Extended essay criteria for the extended essay (first exam May 2018)

Criteria A: Focus and method

The choice of essay is a viable topic within economics and falls within section 3 of the syllabus - comparative and absolute advantage.  While the title is stated in the introduction I felt that the topic is not communicated clearly enough.  The candidate also fails to set out the methodology clearly in terms of how they intend to go about completing the project.  (4/6)
 

Criteria B: Knowledge and understanding

The knowledge and understanding of the concepts of comparative advantage is good and terminology and concepts are used adequately.  (4 / 6 marks).

Criteria C: Evaluation

The candidate completed a lot of research in completing the essay, illustrated by the number of resources included in the bibliography.  Overall I rated the research and analysis as good and the discussion / analysis adequate - lacking clarity in places.

(7 / 12 marks)

Criteria D: Presentation

Some parts of the layout were missing e.g. methodology but overall the presentation I thought was adequate.  (2 out of 4 marks).

Criteria E: Engagement

The candidate demonstrated a level of engagement during the writing and research process and was able to articulate their thoughts and research during the three reflection periods that I had with the candidate.  The student was very committed to this project and spent many hours researching the relevant theories.  (5 / 6 marks)

Overall score and grade.

The overall score for this essay was 22 out of a maximum score of 34.  In the year of the submission this essay was awarded a grade B.