Criterion E: Engagement (maximum mark 6)

Strands

1. Reflections on engagement with the process – planning & progress

2. Reflections on engagement with the research focus - intellectual initiative and/or creative approach in the ”student voice”

The assessment is based upon how you have engaged with the research process and with the research focus. It is the final part of the assessment and will be applied by the external examiner after the student’s Reflections on planning and progress form (EE/RPPF) has been considered.

Specific points covered

Specifically the assessment considers:

1. How well have you engaged with the process? (This includes discussions with your supervisor during the planning and progress of the research.)

2. How well were you able to reflect upon and refine your research process?

3. How did you react to insights gained through exploring your research question?

4. Were you able to evaluate decisions made through the research process and suggest improvements to your own working practice?

5. Did you demonstrate intellectual initiative and a creative approach through reflections on the thought and research process?

6. To what extent is your own voice, rather than your supervisor’s or academics’ voice, present?

Level 5-6 descriptor

How you have addressed each of the specific points above then determines the mark out of six to be awarded. The level descriptors are given on pages 105 and 106 of the Extended Essay Guide. To achieve the highest mark band of 5-6 the assessor must be satisfied that you have properly and competently addressed each of the main indicators:

The engagement is excellent, i.e.

Your reflections on decision-making and planning are evaluative. They include reference to your capacity to consider actions and ideas in response to any setbacks you experienced in the research process.

A high degree of intellectual and personal engagement with the research focus and process of research is communicated through your reflections.

Your reflections demonstrate authenticity, intellectual initiative and/or a creative approach in your own voice.