IB Psychology SL Extended Essay Example

You communicate a clear and relevant psychology topic from the outset, and the investigation has a recognizable purpose.

Your research question gives the essay a workable direction by naming the variable and the outcomes you want to examine.

You show thoughtful selection of different types of research evidence, including experimental studies, a systematic review, and a meta-analysis.

The question is broader than the evidence base you actually use, especially because it focuses on adolescents while most of the studies are on adults.

The method is described too generally and does not explain search terms, selection criteria, or why specific studies were included.

Some background material is useful but not always precise or consistently academic, which weakens the overall focus.

You demonstrate strong familiarity with relevant psychological and neuroscientific terms and use much of the vocabulary appropriately.

Your explanation of the topic shows a secure grasp of the main concepts involved in binaural beats and cognitive performance.

You usually apply source material in a way that supports the discussion rather than leaving it as isolated summary.

Some terminology is used too loosely or inaccurately, especially where neural responses are treated as if they directly prove cognitive improvement.

A few claims are more absolute than the evidence allows, particularly when discussing what a study design can establish.

At times the essay would benefit from clearer links between the findings and the psychological processes being discussed.