by the IB, and every student will receive a grade from A-E based on their total score out of 34.

A — work of an excellent standard. B — work of a good standard. C — work of a satisfactory standard. D — work of a mediocre standard. E — work of an elementary standard.

The mark boundaries changes every year depending on candidates’ performance; for example, in 2018, the mark boundaries were:

Grade A: 27-34

Grade B: 21-26

Grade C: 14-20

Grade D: 7-13

Grade E: 0-6

* Note: A student must receive a D or higher to be awarded the Diploma.

Researcher’s Reflection Space (RRS)

The Researcher’s Reflections Space (RRS) can be compared to a journal, where students record reflections on what they are reading, writing and thinking. While the IB will not be able to see what was written in the RRS, it is highly recommended that students take advantage of this space as it will help them track their ideas and progress. Many supervisors will also encourage the use of the RRS as it facilitates the formal reflection sessions by helping students remember details of the various stages throughout their writing process. Some supervisors may even mandate students to share excerpts from their RRS to stimulate meaningful discussion and authenticate the student’s writing. Some recommended tools are  Avidnote ,  Evernote ,  bubbl.us ,  Miro ,  Stormboard ,  Managebac .

Check-in Sessions

Check-in sessions are informal and often consist of an occasional 10–15-minute meeting with the supervisor to clarify a question or solve a problem. However, in rare cases, it may also be longer, involving discussion on a specific issue, such as getting access to resources. Ultimately, the frequency and length of the check-in sessions are dependent on the supervisor’s schedule and the amount of help that the student needs and they have no effect on the final assessment of the essay.

Formal Reflection Sessions:

All students are required to have three formal meeting sessions (first, interim, and viva voce) with their supervisor. After each session, the student is required to write a short reflection on the writing process and what was discussed during the meeting, as well as the challenges they encountered, and the important decisions and changes they made. These reflections must be recorded on the RPPF, and the maximum limit for all three reflections is 500 words  ( see below for an example ).

The meetings typically last 20-30 minutes, and students should be prepared to actively engage in dialogue and answer any questions posed by their supervisor. The meetings happen at different times based on the internal deadlines set by each individual school.

The purpose of the reflections is to:    ● Help you with the development of your essay, from planning to research to writing.    ● Allow you to re-examine the rationale behind your actions and choices, and to decide whether changes are necessary.    ● Allow your supervisors to confirm the authenticity of the your writing.

The most successful candidates will produce a reflection that shows a high level of engagement with the learning process, highlighting challenges they may have experienced and showing evidence of intellectual and personal growth.

It is important to complete the reflections with effort because they contribute to Criteria E: Engagement  ( see above for detailed criteria description ).

Here is a summary of what typically happens in each reflection session:

2. The Interim Reflection Session

The interim reflection session is a continuation of the discussion from the initial session. Topics discussed in this session often include: ● feedback on a section of sustained writing from your draft essay to ensure you are meeting basic academic research and writing standards ● whether you are using an appropriate range of reputable sources ● whether you are referencing/citing your sources accurately ● whether you are critically evaluating the reliability and origin of your sources

At the end of this session, you should have a clearly refined RQ, a sufficient range of appropriate sources, and a viable argument.

– Presentation of a Draft Version of Essay

Supervisors are allowed to view and comment on one completed draft of the essay prior to the final version and the final reflection session. However, supervisors are limited in the level of support that they can give; they are allowed to add open-ended comments, but they will not correct spelling/punctuation, rewrite any parts of the text, proofread the essay for errors, or correct citations.

After commenting on one full draft, the next version of the essay must be the final version that is submitted to IBO. It must not contain any comments from anyone, and once you submit the final version to your supervisor and discussed it in the final reflection session, you are not permitted to make any other amendments.

3. The Final Reflection Session (viva voce)

• The final reflection session, also known as the viva voce, is a mandatory interview between you and your supervisor. It is viewed as a celebration of the completion of the essay and an opportunity for you to reflect on the skills you acquired through the process. Questions your supervisor will pose in the viva voce might include:
• What was the most valuable skill that you learned?
• What is one thing that you would do differently next time?
• What is one piece of advice you would offer to future IB students?

The viva voce also provides an opportunity for your supervisor to authenticate your ideas and sources—and for you to reflect on the successes and difficulties you encountered.

You should avoid writing RPPFs that are either too short or too long. A well-written RPPF will show your motivation for choosing the topic and your growth over the sessions. Students usually make the mistake of treating the RPPF like a diary and risk losing scores in Criterion E. EE examiners see the RPPF as a chance for students to reflect on the skills they have developed during the research and writing process and solidly show their motivation and growth during the three sessions.

An Example of an RPPF:

Below is an example of a well-written reflection by one of our tutors at Hack Your AP and IB Tutoring Service, who received an A on her final essay.

Warning: please do not attempt to copy any parts of the reflection shown below as they belong to individuals; the reflection is only meant to act as a guide and example.

(Feminism Under Joseph Stalin. RQ: To What Extent did the Policies and Actions of Joseph Stalin Improve Women’s Standard of Living?)

For my essay, I wanted to focus on the role woman played in society because I think gender analysis gives insight into the environment people were living under during different time periods. Aside from being interested in Russia’s history, I chose to focus on women during Stalin’s regime because with the rise of Stalinism and Communism, women’s lives changed. I narrowed my scope by focusing on policies implemented by Stalin and evaluating to what extent they improved women’s lives. I initially planned to focus on one group, like peasant women, but I realized this would give an incomplete outlook. After, I decided that I would focus on 3 categories: women in workforce, household, education because this will allow me to address women with different occupations in my essay. As I researched, the first challenge was that some sources gave conflicting information; going forward, I will utilize multiple sources for confirmation.

During my EE writing process, I had a difficult time balancing between the “right” amount of background information and evaluation. I found it hard choosing whether or not a piece of information should be included; however, my supervisor cleared my doubts by telling me to only include information that are important to the evaluation of my RQ. Another challenge I had was with sources: it was initially difficult evaluating the credibility of sources because I was solely commenting on the origin/author of the source. However, afterwards, I realized that reliability should be extended to the work itself and talking about how those limitations influence the topics of my discussion. Another big change I made mid-way through my paper was deciding to compare Stalin’s policies & actions with those of Vladimir Lenin. I started to realize that I had no “measurement” to say whether Stalin improved women’s lives— but by comparing Stalin with Lenin, 2 figures that had different outlooks towards women, I can clearly show how women’s lives changed drastically after Stalin took over.

Overall, I am very pleased with my final essay, and I was surprised by how fascinated I was with my topic! Throughout the process, I have learned valuable skills, including how to reference sources and find background information, that have helped me strengthen my researching skills. Another valuable skill I have gained is the ability to synthesize various pieces of information into a coherent argument. I learned that the process of research not only entails simply finding information, but also considering the weaknesses and strengths of the sources where the information came from. I think the biggest strength of my essay was that the purpose and structure of my essay remained clear throughout, which really helped me focus my paper and enabled me to distinguish between the kind of sources I needed. However, I think that if I were to write the essay again next time, I would choose to narrow down my research topic even more – perhaps only focusing on women in a specific group: this would allow for a more in-depth investigation.

The above reflection is well-written and shows evidence of personal engagement because:

   1. The student explains the reasons for choosing her topic & RQ.

       Ex) She finds gender analysis to be important to historical analysis, and she has always been interested in Russian history.

   2. The student explains the challenges that she encountered and how she resolved them.

      Ex) She had a difficult time deciding which information she should include, but at the end, sought help from her supervisor, who told her to only include information relevant to the analysis of her RQ.

   3. The student mentions changes that she made to her essays and explains WHY she did so.

     Ex) In the initial reflection, she planned on focusing on one group of women, but realized that this approach would give an incomplete outlook.

     Ex) In the interim reflection, she realized that she had no measuring criteria to evaluate whether Stalin’s policies improved women’s lives, so she decided to compare Stalin’s policies with those of Lenin.

   4. The student makes clear the skills that she learned from this process (evidence of intellectual and personal growth).

     a) She learned how to reference sources and find background information, which strengthened her research skills.

   5. The student reflects on the strengths AND weaknesses of her essay.

     Ex) The strength was that the purpose and structure of her essay remained clear. However, if she were to write the essay again, she would choose to narrow down her RQ further to allow for a more in-depth investigation.

The Role of External Mentors and tutors

According to IBO, ideally, students should write the Extended Essay only under the guidance of their supervisor; however, in circumstances that the school deems to be appropriate, students may seek the help of an external mentor (like a tutor). If this is the case, the external mentor must understand and  sign this letter.

Students are required to:

    1. Develop their own RQ. 

    2. Develop their own appropriate and ethical research methods

   3. Collect and process their own data.

   4. Show critical understanding of approaches used.

   5. Demonstrate academic integrity.

The external mentor must not:

   1. Provide the student with an RQ or focused topic 

   2. Provide ready-to-use techniques and protocols

   3. Provide advanced or extensive support

   4. Provide a ready-to-use data analysis tool

   5. Read, edit, or comment on any written work

If the external mentor and student do not follow any of the above regulations, it is considered malpractice and will be investigated by IBO.

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IB Extended Essay: Past Essays

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Check these CAREFULLY to be sure your topic fits with IB expectations!

• Language & literature (language A)
• Language acquisition (language B)
• Mathematics
• Visual Arts
• World Studies

Business Management

English a & b ee examples.

• English A EE Example
• English A EE Example 1
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• Econ Example 1
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Review Past Papers

• From the IB:  papers from other students and how they scored
• Renaissance Library Past Essays :  Links to all subject area examples

Music EE Examples

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Psychology EE Examples

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Chinese EE Examples

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Visual Arts EE Examples

• Visual Arts EE Example 1
• Visual Arts EE Example 2
• Visual Arts EE Example 3
• Visual Arts EE Example 4

Film EE Examples

• Film Example 1
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Chemistry EE Examples

• Chemistry EE Example

Biology EE Examples

• Biology EE Example
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Physics EE Examples

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Visual art - klee.

Study the assessment criteria for the Extended Essay before reading the example essay and RPPF that have been provided below. How would you apply the assessment criteria ? How many marks would you award the essay for Criteria A-D and the RPPF for Criterion E? Discuss your comments and marks with a colleague or classmate, before revealing the examiner's comments and marks below.

When writing about Visual Arts

There are a few points worth considering when writing an EE in Visual Arts. Take these into consideration when reading the following essay: 

• Be careful not to summarise secondary sources (i.e. history books on art).
• Focus on applying theories and ideas on art to particular artists.
• Avoid writing a biography on an artist.
• There should be evidence of critical analysis of primary sources (i.e. artwork).
• Try to come to a personal conclusion that is based on an orginial argument. 

An RPPF with examiner comments is also on this site here . In fact the RPPF that is annotated is the one from this essay. In brief, it is a rather mediocre RPPF , which could have scored much better with a few key changes. Learn from this student's mistakes, so that you do not have to make them on your RPPF . 

Extended Essay: Visual Arts

• Before You Start
• Business Management
• Language and Literature
• Visual Arts
• World Studies
• Developing a Research Question
• Structure of the Extended Essay
• Writing the Essay
• Citations/Sources/Academic Honesty
• Timelines and Materials
• Example Research Questions
• Supervisors

Visual Arts Overview

The EE topic may relate to an area of the Diploma Programme visual arts course, but students can also choose to explore other areas of the subject. Crucially, the topic must reflect their particular interest and enthusiasm within the visual arts.

Sources of ideas may include:

• the student’s own art-making processes and resolved pieces
• the student’s visual arts journal.

Topics to avoid

• A topic that a student can answer by summarizing general secondary sources, such as universal art history textbooks and encyclopedias.
• A topic that is likely to lead to an EE that is essentially narrative or descriptive in nature, such as one that covers many aspects of art history or particularly long periods of time.
• Biographical studies of artists—unless they address a specific research question so that the student can arrive at a particular, and preferably personal, conclusion.

Visual arts and other subjects

The topic must relate directly to the visual arts. Students may find that they need to submit their essay under another subject. For example:

• Essays on “green” architecture that focus on technology rather than esthetic considerations would be better submitted under environmental systems and societies.
• Essays about film that do not focus on the visual aspects probably belong under film studies.
• Visual Arts Subject Guide

Resources for Visual Arts

• Art for activism
• Examiner's Report for Visual Arts

Example Topics for Visual Arts

• Social/cultural concepts
• Art with a message
• Modern artists

Exemplar Papers in Visual Arts

• Graded score for Art B
• Graded score for Art C
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