Geography

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A comprehensive guide to IB Geography IA word count and page limit. Check it out and find out how to structure your report!

Geography IA word count and page limit

Do you need some inspiration on how to write your geography IA? That's what Clastify is here to help you with! In this post, we will give you some key points to remember when writing your Geography IA, based on our experience with IB. The guide below is just an example of how a good IA should be structured, however, keep in mind that many high-scoring IAs may also use other structures. For examples of well-structured IAs, head to the <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify</a> website where you can read through multiple exemplar IAs!&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">&nbsp;</h2><h2 style="text-align:center;">Geography IA Format and Structure&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The guide will be broken up by section to help you better understand what is required in each part of the IA and will have examples linked, as follows:&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Title page:&nbsp;</h3><ol><li>Include the title of the essay and the research question.</li><li>Include your IB number and the session for which you will submit the IA (eg: May 2024).</li><li>Include the word count of the IA, which should be 2500 words or fewer.</li><li>Do not include your name, school name, or candidate/student number.</li><li>A good example of this can be found <a href="/ia/geography/63231e140394b4001338e0f7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.&nbsp;</li></ol>&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Table of contents:</h3><ol><li>Include the following: Introduction, Methods of Data Collection, Data Analysis, Conclusion, Evaluation, and References.&nbsp;</li><li>Number each section with the relevant page numbers.</li><li>A good example of this can be found <a href="/ia/geography/62e1476ff3cb8f0013903961" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.&nbsp;</li></ol>&nbsp;<h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Introduction:</h3><ol><li>Include the aim of the experiment. What is the main purpose of conducting this study?&nbsp;</li><li>Explicitly state the fieldwork question.</li><li>Mention which part of the syllabus the IA relates to.</li><li>Give an overview of the concept being studied (eg: Bradshaw model, urban heat island effect, etc).&nbsp;</li><li>Provide a map of the chosen region and explain what features of that region make it suitable for analysis using the chosen method (eg: why would you choose a certain city to measure the urban heat island effect?).</li><li>Ensure that the map/figure is fully labelled. Provide a legend or key if applicable (eg: colour key showing different population densities in different provinces).</li><li>Clearly state the hypotheses used for the experiment and justify why these particular hypotheses have been chosen.&nbsp;</li><li>A good example of this can be found <a href="/ia/geography/632835350394b4001338f043" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.</li></ol>&nbsp;<pre><code class="language-plaintext">CAROUSEL</code></pre>&nbsp;<h3>Methods of data collection:</h3><ol><li>Include an explanation of the methods you used to collect the data for your IA.&nbsp;</li><li>Such methods may include surveys, polls, sampling etc. Include the type of sampling conducted (eg: random, stratified, etc.) as well as other information as to how the data was collected.&nbsp;</li><li>This may include the time and location that data was collected (eg: river water collected upstream/downstream, in the morning/evening, at regular intervals/at random locations).</li><li>If applicable to your study, you may also include demographic information such as age, gender, frequency of visiting that location, why they prefer that location, etc.</li><li>A good example of this can be found <a href="/ia/geography/632835350394b4001338f043" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.&nbsp;</li></ol><h3>&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;<h3>Data analysis:</h3><ol><li>Include raw and processed data tables.&nbsp;</li><li>Include any statistical calculations that were conducted, if applicable (eg: Pearson and Spearman coefficients).</li><li>Provide a sample calculation and put the rest of the data into a table.&nbsp;</li><li>Add graphs of the processed data that are relevant to the analysis.&nbsp;</li><li>Ensure all graphs and tables are properly labelled with a number and brief caption.</li><li>Identify patterns from the data (eg: is there a certain location where people tend to visit stores more frequently?) Discuss the possible reasons for these trends.&nbsp;</li><li>Discuss the data and how it relates to each of the proposed hypotheses.&nbsp;</li><li>Good examples of data analysis can be found here in <a href="/ia/geography/62e1476ff3cb8f0013903961" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">example 1</a>, <a href="/ia/geography/632835350394b4001338f043" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">example 2</a> and <a href="/ia/geography/63231e140394b4001338e0f7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">example 3</a>.&nbsp;</li></ol><h3>&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;<h3>Conclusion:</h3><ol><li>Provide a summary of the results of the IA and fieldwork conducted (eg: which location is the most popular, how do the Bradshaw variables change for a river?).&nbsp;</li><li>Explain the results in relation to each of the proposed hypotheses.&nbsp;</li><li>A good example can be found <a href="/ia/geography/62e1476ff3cb8f0013903961" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.</li></ol><h3>&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;<h3>Evaluation:</h3><ol><li>Discuss the strengths of the study.</li><li>Discuss any potential limitations of the fieldwork conducted (eg: were enough samples taken/people surveyed?).</li><li>Suggest ways to improve the experiment in future, or provide solutions to the limitations identified.&nbsp;</li><li>A good example of this can be found <a href="/ia/geography/63231e140394b4001338e0f7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.</li></ol><h3>&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;<h3>References:</h3><ol><li>Provide references to all external sources used in the IA.&nbsp;</li><li>This includes both primary and secondary sources of information.&nbsp;</li><li>A good example of this can be found <a href="/ia/geography/632835350394b4001338f043" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.</li></ol>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We hope this guide helps guide you in properly formatting and structuring your Geography IA! If you want to read some exemplary IAs before you start writing, we've got you covered too! Simply head to the <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify</a> website, where you will be able to find numerous <a href="/ia/geography" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Geography</a> IA ideas and examples, so you can look for the ones that are the most relevant to your topic. Good luck!&nbsp;&nbsp;

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A comprehensive guide on formatting and structuring an IB Geography Internal Assessment. Explore different approaches and use this as your roadmap throughout the IA writing process.

Geography IA Format and Structure

Have you got your geography IA deadline approaching soon and are unsure what to choose as your topic? Do not worry, this post is here to help you through that process! In this text, we will provide you with numerous geography IA ideas with examples to help you start the writing process. Our goal is to guide you in meeting the IB criteria and ensure you stay on track throughout your IA writing process. No matter what aspect of geography you are interested in, the suggestions below are sure to have something that suits your needs!&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">Geography IA Ideas&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;<ol><li><a href="/ia/geography/62d92560e042a500150f3ef6" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Land use patterns:</a> In this topic, you could look at the land use patterns of a particular city, such as the proportion of service sites and residential areas, as well as the factors that affect these land use patterns.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/63249ecb0394b4001338e998" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cycling infrastructure and transportation:</a> Within this topic, you could look at how cycling infrastructure within a city could affect the transportation habits of the neighbourhood’s inhabitants.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/632835350394b4001338f043" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Urban heat island effect:</a> Looking at this topic, you could analyze whether the urban heat island effect occurs in a particular city based on its infrastructure.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/63230bb80394b4001338e0b0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Symptoms of urban stress: </a>Within this analysis, you could explore the extent to which the symptoms of urban stress change in a city as you travel between different parts of the city.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/63bb20b628e2540013c126ef" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Butler's Model:</a> Through this topic, you could analyse which stage on the Butler's Model a city is currently on, as well as how this could change in the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/62e1476ff3cb8f0013903961" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Distribution of pharmacies:</a> In this exploration, you could determine the distribution of pharmacies within a city and the implications of this distribution for the frequency of customers that the pharmacy gets.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/62e28135f3cb8f0013903ab6" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Effects of human processes:</a> Within this topic, you could explore the extent to which human processes have affected natural physical processes of succession at a beach or park within a city.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/62d85c897ded760014fe70e2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bradshaw's Model: </a>Looking at this topic, you could analyze the extent to which changes in channel parameters of a river match Bradshaw’s model of river channel changes with increasing distance downstream of the river.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/62e01f813990180013ce48b0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Price variation:</a> Through this analysis, you could explore whether there is a significant variation in prices across grocery stores in a subdistrict of a city.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/6389cb5d5573ed0013c42207" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Central Business District:</a> Within this investigation, you could analyze the extent to which it is possible to delimit the Central Business District of a city, by measuring factors such as pedestrian and traffic frequency, environmental quality, and building height.&nbsp;</li></ol>&nbsp;<pre><code class="language-plaintext">CAROUSEL</code></pre>&nbsp;<ol start="11"><li><a href="/ia/geography/6286759c5005bb0013d0c969" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Distribution of stores:</a> Looking at this topic, you could investigate the distribution of convenience stores across a city, for example, how close they are to public transport stops.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/6298fbc05005bb0013d0e69a" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sustainable eco-cities:</a> In this topic, you could determine the extent to which a city can be classified as a sustainable eco-city based on the number of factors like solar panels, bicycle lanes and green areas present.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/63c590c7f18f2200138bc8da" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Biodiversity of sand dunes:</a> Looking at this topic, you could analyze whether the biodiversity of sand dunes at a particular location follows the expected pattern.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/5ffce067e175f502d6a99211" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Impacts of tourism:</a> Within this analysis, you could explore the socio-economic impacts that tourism brings to rural communities in a certain country.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/5ffce0c9e175f502d6a99214" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Soil quality:</a> Through this topic, you could investigate the soil quality between areas of varying land use practices.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/60e30e3bb4446500125e5f13" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Public transport management:</a> In this topic, you could evaluate how successful public transport management has been in a city since a certain point in time.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/61743627610b200013237d0d" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Water quality analysis:</a> Looking at this topic, you could investigate how the water quality in a river changes with distance downstream.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/64d4ecf96444cd0013a73be4" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Tourism development: </a>Through this analysis, you can explore the extent to which tourism development in a city could fit the stages of Butler’s Model.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/63026a258483960013c971cf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hoyt Model:</a> In this topic, you could analyze the extent to which the Hoyt Model can be used to represent the land use patterns of a city.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/63c090cbd20b8d001326aa9b" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Microclimates:</a> Looking at this topic, you could investigate the extent to which microclimates exist within a city by measuring factors such as light intensity and wind speeds.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/63249c990394b4001338e982" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Meatless options:</a> Within this investigation, you could determine the extent to which meatless options are available to customers in grocery stores and restaurants, as well as the number of people who use these meatless options.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/62f0f2372a89a40013e70a2c" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Urban stress of a city:</a> Through this topic, you could explore whether a city is suffering from urban stress, by looking at factors such as temperature and noise pollution.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/633428fad77add00134d6834" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Benefits of leisure and tourism:</a> In this exploration, you could look at the extent to which leisure and tourism had a positive impact on a city in a developed country.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/6391f34e5573ed0013c4a4ac" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Environmental quality:</a> Within this topic, you could analyze the relationship between land use and environmental quality in a particular area within the city, as well as how this could change as you go to different areas of the city.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/63a8e4a4f8937e0013b85917" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Burgess' Model:</a> Looking at this topic, you could investigate how land use changes with distance from the Central Business District, and the extent to which this follows Burgess' Model.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/63b425ddf8937e0013b9f875" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Core Frame Model:</a> In this exploration, you could analyze how different shopping malls in the Downtown Core conform to retail patterns in the Core Frame Model.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/63bc33e828e2540013c19ae8" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Circular economy:</a> Through this topic, you could explore the extent to which an institution such as a school or college embraces a circular economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/5ffce10be175f502d6a99217" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Shifting cultivation:</a> In this topic, you could determine the impact that shifting cultivation has on soil quality in a particular region.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/630cdbdcc3a99e0013a4d010" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Distance from public transport:</a> Within this analysis, you could investigate how the density of grocery stores and restaurants changes with the distance from metro stations in a city.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ia/geography/6202709159dfc500131829af" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The health of inhabitants:</a> Through this topic, you could explore how the health of a city's inhabitants differs between different parts of the city, as measured by the number of overweight people and the factors affecting this such as availability of food, distance to stores and sports facilities, means of transport used daily, and activity levels.</li></ol>&nbsp;For more IA ideas and a deeper insight into how to structure your IAs, head to the <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify</a> website where you will be able to find numerous <a href="/ia/geography" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">geography</a> IA topics as well as exemplar IAs that you can refer to during your writing process!&nbsp;

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A comprehensive list of 30 geography IA topic ideas along with explanations and examples. See what can be done and use this as inspiration for your own internal assessment topic. 

Geography IA Topic Ideas + Examples

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A comprehensive guide on Geography IA criteria along with a checklist. Find out how to improve your grade!

Geography IA Criteria and Checklist

&nbsp;You still can’t decide on the subject of your Geography extended essay? The possibilities are endless, as long as they relate to the syllabus. We recommend choosing a topic that is close to your areas of interest because it can facilitate the process. Below you can find a list of 10 topics with examples for inspiration.&nbsp; &nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">Geography EE ideas&nbsp; &nbsp;</h2><ol><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.clastify.com/ee/geography/6391f2d45573ed0013c4a46f ">Mitigation strategies for global climate change:</a> If you decide to pursue this topic, you could analyse how air pollution from the transportation sector decreased. This extended essay assesses the impact of mitigation strategies on air pollution and climate change in Paris, France. Specifically, it examines how the transportation sector can contribute to reducing air pollution by promoting the use of public transportation and implementing additional mitigation measures. &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/geography/632815a70394b4001338efba " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Human development index:</a> In this case, you could examine the relationship between Human Development Index (HDI) and Lesotho's healthcare outcomes. You would investigate to what extent the components of the index: life expectancy, education, and Gross National Income per capita influence the effectiveness of healthcare services. To deepen the analysis the author also considered the accelerated effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on these outcomes.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/geography/632835cc0394b4001338f047 " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Effect of COVID-19 on tourism:</a> Through this topic, you would research the impact of the pandemic on the income from the tourism industry. To extend the investigation you could compare it to the changes in profitability in other sectors. This extended essay evaluated the hypothesis that Athens, one of the top touristic destinations in Europe, experienced a considerable decrease in tourism income as a result of COVID-19.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/geography/6336a1e9d77add00134d85ad " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Apartment prices:</a> Here you could investigate the relationship between the quality of public services expressed by indicators such as green areas, public transportation, education, and apartment prices in different districts.&nbsp;The author examined the city of Lodz by obtaining a composite and universal index for each of the examined areas. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/geography/63b42323f8937e0013b9f86c " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Urban revitalization:</a> By rejuvenating the familiar environment with new facilities for more recreational activities to take place, the Urban Redevelopment Authority hopes that Jurong Lake Gardens remains a friendly neighborhood park for local residents, while also improving their quality of life and maintaining a sense of belonging. In this topic, you would focus on the impact of urban revitalization on the quality of life of local residents and visitors by exploring the environment, recreation, leisure time, and social belonging of the community.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<pre><code class="language-plaintext">CAROUSEL</code></pre> &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/geography/63ce0fa3f6d0f000120cfbf2 " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Micro-climate analysis:</a> In such analysis, you could research how the course of the river influences the local temperature in a specific period, taking into account the humidity, temperature, and rainfall.&nbsp;The student collected data from two different points of the Savegre River to test the hypothesis regarding the changes in these three climate indicators with the distance from the river.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/geography/64a7e67b701b5600139b50c5 " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sustainability of out-of-town shopping centers:</a> Over the past two decades, a few notable out-of-town shopping malls and centers, including Pioneer Mall, Maseru Mall, and Masianokeng Lifestyle Centre, have been established in Maseru, Lesotho. Through this topic, you could evaluate the impact of constructing a shopping center on the neighboring communities by analysing transportation, spending, and shopping frequency.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/geography/64d95321faee220013fff905 " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Socioeconomic and geographical concentrated disparities</a>: Hebron, situated in the southern part of the West Bank within the state of Palestine, has undergone significant socioeconomic and geographical transformations. Governmental and news reports have highlighted the issue of ashaier divisions, large groups of families numbering anywhere between 800 to 1600 people and sharing the same surname, as a primary factor contributing to the rise in crime rates. In this case, you would determine to what extent the increase in crime can be attributed to socioeconomic and geographical disparities such as population density and employment opportunities. &nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/geography/630f57d6c3a99e0013a503d2 " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Standard of living:</a> The research question of the extended essay seeks to explore the factors that contribute to the differentiation of neighborhoods in Nur-Sultan based on their standard of living. The objective is to derive a comprehensive coefficient that universally demonstrates the level of inequality among neighborhoods in terms of various factors that collectively represent an individual's quality of life within a given area of Nur-Sultan. The factors considered were for instance the safety level, access to education, and traffic congestion.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li><a href="/ee/geography/62d85b2a7ded760014fe70db " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ecotourism:</a> This essay seeks to assess the extent to which ecotourism practices at the site align with the principles of sustainable tourism, focusing on the core criteria of nature conservation, educational opportunities, and environmental sustainability. The evaluation involves examining the ecotourism practices at three key sites within the biosphere reserve against the Criteria for Sustainable Tourism established by the UNESCO Venice Office, drawing from similar assessments conducted in European biosphere reserves.</li></ol> We hope that you found some of these ideas interesting. For more topics check out the remaining <a href="/ee/geography" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Geography essays</a> available on Clastify. Also, keep in mind that you can submit your EE for <a href="/review" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Review</a> to receive feedback from our experienced reviewers and improve your grade.&nbsp;

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A comprehensive list of Geography extended essay topics with examples. Get inspiration for the IB coursework. 

Geography EE Topic ideas + examples 

Is it finally time to start writing your Geography extended essay? We would like to ensure that you know all the assessment criteria so as not to miss any points. Below you can find Clastify's guide on how to excel in each criterion. Good luck! &nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">Geography EE Criteria and Checklist</h2> The EE assessment consists of 34 points attributed to the following aspects:&nbsp;<h3> Criterion A: Focus and method - 6 points&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;The main aspects of this criterion are the topic, research question, and methodology. The geography extended essay necessitates a clear indication of the topic of the investigation, outlining the research area, purpose, and focus, The research question should be focused and phrased as an actual question. Students are expected to demonstrate a well-planned research methodology, including appropriate geographic approaches and data collection methods, with a balance between primary and secondary sources.&nbsp; For a maximum of 6 points:&nbsp;<ul><li>The topic is communicated accurately and effectively.&nbsp;</li><li>The research question is clearly stated and focused.&nbsp;</li><li>The chosen extended essay title encourages an analytical approach rather than a descriptive one.</li><li>The selection of reliable sources is appropriate and relevant in relation to the topic.&nbsp;</li><li>The choice of methodology is informed and selective. The methodology is clearly explained.</li></ul> See <a href="/ee/geography/64aae245f66fe20013844fe2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this exemplar</a> for reference.&nbsp;<h3> Criterion B: Knowledge and understanding - 6 points&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;For this criterion, you must establish the geographical context and demonstrate your understanding of the topic. It is essential for source materials utilized to be suitable for the research question, with clear and effective referencing throughout the essay. The incorporation of these materials along with the collected data into the main body should reflect the student's understanding of the subject matter. Geography essays require a proficient command of relevant terminology, with clear explanations of technical terms used and consistent usage throughout the text to demonstrate comprehension.&nbsp; For a maximum of 6 points:&nbsp;<ul><li>The use of subject-specific terminology and concepts is accurate and consistent.&nbsp;</li><li>Sources are used effectively and with understanding.&nbsp;</li><li>Proper referencing and incorporation of the source material are evident throughout the essay's body.</li><li>The student demonstrates effective knowledge and understanding.</li></ul> Check out <a href="/ee/geography/64d95321faee220013fff905" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this extended essay</a>! &nbsp;<pre><code class="language-plaintext">
CAROUSEL 
</code></pre><h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Criterion C: Critical Thinking - 12 points</h3> This criterion, constituting a significant portion of your grade encompasses research, analysis, discussion, and evaluation. &nbsp;All your methodology and usage of data must consistently align with the research question. Sampling procedures, if utilized, should be carefully designed to ensure valid analysis can be conducted. Students are expected to apply their chosen sources and methods to support their argument, presenting and analyzing data and sources appropriately, potentially incorporating maps, statistical analysis, tables, and graphs to enhance clarity. Throughout the essay, you should maintain a reasoned, logical argument that focuses on the research question, addressing any unexpected outcomes, unresolved issues, and limitations of the research while ensuring conclusions are consistent with the presented findings. For a maximum of 12 points:&nbsp;<ul><li>The application of the methodology to support arguments is consistently relevant.&nbsp;</li><li>The student focuses on relevant findings, and all irrelevant information is excluded from the essay.&nbsp;</li><li>There is evidence of critical thinking throughout the entire research.&nbsp;</li><li>The student should use different methods of graphical representation that are appropriately labeled.&nbsp;</li><li>The strengths and weaknesses of the approach are evaluated along with propositions for improvement.&nbsp;</li></ul> <a href="/ee/geography/62e284734aca120013c8fc8f" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">This EE</a> is worth taking a look at.&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Criterion D: Presentation - 4 points</h3>&nbsp;What counts here is the structure and layout. Remember to maintain proper referencing and include a bibliography to acknowledge sources accurately. Make sure that your essay contains all the crucial elements such as the title page or table of contents and that its structure is clear and facilitates comprehension. Clearly label all sections and graphical elements for clarity. For a maximum of 4 points:&nbsp;<ul><li>The essay begins with a title page and a table of contents, adhering to standard formatting conventions.</li><li>The structure of the essay follows the expected conventions for the topic, ensuring clarity and coherence in the presentation of arguments.</li><li>Sections and subsections, if included, have informative headings that contribute to the overall organization of the essay without distracting from the main argument.</li><li>Graphs, figures, or tables are appropriately labeled with numbers and brief descriptions and maintain good graphical quality. &nbsp;</li></ul>See <a href="/ee/geography/6336a1e9d77add00134d85ad" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a> to get a glimpse of the matter.&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Criterion E: Engagement - 6 points&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;The last criterion analyses the research focus, planning, and process based on the reflections documented in the RPPF. Students are expected to articulate their decision-making process, including how they selected their topic, methods, and approach. The assessment focuses on whether students justify their decisions and demonstrate the skills and insights gained throughout the planning phase. Effective reflection should delve into the strategies chosen, skills developed, conceptual understandings, challenges faced, and potential improvements for future research endeavors, providing the examiner with a deeper understanding of the student's engagement and critical thinking. For a maximum of 6 points:&nbsp;<ul><li>The RPPF form showcases the individual's progress and active involvement in the writing process.</li><li>The student outlines the skills acquired during the extended essay writing journey.</li><li>Challenges faced during the process are described in detail, along with the strategies employed to address them.</li><li>The document reflects the personal significance and relevance of the work undertaken.</li></ul> Now you are ready to move on with the essay writing process. Make sure to incorporate all the above suggestions to increase your chances of scoring high. For more guidance on your extended essay, consider submitting your work for <a href="/review" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Review.</a> It is a 100% safe way to receive constructive feedback.&nbsp;

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A comprehensive guide to Geography extended essay criteria along with a checklist. Learn how to improve your Geography EE. 

Geography EE Criteria and Checklist

Are you looking for a guide on how to write your Geography extended essay? Drawing from our extensive experience with the IB coursework, we prepared a detailed breakdown of how to structure a high-scoring Geography EE. Each section is supported with a linked exemplar for reference. Directly follow our tips or customize this structure to meet your needs, good luck! &nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">Geography EE Format and Structure&nbsp;</h2> Geography EE is a 4,000 words long essay that should contain the following sections:&nbsp;<h3> Title page and table of contents</h3><ol><li>On the title page, you will include the topic of your investigation, the research question, the subject, and the word count.&nbsp;</li><li>The next page should be the table of contents with all subsections of your essay along with the page numbering.&nbsp;</li></ol><h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Introduction&nbsp;</h3><ol><li>Provide a concise overview of the topic, including details on the concept under study.</li><li>Explain the theoretical models that can be applied to the study, often it could be useful to add their graphical representation.</li><li>Briefly characterize the location of your research. &nbsp;</li><li>Explain the personal or global significance of the topic, discussing why it was chosen for investigation and its broader importance.</li></ol> See <a href="/ee/geography/6336a1e9d77add00134d85ad" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a> for a good example.&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Research question&nbsp;</h3><ol><li>State the research question having in mind the analysed concept and location of the study. <a href="/ee/geography/64aae245f66fe20013844fe2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">For instance:</a> To what extent is Frankfurt involved in sustainable urban development, analyzing the areas of Riedberg and Praunheim?</li><li>Formulate a couple of hypotheses and justify your predictions, relating to the theory taught in the IB course.&nbsp;</li></ol><h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Background information&nbsp;</h3><ol><li>Provide maps of the investigated areas, highlighting their features. Make sure that they are appropriately labeled.&nbsp;</li><li>Present the geographical context, define key concepts relating to the area of the research.&nbsp;</li><li>You could also make references to other models and already conducted studies.&nbsp;</li></ol> This EE is worth taking a look at.&nbsp; &nbsp;<pre><code class="language-plaintext">CAROUSEL</code></pre><h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Methodology&nbsp;</h3><ol><li>Choose methods for data collection, taking into account the relevance and reliability of the findings. These may include questionnaires, surveys, map work, etc.&nbsp;</li><li>Justify the choice methodology, sampling strategy, and other relevant aspects of your study.&nbsp;</li><li>Describe the conditions of data collection such as the date, weather, and location (upstream/downstream of the river, distance from the point) depending on what is relevant for the results.&nbsp;</li><li>Exactly describe the procedure of the fieldwork.&nbsp;</li><li>If needed, list all the required equipment for data collection.&nbsp;</li><li>Provide graphical representations with detailed legends.&nbsp;</li><li>You can create an index to evaluate a given aspect such as sustainability, quality of life, etc - in such case, you must explain in detail how it works, what are its components and what is the meaning of the obtained values.&nbsp;</li></ol> A good example can be found <a href="/ee/geography/62e284734aca120013c8fc8f" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here.&nbsp;</a> &nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;">Results&nbsp;</h3><ol><li>Include raw and processed data tables and incorporate qualitative data (if applicable).&nbsp;</li><li>Integrate statistical calculations, where relevant, such as Pearson and Spearman coefficients, and discuss the strength of the correlations.&nbsp;</li><li>Incorporate graphs depicting processed data relevant to the analysis. Ensure proper labeling with a number and concise caption for all graphs and tables.</li><li>Identify patterns observed within the data, such as frequent store visits at specific locations or spatial patterns. Delve into potential reasons underlying these trends.&nbsp;</li><li>Engage in a discussion regarding the data's relevance to each proposed hypothesis. Evaluate how the data supports or discards the hypotheses, providing insightful analysis.</li></ol> You can use<a href="/ee/geography/64aae245f66fe20013844fe2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> this EE</a> for reference.&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Conclusion&nbsp;</h3><ol><li>Re-state the research question and assess to what extent you were able to answer it.&nbsp;</li><li>Summarize the findings, do not incorporate any new information in the conclusion.&nbsp;</li><li>Evaluate the strengths of the correlations and discuss the anomalies.&nbsp;</li><li>Assess the hypotheses and clearly state the answer to the investigation.&nbsp;</li></ol> <a href="/ee/geography/64a7e67b701b5600139b50c5" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Check it </a>out to get a glimpse of the matter.&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;"> Evaluation&nbsp;</h3><ol><li>Finally, evaluate your entire investigation.&nbsp;</li><li style="box-sizing:border-box;line-height:2;margin-bottom:0px;margin-right:0px;margin-top:0px;">Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the entire study. State their relevance and impact on the results. &nbsp;</li><li>Show awareness of possible bias or other factors that could have influenced the results.&nbsp;</li><li>Propose ways to address the limitations and extend your study, for example how to improve the methods of data collection or what other factors should be taken into account when analysing this topic.&nbsp;</li></ol>&nbsp;See<a href="/ee/geography/63026f278483960013c971d7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> this </a>for reference. &nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:justify;">Bibliography and appendices&nbsp;</h3><ol><li>These parts are not included in the word count.&nbsp;</li><li>In the bibliography, you should make a detailed list of all sources used in your investigation in alphabetical order. Decide on one style of referencing.&nbsp;</li><li>The appendices will serve as a place for additional tables of data etc. however these can't be the crucial information for your EE.&nbsp;</li></ol> We are hoping that after reading this post the idea of the Geography extended essay structure has become more clear. Remember that there are more exemplars available on the <a href="/ee" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify website</a>. Also, you can check out our guide on Geography EE criteria<a href="/blog/geography-ee-criteria-and-checklist" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> here.</a>&nbsp;

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A comprehensive guide on Geography extended essay format and structure. Check the tips for Geography EE and improve your extended essay

Geography EE Format and Structure 

Optional themes are a key component of the IB Geography syllabus as the examination on optional themes accounts for a significant part of your final grade. It is therefore crucial to make the right choice to maximise your grade. In this post we will break down all 7 options to help you make a well-informed decision.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align:center;">IB Geography Options</h2>&nbsp;The IB Geography syllabus offers 7 optional themes:&nbsp;<ul><li>Option A: Freshwater – drainage basins</li><li>Option B: Oceans and coastal margins</li><li>Option C: Extreme environments</li><li>Option D: Geophysical hazards</li><li>Option E: Leisure, tourism and sport&nbsp;</li><li>Option F: Food and health</li><li>Option G: Urban environments</li></ul>&nbsp;SL students must pick two options while HL students study three options.&nbsp;As mentioned, choosing the right options is crucial, as they play a significant role in your overall grade. In IB Geography Paper 1, which is entirely based on the optional themes, contributes 35% to your final grade for both SL and HL.&nbsp;The best way to choose the right options is to simply choose the options that you find most interesting. It will be much easier for you to study them and perform well if you find the information genuinely interesting. Below is a break-down of each theme and what it covers to help you decide:&nbsp;<h3>Option A: Freshwater – drainage basins</h3>&nbsp;This optional theme looks at the geography of freshwater, including rivers, lakes, and underground water sources. You'll learn how water moves through the environment, what causes flooding, and how rivers shape the land. It also focuses on the challenges of managing freshwater, like making sure there’s enough clean water for everyone and dealing with shared water resources between countries. This theme is perfect if you're curious about the impact of water on humans and the planet.&nbsp;In this theme, you will cover the following topics:<ul><li>Drainage basin hydrology and geomorphology</li><li>Flooding and flood mitigation&nbsp;</li><li>Water quality and water scarcity</li><li>Water management futures</li></ul>&nbsp;<h3>Option B: Oceans and coastal margins</h3>&nbsp;This optional theme explores the importance of oceans and their role in shaping the climate and supporting life. You'll learn about ocean processes, how they link with the atmosphere, and the challenges of using oceans as resources. It also looks at coastal areas, focusing on the physical features like landforms and how these areas are managed and valued. This theme is great if you're curious about how oceans and coasts impact the environment and human activity.&nbsp;In this theme, you will cover the following topics:<ul><li>Ocean-atmosphere interactions</li><li>Interactions between oceans and coastal place</li><li>Managing coastal margins</li><li>Ocean management futures</li></ul><h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Option C: Extreme environments</h3>&nbsp;This optional theme explores two extreme environments: cold regions like polar areas, glaciers, and high mountains, and hot regions like deserts and semi-arid areas. You'll learn that while these places are tough to live in, they may offer opportunities for settlement and economic activities. You'll also learn about the unique landscapes, the natural processes that shape them, and how people adapt to harsh climates while managing challenges like sustainability. This theme is ideal if you're fascinated by how life thrives in extreme conditions.&nbsp;In this theme, you will cover the following topics:<ul><li>The characteristics of extreme environments</li><li>Physical processes and landscapes</li><li>Managing extreme environments</li><li>Extreme environments futures</li></ul><h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Option D: Geophysical hazards</h3>&nbsp;This optional theme focuses on natural hazards like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides, exploring how they happen and how they affect people. You’ll study real-world examples, comparing similar events with different impacts depending on location and socio-economic conditions. You'll explore why some areas are more vulnerable to hazards, how communities prepare for and recover from disasters, and ways to manage risks. This theme is best suited for those interested in understanding natural disasters and how humans respond to them.&nbsp;&nbsp;In this theme, you will cover the following topics:<ul><li>Geophysical systems</li><li>Geophysical hazard risks</li><li>Hazard risk and vulnerability</li><li>Future, resilience, and adaptations</li></ul><h3>&nbsp;</h3><pre><code class="language-plaintext">CAROUSEL</code></pre><h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Option E: Leisure, tourism and sport&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;This optional theme explores how people use their leisure time, focusing on tourism and sports. As more people gain disposable incomes, international travel and different forms of tourism grow, while sports remain a key leisure activity even for those with lower incomes. Tourism happens in both urban and rural areas, and offers a varieties of activities, which, as you'll learn, are influenced by geography, history, and economic development. This theme may be an ideal fit if you yourself are interested in sports or travel!&nbsp;In this theme, you will cover the following topics:<ul><li>Changing leisure patterns</li><li>Tourism and sport at the local and national scale</li><li>Tourism and sport at the international scale</li><li>Managing tourism and sport for the future</li></ul><h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Option F: Food and health</h3>&nbsp;This optional theme examines the relationship between food and health, focusing on how economic development leads to changes in diet and health patterns. As countries develop, diseases of poverty decline, while diseases linked to wealth increase, though not equally across all social groups. The theme also looks at alternative ways to measure food security and health, and how gender, multinational companies, and governments influence food and health systems. This theme is ideal for those interested in issues of global poverty and disease.&nbsp;&nbsp;In this theme, you will cover the following topics:<ul><li>Measuring food and health</li><li>Food systems and spread of diseases</li><li>Stakeholders in food and health</li><li>Future health and food security and sustainability&nbsp;</li></ul><h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Option G: Urban environments</h3>&nbsp;This optional theme focuses on the growth of urban areas, with more than half of the global population now living in cities, many of which are megacities. It explores how cities act as centers of social interaction, wealth generation, and consumption, with diverse patterns of wealth and poverty that can lead to conflict. Rapid urban growth, driven by transport improvements, creates challenges for city planners, including issues of sustainability. Key topics include the hierarchy of cities, the movement of people, and managing transport and waste. This theme is perfect if you're interested in understanding the life in a city and how it may be improved.&nbsp;&nbsp;In this theme, you will cover the following topics:<ul><li>The variety of urban environments</li><li>Changing urban systems&nbsp;</li><li>Urban environmental and social stresses</li><li>Building sustainable urban systems for the future</li></ul>&nbsp;&nbsp;We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of <a href="/ia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">IA</a>, <a href="/ee" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EE </a>and <a href="/tok" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TOK </a>exemplars available at <a href="/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Clastify </a>and other guides available on our <a href="/blog" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">blog</a>.&nbsp;

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A comprehensive guide to IB Geography Options. 

IB Geography Options

IB Geography explores the complex interactions between physical environments and human societies through a comprehensive approach. Students analyze global issues like climate change, resource management, and globalization, developing critical geographical skills through case studies and fieldwork.

IB Geography

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Grade Boundaries

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Paper Weighting

4,492 students

4.8 average grade

Difficulty

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IB Geography Options

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Geography EE Criteria and Checklist

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IB Geography Options

Geography IA word count and page limit

Geography IA Format and Structure

Geography IA Topic Ideas + Examples

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Geography EE Topic ideas + examples

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Geography EE Format and Structure

IB Geography Options

4,492 students

4.8 average grade

Difficulty

Grade distribution