IB Mathematics EE Examples

IB Math Extended Essay Grader

1. Lots of students struggle to decode their Mathematics Extended Essay grade and assessment.
2. This is a free grading tool that breaks down the IB Math EE rubric into plain English, so you understand exactly where your 4,000-word mathematical research project stands across all five assessment criteria.
3. The embedded grader makes self-evaluation faster and more accurate than manual rubric checking, so you're never left guessing.

Quick Start Checklist

1. Before using the grader, ensure you understand these key elements:
   1. Research Question - Clear, focused mathematical question that allows for extended investigation and rigorous analysis
   2. Mathematical Focus - Must be firmly based on mathematical theory covering pure mathematics, applied mathematics, or mathematical modeling
   3. Academic Sources - Minimum 15-20 credible sources including mathematical journals, research papers, and mathematical literature
   4. Mathematical Analysis - Extended critical evaluation of mathematical concepts with proof development and theoretical exploration
   5. Word Count Verification - Maximum 4,000 words (excluding bibliography, footnotes, and appendices)
   6. Complete Structure - Introduction, Investigation, Analysis, Conclusion, Bibliography, and Reflections
   7. Supervisor Meetings - Evidence of 3 mandatory reflection sessions with your EE supervisor
   8. Mathematical Rigor - Demonstration of mathematical proof, logical reasoning, and theoretical understanding

Rubric Breakdown

The Mathematics EE is assessed based on five criteria, totaling 34 marks.

Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 marks)

1. This criterion tests how clear and focused your mathematical research question is.
2. It evaluates whether your methodology is appropriate for mathematical investigation.

Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 marks)

1. This evaluates your grasp of mathematical concepts and theoretical knowledge.
2. It tests how well you apply mathematical theory and demonstrate subject expertise.

Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 marks)

1. This is the most important criterion - worth 35% of your total grade.
2. It assesses your ability to analyze mathematical concepts, develop proofs, and synthesize mathematical findings.

Criterion D: Presentation (4 marks)

1. This assesses professional presentation and academic formatting.
2. It includes structure, mathematical communication, and adherence to academic conventions.

Criterion E: Engagement (6 marks)

1. This tests your personal engagement with the mathematical research process.
2. It's based on your reflection sessions and demonstrates your intellectual development.

How to Interpret Your Grade from the Tool

How to Interpret Your Grade from the Tool

1. The embedded grader calculates your total score out of 28 marks across all criteria except E, your reflections.
2. Here's how to interpret your results:
   1. 24-28 marks (Grade A territory): Excellent work with sophisticated mathematical research. Minor refinements needed.
   2. 19-23 marks (Grade B range): Strong project with good mathematical analysis. Focus on critical evaluation and theoretical synthesis.
   3. 14-18 marks (Grade C level): Competent work meeting basic requirements. Strengthen mathematical analysis and proof development.
   4. 9-13 marks (Grade D range): Adequate foundation but needs significant improvement. Review research focus and mathematical understanding.
   5. Below 9 marks (Grade E): Major revision required across most criteria. Restructure approach and strengthen mathematical fundamentals.

Grade Boundaries & Converting Your Mark

IB Extended Essay grade boundaries are consistent across subjects but can vary slightly by session:

Subject-Specific Tips

Pure Mathematics Focus:

1. Investigate number theory, abstract algebra, real analysis, or topology.
2. Include rigorous proofs, theoretical development, mathematical structures, and formal definitions.

Applied Mathematics Focus:

1. Examine differential equations, optimization theory, mathematical physics, or numerical analysis.
2. Use mathematical modeling, computational methods, real-world applications, and theoretical foundations.

Discrete Mathematics Focus:

1. Study graph theory, combinatorics, cryptography, or computer science mathematics.
2. Include algorithmic thinking, discrete structures, complexity analysis, and theoretical computer science.

Mathematical Analysis Focus:

1. Investigate calculus extensions, infinite series, complex analysis, or functional analysis.
2. Use limit theory, convergence proofs, analytical techniques, and theoretical foundations.

Geometry Focus:

1. Analyze non-Euclidean geometry, differential geometry, projective geometry, or geometric topology.
2. Include geometric proofs, coordinate systems, transformation geometry, and spatial analysis.

Probability and Statistics Focus:

1. Study probability theory, statistical inference, stochastic processes, or mathematical statistics.
2. Use measure theory, distribution theory, hypothesis testing, and theoretical statistics.

Research Process Guide

1. Planning Phase: Research question development → Literature review → Theoretical framework → Proof strategy planning
2. Investigation Phase: Theoretical foundation → Proof development → Mathematical exploration → Computational verification
3. Analysis Phase: Critical evaluation → Theoretical connections → Advanced applications → Original insights
4. Synthesis Phase: Conclusion development → Reflection → Further research → Mathematical significance

FAQs

1. What mathematical level is expected?
   1. University-level mathematics with rigorous proofs and advanced theoretical content.
2. How much original research is needed?
   1. Original insights and synthesis rather than completely new discoveries - extend existing theory.
3. Should I include computational work?
   1. Where appropriate - computational verification and numerical examples support theoretical work.
4. What makes proofs rigorous?
   1. Formal logic, complete justification, clear assumptions, and logical progression of reasoning.
5. How advanced should the mathematics be?
   1. Beyond IB syllabus with university-level concepts and sophisticated mathematical techniques.
6. Can I extend IB topics?
   1. Yes - take familiar concepts to advanced levels with theoretical development.
7. What reflection is expected?
   1. Deep mathematical reflection on proof techniques, theoretical connections, and research process.
8. How much background theory?

Use the Free Math Extended Essay Grader Now

1. Stop guessing about your grade.
2. The comprehensive grading tool evaluates your EE against all five official criteria, giving instant feedback on strengths and improvement areas.
3. Input your project details and get a preliminary grade calculation that helps you focus revision efforts where they matter most.
4. Mathematics-specific analysis helps you master the theoretical rigor and proof development that separate excellent from average Mathematics Extended Essays.