ib extended essay examples environmental systems and societies

US IB Environmental Systems and Societies: ESS Extended Essay

• ESS Extended Essay
• Criterion Overview
• Criterion A: Focus and method
• Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding
• Criterion C: Critical thinking
• Criterion D: Presentation
• Criterion E: Engagement

B: Knowledge and understanding

This criterion assesses the extent to which the research relates to the subject area/discipline used to explore the research question; or in the case of the world studies extended essay, the issue addressed and the two disciplinary perspectives applied; and additionally, the way in which this knowledge and understanding is demonstrated through the use of appropriate terminology and concepts.

• Have you explained how your research question relates to a specific subject you selected for the extended essay?
• Have you used relevant terminology and concepts throughout your essay as they relate to your particular area of research?
• Is it clear that the sources you are using are relevant and appropriate to your research question?
• Do you have a range of sources, or have you only relied on one particular type, for example internet sources?
• Is there a reason why you might not have a range? Is this justified?

C: Critical thinking

This criterion assesses the extent to which critical thinking skills have been used to analyze and evaluate the research undertaken.

• Have you made links between your results and data collected and your research question?
• If you included data or information that is not directly related to your research question have you explained its importance?
• Are your conclusions supported by your data?
• If you found unexpected information or data have you discussed its importance?
• Have you provided a critical evaluation of the methods you selected?
• Have you considered the reliability of your sources (peer-reviewed journals, internet, and so on)?
• Have you mentioned and evaluated the significance of possible errors that may have occurred in your research?
• Are all your suggestions of errors or improvements relevant?
• Have you evaluated your research question?
• Have you compared your results or findings with any other sources?
• Is there an argument that is clear and easy to follow and directly linked to answering your research question, and which is supported by evidence?

D: Presentation

This criterion assesses the extent to which the presentation follows the standard format expected for academic writing and the extent to which this aids effective communication.

• Have you read and understood the presentation requirements of the extended essay?
• Have you chosen a font that will be easy for examiners to read on-screen?
• Is your essay double-spaced and size 12 font?
• Are the title and research question mentioned on the cover page?
• Are all pages numbered?
• Have you prepared a correct table of contents?
• Do the page numbers in the table of contents match the page numbers in the text?
• Is your essay subdivided into correct sub-sections, if this is applicable to the subject?
• Are all figures and tables properly numbered and labelled?
• Does your bibliography contain only the sources cited in the text?
• Did you use the same reference system throughout the essay?
• Does the essay have less than 4,000 words?
• Is all the material presented in the appendices relevant and necessary?
• Have you proofread the text for spelling or grammar errors?

E. Engagement

This criterion assesses the student’s engagement with their research focus and the research process. It will be applied by the examiner at the end of the assessment of the essay, after considering the students RPPF.

• Have you demonstrated your engagement with your research topic and the research process?
• Have you highlighted challenges you faced and how you overcame them?
• Will the examiner get a sense of your intellectual and skills development?
• Will the examiner get a sense of your creativity and intellectual initiative?
• Will the examiner get a sense of how you responded to actions and ideas in the research process?
• IB ESS Extended Essay Guide
• World Studies Extended Essay Guide
• World Studies
• Example A: Turtle Conservation
• Example A: Marks
• Example B: Economics of Wolves
• Example B Marks
• Example A: Wildlife Trafficking in China

Using the systems approach

The systems approach is a central theme in ESS. The essay should include an attempt to model, at least partially, the system or systems in question.

The term “model” in this context includes, for example:

• mathematical formulas
• graphical representations
• flow diagrams

Students should use  ESS terminology , where appropriate.

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what extent are different age groups in rzeszów, poland aware of the impact of the consumption of bottled water, to what extent was the hoy no circula (hnc) program effective in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and consumption of ozone-depleting substances (odss) in mexico in 1986-2006 in comparison to the us without the hnc, how does changing the mass of waste coffee grounds, (0 to 8g), used as an organic fertiliser, added to soil affect the height of allium fistulosum plants over a 6 week growing period, to what extent do primary colors correlate to the height growth of cress seeds cultivated hydroponically, to what extent does age affect the environmental value systems of the population on air pollution in manama, bahrain since 2020, to what extent does convenience impact the proper management of recyclable and organic waste for students and faculty at e** school, to what extent is recycling behavior of vilnius residents with different incomes influenced by the bottle deposit system, to what extent does the level of education influence the consumer choice of 3 types of lightbulbs in lima, peru , to what extent does the pollution of heavy metals in a freshwater habitat affect asian clams (corbicula javanica) species, what effects will sea level rise brought on by climate change have on the royal bengal tiger population (panthera tigris tigris) at the sundarbans reserve forest (the largest contiguous mangrove forest in the world), which is adjacent to the bay of bengal and is situated in the southwest of bangladesh between the rivers baleswar and harinbanga., how do different amounts of dissolved nitrates affect the population size of decomposers in a freshwater lake in north america over a period of 90 months, to what extent does estrogen (ethinylestradiol) and progesterone (drospirenone) waste from female birth control affect plant growth, exploring the impacts of the intensity of human activity and land use on plant biodiversity, across different uses of land, in snowshill, uk, to what extent does different time of day relate to water quality in the tagus river estuary in lisbon, portugal, what impact does age have on frequency, and environmental impact of food waste disposal methods, how much does gender affect someone’s ecological footprint in bahrain in 2022, to what extent are gdp per capita and total fertility rates correlated, to what extent does age affect the environmental value systems of the vietnamese population in hanoi - the capital of vietnam, to what extent do the socio-economic factors affect the generation of waste in mumbai.

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Excellent Extended Essays - Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS)

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2016-2025 IB Extended Essay: Sample IB EE's

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

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• To What Extent was the Establishment of the State of Israel in Palestine in 1948, Influenced by Theodor Herzl?

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• To What Extent do the Core Scriptural Teachings of Sikhism Permit them to Marry Outside of the Religion?
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•   Journeys in the Inferno and The Wonderful Wizard of Oz   
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•   Cryptography and Rubik's Cube: An Investigative Analysis   
•   Pascal's Triangle 

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•   How Does the work of Yinka Shonibare Illustrate the Changing Role of African Art in a Global Society? 
• Ballet's Accessibility and Costumes Affecting Society's View of the Art Form
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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
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IB ESS Extended Essay Topic Ideas

As a seasoned IB writer, I’ve seen firsthand how a well-chosen extended essay topic can impact a student’s academic writing. The IB Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) essay is a unique opportunity to investigate issues at the intersection of natural systems and human societies. From my experience, launching your essay with a solid topic is crucial for success.

What Is IB Environmental Systems and Societies?

IB Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) is a unique interdisciplinary course offered within the IB Diploma Programme. It is designed for students to research the complex and dynamic relationships between environmental systems and societies, combining the sciences and humanities elements to promote a holistic understanding of environmental issues. 

The ESS course covers a wide range of topics that reflect the interdisciplinary nature of the subject. These include:

• Ecosystems and ecology.
• Natural cycles and resources.
• Human populations, carrying capacity, and resource use.
• Environmental value systems.
• Environmental impact assessments.

ESS is distinctive because it integrates methodologies from both the sciences and the humanities. This approach allows students to research the scientific aspects of environmental systems (like ecology, climate change, and conservation) alongside societal impacts and responses (such as ethics, policy, and economics). The goal is to promote understanding of how scientific and human contexts interact and influence one another.

IB ESS Extended Essay Topics and Research Questions

IB Environmental Systems and Societies offers students a unique opportunity to research and engage with the world’s most pressing environmental issues:

• Urban Heat Islands in Tokyo . How do urban heat islands affect local climate conditions and community health in Tokyo, Japan?
• Plastic Pollution in the Caribbean Sea . How does plastic waste impact marine biodiversity in the Caribbean Sea?
• Water Resource Management in California . How effectively are California’s water resource management strategies addressing the state’s water scarcity issues?
• Renewable Energy Adoption in Sub-Saharan Africa . What are the social and environmental impacts of adopting solar energy in rural areas of Sub-Saharan Africa?
• Deforestation Effects in the Amazon Rainforest . How has deforestation in the Amazon Rainforest impacted local ecosystems and the indigenous populations?
• Air Quality and Public Health in Beijing . How does air quality in Beijing correlate with public health outcomes among its urban populations?
• Sustainable Agriculture Practices in India . How effective are traditional sustainable agriculture practices in improving rural India’s soil health and crop yields?
• I mpact of Ecotourism in Costa Rica . What are the positive and negative environmental impacts of ecotourism in Costa Rica?
• Waste Management Systems in Sweden . How have Sweden’s innovative waste management policies affected reduction and recycling rates?
• Coral Reef Degradation in the Great Barrier Reef . What are the primary factors contributing to coral reef degradation in the Great Barrier Reef?
• Green Building Benefits in Vancouver . What are the environmental and economic benefits of green building practices in Vancouver, Canada?
• Environmental Impacts of Consumerism in the United States . What are the environmental impacts of increased consumerism in the United States?
• Biodiversity in Urban Settings of New York City . How does urban biodiversity contribute to ecological sustainability in New York City?
• Pesticides and Pollinators in California’s Central Valley . What has pesticide use’s impact on pollinator populations in California’s Central Valley?
• Climate Change and Migration in the Maldives . How is climate change influencing migration patterns in the Maldives?
• Coastal Erosion in the Maldives . How is coastal erosion impacting the physical and economic landscape of the Maldives?
• Air Pollution Control in Mexico City . What have been the most effective strategies for controlling air pollution in Mexico City, and how have they impacted public health?
• Water Conservation Techniques in Israel . What are Israel’s most effective water conservation techniques, and how have they contributed to agricultural sustainability?
• The Effects of Urban Sprawl in Atlanta . How has urban sprawl in Atlanta affected local biodiversity and the prevalence of urban green spaces?
• Oil Spills and Their Impact on Alaskan Wildlife . What are the long-term environmental impacts of oil spills on wildlife in Alaska?
• Renewable Energy Policy in Germany . How have renewable energy policies in Germany affected the country’s carbon footprint and energy security?
• Deforestation and Climate Change in Indonesia . How is deforestation contributing to climate change and habitat loss in Indonesia?
• Sustainable Fishing Practices in Japan . How effective are Japan’s sustainable fishing practices in preserving marine biodiversity?
• Impact of Drought on Agricultural Practices in California . What impact has the recent drought had on California’s agricultural practices and water usage?
• Environmental Policy Effectiveness in the European Union . How effectively have the European Union’s environmental policies reduced industrial pollution?
• Ecological Restoration Efforts in the Florida Everglades . What have been the outcomes of ecological restoration efforts in the Florida Everglades?
• Impact of Tourism on Coral Reefs in Egypt . What impact has tourism had on the health and sustainability of coral reefs in Egypt?
• Green Urban Planning in Singapore . How has green urban planning contributed to environmental sustainability in Singapore?
• Effects of Agricultural Runoff in the Mississippi River . How does agricultural runoff affect water quality and aquatic life in the Mississippi River?
• Urban Waste Management and Recycling in Seoul . How effective are Seoul’s waste management and recycling programs in managing solid waste?
• The Impact of Solar Farms on Desert Ecosystems in Nevada . How do large-scale solar farms in Nevada impact the local desert ecosystems and biodiversity?
• Sustainable Urban Development in Copenhagen . How has Copenhagen’s approach to sustainable urban development influenced its environmental footprint and quality of urban life?
• Acid Rain Effects on Forests in the Northeastern United States . How does acid rain affect forest ecosystems in the northeastern United States, particularly focusing on soil chemistry and tree health?
• The Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Managing Australia’s Bushfires . How can indigenous knowledge systems contribute to managing and preventing bushfires in Australia?
• Impact of Plastic Bag Bans in Kenya . What environmental and social impacts have resulted from implementing plastic bag bans in Kenya?
• Impact of Renewable Energy on Rural Economies in India . How has the introduction of renewable energy projects transformed rural economies in India?
• Conservation Strategies for the Siberian Tiger . What conservation strategies have been most effective in increasing the population of the Siberian tiger?
• The Effect of Urbanization on Local Bird Species in Londo n. How has urbanization in London affected the diversity and population of local bird species?
• Water Quality and Public Health in the Ganges River Basin . How does water pollution in the Ganges River basin impact public health in surrounding communities?
• Carbon Sequestration Potential of Tropical Rainforests . What role do tropical rainforests play in carbon sequestration, and how can this contribute to global climate change mitigation?
• The Economics of Recycling in the European Union . What are the economic benefits and challenges of recycling programs in the European Union?
• The Role of Wetlands in Natural Disaster Mitigation . How do wetlands contribute to natural disaster mitigation, particularly for flood control?
• Impact of Agricultural Pesticides on Groundwater Quality . How do agricultural pesticides impact groundwater quality in the Midwest United States?
• Noise Pollution and Cardiovascular Diseases in Urban Areas . Is there a correlation between noise pollution in urban areas and the incidence of cardiovascular diseases?
• The Sustainability of Biofuel Production in Brazil . How sustainable is biofuel production in Brazil, considering environmental and social impacts?
• Wildlife Conservation Efforts in the Serengeti . What are the key factors determining the success of wildlife conservation efforts in the Serengeti?
• The Impact of Climate Change on Small Island Developing States . How does climate change affect Small Island Developing States’ economic and environmental stability?
• The Influence of Public Policies on Urban Air Quality . How have public policies influenced urban air quality improvements in Tokyo?
• Effects of Overfishing in the Mediterranean Sea . What are the ecological and economic impacts of overfishing in the Mediterranean Sea?
• The Environmental Cost of Cryptocurrency Mining . What environmental costs are associated with cryptocurrency mining, particularly regarding energy consumption?
• The Role of Green Spaces in Mental Health in Cities . How do urban green spaces influence mental health outcomes among city dwellers?
• Impact of Fast Fashion on Water Resources . What is the impact of the fast fashion industry on global water resources?
• The Effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas in the Philippines . How effective are marine protected areas in preserving marine biodiversity in the Philippines?
• Urban Farming and Food Security in New York City . How does urban farming contribute to food security in New York City?
• The Impact of Electric Vehicles on Urban Air Quality . What has been the impact of increasing electric vehicle usage on urban air quality in California?

These topics provide a rich context for detailed investigation, ensuring the research is grounded in real-world settings and issues.

How to Choose Your IB ESS Extended Essay Topic

Here, we will walk through how to pick a promising IB ESS Extended Essay topic that interests you and meets the IB criteria.

1. Understand the Subject’s Scope

First, familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and scope of the IB ESS course. This interdisciplinary subject combines elements of ecology, environmental science, and sociology, examining the dynamic interactions between human systems and natural environments. Understanding the breadth and depth of the subject will help you identify areas that particularly interest you and align with the course goals.

2. Reflect on Your Interests and Passions

Reflect on what aspects of environmental systems and societies truly capture your interest. Is it the scientific analysis of ecosystems, the socio-economic factors influencing environmental policies, or perhaps the ethical considerations of environmental management? Identifying a topic that intrigues you is vital, as it will keep you motivated throughout the research and writing process.

3. Consider the Feasibility and Resources

Evaluate the feasibility of your potential topics. It involves considering the availability of primary and secondary sources and data. For example, if you choose a highly specific topic like “The impact of microplastic pollution on coral reefs in Bali,” ensure that you can access the necessary scientific studies, databases, or fieldwork opportunities. Similarly, if your topic requires interviews or surveys, consider your ability to access relevant communities or experts.

4. Consult with Your Supervisor

Your IB ESS teacher or supervisor can offer invaluable advice on your topic choice. They can provide insights into the complexity and depth required for an extended essay, suggest resources, and help refine your topic to ensure it meets IB criteria. Make sure to approach them with a few ideas so they can guide you on which one might be the most successful.

5. Scope Out Originality and Personal Angle

Try to find a unique angle or personal perspective on a well-trodden topic. Originality can come from taking a conventional subject and asking a new question or integrating case studies or data that have not been widely analyzed. This approach makes your essay stand out and makes the research process more engaging.

6. Align Your Topic with IB ESS Themes

Ensure that your topic aligns with the themes and learning outcomes of the IB ESS course. Topics should be interdisciplinary to some extent, incorporating both environmental and societal aspects. For instance, researching how a local policy on waste management has influenced recycling behaviors and impacted local ecosystems could be a robust topic that integrates societal practices and environmental outcomes.

7. Draft a Preliminary Research Question

Once you have a topic in mind, formulate a preliminary research question. It will help you focus your thoughts and research. The question should be specific enough to be answerable within the essay’s word count but broad enough for comprehensive analysis and discussion.

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So, are you ready to start your research? Use your school’s resources, talk to your advisers about your ideas, and dig into a topic that interests and challenges you. Choosing an appropriate topic is the first step in writing an impressive and insightful Extended Essay. Also, our IB experts are always by your side if you need help with Extended Essay writing .

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World Studies Extended Essay: Examples

• Introduction
• Getting Started
• Global Themes
• Interdisciplinary Research
• What Makes Up a "Discipline"?
• Evaluating the Insights of Academic Disciplines
• Multiple Forms of Integration
• Evaluating Your Essay
• Common Stumbling Blocks
• Examples of Globally Conscious Students

Examples of interdisciplinary research

Interdisciplinary research projects can vary extensively in content and extent of material covered.  Here are two examples:

WSEE Example 1 - IB Subjects: ESS (Environmental systems and societies) and Economics WSEE Example 2 - IB Subjects: Economics, Biology, Political science

WSEE Example 1 - IB Subjects: ESS (Environmental systems and societies) and Economics

A student assesses the effectiveness and viability of the environmentally friendly method of "cleaner production". He focused on a specific ceramic tile manufacturer in China, placing this local case in the context of global environmental sustainability. He used concepts from environmental systems and societies such as “end-of-pipe protection” and “cyclonic separation”, as well as tools such as a “water balance flow diagram” and an “analysis of pollution or inefficiency” to assess the potential environmental advantages of adopting a cleaner production approach. He also incorporated the financial tool of “net present value” (NPV) to appraise the viability of a long-term project such as pollution control. Through his study, he convincingly demonstrated that cleaner production makes environmental as well as financial sense for companies.

WSEE Example 2 - IB Subjects: Economics, Biology, Political Science

A student studied the economic and cultural causes of infant malnutrition in the rural district of Maharashtra and considered the public health policies needed to tackle the problem. Her wide-ranging study incorporated knowledge and concepts from a range of disciplines including economics, the humanities, biology and political science. She developed a complex explanation of some of the causes and effects of malnutrition in this Indian state, taking into          account the interconnection between low maternal literacy levels, decreased government health spending and poor child nutrition when considering elevated levels of child malnutrition. She then applied this understanding to come up with policy recommendations.

WSEE Documents

WSEE Subject Guide and worksheets

• IB EE Subject Guide - World Studies, 2018
• Making Meaningful Connections Use this worksheet to help you think about your research plans: the concepts or methods your will be using, the global topic you're focusing on, and the academic disciplines you will be using.

RRS (Researcher's Reflection Space)

• Sample Prompts for the WSEE RRS What should you write in your RRS? Use these questions and prompts to help you think through the various stages of the research for your WSEE: your initial ideas, your thoughts and reflections during the process, and your conclusions.
• RRS Example B - World Studies

RPPF (Researcher's Planning and Progress Form) examples:

• RPPF Example 5 - World Studies
• RPPF Example 7 - World Studies

IB Extended Essay Guide & Timeline

Check the Extended Essay guide for specific guidance on completing the various steps in the research and writing process of the EE, and  these documents:

• << Previous: Interdisciplinary Research
• Next: Academic Lenses >>
• Last Updated: Jul 12, 2024 4:49 PM
• URL: https://libguides.westsoundacademy.org/wsee

All You Need To Know Environmental Systems & Societies | IB ESS

ESS is an exciting interdisciplinary subject option for students studying for their IB Diploma

Biology & Environmental Systems and Societies

14 February 2024

• 1 . What is IB ESS and why should you study Environmental Systems and Societies?
• 2 . What is IB ESS?
• 3 . Why study IB Environmental Systems and Societies?
• 4 . IB ESS topics
• 5 . IB ESS FAQs
• 6 . A final word from me

What is IB ESS and why should you study Environmental Systems and Societies?

I am an educator with extensive experience in science and environmental studies, and IB ESS has been a key focus of my teaching career. With a degree in Biological Sciences from Oxford University and an MSc in Wildlife Biology and Conservation, I've spent many years learning about the complex interplay between human societies and environmental systems. Through my roles as an IB ESS teacher and private tutor, I've seen how much students can gain from studying this fascinating interdisciplinary subject. In this article, we'll explore what IB ESS actually is, the topics it covers, and why it's an exciting choice for students aiming to understand and tackle the environmental challenges we are currently facing.

What is IB ESS?

The question I was most commonly asked as an IB ESS teacher was: what actually is ESS? You may have heard that ESS, which stands for “Environmental Systems and Societies”, is just a combination of Biology and Geography. While this is true in some aspects, ESS actually represents a unique blend of topics ranging from science to geography, politics, economics, and even ethics. This IB subject offers students a holistic perspective on environmental issues, meaning that you will learn how human societies are deeply interconnected with natural systems, such as our climate and various ecosystems.

In my previous role as Head of Department for ESS at St Edward’s School in Oxford, I was often asked by students and their parents for a brief summary of this subject. Simply put, ESS provides a comprehensive understanding of environmental systems and the societal factors influencing them. It equips students with the tools to analyse complex environmental issues through scientific inquiry as well as a range of socio-economic lenses. At its core, ESS aims to help you have informed and personal viewpoints about environmental issues by developing your critical thinking and practical investigation skills. If you want to find out more, I recommend that you go ahead and read the IB ESS subject brief.

Why study IB Environmental Systems and Societies?

The next question students would ask me was: why should I study IB ESS? I would say that not only is Environmental Systems and Societies a really interesting subject, but that it also opens doors to many opportunities, as it has great practical applications beyond the classroom. Let me give you a few compelling reasons to consider making ESS part of your IB curriculum:

Interdisciplinary Approach

ESS breaks away from traditional subject discipline boundaries, offering a unique blend of science and social science elements. In the classroom, I found that this interdisciplinary approach enhanced my students’ critical thinking skills and prepared them to tackle real-world challenges from multiple perspectives - something that universities or future employers value highly!

Versatility in IB Subject Choices

Almost uniquely among IB subjects, ESS can fit into two different subject groups, providing students with flexibility in their course selection. Choosing ESS as your Group 3 subject allows you to select two other sciences, while choosing it in Group 4 means you can study two humanities subjects from Group 3. Whether paired with sciences or humanities, ESS complements a wide range of subjects such as Biology, Geography, Economics, and Politics.

Relevance to University and Career Pathways

ESS lays a solid foundation for further studies at university level in fields such as Biology, Geography, Anthropology, Environmental Science, and more. In addition, the skills acquired in ESS, including analytical reasoning and the ability to communicate clearly about current environmental issues, are highly valued in diverse career paths, including ecological consultancy, nature conservation, journalism and even environmental law.

IB ESS topics

The IB ESS syllabus spans a wide array of topics, reflecting the multifaceted nature of environmental studies. From ecosystem dynamics to climate change, each module covers critical aspects of our planet's environmental health. Here's a glimpse into the key areas covered:

Each of these topics offers a unique lens through which students can explore and understand the intricate connections between environmental systems and human populations, preparing them to address pressing environmental challenges with informed perspectives and innovative solutions.

IB ESS FAQs

How challenging is ib ess compared to other ib subjects.

IB ESS offers a unique mix of scientific rigour and social science perspectives, making it intellectually stimulating yet accessible to students with diverse backgrounds and interests. I always advise students not to choose ESS just because they think it is an easy option: even as a standard level subject it provides a good level of challenge and should be chosen by students who are interested in the topics covered.

What are the assessment components for IB ESS?

The assessment in IB ESS comprises two papers: Paper 1 involves a case study analysis, while Paper 2 includes data interpretation, as well as short-answer and extended-response questions. Additionally, students undertake practical investigations as part of their Internal Assessment.

Is IB ESS considered a science or a humanities subject?

IB ESS straddles the boundaries between science and humanities, incorporating elements of both disciplines. Its interdisciplinary nature allows students to explore environmental issues from a variety of scientific, social, and ethical perspectives.

A final word from me

In conclusion, IB ESS offers a pathway for students to understand the intricate relationships between environmental systems and human societies. With its diverse curriculum, interdisciplinary approach, and relevance to real-world challenges, ESS empowers students to become informed global citizens and advocates for environmental stewardship. As an educator deeply invested in environmental education, I wholeheartedly endorse IB ESS as a challenging and stimulating learning experience that prepares students to work towards a more sustainable future!

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Written by Alistair Marjot

Alistair graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Biological Sciences. He has taught GCSE/IGCSE Biology, as well as Biology and Environmental Systems & Societies for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. While teaching in Oxford, Alistair completed his MA Education as Head of Department for Environmental Systems & Societies. Alistair has continued to pursue his interests in ecology and environmental science, recently gaining an MSc in Wildlife Biology & Conservation with Edinburgh Napier University.

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ESS extended essay

03 Aug ESS extended essay

The ESS extended essay (EE) is an integral part of the IB Diploma course. In order to write a good ESS EE you need to first of all be interested in and passionate about the environment and secondly be prepared to put in the hard work.

You will research and write about an environmental topic or issue of relevance to you and your environment. Your writing should cover the environmental system and how society functions – you must conduct an analytical argument.

Environmental issues are occupying a position of increasing significance on the world agenda, and an extended essay in environmental systems and societies provides students with an opportunity to explore an environmental topic or issue of particular interest or relevance to themselves and their localities.

You will be expected to:

• integrate theoretical contexts and methodologies with academic disciplines appropriate to the chosen topic
• use a systems approach in the analysis and interpretation of their data.

An ESS extended essay provides you with the opportunity to explore questions in terrestrial, freshwater or marine environments. The characteristic nature of an essay in this subject will lie in the application of a systems approach to an environmental issue.

Choice of topic

Environmental systems and societies focuses upon the interaction and integration of “natural” environmental systems and human societies. Your topic should:

• have a sharp focus on the interaction between environmental systems and societies,
• should give significant (though not necessarily equal) weight to both the ecological processes and societal activities
• be interdisciplinary in nature,
• be open to analytical argument,
• allow you to demonstrate some grasp of how both environmental systems and societies function in the relationship.  Your study have to explore the context of some human interaction with the environmental system.

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Introducing the Extended Essay

ESS isn't always a popular subject for extended essays because students may be advised to write an essay in their HL subjects or in a specific course that they are applying to study at university. However I have had some really interesting research projects from students who have gone on to study a variety of subjects at university. As they chose a research topic which interested them, they all managed to maintain (more or less) the momentum in their essays and produced good essays.

The IB's Extended Essay website is an excellent source of information about every aspect of the Extended Essay. It provides pedagogical advice as well as student focused information.

 I will concentrate on giving advice that is pertinent to ESS and World Studies.

What is an Extended Essay?

An extended essay is a 4000 word essay focusing on academic research in a specific discipline. If a student wants to take a more interdisciplinary approach or tackle a world issue then they can choose a World Studies Extended Essay which uses the lens of two academic disciplines to investigate a question.

What is my role as a Supervisor?

I like to think of the supervisor as a guide and mentor through the process. For me, the start of the process is where the supervisor is most crucial. Once the student has a topic, it is your conversations during the "check-ins" which will help them shape their thinking develop a research question. Getting the research question right is essential for a successful essay. I also believe that the research question can be developed right up the last drafting round.

Why write an ESS Essay?

An ESS essay is an opportunity for a student to investigate an environmental problem in a unique way. ESS essays are very diverse with some rooted in scientific practice and others exploring ideas using a more geographical approach. I encourage students to study a local problem and this is often what stimulates their interest in the first instance. Perhaps they have heard me talk about the pollution from sewage overflow, eutrophication in the local lake, water quality in Zurich or the carbon footprint of the school. ESS essays give the opportunity for data collection using a variety of methods with comparisons to secondary data if possible.

Some of my students have taken a case study in a distant location and used lab experiments to model the problems. This can also be a successful strategy.

Why write a World Studies Essay combining ESS with another subject?

A world studies essay gives a student an opportunity to look at a global problem from a local perspective using the lens of two different subjects. This year a student of mine wanted to investigate energy politics in the US. We decided this would be a perfect opportunity for him to combine his interests in Global Politics with ESS. Global Politics was the avenue for the policy lobbying and ESS the avenue for the impacts of this policy on the environment.

ESS often encourages a modelling or systems approach to a problem and provides an interesting lens for research.