Classical Languages EE Grader

This page provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the assessment criteria for the IB Classical Languages Extended Essay (EE). By breaking down each criterion, offering annotated examples, and explaining grade boundaries, you'll gain clarity on how your essay is evaluated. Additionally, a free embedded grader is available to assist you in self-assessing your work efficiently.

Quick Start Checklist

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

1. Research Question: A clear and focused question that guides your investigation.
2. Primary and Secondary Sources: A collection of relevant classical texts and scholarly analyses.
3. Outline: A structured plan detailing the main points and arguments of your essay.
4. Drafts: Initial versions of your essay for review and refinement.
5. Citation Records: Accurate records of all sources to ensure proper referencing.
6. Reflection Notes: Personal insights and reflections on your research process.

Rubric Breakdown (Paraphrased & Plain English)

The IB Classical Languages EE is assessed based on five criteria, totaling 34 marks:

Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 marks)

What it tests: The clarity of your research question and the appropriateness of your methodology.

Performance Levels:

• High (5-6 marks): The research question is clear, focused, and directly related to the topic. The methodology is well-chosen and effectively applied.
• Medium (3-4 marks): The research question is somewhat clear and focused. The methodology is appropriate but may lack depth.
• Low (0-2 marks): The research question is unclear or too broad. The methodology is inappropriate or poorly applied.

Common Mistakes:

• Choosing a research question that is too broad or vague.
• Applying a methodology that doesn't align with the research question.

Evidence to Show:

• A well-defined research question.
• A clear explanation of the chosen methodology and its relevance.

Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 marks)

What it tests: Your grasp of the topic and the context of your research question.

Performance Levels:

• High (5-6 marks): Demonstrates in-depth knowledge and understanding of the topic. Uses subject-specific terminology accurately.
• Medium (3-4 marks): Shows adequate knowledge with some inaccuracies. Uses terminology appropriately but inconsistently.
• Low (0-2 marks): Limited knowledge and understanding. Misuses or lacks subject-specific terminology.

Common Mistakes:

• Relying on superficial understanding without delving into complexities.
• Misusing or avoiding technical terms.

Evidence to Show:

• Accurate use of classical language terms.
• Demonstrated understanding of the historical and cultural context.

Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 marks)

What it tests: Your ability to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information.

Performance Levels:

• High (10-12 marks): Presents a well-reasoned argument with critical evaluation of sources.
• Medium (6-9 marks): Offers a coherent argument with some critical analysis.
• Low (0-5 marks): Lacks a clear argument or critical evaluation.

Common Mistakes:

• Presenting a descriptive rather than analytical essay.
• Failing to critically assess sources.

Evidence to Show:

• Balanced analysis of different perspectives.
• Critical evaluation of primary and secondary sources.

Criterion D: Presentation (4 marks)

What it tests: The structure, formatting, and overall presentation of your essay.

Performance Levels:

• High (3-4 marks): The essay is well-organized with consistent formatting.
• Medium (2 marks): The essay has minor structural or formatting issues.
• Low (0-1 mark): The essay is poorly organized with significant formatting errors.

Common Mistakes:

• Inconsistent citation styles.
• Lack of clear headings or subheadings.

Evidence to Show:

• A clear structure with an introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Consistent use of a recognized citation style.

Criterion E: Engagement (6 marks)

What it tests: Your reflection on the research process and personal engagement with the topic.

Performance Levels:

• High (5-6 marks): Demonstrates deep engagement with insightful reflections.
• Medium (3-4 marks): Shows some engagement with basic reflections.
• Low (0-2 marks): Limited engagement with superficial reflections.

Common Mistakes:

• Providing a narrative of events without reflection.
• Lacking personal insights or learning outcomes.

Evidence to Show:

• Thoughtful reflections on challenges faced and how they were addressed.
• Insights into how the research process influenced your understanding.

How to Interpret Your Grade from the Tool

The embedded grader provides a score based on the criteria above. Here's how to interpret your results:

• 27-34 marks: Grade A (Excellent)
• 21-26 marks: Grade B (Good)
• 14-20 marks: Grade C (Satisfactory)
• 7-13 marks: Grade D (Mediocre)
• 0-6 marks: Grade E (Elementary)

If your score falls between bands, focus on the criteria where you scored lower and consider revising those sections.

Improvement Actions:

• Focus and Method: Refine your research question and ensure your methodology aligns with it.
• Knowledge and Understanding: Deepen your research and use subject-specific terminology accurately.
• Critical Thinking: Enhance your analysis and critically evaluate all sources.
• Presentation: Ensure your essay follows a clear structure and adheres to formatting guidelines.
• Engagement: Reflect more deeply on your research process and personal learning.

Annotated Examples

High-Band Excerpt:

"In analyzing Virgil's use of epic similes in the Aeneid, particularly in Book VI, we observe how these literary devices not only enhance the narrative's vividness but also reflect the protagonist's internal struggles. For instance, the comparison of Aeneas to a sturdy oak tree symbolizes his resilience amidst adversity."

Why it scores high:

• Demonstrates deep analysis of literary devices.
• Connects the analysis to broader themes.
• Uses subject-specific terminology accurately.

Mid-Band Excerpt:

"Virgil uses similes in the Aeneid to make the story more interesting. For example, he compares Aeneas to a tree, which shows he is strong."

What's missing:

• Lacks depth in analysis.
• Does not connect the literary device to broader themes.
• Uses simplistic language and lacks subject-specific terminology.

Grade Boundaries & Converting Your Mark

The IB EE is graded out of 34 marks, which correspond to the following grades:

These grades contribute to your overall IB diploma score and can influence university admissions.

Common Mistakes & Fast Fixes

• Mistake: Vague research question.
• Fix: Narrow down your question to a specific aspect of the topic.
• Mistake: Descriptive rather than analytical content.
• Fix: Focus on analyzing and evaluating information, not just describing