Analysing IBDP Extended Essay, CIE Research Project, and CBSE Projects

The IBDP Extended Essay, CIE Research Project, and CBSE Project offer opportunities for the learner to demonstrate their understanding of the theoretical concepts. In all three curricula, the projects are designed to test the learner’s critical thinking abilities, problem-solving skills, research and collaboration skills, and application in real-life situations. Let us take a look at the structure and expectations from IBDP Extended Essay, CIE Research Project, and CBSE Projects.

IBDP Extended Essay Structure:

The IBDP Extended Essay (EE) is a 4000-word mandatory research-based essay. This is an interdisciplinary essay in which learners have to present their case while drawing inferences from real-life instances and the subject they are studying in their course. The EE must have -

• A well-designed Title page
• Proper summary and introduction
• Reference and Citations from acknowledged academic sources
• A body that clearly states the problem, its implications, and its solution
• A conclusion

The external examiner will check the content originality, so ensure that the citations are mentioned.

CIE Research Project Structure:

CIE Research Project is the Cambridge International Project Qualification (IPQ) where the learner has to write a 5000-word research project on a subject that complements their AS or A Levels. For CIE Research Project, learners have to demonstrate their engagement with the subject, beyond the textbook. So, choose a topic with ample scope for research and relevance in the current scenario.

CBSE Projects Structure:

In CBSE curriculum, from 11th grade, learners can choose Science, Commerce or Arts stream. Depending on their elective, they can choose a research-based project with a strong sub-theme and a 200-word synopsis explaining their stance. The case of the CBSE project aims to ensure learners can visualise what they are learning and engage with the curriculum. The CBSE project courses by stream -

IBDP Extended Essay Learning Outcomes:

IBDP programme is mandatory and it is assessed by an external examiner. The IBDP EE proactively engages the learner in research and compels them to view what they are learning with a broader perspective. The parameters on which the learner is scored are –

• Originality of the idea
• Variety and credibility of cited sources for research
• Evaluation of the global significance of their query and demonstration of their awareness of global issues.
• Structure and articulation of the report

Through the EE, learners will acquire skills for academic research, critical thinking, time management, report writing, and presentation.

CIE Research Project Learning outcomes:

The CIE IPQ is externally assessed, and students are graded separately for it. The CIE IPQ assesses the learners for –

• Knowledge and understanding of the syllabus
• Use of different research methodologies
• Application of the right academic conventions for report writing and presentation
• Appropriate research log encapsulating all steps and progress
• Query design and justifications

With the CIE IPQ, learners will acquire analysis, evaluation and synthesis skills, communication skills, and research skills.

CBSE Projects Learning outcomes:

CBSE project aims to assess the following in learners –

• Problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of academic research and analysis techniques
• Presentation skills
• Understanding of the concepts and their application

With the project-based learning exercise, CBSE is allowing the learner to demonstrate their understanding of the concepts and their relevance. Students also learn to design experiments, present papers, and use technological aids to make presentations and design research papers. For the CBSE subject in which the learner has to submit a project, 20 marks out of 100 marks are assigned to the project.

Tips to do well: IBDP Extended Essay, CIE Research Project, and CBSE Projects

The most important factor in doing well in IBDP Extended Essay, CIE Research Project, or CBSE Project -

• Choose a topic that you find interesting and design original experiments
• Ensure multiple implications and opportunities for you to explore ideas
• Demonstrate your knowledge, understanding, and skills

The IBDP EE, CIE IPQ and CBSE projects are scoring opportunities which can affect the final scores. In all three boards, the learner will design and develop research questions, conduct research to answer the questions, design and conduct experiments, record their progress and findings in a research log and write a research report. The skills learnt through the practical application of one’s learning are transferable. So, approach this component strategically and take advantage of its learning opportunities.