Today, I’m eager to share strategies for selecting original IB Extended Essay topics. The distinction between a conventional topic and a novel one can significantly influence the impact and recognition of your research. This discussion aims to shed light on how to choose topics that resonate with your interests and offer fresh perspectives in your chosen field.
By prioritizing uniqueness, personal relevance, and comprehensive investigation, you can confidently navigate the vast array of potential subjects, ensuring your essay stands out for its creativity and intellectual contribution.
What Are The Differences?
Creating an original topic for an IB Extended Essay can set your work apart and engage your interests deeply. Here’s a comparison between more generic topics and their original, more unique counterparts across various subjects.
1. Biology
- Generic: The effect of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis.
- Original: Investigating the symbiotic relationship between bioluminescent bacteria and deep-sea organisms in the Mariana Trench.
2. History
- Generic: The causes of World War II.
- Original: The influence of espionage and intelligence from smaller nations on the strategies of the Axis and Allies during World War II.
3. English Literature
- Generic: The theme of betrayal in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”.
- Original: The narrative significance of the physical setting in shaping the concept of betrayal in Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis”.
Drop your assignment info and we’ll craft some dope topics just for you.
It’s FREE 😉
4. Physics
- Generic: The principles of thermal dynamics in simple engines.
- Original: Analyzing the efficiency of piezoelectric materials in converting mechanical stress from daily activities into usable electrical energy.
5. Economics
- Generic: The impact of inflation on a country’s economy.
- Original: The economic resilience of underground economies during major recessions: A case study of the 2008 financial crisis.
6. Psychology
- Generic: The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive functions.
- Original: The impact of long-term space travel on astronauts’ psychological well-being: A predictive study based on current ISS missions.
7. Chemistry
- Generic: The rate of reaction between magnesium and hydrochloric acid.
- Original: The potential of biochar in sequestering carbon: Chemical properties and environmental implications.
8. Mathematics
- Generic: Solving quadratic equations using different methods.
- Original: The application of game theory in optimizing strategies for small-scale local businesses against larger corporations.
9. Computer Science
- Generic: The importance of cybersecurity in the modern world.
- Original: Developing a sustainable model for small businesses to implement AI-driven cybersecurity measures affordably.
10. World Studies
- Generic: The impact of globalization on cultural identity.
- Original: The role of social media in the preservation of endangered languages: A case study of the revitalization efforts for the Cherokee language.
When choosing a topic, it’s beneficial to consider your personal interests, the availability of resources, and the feasibility of conducting in-depth research.
Year 2025 Original vs. Generic IB Extended Essay Topic Pairs
- Biology
Generic: The effect of pH on enzyme activity.
Original: How microplastic exposure alters digestive enzyme efficiency in freshwater invertebrates. - Physics
Generic: Investigating projectile motion.
Original: Modeling how urban heat islands influence the acoustic propagation of low-frequency sound waves. - Chemistry
Generic: The effect of temperature on solubility.
Original: Assessing the catalytic potential of food-waste–derived nanoparticles in green oxidation reactions. - Psychology
Generic: The impact of stress on memory.
Original: How constant algorithmic content rotation on social media affects episodic memory formation in adolescents. - Economics
Generic: The impact of unemployment on an economy.
Original: Analyzing whether gig-economy platforms act as shock absorbers during local economic downturns. - English Literature
Generic: Themes of identity in a novel.
Original: How glitch aesthetics in contemporary online poetry reshape digital self-representation. - History
Generic: Causes of the Cold War.
Original: The role of underground radio networks in shaping youth political resistance in Eastern Europe, 1975–1985. - Computer Science
Generic: The importance of machine learning.
Original: Evaluating how federated learning can preserve privacy in student performance prediction models. - Mathematics
Generic: The properties of exponential functions.
Original: Using stochastic modeling to estimate the spread patterns of misinformation in online networks. - Geography
Generic: Urbanization and its effects.
Original: How micro-climatic mapping of heat pockets predicts pedestrian movement in densely populated cities. - World Studies
Generic: The effects of climate change on coastal areas.
Original: How indigenous climate-monitoring practices combined with satellite data reshape flood-prediction systems in the Philippines. - Visual Arts
Generic: Comparing art styles of two painters.
Original: How augmented-reality installations redefine spatial perception in contemporary public art. - Dance
Generic: The evolution of contemporary dance.
Original: The influence of biometric feedback wearables on choreographic decision-making in experimental performance. - Music
Generic: The impact of classical music on emotion.
Original: How microtonal tuning systems in modern digital production challenge Western harmonic expectations. - Film
Generic: Cinematography in a well-known film.
Original: How smartphone-native aspect ratios redefine visual storytelling in Gen-Z independent cinema. - Design Technology
Generic: The importance of sustainability in product design.
Original: How mycelium-based materials can replace petroleum plastics in consumer product casings. - ITGS
Generic: Ethical issues with data collection.
Original: How predictive policing algorithms reshape public trust when implemented without transparent audit trails. - Sports Science
Generic: The effect of training on performance.
Original: How asymmetrical muscle activation patterns detected by motion sensors predict injury likelihood in amateur runners. - Global Politics
Generic: The role of the UN in peacekeeping.
Original: How meme culture functions as decentralized political messaging during grassroots uprisings. - Environmental Systems & Societies
Generic: Deforestation and biodiversity loss.
Original: How drone-based LiDAR mapping reveals hidden ecological corridors in fragmented rainforest landscapes.
Conclusion
In summary, the process of selecting an original topic for your IB Extended Essay involves a careful balance of introspection, exploration, and creativity. The key to success lies in identifying areas where your passions intersect with unexplored academic territory, presenting an opportunity to introduce new ideas and insights.
As you move forward with this scholarly endeavor, welcome the challenge of forging a path that reflects your individuality and intellectual curiosity. Let your Extended Essay be a testament to your ability to think creatively, analyze thoroughly, and contribute meaningfully to the ongoing discourse in your field of study.