For your EE you have the freedom to focus on almost any topic and you will write your own question to answer. However, your topic must fit into a single DP subject unless you choose to write a World Studies EE that covers a topic “of contemporary global significance”, and is likely to encompass two subject areas. Students normally choose a subject that they are currently studying or have a background in. While this is not a requirement we do strongly recommend it.
Plan time that you will dedicate to choosing your topic. It might take a few hours and if you plan for several sessions with time in between, you will have the chance to think about it.
Read those for the subjects you are drawn to as they will give you an idea of the sort of essay you will write in that subject, and any restrictions there might be.
Go back to your brainstormed list of topics, eliminate any that you don’t really want to write about and focus on the rest.
Try creating a mind-map, like the one below that covers these considerations and more.
Using a RRS to keep a copy of this initial thinking will give you lots to talk about with your supervisor when you meet. It will help with your first reflection too. There is one in Managebac ready and waiting for you. You can easily upload documents and images to the RRS or plan on paper if you prefer, or just use it as an online journal to record your thoughts.
Once you have an idea of a topic you are interested in exploring further, you need to start reading about it.
You could begin by some freestyle internet searching:
Have a look at what literature is available on your topic – the library is a good place to start – do some reading and start asking questions about what you read. Have a look at the Subject-Specific Libguides for some guidance on how to find print and online resources in your subject.
You’ll soon be ready for a research proposal (see right)!
In order to be assigned a supervisor to guide you through the rest of the process, you need to fill in a Supervisor Application Form (SAF).
This will enable Heads of Departments to assign supervisors by the end of the Winter Term. Contact Mr Russell (VR) if you think you are going to have a problem meeting this deadline.
Once you have decided on your Subject, you need to refine your Topic.
Contact your supervisor if you have any problems with this, or Mr Russell (VR) if you do not yet have a supervisor.
Normal term-time Library opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 08:30-21:15
Sat: 08:00-16:00
Sun: 14:00-18:00 (Summer Term only)