IB Design Technology (DT) SL Extended Essay Example

The student communicates a relevant Design Technology investigation with a clear real-world context.

The student states a research question and identifies variables, showing a sensible attempt to focus the inquiry.

The student includes a mixed-method approach and some controlled conditions, such as keeping cover size consistent.

The student's research question is still too broad because several key terms are not operationally defined.

The wording shifts between pillow cover and pillow, which weakens precision.

The method does not fully separate visual effects from tactile effects, and the trial order is not clearly explained.

The student shows relevant subject knowledge about material properties such as breathability, thermal behavior, durability, and moisture absorption.

The student uses a range of Design Technology and materials terminology with reasonable accuracy.

The student connects material ideas to the intended use of the product instead of discussing them in isolation.

Some material concepts are not always distinguished precisely, especially thermal conductivity and thermal effusivity.

Several claims, especially about visual effects, are not supported strongly enough by the evidence the student presents.

The student's language is sometimes more descriptive than technical, which weakens precision.