The IB Extended Essay: Managing your research project

1.4 Mind-map template and checklist

Here is an example of an author exploring possible research questions within their topic area. You
can see some of the initial questions they thought about before drafting a research question which
met the extended essay criteria.

How were alkaline

batteries
How does storage
developed?
environment (heat,
light, humidity etc.)
affect alkaline
What different batteries?
types of
batteries are The effect of the
affected? environment on
Why is storage
batteries
temperature
important?

What are alkaline What are the

batteries used advantages of
for? using alkaline
batteries?

Draft research question: What is the effect of storage temperature on the operational lifespan of
an alkaline battery?

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Task

Now, use the template here to create your own mind-map. You can also use the
checklist included below to assess your draft research question.
Create your own spider diagram with 6-8 initial questions. Try to come up with possible
research questions and check them against the checklist at the bottom. If you’re unsure,
don’t discard the question immediately! You may just need to re-word it, do further
research or talk to your supervisor at school.

Your topic

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Draft research questions:
1

Once you have your first draft research question use the check-list below to help you assess
its suitability and identify further areas for improvement:

Does the question fit into an IB diploma subject area?

Is there a teacher at school who can supervise this project?
Can I maintain interest in this topic throughout the duration of my extended essay?
Is the question focussed on an interesting issue, worthy of in-depth exploration?
Are there enough sources available to research this topic?
Is there a range of different perspectives and/or viewpoints surrounding the topic?
Will I be able to access the sources/resources required to carry out this research?
Is it possible to answer this question within the allotted time-frame?
Is it possible to answer this question within the word count?

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©University of Leeds 2018