IB History SL Extended Essay Example

The student communicates a clearly historical and appropriately delimited topic.

The student's research question is explicit and remains visible throughout the essay.

The student uses a range of relevant sources and shows awareness of why particular evidence matters.

The student's definition of the outcome is broad, which sometimes makes the argument feel slightly diffuse.

Some sections drift between diplomacy, military events, and consequences without always tying back tightly to the central question.

The methodology would be stronger if the student explained more clearly why certain sources were prioritized over others.

The student uses source material that is mostly relevant and appropriate to the question.

The student demonstrates clear knowledge of the diplomatic chronology and major turning points.

The student generally uses historical terminology accurately and in context.

Some evidence is tangential or supported through lower-authority sources when stronger evidence would be preferable.

A few claims are stated more confidently than the evidence fully justifies.

Some concepts and causal claims would benefit from more precise qualification.