1. Welcome to the Psychology EE

2. What is the Psychology EE?
A review of the existing literature (research) on your topic

3. Expectations Your research and argument are the key to getting an A
There must be debate in your essay and indicated in your question

4. Expectations - Format 4000 words in an essay format
Academic conventions to be followed including use of the third person
No ‘I’ and formal language
Use subheadings like chapters of a book

5. Expectations - Research
Evidence of extensive research
A minimum of 25 studies to be cited
Published journals only
Websites, for example Psychology Today, are not appropriate
You must collect your research and analyse it before you begin writing

6. Question: Achievement level Descriptor
A: research question
(Objectives 1 and 2)
This criterion assesses the extent to which the purpose of the essay is specified. In many subjects, the aim of the essay will normally be expressed as a question and, therefore, this criterion is called the “research question”. However, certain disciplines may permit or encourage different ways of formulating the research task.
Achievement level
Descriptor
The research question is not stated in either the introduction or on the title page or does not lend itself to a systematic investigation in an extended essay in the subject in which it is registered. 1
The research question is stated in either the introduction or on the title page but is not clearly expressed or is too broad in scope to be treated effectively within the word limit. 2
The research question is clearly stated in either the introduction or on the title page and is sharply focused, making effective treatment possible within the word limit.

7. Which of these questions are appropriate for an EE?
What causes depression?
Does aggression help or hinder sport performance?
How does depression develop?
To what extent is mindfulness meditation effective in improving wellbeing?
Can we identify psychopaths?
To what extent does discrimination explain racism?

8. Choose to do a Psychology EE if:
You like to research and can read extensively
Enjoy putting together a plan for an essay
Are prepared to act on feedback and change your essay and rewrite sections numerous times
Want to extend your critical thinking
Will work consistently on the essay over an 8 month period
Your motto is ‘anything worth doing, is worth doing well’