Tips for Writing a Critical Discussion Section in Your EE
What Is the Critical Discussion Section?
The Critical Discussion is the heart of your Extended Essay. It’s where you move from summarizing information into analyzing, evaluating, and reflecting. Rather than describing data alone, this section assesses the strengths and limitations of your arguments and sources in relation to your Research Question (RQ).
Why It Matters in the IB Mark Scheme
The EE rubric distinguishes sharply between description (Criterion B/C) and critical thinking (Criterion D). Your Discussion must demonstrate sophistication by:
- Challenging assumptions
- Acknowledging opposing viewpoints
- Reflecting on methodology and context
RevisionDojo’s EE guides emphasize that strong discussion sections directly bolster IB marks through analytical rigor.
Planning Your Critical Discussion
Before writing:
- Outline your key arguments and the evidence for each.
- Identify contrasting perspectives or potential limitations.
- Integrate reflection, especially on unexpected findings or ambiguous data.
RevisionDojo’s step-by-step planning approach helps structure powerful discussion and deeper analysis.
Techniques to Strengthen Your Discussion
⚖️ Use TOK Concepts and Counterclaims
Explain why your argument stands up—but also acknowledge counterclaims or alternative explanations to show intellectual honesty.
🔍 Analyze Source Credibility
Evaluate sources for bias, origin, and relevance. Question reliability and reflect on how this affects your conclusions.
⚗️ Evaluate Methodological Limitations
Discuss how experimental design, data collection, or historical interpretation might skew results or influence significance.
Sentence Starters and Linking Phrases
Purpose Phrases Contrast / Counterclaim “However, this assumes...”, “On the other hand...” Reflection “This suggests that...”, “It may be that...” Conclusion / Signpost “Consequently, the evidence implies...”, “Therefore, it stands that...”
These help your writing flow and clarify your analytical stance.
Examples of Strong Critical Discussion
- History EE Excerpt: “While nationalist ideology clearly propelled revolutionary actions, archival bias highlights limitations in interpreting public sentiment—letters from elites may not reflect popular opinion.”
- Science EE Excerpt: “Although the correlation between nutrient levels and growth is strong, environmental variability and measurement error suggest caution when generalizing the findings.”
- Literature EE Excerpt: “This metaphor appears to critique colonial oppression, yet its modern-day interpretation diverges depending on cultural context and reader perspective.”
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake Fix Over-summarizing sources Summarize only necessary facts—focus on analysis Lack of synthesis Compare, contrast, and integrate ideas across paragraphs Ignoring opposing views Acknowledge limitations and counterclaims explicitly
Tips from IB Examiners and Top Scorers
- Use specific evidence rather than general statements.
- Prioritize quality of analysis over quantity.
- Stick closely to your Research Question—don’t diverge into unnecessary tangents.
RevisionDojo’s examiner insights and sample essays demonstrate how a well‑structured discussion creates depth and clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long should my critical discussion section be?
A1: Approximately 30–40% of your total word count, depending on subject and complexity.
Q2: Can I use quotes within the discussion?
A2: Yes—use quotes selectively to support analysis, but avoid lengthy passage. Focus on their implications.
Q3: Should I use TOK terms like “way of knowing” or “counterclaim”?
A3: Use them when relevant—but only if they enhance clarity and depth. Don’t force jargon.
Q4: How do I integrate negative findings?
A4: Discuss them explicitly and reflect on how they influence your overall argument and limitations.
Q5: What if my research question changed during writing?
A5: Update the discussion to reflect any shifts, ensuring logical coherence with your final RQ.
Q6: Is reflection mandatory in this section?
A6: Yes—reflecting on findings, sources, or methodology is essential to meet the critical discussion criterion.
Conclusion: Make Your Discussion the Heart of the EE
A well-crafted critical discussion elevates your EE from descriptive to evaluative. By scrutinizing your assumptions, comparing perspectives, and acknowledging limitations, you build intellectual depth—removing guesswork and adding insight.
Call to Action
Strengthen your EE with RevisionDojo’s tools:
- ✅ Access Critical Discussion Templates and analysis frameworks
- ✅ Review sample discussions across subjects
- ✅ Subscribe for weekly EE writing tips, structure guides, and tutorial videos
👉 Visit RevisionDojo to explore strategic tools that turn your discussion into a compelling argument.
