IB Biology Extended Essay Exemplar
An investigation into the the impact of fertiliser pollution in the Baltic sea on a local algae specie, Tetraselmis suecica’s growth
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Criteria A: Focus and Method
6/6
0
3
6
Criteria Strands
Research question is sharply focused, clearly stated twice and drives the entire investigation.
Methodology is comprehensive, with justified selection of techniques, proper controls and appropriate statistical tests.
Topic is communicated accurately throughout, with detailed background, contextual maps and mechanistic explanations.
Mechanistic discussion of GS–GOGAT and TCA links could be strengthened by citation of a recent review source.
Criteria B: Knowledge and Understanding
5/6
0
3
6
Criteria Strands
Consistent and accurate use of discipline-specific terminology (e.g., NH₄⁺, GS–GOGAT, Tukey HSD) throughout.
Source material is applied coherently to support rationale, statistical calculations and experimental choices.
Engagement with some sources remains descriptive rather than critically comparative.
Reliance on older taxonomy papers without critical appraisal limits depth of synthesis.
Criteria C: Critical Thinking
9/12
0
6
12
Criteria Strands
Data analysis is detailed: means, SDs, CVs, ANOVA and Tukey tests are calculated and linked explicitly to the research question.
Conclusions are generally well supported and limitations are acknowledged with proposed improvements.
Argument flows logically from biochemical mechanisms through data interpretation to broader environmental implications.
Some over-interpretation of overlapping error bars.
Limited discussion of operator variability and instrument calibration in assessing data reliability.
Occasional minor logical leaps when asserting the efficacy of target concentrations without full statistical support.
Criteria D: Presentation
4/4
0
2
4
Criteria Strands
Structure follows the prescribed format with clear section headings, numbered figures and tables.
Consistent formatting, correct application of layout conventions and inclusion of word count, title and page numbers enhance readability.
Minor typographical errors (e.g., duplicated words in the title).