ib paper 2 essay structure

IB English Paper Two – Everything You Need to Know To Ace the Exam

Written by Jay ayliffe

When it comes to Paper 2 for IB English Lit/Lang and Lit, there are several things that students often find challenging. Some common reactions to seeing a Paper 2 for the first time include: 

• ‘The questions don’t make any sense!’
• ‘It’s too broad – I don’t know what they want me to say’
• ‘There’s no way I’m going to be able to remember the right quotes for that!’

Now, these are understandable reactions! Paper 2 can seem a little wacky and abstract, especially after the more relatively straightforward Paper 1 exam. However, if you take the time to unpack what the IB is looking for and follow the tips below, you’ll find that Paper 2 isn’t that bad. With the right preparation, it can be pretty straightforward, after all!

what is the English Paper 2 Exam?

In a nutshell, the IB asks you to write a comparative essay in response to a prompt.

Over the course of the year, whether you are a Lit or a Lang/Lit Student, you will have studied a series of texts. These may be poems, novels, plays or short stories.  The Paper 2 exam allows you to draw upon these texts, using them to explore similarities and differences in relation to the central theme of the prompt. For instance, 

“Not rounding off, but opening out.” Comment upon the way writers deal with the ending. In your answer, you should refer to two or three texts you have studied.”

Or how about?

Writers utilise a number of different devices within their works, including using time jumps or other non-linear structures. Considering two texts, discuss how writers use structural elements in unusual or interesting ways to shape meaning.”

Okay, these questions may seem a little mean at first, but you only have to answer one question! You will have 1.5 hours if you are a Standard Level (SL) student and 2 hours if you are an English Lit/Lang Higher Level (HL) student! (If you want some more help breaking down the question, check out this helpful blog on command terms )

The key thing to do here is to provide a structured and detailed answer that offers a balanced and meaningful discussion of both texts. Ideally, this means you are identifying 2-3 points of insight from the central questions relevant to both texts. This allows you to write 4-6 chunky paragraph s in answer to the question, in addition to the MANDATORY introduction and conclusion.

What do I need to do to prepare for the Paper 2 Exam?

First of all, planning is essential ! You will not know which questions the IB will ask you before opening your exam. However, a quick look over papers from previous years will tell you about the common themes and techniques the IB loves to ask about. Broadly, you can categorise these questions into three groups:

Why you should learn more than 2 works

Now, you have a rough idea of what they could ask you. Next, you should go back to your set of texts. Determine which combination of works would work best for you if you had to answer one of these questions. 

Some students commit to just learning two works. They rely on their in-depth knowledge of these texts to answer any question that may come up. I understand their approach, but I think having at least two possible combinations of texts available is best (e.g. Text A+B, A+C, or B+C). This ensures you are best prepared to answer questions with reference to the most relevant works.

Also, you certainly don’t want to be stuck giving yourself more to do by exaggerating the importance of one theme/technique in a work because that’s the only one you know!

With these choices made, you can start compiling quotes, context and moments from the texts, which you can use as evidence. Aim for 4-5 really good points of information that you can expand upon in your essay. Even better, if you already know that, you can directly compare/contrast it with a quote/technique from the other piece of work.

For instance, with my Paper 2 exam, I found it helpful to organise my notes in the following layout:

As you can see, I have prepared a mixture of quotations and techniques that I could draw upon for this question on endings. It also allows me plenty of room to elaborate on individual points when I develop new ideas and connections.

Practising Paper 2 Questions

Practising exam questions will help you feel confident writing Paper 2s. Through practice, you will also learn to adapt your prepared notes to specific prompts.

However, before getting stuck in, spend a bit of time thinking about your introductions. An excellent introduction will outline everything you want to cover in your essay, which is key to ensuring you are heading in the right direction. Have a look at the one below and think about all the different criteria it is attempting to reach:

As in all art forms, the ending of a play usually serves to resolve its central conflict, to highlight character development and to convey to the audience a final, lasting message which summarises the major themes and motifs previously seen in the performance. Wilde’s’ Importance of Being Earnest (Importance) appears to display all of these conventions as by the end of the play, the central protagonist, Jack emerges triumphant. However, theatre, as a highly versatile and varied art form, can and has been used to explore radical modernist and postmodernist approaches to art such as in Samuel Beckett’s play Waiting for Godot where these traditional conventions of an ending are questioned. Indeed, while Wilde’s play follows the traditional conventions of an ending in theatre almost to the point of comedic lunacy, Beckett’s play seeks to completely dismiss them . This is undoubtedly the result of the two theatrical productions differing purposes and cultural contexts where Importance clearly belongs to the theatrical genre of comedy of manners while Waiting for Godot is part of the theatre of the absurd.  Yet despite these radically different approaches, both highlight the importance of endings as a tool for a playwright to reiterate their main message and to provide the audience with a particular impression to take away. Sample Paper 2 Introduction by Jay

Criterion A: Knowledge, Understanding and Interpretation

• A clear statement about the writer’s choices and the effects of literary devices. It also sets up the basic structure of the essay to cover three core elements: conflict resolutions, character development and lasting message.

Criterion B: Analysis and Evaluation

• Unambiguous comparative statements about how and why the two texts differ regarding their endings, as well as share similarities.

Criterion C: Focus and Organisation

• The student introduces two key texts and their authors. There is a balanced description of both works, which the student will continue in the main body.

Criterion D: Language

• Spelling, punctuation and grammar is consistently accurate. The student uses a range of vocabulary and relevant, literary/text-specific terminology with precision.

Try to build a habit of writing essay plans with a short introduction. Doing this will help you to turn your notes and ideas into written answers more easily. It will also be an excellent resource for future exam prep! (Also, if you need help putting in the time for revision, these apps can be really helpful!)

6 Final Tips

Here are 6 final top tips to keep in mind next time you head into your Paper 2 English Exam!

• Develop Strong Time Management: Time management is crucial during the exam. Allocate a specific amount of time for planning (no more than 20 minutes) and stick to it. Make sure you give yourself enough time to talk about both works in a balanced way.
• Annotate The Question: Highlight key phrases and jot down initial thoughts. These annotations will ensure that you are sticking to the question and mean you won’t have to start with a blank page!
• Develop a Strong Thesis: In the comparative essay, a well-crafted thesis is essential (Click here to learn more about writing a brilliant thesis ). Clearly state your argument and how you will be referring to both texts in your answer. This will guide your essay and keep it focused.
• Compare Throughout: Every paragraph should start with a comparative, e.g. Both texts explore the theme of loneliness or Unlike text A, Text B utilises its setting to highlight . These topic sentences set you up to dig deeper and explore how these different writers’ choices contribute to the overall meaning and message of the texts.
• Incorporate Literary Devices: Demonstrate your knowledge of literary devices by incorporating them into your analysis. Discuss how these devices enhance the texts and support your arguments.
• Proofread and Revise: Allocate some time at the end of the exam to proofread your essays. Check for grammar, spelling, and clarity. Ensure that your ideas flow smoothly and coherently.

Final Thoughts

I hope this all helps! Remember to prepare for the prompts, test your introductions and focus on critical analysis. If you follow these tips and dedicate yourself to practise, you’ll be in the best possible position to go and ace the English Paper 2 Exam! However, if you want extra assistance and guidance, please check Lanterna’s Online Private Tutoring service . Our tutors can sit down with you 1-on-1 online and help you plan, improve and offer feedback on your Paper 2 exams.

Preparing for your IGCSE?

When preparing for IGCSE , students often seek effective strategies to enhance their chances of success. Exploring different study techniques is crucial. For instance, integrating mind mapping into your revision routine can significantly improve information retention. Additionally, consider joining or forming a study group. Collaborating with peers not only fosters a supportive learning environment but also allows for the exchange of diverse perspectives. Another valuable approach is to leverage online resources, such as educational websites and forums like Lanterna. These platforms provide access to supplementary materials and can help reinforce key concepts. By adopting these varied methods, students can tailor their preparation to suit their learning styles, setting a solid foundation for IGCSE success.

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Conquering IB English Paper 2: Key Tips for Top Marks

IB English Paper 2 presents an opportunity to showcase your understanding of literature within a specific context. In this blog post, we will explore six essential elements to focus on as you prepare for the exam, paving the way for excellent performance and achieving top marks.

1. Familiarize Yourself with Genres:

Develop an understanding of the basic genres of literature, such as gothic, magical realism, bildungsroman, dystopian, modernist, fantasy, romance, historical, crime, and thriller. Knowing these genres will enable you to recognize their defining characteristics and effectively analyze texts within their respective genres.

2. Consider Socio-Historical and Literary Movements:

Context is crucial. Understand the historical and political backdrop in which a literary work was created. Consider movements such as feminism, civil rights, apartheid, political ideologies, and significant events of the time. Examining the socio-historical context provides valuable insights and enhances your interpretation of the text.

3. Analyze Styles:

Pay attention to the narrative voice, tense, and style employed by the author. Identify whether the narrative is in first person, third person, or an unconventional second-person/over the shoulder narration. Determine if the novel is written in past or present tense. Familiarize yourself with narrative techniques like stream-of-consciousness. Analyzing and explaining the chosen style effectively adds depth to your analysis.

4. Plan Your Essay:

Allocate ten minutes for planning before you begin writing. A well-structured outline saves time and ensures a coherent and logical essay. Include an introduction that poses an intriguing question, provides necessary factual information, and presents your main idea. Plan the main body paragraphs, assigning specific points for each paragraph along with supporting evidence and analysis. Lastly, outline your conclusion, summarizing your main points and providing final contextual connections.

5. Practice with Blen Concepts and Exam-Style Questions:

Reviewing past papers exposes you to the types of questions that commonly appear. Blen has already categorized these questions into themes and practice writing essays on common topics. Examples may include exploring the representation of justice, the impact of setting, or analyzing a particular narrative voice. Utilize 100% curriculum aligned resources curated by IBDP  Examiners and Teachers on Blen to refine your essay-writing skills and enhance your familiarity with the exam format.

6. Compare and Contrast:

In many cases, you will compare and contrast two literary works. From the beginning, consider your texts side by side, identifying points of contrast and similarity. Look beyond surface differences and explore thematic connections. Examine shared themes, such as political crises, power dynamics, human resilience, or societal limitations. Even seemingly dissimilar novels can reveal surprising commonalities upon deeper analysis.

By incorporating these six key elements into your preparation for IB English  Paper 2, you will strengthen your analytical skills and enhance your chances of achieving top marks.

Good luck in your exam preparation!  Sign up  with Blen today for a smarter exam experience!

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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?

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HL External Assessments, first examinations 2021

HL Paper 2: Comparative essay (1 hour 45 minutes)

The paper consists of four general questions. In response to one question, students write a comparative essay based on two works studied in the course. (30 marks) 25%

SL Paper 2: Comparative essay (1 hour 45 minutes)

The paper consists of four general questions. In response to one question, students write a comparative essay based on two works studied in the course. Students are required to answer one question only.(30 marks) 35%

The only difference between HL and SL is that HL Paper 2 is weighted less at 25% while SL Paper 2 is weighted at 25%.

Comparative essay on literary texts

Paper Two Explained

Paper Two Rubric

High Exemplar and Comments

Mid Range Exemplar and Comments

Producing a Paper Two: Compare and Contrast Two Texts Analysis, IB External Assessment (May of Senior Year)

Compare and Contrast Two Texts, Similarities and Differences

Compare and Contrast Two Texts, Point by Point Method

Compare and Contrast Two Texts, Block Method

Developing a Thesis

TWO WORKS: Writing the thesis statement for a compare/contrast essay

In (Name of Work), (Full Name of Author) (uses, employs, utilizes), (device/strategy/technique), and (device/strategy/technique) to (show, reveal, emphasize, argue, insist, point out) that (effect/purpose/theme), while in (Name of Work), (Full Name of Author) (uses, employs, utilizes), (device/strategy/technique), and (device/strategy/technique) to (show, reveal, emphasize, argue, insist, point out) that (effect/purpose/theme).

In (Name of Work) and (Name of Work), both (Full Name of First Author) and (Full Name of Second Author) (use, employ, utilize, rely on) (device/strategy/technique) to (show, reveal, emphasize, argue, insist, point out) that (effect/purpose/theme)

IBDP English A: Language & Literature

Website by David McIntyre & Tim Pruzinsky

Updated 18 April 2024

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• How do I organize my Paper 2?
• Getting Started: Students
• Assessment, exemplars and exam revision

There is no formula for writing a Paper 2. Instead, there are many right ways to write it. It’s also important to note that different English-speaking cultures may have slightly different approaches to writing. The IB honors them all. This following worksheet is just a guide. You may write more. You may write less. This is only meant to give you an idea of what you may choose to do in terms of organizing your Paper...

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Paper 2 is back!  That’s right, we all have tackle this beast in May 2023, so it’s time to master the basics about comparative literary analysis.  Remember that this task demands attention to authorial choices and how they shape meaning.  So, when reading your literary works, pay attention to the moves the writer makes to communicate important ideas.

Part of our  IBDP English A Student Toolkit , The Complete Study Guide for Paper 1 and Paper 2 includes:

• 250+ pages of updated review material!
• The best of our website videos and documents 
• NEW content not available on our website
• 20 highlighted papers with examiner notes 
• Discussion videos justifying marks on sample papers
• Full assortment of graphic organizers
• Sentence stems and guidance for analysis

Paper 2 Exam Review Video Course

Looking for more detailed instruction?  Our Paper 2 Exam Review course leverages two short stories and guides you step-by-step through the writing process in 10 videos.  In the end, you will have written a strong sample response for your selected texts.  This course is for dedicated students looking to do the hard work necessary to improve their Paper 2 skills.

Part of our  IBDP English A Student Toolkit , this resource includes:

• Step-by-step approach to building the Paper 2 response
• 10 asynchronous lessons and 2 hours of NEW video
• Two short stories with completed graphic organizers to model the entire Paper 2 writing process
• Blank graphic organizers to use with your Paper 2 texts
• Guidance on using generative AI for Paper 2 revision

Free Study Sessions - May 2024 Exam Prep!

We know students are gearing up for exams, and we’re eager to help.  Join us for a FREE Study Session!

Each study session will last approximately 2 hours and review the key concepts needed for success on exam day.  Please visit the  Revision Village Study Session   page for timezones and register now!

May 2024 Exam Review – MUST WATCH!

Students are asking questions about remembering quotes for Paper 2.  We tell our students to “ drop the anchor ” into critical moments of their literary works and “ go fishing ” for powerful references and features.  Watch this video and learn this valuable skill!  

Remember:  You CAN study for English Paper 2!  Be sure to use the graphic organizer in the video description!

Paper 2 From Start to Finish

In this 9-video series, we’ll show you the entire process from start to finish.  We’ll use two short stories as our model and follow the “we go, you go” protocol.  We’ll show you the steps with our sample stories, and then encourage you to do the same steps with your chosen Paper 2 texts.  In the end, you will have written an entire sample paper under our guidance.  So, be sure to download and complete all the graphic organizers.  Stay with us.  Follow the models.  Do like we do.  Paper 2 success is within reach!

Unpacking the Paper 2 Task

• Document: Nuts and Bolts
• READING: Two Short Stories

Breaking Down Text 1

Document: 1-Text Organizer   – TEXT 1

Breaking Down Text 2

Document: 1-Text Organizer   – TEXT 2

Comparing Texts 1 and 2

Document: Comparative Organizer

Writing the Outline and Thesis

Document: Getting ready to write

Writing the Introduction:

Document: Writing the Intro

Writing Body Paragraphs.

Document: Body Paragraphs

Writing the Conclusion

Document: Paper 2 Conclusions

Scoring the Sample Paper 2

Document: Examiner Scoring

Paper 2 - Breaking Down the Skills

Sure, we understand that you want to see sample papers and examiner comments.  Those are coming.  However, none of those support materials matter unless you know the basics of Paper 2.  Watching the videos and reading the accompanying documents will put you in an excellent position to showcase your best comparative writing on assessment day.  Once you have mastered, these skills, then it’s time to move on to practice papers.

Meet the assessment and understand how to achieve success on Paper Two.

Paper 2 Details and Tips

Learn how to break down the question and get stay focused.

Document: Breaking Down the Question

Don’t forget to brainstorm and mind map!

Document: Brainstorming and mindmapping

The thesis is important…watch this video!

Document: Writing the Thesis

Block style or alternating style?  Watch this video to find out.

Document: Structuring the Response

How can I get off to a strong start in this paper?  We’ve got the answer.

It’s critical to write strong comparative body paragraphs.  Watch this!

Mr. Giles always says to “end strong.”  Watch this video and find out how!

Document: Writing Conclusions

Paper 2 - Refining Our Skills

Now that you’ve seen the entire process from beginning to end, let’s combine some of these ideas and refine our understanding of the key skills needed to master this assessment.  

How can we quickly understand the question, brainstorm ideas, and get to the thesis?

Document: From Question to Thesis

Still stuck with that introduction?  Here is some more support.  Watch and nail this important step!

Document: Introduction 2.0

The more body paragraphs we read, the better we get at this difficult task.  Watch the video!

Document: Comparative Body Paragraphs

Once you have all the skills in place, it’s time to make sure you understand all the key tips and details of this important assessment.  Looking at student and teacher models is also helpful, and we will continue to populate this section as the year progresses.

In this video, notice how the student approaches the work, maintains focus, and shows complete command of references, features, and the language of the question. 

Document: Paper Two - Student Sample

This video presents 10 important tips students should remember when getting ready to write Paper 2.

Document: Paper Two - Top Ten Tips

This video shows students how to formulate their own sample questions. Give it a try!

Document: Spitballing Paper 2

Watch this video right before exams. Don't miss this checklist!

Document: Paper 2 Checklist

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IB History: Paper 2 Essay Writing and Analysis

The International Baccalaureate (IB) History program challenges students to develop a deep understanding of historical events, themes, and interpretations. One of the key assessment components is the Paper 2 essay, which requires students to analyze and write about historical sources. In this article, we will explore the structure of the IB History Paper 2 essay and provide you with valuable tips and strategies to excel in this challenging task.

 Understanding the IB History Paper 2 Essay

The Paper 2 essay in IB History is often referred to as the "Document-Based Question" (DBQ). It is a timed assessment in which you are provided with a set of historical sources and must craft an essay based on your analysis of these sources. The sources may include primary and secondary documents, images, maps, or texts.

The key components of the IB History Paper 2 essay include:

 1. Source Analysis:

- You are required to analyze the provided sources critically. Consider the origin, purpose, context, and content of each source. Pay attention to biases, perspectives, and limitations of the sources.

 2. Historical Context:

- Understanding the historical context is crucial. You need to place the sources within the broader historical narrative, identifying the events, themes, and time period relevant to the sources.

 3. Essay Prompt:

- The essay prompt will ask you to construct an argument or response based on your analysis of the sources and your knowledge of the historical context. You must address the specific question posed in the prompt.

 4. Essay Structure:

- Your essay should have a clear and organized structure. It typically includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

 5. Use of Evidence:

- You should support your argument with evidence from the sources and your historical knowledge. Effective use of source evidence is essential.

 6. Historical Thinking Skills:

- Demonstrating historical thinking skills such as causation, continuity and change, comparison, and evaluation is essential for a successful essay.

 Essay Writing Tips and Strategies

Writing an effective Paper 2 essay requires a structured approach and attention to detail. Here are some tips and strategies to help you excel:

 1. Begin with Source Analysis:

- Start by thoroughly analyzing each source. Identify the author's perspective, any potential biases, and the context in which the source was created.

 2. Organize Your Thoughts:

- Before you begin writing, outline your essay. Organize your argument, main points, and supporting evidence. A clear structure will make your essay more coherent.

 3. Address the Prompt:

- Ensure that your essay directly responds to the essay prompt. Don't deviate from the question, and make it clear from the beginning how you intend to answer it.

 4. Use Source Evidence:

- Integrate source evidence into your essay. Cite the sources when referencing them. This not only supports your argument but also shows your ability to engage with historical documents.

 5. Provide Historical Context:

- Offer historical context for the sources. Explain how they relate to the broader historical events and themes of the time period.

 6. Develop a Clear Thesis:

- Your thesis statement should provide a concise overview of your argument. It should address the prompt and guide the reader on what to expect in the essay.

 7. Support with Specifics:

- Use specific examples and details from the sources and your historical knowledge. Avoid vague statements and generalizations.

 8. Compare and Contrast:

- If the prompt calls for it, compare and contrast the sources. Analyze similarities and differences among the sources to support your argument.

 9. Engage with Historiography:

- When relevant, engage with historical interpretations or the work of historians. Discuss different viewpoints and their implications for your argument.

 10. Conclude Effectively:

- Your conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis. It's also an opportunity to provide a broader perspective on the topic.

 11. Edit and Proofread:

- After writing your essay, take time to edit and proofread. Check for clarity, grammar, and organization.

 Sample IB History Paper 2 Essay Prompt

Here is a sample Paper 2 essay prompt to give you an idea of what to expect:

"Evaluate the impact of World War I on the emergence of new nation-states in Europe. Using the provided sources and your own knowledge, assess the extent to which the war contributed to the dissolution of empires and the creation of new states."

In response to this prompt, you would need to analyze the provided sources and your historical knowledge to construct an essay that evaluates the impact of World War I on the emergence of new nation-states in Europe.

 Conclusion

The IB History Paper 2 essay is a challenging but rewarding assessment that tests your ability to analyze historical sources and construct well-argued essays. By developing strong source analysis skills, crafting clear and structured essays, and providing evidence to support your arguments, you can excel in this component of the IB History program. Remember to practice writing essays and seek feedback from your teachers or peers to further improve your skills. Good luck with your IB History studies and exams!

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Extended essay

The extended essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper.

One component of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) core, the extended essay is mandatory for all students.

Read about the extended essay  in greater detail.

You can also read about how the IB sets deadlines for the extended essay , find examples of extended essay titles from previous DP students and learn about the world studies extended essay .

Learn more about the extended essay in a DP workshop for teachers . 

DP subject briefs

Find out about what each subject offers within the Diploma Programme (DP).

Our DP subject briefs—for both standard and higher level—contain information about core requirements, aims and assessment.

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Visit my Youtube channel for informational vidoes & case studies

This paper is an essay paper, with two (SL) or three (HL) questions set on each of the four core units. The same paper is set at both SL and HL. SL students must answer two questions, each selected from a different unit . HL students must answer three questions , each selected from a different unit .

1 hour 45 minutes at SL  - which means 52.5 minutes of writing time per answer

2 hours and 45 minutes at HL - which means 55 minutes of writing time per answer

IB Weighting : 45% at SL; 40% at HL

Marks : The maximum mark for this paper is 50 marks at SL and 75 marks at HL . The paper is marked using generic markbands and a paper-specific markscheme. The questions in this paper assesses students ability to synthesize and evaluate.

Words limit: 800-1000 words or 1000 to 1200 words

Expectations of the Paper

This paper is an essay paper, with two (SL) or three (HL) questions set on each of the four core units. At least one of the questions for each unit is firmly anchored in that unit , whereas the second question may open up for a more cross-unit approach .

Conceptual understanding and the ability to work with the key concepts of the course are particularly important in this paper. Some questions use the key concepts of that particular unit. Still, other questions draw on key concepts from several units. Even where the key concepts are not explicitly mentioned in a question, students should demonstrate a conceptual understanding of global politics. In their answers, students are invited to draw on their understanding of any relevant political concepts, depending on the arguments they put forward.

Marks are awarded for demonstrating understanding of relevant political concepts and prescribed content, making reference to specific relevant examples, justifying points, and exploring and evaluating counterclaims , or different views on the question.

General Comments From the May 2019 Subject Report Regarding Paper 2

Too often, it was the case that a candidate had misread or misinterpreted a question when perhaps a little more time taken to think and reflect upon its key demands would have been beneficial. It is always disappointing to read a response that demonstrates a firm understanding of Global Politics but is not clearly addressing the question at hand.

Weaker candidates struggled with the integration of concepts and real-world examples. There is still the propensity to insert theoretical references into a discussion as if it is something that the candidate believes must be done regardless of the actual value added of doing so. There is also a tendency to make such references in the broadest terms possible, which only further detracts from their salience and/or effectiveness. It often seemed as if theory was being included at the expense of more fully developed real-world examples.

Deconstructing the Top Markband

A very well-structured and balanced response that addresses the demands and implications of the question.  .

A very well structured and balanced response that addresses the demands and implications of the question .

Well structured : we are looking for clarity, ease of understanding the direction you are taking with the question and the that points you are making are clear. Related to this point, a principal examiner has written in a previous subject report that “Unpacking the concepts that appeared in the questions seem to be the most difficult area that most students faced. Students tended to use the concepts without demonstrating clarity in their understanding of them.”

Balanced response : Are you looking at both sides of the issue? This comes up later in the markbands with claims and counter-claims. If you are able to examine both sides of the argument fully and robustly then you will have met this requirement

Addresses the demands of the question: Questions always have a word or short phrase upon which the question hinges. For example, in the two questions for which the exemplars are provided:

Question 3: Examine the claim that human rights as presented in treaties and covenants are not enforceable , and are therefore of little use to vulnerable populations.

Question 6: To what extent is the achievement of political and social stability essential for development?

And one more on a topic we have deliberated on extensively throughout the first part of the course: Discuss reasons why the legitimacy of a state may need to be questioned.

The bolded and italicised phrases may surprise you, but this is what you need to talking about. Are the treaties of little use ? Why or why not? Is political and social stability essential for development? Essential is a very strong word and must be the focal point of your analysis. Finally, why would legitimacy "need" to be questioned? Again, a strong claim and one what would need to be analysed throughout your response.

If you can figure what the question is actually asking, as the principal examiner suggests in the May 2019 subject report, then you are well on your way to effectively answering the question. If not, you'll likely be writing out a lot of information but not doing the requisite analysis in order to successfully respond to the question.

Implications of the question : If the statement/assertion contained within the question is true, then what does that mean for how we should approach that area of Global Politics? Using our two questions as an example:

If treaties and covenants are not enforceable , and are therefore of little use to vulnerable populations, then what does that mean for Global Politics i.e. what is the implication of this claim?

If political and social stability is essential for development then what does that mean for how we should approach development?

Comprehensive knowledge and in-depth understanding of global politics are applied in the response consistently and effectively, with examples integrated. 

This one is fairly straight forward - do you know your stuff? If you are discuss the reasons why the legitimacy of a state may need to be questioned, you would need to know the theoretical underpinnings of legitimacy such as those stated here . Furthermore, you would highlight the Fragile States Index, Democracy Index and the Freedom in the World Report each of which highlight the characteristics of a legitimate state. Finally, you would be able to reference the work you did on Yemen and the reasons why they are at the bottom of many of these lists...what is it about there current situation that has us feeling the need to question their legitimacy.

"In many cases examples were stated and explained, sometimes at length, without connecting them to the argument or to the question at hand. Some candidates went to great lengths to explain an example, then stated their argument in just a line and didn’t build on it, leaving it to the examiner to draw inferences and connections.”

The response demonstrates a very good grasp of the key concepts of the course.  

Do you know what the key concepts of the course are? Do you understand them? Can you articulate various theories and approaches to them? Have you chosen the concepts that fit best with the question that is being asked? From a previous subject report: “Candidates did not seem to be able to refer adequately to the key concepts and to the prescribed content of the course in their answers: a balanced all-around understanding of concepts and content is needed, including some knowledge of differing interpretations of the concepts and some depth and breadth in the prescribed content.”

Another subject report read: “Concepts, theories and examples were often just mentioned in answers without further explanation or context or application. This often led to inaccurate or inappropriate use of these concepts, theories and examples, with answers focusing on their inclusion instead of on their meaning."

All of the main points are justified. Arguments are clear, coherent and compelling.  

Have you provided good examples and arguments to justify the main points that you are attempting to make. In the top markband not only are you being asked to clear arguments that make sense (that's the "coherent" part) but are they compelling, that is, are you making a strong argument for the position you are taking on the question. A lot of students can be clear and coherent but it make their argument compelling is a big challenge, but that is why this is the top markband. 

Counterclaims, or different views on the question, are explored and evaluated.  

Like question 4 of Paper 1, you need to ensure you are giving different perspectives and offering a thorough investigation in your paper. A cursory reference to another view or option is not satisfactory and you will not have met the "balanced" expectations noted above. Instead, you need do as examiners have explained here: “Counterclaims were weak in all questions and often not present. Some candidates did mention an alternative point of view, but then failed to provide any evidence to support it [this would be the “explored and evaluated” part of the descriptor]. This is an area that needs to be emphasized and the reason for providing counterclaims explained.”

Most students are only able to "explore" claims and counter-claims, that is, only state both sides or approaches to the question. What makes an excellent paper are those students that are able to not only state both perspectives but actually evaluate the quality of the perspective/argument .

How to address a counter-claim in a way that strengthens your argument 

How to address a counterclaim in a way that strengthens your argument: 

1. Your own point of view or thesis (your original claim) should be clear. 

Example: It is evident that the modern day global political world is characterized by increasing cooperation through global governance and economic cooperation. 

2. Acknowledge that one could interpret another point of view (the counterclaim). 

Use connectors that make the counterclaim stand out: 

● Alternatively 

● Despite this 

● On the other hand 

● An alternative to this 

● It must be admitted that 

● It can be argued that 

Example: Despite this, realists argue that the main force underlying global political interactions is conflict, not cooperation. 

3. Argue against the counterclaim , showing that it doesn’t disprove or weaken your original claim. Explain why it is not correct, using evidence. 

Example: However, this point of view does not hold up when one examines the 

decreasing incidence of interstate conflict worldwide since the second half of the twentieth century. 

4. Reassert your original claim 

Example: Increases in global alliances and economic interdependence have clearly pushed the world into a more cooperative state. 

Sample Papers

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IB ESS Paper 2

12 Dec IB ESS Paper 2

Section B (40 marks) requires students to answer two structured essay questions from a choice of four. Each question is worth 20 marks. The final part of each essay in section B (9 marks) will be marked using markbands. There is 1 additional mark per question for clarity and quality.

IB ESS Paper 2 Marks level descriptor • 0 The response does not reach a standard described by the descriptors below and is not relevant to the question. • 1–3 The response contains: o minimal evidence of knowledge and understanding of ESS issues or concepts o fragmented knowledge statements poorly linked to the context of the question o some appropriate use of ESS terminology o no examples where required, or examples with insufficient explanation/relevance o superficial analysis that amounts to no more than a list of facts/ideas o judgments/conclusions that are vague or not supported by evidence/argument. • 4–6 The response contains: o some evidence of sound knowledge and understanding of ESS issues and concepts o knowledge statements effectively linked to the context of the question o largely appropriate use of ESS terminology o some use of relevant examples where required, but with limited explanation o clear analysis that shows a degree of balance o some clear judgments/conclusions, supported by limited evidence/arguments. • 7–9 The response contains: o substantial evidence of sound knowledge and understanding of ESS issues and concepts o a wide breadth of knowledge statements effectively linked with each other, and to the context of the question o consistently appropriate and precise use of ESS terminology o effective use of pertinent, well-explained examples, where required, showing some originality o thorough, well-balanced, insightful analysis o explicit judgments/conclusions that are well-supported by evidence/arguments and that include some critical reflection.

IB ESS Paper 2 Quality and Clarity Marks • Write neatly and clearly and in a size that does not require a magnifying glass to read. • Be concise. • Stay on topic and focused (do not just starting talking about everything you know about the general topic) • Your answer should have a logical flow. The examiner should only have to read your answer ONCE.

Learn more about IB ESS Paper 1.

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How to Nail Your IB Economics Paper 2 – Practical Tips

By TutorsPlus

Nailing your IB Economics Paper 2 is as important as the other components of your final assessment. It is accountable for 30%-40% of your success (depending on whether you are doing SL or HL Economics).

This complex exam poses a challenge to many students. Fear not, with some of the practical tips you’ll find in this post, you’ll ace your IB Economics assessment like a pro.

Paper 2 is very demanding since it requires you to demonstrate your understanding of economic theory, to apply your knowledge in real-life situations, as well as evaluate economical processes and their consequences.

So dive into this article along with its companion piece “How to nail paper 1.”

The Structure of IB Economics Paper 2

IB Economics Paper 2 is a combination of data response questions and an extended response question. Students have two questions but need to answer only one of them. These questions feature two snippets of news articles, which provide some data for practical application.

Each question refers to one of the four sections of the IB Economics syllabus and is broken into a-g sections. They, as a rule, contain the following questions:

• Define two terms (4 marks);
• Based on the information from a news article, calculate (3 marks) and draw a diagram (2 marks);
• Using a diagram, explain how… (4 marks);
• Using a diagram and the information from the text, explain …(4 marks);
• Using a diagram and the information from the article, explain how…(4 marks);
• Using a diagram, explain what…(4 marks);
• Using the information from the article and the knowledge of economic theory, discuss … (15 Marks).

In total, IB Economics Paper 2 awards 40 marks, out of which 25 bring short-answer questions and 15 – the final essay-like question. These marks weigh 30% of the total grade for HL students and 40% from the SL. Overall, students have 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete the assignments.

How to Nail Your IB Economics Paper 2: Practical Tips

Now that the structure of the questions is clear, let’s take a closer look at each section.

Definitions (Section a)

The opening section of Paper 2 is give-a-definition questions. Typically, there are two such questions, and each brings 2 marks. Occasionally, a question may ask to specify the functions of an institution or organization, such as a central bank.

To gain two points for each definition, it is not enough to provide a simple answer. You should also give an example, provide a brief explanation, and, when appropriate, an equation.

Calculation (Section b)

In your exam, you will be asked to do some calculations. For example: ‘Using the data about national income specified in an article, calculate nominal GPD sticking to the expenditure approach’. The majority of these calculations require just the basic mathematical functions (plus, minus, multiply, divide) yet calculators are allowed during the examination.

When doing these calculations, you need to be exact – unless otherwise specified in the question, show two decimal places. If you use formulas, make sure to include them. Also, you need to show full working out.

Diagrams (Section b, c-f)

Diagrams are an essential part of Paper 2 – typically, sections from b to f have something to do with them. Naturally, you need to master how to draw and describe diagrams to nail your IB Economics assessment.

Sections c-f reward 4 marks each, 2 of which are for drawing a diagram and 2 for explaining it. This explanation shouldn’t be too detailed – one or two paragraphs will suffice. When it comes to drawing, make sure to stick to the following tips:

• Always use a ruler to draw the axes of a diagram as well as linear lines;
• Remember to fully label your diagram (axes, important points, intersections, etc.). Use standardized abbreviation (GDP, for instance) but don’t shorten labels in other cases (use Price instead of just ‘P’). Also, don’t forget to specify measuring units ($, kg, etc.);
• Show your diagrams as dynamic, not static. If an indicator changed over a period of time, you need to appropriately reflect this change.
• When it comes to the essay-like section g, a diagram is not compulsory. Nevertheless, if you feel that it can help you with a more detailed answer, you can include it.

Explain (Section c-f)

The sections from c to f feature the ‘explain’ type of questions. To be more exact, they feature command terms, which indicate the depth of your answer. The Economics guide from the IBO specifies 34 such commands, but in Paper 2, you will be likely to come across the following most frequent terms: analyse, compare, compare and contrast, describe, determine, discuss, explain, evaluate, list, show, etc.

It is vital that you understand what command terms require you to come up with an adequate answer.

For example, ‘explain’ implies that you need to give a detailed account featuring reasons and causes.

Evaluate, on the other hand, means that you need to provide your opinion on a situation, including highlighting its pros, cons, and limitations.

If your question commands ‘list’, you don’t have to go into details. It’s enough to write a few bullet points with brief commentaries for each.

Do not go into more details than required.  This will waste time and you will not be awarded additional marks for it.

Discuss (Section g)

Section g of Paper 2 is very similar to section b of Paper 1. Both intend to assess how well you are able to apply the economic theory you learned in class to real situations. In order to nail your IB Economics Paper 2, we suggest that you use the DEEDE method we described in detail in our previous IB Economics Paper 1 article .

The acronym DEEDE means the following:

• D efinitions – give a definition of economic terms and keywords related to your question. As a rule, some of these terms are mentioned directly in the question. You may also need to define other terms essential to your answer.
• E xplanation – you need to show that you are able to apply relevant economic concepts and theories to answer the question.
• E xample – your question will already feature an example (news article excerpt) so you don’t need to provide it on your own. However, you need to show that you are able to interpret data, see the correlation between two or more variables, and use it for calculations and diagram drawing when applicable.
• D iagram – depending on your specific question, providing a diagram may be beneficial, but it is not a requirement. If you already have a diagram based on the same data for one of the previous sections, you can simply refer to it but don’t draw it again.
• E valuate – a command term in the question will give you an idea of what is required (compare, contrast, discuss, evaluate, examine, justify, etc.). In a simplistic way, evaluation means providing a judgment about the strengths and weaknesses of an action or process, its consequences, or alternatives. Your answer should be based both on data from the text and economic analysis, and all of your arguments must be fully justified.

You will have a sufficient amount of time to formulate your answer – as a rule, it takes 45 minutes to complete the task, so make sure your answer has a good flow, depth, and clarity.

How to Nail Your IB Economics Paper 2 with Tutors Plus

Preparation for IB Economics Paper 2 is not without its challenges. On one hand, Paper 1 and Paper 2 have many similarities – you need to focus on definitions, diagrams, and evaluations of certain processes, concepts, and actions. On the other hand, Paper 2 features calculations, and many students struggle with those.

One more thing that makes it difficult to nail IB Economics Paper 2 is changes in the syllabus. Up until 2021, Paper 2 focused only on the International Economics and Development Economics units of the syllabus. Now, the units of the syllabus are different, and Paper 2 utilizes not just two but all four units. It makes it hard to practice with past papers since their questions may no longer be relevant, let alone they don’t cover the entire programme.

How to properly prepare for Paper 2 then? Our solution is tutor assistance. An IB Economics tutor is able to estimate where you’re standing and where you should be going. This concerns not only your theoretical knowledge but also practical skills and your ability to analyse since all of them are equal parts important to nail your Paper 2.

Tutors Plus is your reliable source of IB tutors – knowledgeable, experienced, and committed to your success. Contact us at [email protected] or 022 731 8148 and let us help you be fully equipped for one of the most important exams in your life.

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