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Format of the Economics IA:
Candidates are required to select three extracts and prepare three commentaries of no more than 750 words each. Moderators will not read beyond 750 words for each commentary. Each commentary must explain the linkages between the extract and an economic theory, concept or idea taken from the section of the syllabus on which the commentary is based. Each commentary must demonstrate economic insights into the implications of the extract. Each article must be based on a different section of the syllabus. The articles must be taken from a variety of sources and must be included in the portfolio. Each commentary is marked individually using criteria A-E, while the rubric requirements across the whole portfolio is assessed by criterion F.
Extended Essay in Economics:
The Economics Extended Essay is an opportunity for a highly motivated and disciplined Economics student to undertake extensive research on a real world economic problem or phenomenon.
It requires:
In-depth research and the collection of data.
The application of relevant economic theory.
The analysis and evaluation of data.
A provisional answer to the Research Question posed
What the Economics Extended Essay is:
An essay attempting to answer an original research question.
An essay centered upon recent economic occurrences and phenomena.
A research project that demonstrates mastery of economic reasoning, analysis and evaluation.
An inquiry demonstrating the formal structure of a scholarly essay.
What the Economics Extended Essay is not:
A report on economic activity that fails to address a central research question.
A report on research carried out by others or that covers historical data.
An attempt to merely support or validate widely accepted economic theory.
A review of existing theory and economic literature without a central question.
Goals of a successful Extended Essay:
To focus on narrow, focused research question that can be answered using the data gathered.
To avoid overly large, overly general, overly ambitious questions.
To demonstrate your mastery of economic concepts, theories and models.
To present you research, analysis and conclusion within the restrictive word limit; thus, “less is more”.
Example:
“Do local charity shops set prices efficiently to maximize revenue?
Is far better than:
“How are used books priced in the United Kingdom”.
Example:
“Do local petrol sellers attempt to collude to avoid competition in the Walton / Weybridge area?
Is far better than:
“How does OPEC attempt to set global crude oil prices”.
An Economics Extended Essay, similarly to all other disciplines, must address the following requirements of the assignment.
I. RESEARCH QUESTION
The essay must attempt to answer a question, not merely report economic occurrences. How, Why, and What are generally a good start. Leave When, Where and Who to historians.
II. INTRODUCTION
Let the reader know what you propose to investigate and why it is economically significant.
III. INVESTIGATION
What evidence have you gather and how is it relevant to your research question?
IV. KNOWLEDGE & UNDERSTANDING
Demonstrate your mastery of economic concepts, theories and models. This includes mathematical / statistical analysis.
V. REASONED ARGUMENT
Present you evidence, data, economic analysis in a clear, coherent and convincing manner. Lead the reader to agree with your answer to the Research Question.
VI. ECONOMIC ANALYSIS & EVALUATION
Use economic concepts, theories and models to effectively further your view of the research data and evidence you have gathered.
VII. ECONOMIC DISCOURSE
Use the language and terminology of Economics to further your analysis.
VIII. CONCLUSION
Come to a clear, concise answer to your Research Question. Identify any problems or limits that may have impeded your pursuit of an answer to your question.
IX. FORMAL PRESENTATION
Demonstrate your mastery of clear written prose and the rigorous structure of an acceptable academic research paper.
X. ABSTRACT
Write a brief, summative abstract that concisely summarizes the Research Question, data collection, methodology and conclusion of the essay.
XI. HOLISTIC JUDGEMENT
Overall impression of research and writing skills the reader is left with
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