IB Theatre EE Grader
- Many students find it challenging to unpack their Theatre Extended Essay grade and assessment feedback.
- This is a comprehensive grading tool that breaks down the IB Theatre EE rubric into clear, actionable language, so you understand exactly where your theatrical investigation stands across all five assessment criteria.
- The embedded grader makes self-evaluation more precise and efficient than manual rubric checking, eliminating guesswork about your performance.
Quick Start Checklist
- Before using the grader, ensure you understand these essential elements:
- Research Question - Sharply focused, theatrically rich question that invites investigation of performance, dramatic literature, or theatrical practice
- Theatrical Focus - Clear engagement with theatre studies concepts, performance analysis, or dramatic theory appropriate to the discipline
- Methodology - Systematic approach using theatrical research methods (performance analysis, script study, practitioner research, comparative studies)
- Primary Source Integration - Balanced use of scripts, performance recordings, interviews, and relevant secondary scholarship
- Critical Analysis - Evidence of independent thinking, evaluation of theatrical choices, and synthesis of performance insights
- Theatre Terminology - Sophisticated use of discipline-specific vocabulary and analytical frameworks
- Word Count Verification - Between 3,500-4,000 words (excluding bibliography and appendices)
- Practical Context - Connection between theoretical analysis and actual theatrical practice or production
Rubric Breakdown
- The IB Theatre EE is assessed using five criteria totaling 34 marks.
- Below is a comprehensive breakdown of each criterion, what it assesses, and how to excel in each area.
Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 marks)
- This criterion evaluates how effectively you formulate and address your research question using appropriate theatrical research methods.
- It tests your ability to maintain focus and apply systematic approaches to theatrical investigation.
| Mark band | What it means | Evidence you must show |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | The topic is too broad or unclear. | The research question is vague, and the approach is superficial. |
| 3-4 | The topic is relevant but lacks focus. | The research question is clear but not fully developed. |
| 5-6 | The topic is well-defined and focused. | The research question is precise, and the approach is systematic. |
Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 marks)
- This assesses your grasp of theatrical concepts, dramatic theories, and performance contexts relevant to your investigation.
- It evaluates depth of theatre knowledge and understanding of the broader academic conversation in theatre studies.
| Mark band | What it means | Evidence you must show |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Limited understanding of the topic. | Basic concepts are mentioned without depth. |
| 3-4 | Good understanding with some depth. | Concepts are explained but lack detailed analysis. |
| 5-6 | Excellent understanding with depth and insight. | Concepts are thoroughly analyzed and well-integrated. |
Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 marks)
- This is the highest-weighted criterion, evaluating your ability to develop independent arguments, analyze theatrical evidence, and synthesize performance insights.
- It tests analytical depth, evaluation of perspectives, and quality of reasoning in theatre research.
| Mark band | What it means | Evidence you must show |
|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Limited analysis and evaluation. | Arguments are weak and unsupported. |
| 5-8 | Good analysis with some evaluation. | Arguments are clear but lack depth. |
| 9-12 | Excellent analysis and evaluation. | Arguments are insightful and well-supported. |
Criterion D: Presentation (4 marks)
- This evaluates the structure, organization, and academic presentation of your essay.
- It tests your ability to communicate theatrical research clearly through effective formatting and organization.
| Mark band | What it means | Evidence you must show |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The structure is unclear and disorganized. | The essay lacks coherence. |
| 2 | The structure is clear but lacks coherence. | The essay is organized but not logical. |
| 3 | The structure is clear and logical. | The essay is well-organized and easy to follow. |
| 4 | The structure is clear, logical, and engaging. | The essay is well-organized and engaging. |
Criterion E: Engagement (6 marks)
- This assesses your reflection on the research process and evidence of intellectual development in theatre research.
- It evaluates personal engagement with the investigation and learning outcomes.
| Mark band | What it means | Evidence you must show |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Limited reflection on the research process. | The reflection is superficial. |
| 3-4 | Good reflection with some insight. | The reflection is thoughtful but lacks depth. |
| 5-6 | Excellent reflection with depth and insight. | The reflection is insightful and well-integrated. |
How to Interpret Your Grade from the Tool
The following table outlines the grade boundaries for the Theatre EE:
| Grade | Score Range |
|---|---|
| A | 27-34 |
| B | 21-26 |
| C | 14-20 |
| D | 7-13 |
| E | 0-6 |
- The embedded grader calculates your total score out of 28 marks across all criteria except E, your reflections.
- Here's how to interpret your results:
- 24-28 marks (Grade A territory): Exceptional work with sophisticated theatrical analysis. Minor refinements needed for perfection.
- 19-23 marks (Grade B range): Strong investigation with good critical thinking. Focus on deepening analysis and strengthening theoretical integration.
- 14-18 marks (Grade C level): Competent work meeting basic requirements. Strengthen critical thinking and ensure comprehensive knowledge demonstration.
- 9-13 marks (Grade D range): Adequate foundation but needs significant improvement. Review focus, method, and analytical depth.
- Below 9 marks : Major revision required across most criteria. Restructure approach and strengthen theatrical research fundamentals.
Tip
What to Do If You're Between Grade Boundaries
Scored 28-29 marks (A/B boundary)?
- Focus on Criterion C: Deepen your theatrical analysis with more sophisticated performance interpretation
- Enhance engagement reflection: Add specific examples of research breakthroughs or methodological insights
- Strengthen theoretical integration: Show mastery of advanced theatrical concepts and theories
Scored 24-25 marks (B/C boundary)?
- Sharpen your research question: Make it more theatrically focused and analytically rich
- Expand knowledge demonstration: Show deeper understanding of performance contexts and dramatic theory
- Improve critical thinking: Move from description to analysis, add evaluation of different interpretative approaches
Scored 20-21 marks (C/D boundary)?
- Restructure your argument: Ensure clear thesis connecting theatrical evidence to analytical insights
- Fix presentation issues: Consistent citations, proper formatting, logical organization
- Add more primary source analysis: Include detailed script analysis or performance examination
General boundary-crossing strategies:
- Target your weakest criterion first - biggest gains come from improving lowest scores
- Get supervisor feedback on theatrical methodology and theoretical framework
- Use theatre databases and academic journals for higher-quality sources
- Practice analytical writing - move beyond plot summary to interpretive insights
Subject-Specific Tips
- Research Question Formation:
- Focus on specific theatrical elements (directing choices, design decisions, performance techniques) rather than broad thematic topics.
- Ensure your question allows for performance analysis and textual investigation rather than purely historical research.
- Primary Source Analysis:
- Use script analysis to examine dialogue, stage directions, and dramatic structure in detail.
- Analyze performance recordings or live productions to evaluate directorial and acting choices.
- Theoretical Framework:
- Ground your investigation in established theatre theories (Stanislavski, Brecht, Artaud) or performance studies models.
- Apply dramatic analysis techniques when examining plays, characters, and theatrical elements.
- Performance Context:
- Connect theatrical choices to historical, social, or cultural contexts that influence interpretation.
- Examine audience reception and critical responses to understand broader theatrical impact.
- Practical Application:
- Consider how your research findings could influence actual productions or performance practice.
- Reflect on directing, acting, or design implications of your analytical insights.
- Visual Evidence:
- Include production photos, design sketches, or performance stills to support your analysis.
- Use staging diagrams or blocking notation where relevant to illustrate spatial relationships.
Common Mistake
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Focus and Method Issues:
- Research questions that are too broad or purely biographical without theatrical analysis
- Inconsistent methodology or confusion between literary and performance analysis
- Lack of clear connection between research methods and theatrical investigation
Knowledge Gaps:
- Superficial understanding of theatrical concepts and performance theory
- Lack of relevant theatre terminology and analytical vocabulary
- Minimal awareness of historical and cultural contexts
Critical Thinking Weaknesses:
- Plot summary rather than analysis of theatrical choices and effects
- Failure to evaluate different interpretative possibilities or directorial approaches
- No consideration of performance variables or production contexts
Presentation Problems:
- Inconsistent citation of scripts, performances, and theoretical sources
- Poor integration of visual materials and performance evidence
- Inadequate organization of theatrical analysis and supporting materials
Engagement Shortfalls:
- Generic reflection lacking specific theatrical insights
- No evidence of grappling with performance analysis challenges
- Failure to connect research experience with theatrical understanding
FAQs
- How long should my EE be?
- Between 3,500-4,000 words exactly - this excludes bibliography and appendices but includes all analysis and discussion.
- Can I analyze a play I've never seen performed?
- Possible, but stronger analysis comes from performance experience - use recordings, reviews, or attend productions when feasible.
- Should I include production photos or design images?
- Yes, when directly relevant to your analysis - ensure proper attribution and explain how images support your argument.
- Can I interview theatre practitioners for primary research?
- Absolutely - interviews with directors, actors, or designers can provide valuable insights, but ensure proper citation and context.
- How many plays/productions should I analyze?
- Quality over quantity - deep analysis of 1-2 works often yields better results than superficial coverage of many.
- Can I compare different productions of the same play?
- Excellent approach - comparative production analysis can reveal rich insights about interpretative choices and directorial vision.
- What theoretical frameworks work best?
- Choose theories that directly illuminate your research question - performance theory for acting studies, semiotics for design analysis.
- Should I include my own performance experience?
- Only if academically relevant - personal experience can enhance analysis but shouldn't replace scholarly investigation.
- Can I study non-Western theatrical forms?
- Yes, but ensure cultural sensitivity and appropriate theoretical frameworks for the specific tradition you're examining.
- What makes a research question theatrically focused?
- Specificity about performance elements (acting, directing, design, space) and clear connection to theatrical practice and theory.
Use the Free Theatre EE Grader Now
- Stop wondering about your grade potential.
- The comprehensive grading tool evaluates your EE against all five official criteria, providing immediate feedback on strengths and targeted improvement areas.
- Input your essay details and receive a preliminary grade calculation that helps you focus revision efforts where they'll have maximum impact.
- Theatre-specific analysis helps you master the performance methodology and critical thinking that distinguish exceptional from average Extended Essays.
