Overview of the EE Criteria
The IB Extended Essay (EE) is graded externally using five key criteria. These determine your final assessment and shape your approach to writing. To see how these criteria inform other IB components, check RevisionDojo’s guide on scoring a perfect IB45. (revisiondojo.com)
Criterion A: Focus & Method
This evaluates your Research Question's clarity, your alignment with your subject methodology, and essay structure. You must justify your approach and demonstrate coherence in investigation.
- Sharp, well-defined RQ and a coherent methodological rationale earn top marks.
- For refining your question and planning your structure, see RevisionDojo’s checklist “How Do You Know If Your EE Topic Is Good Enough?” (revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)
Criterion B: Knowledge & Understanding
This assesses subject-specific context, conceptual accuracy, and effective use of sources.
- Use subject terminology correctly and analyze sources instead of copying them.
- RevisionDojo provides subject-specific tips that help you align content and context appropriately. (revisiondojo.com)
Criterion C / D: Critical Thinking & Discussion
Under the latest framework, this encompasses argument development, analysis, evaluation of evidence, and if separated, the discussion of limitations and implications.
- Top-level responses balance claims, counterclaims, and critically evaluate sources or methods.
- For in-depth analysis strategies, see RevisionDojo’s guide to examiner‑aligned thinking and evaluation. (revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)
Criterion E: Engagement / Reflection
This criterion focuses on the reflections you submit in the Researcher Reflection Space (RRS) and during the viva voce.
- Showcase your motivation, personal insights, and how you adapted through challenges during research.
- RevisionDojo’s article on “How to Prepare for the EE Viva Voce & Reflection Readiness” provides templates and examples to help structure authentic, reflective writing. (revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)
How Each Criterion Is Scored
- Criterion A & B: scored 0–6
- Criterion C/D: scored 0–6 (or 0–8 depending on framework)
- Criterion E: scored 0–4 or 0–6—based on reflection quality and depth
To self-assess effectively, RevisionDojo offers alignment grids that match essay elements to the official IB descriptors. (revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)
Common Mistakes That Lower Scores
- RQ is too vague or does not fit the subject
- Descriptive writing without analytical depth
- Inconsistent or incorrect referencing
- Reflection that lacks insight or relevance to the research journey
RevisionDojo provides criteria-aligned checklists to avoid these pitfalls. (revisiondojo.com)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are the EE criteria the same across all subjects?
✅ Yes, but each subject applies them differently—subject-specific EE guides help clarify expectations. (revisiondojo.com)
Q2: Can I score full reflection marks even if I faced setbacks?
✅ Yes—when you demonstrate thoughtful adaptation, rationale for changes, and growth in your RRS. RevisionDojo reflection tools can help shape that narrative. (revisiondojo.com)
Q3: How strictly is the methodology section assessed?
✅ Very strictly—your method must align with your RQ and subject conventions. RevisionDojo topic-checking guides ensure proper alignment. (revisiondojo.com)
Q4: Does the unlimited use of quotes hurt Criterion B?
✅ Yes—excessive quoting undermines analysis. RevisionDojo suggests summaries or paraphrases instead. (revisiondojo.com)
Q5: Should visual aids be used?
✅ Only if they enhance clarity and relevance. Well-labeled figures can support argument structure but aren't mandatory. (revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)
Q6: Is the EE marked externally or by my school?
✅ Externally, by IB examiners. Your supervisor provides feedback but does not mark your final essay. (revisiondojo.com)
Conclusion
Mastering the EE criteria lets you write precisely—not just extensively. Plan around clear RQ development (Criterion A), disciplined subject understanding (B), well-structured critical analysis (C/D), and genuine reflective insight (E). Use RevisionDojo tools to map your essay to each criterion confidently.
Call to Action
🔧 Elevate your EE with RevisionDojo:
- ✅ Download Rubric-aligned planning checklists and outline templates
- ✅ Use reflection and viva voce readiness tools tailored to Criterion E
- ✅ Subscribe for guided resources that map directly to each EE criterion
👉 Visit RevisionDojo and ensure every section of your essay is aligned with examiner expectations.
