example rppf extended essay

What is IB Extended Essay RPPF?

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• Writing Metier

The extended essay is one of the mandatory requirements of the IB. Another document that also needs to be submitted with the extended essay is RPPF or the reflections on planning and progress form. Many students find this extremely confusing. Students can find themselves thinking in all directions when asked to ‘reflect.’ It seems like they are told to do something that is completely out of scope.

The best part about a reflection form is that it allows students to think in a certain direction, which is again very important to help them go through what was required of them and what they have done by far. 

Like with IB TOK essay PPF , to some students, EE RPPF seems very challenging because it requires thorough research to be done. Like with TK PPD , it also requires students to be fully vigilant with what they are going, delving into the details of everything that is required from that end. 

In this guide, you will find out more about IB extended essay RPP form and how you can work your way through it. 

What is an Extended essay planning form 

The RPPF is a form in which students are required to write three reflections. This is a total of 500 words that they have to write, in which they have to slowly work their way through writing what they have understood here. The main idea is to write about what they found out in this and what they thought of the whole process. Another idea here is for the examiner to gauge the direction in which the student is thinking.

The whole extended essay aims to teach students how to research and write an analysis. This can only be done well when they slowly analyze and understand things in the best way possible. In this form, they are required to share their responses about what they think, and that is the most important when it comes to an understanding the student’s thought process behind what they are doing. 

In this form, students are expected to be able to show their intellectual and personal growth. They are expected to talk about how actively they are engaged in the whole process and what they have learnt through it. they are expected to show how they have grown as learners and what skills they have learned here. These skills include critical thinking skills, decision making skills, general research skills, referencing skills and time management skills as well.

On the whole, it gauges the students’ way of doing things in the best way possible. The idea is to understand how well the student is working their way through things. 

To guide you even more, here is some further information to help you. 

First Reflection 

This section needs to be around 140 to 170 words in total. In this reflection, you need to talk about how you came to choosing your topic. The first part of the extended essay is to choose a topic that you think you can work on. You need to take the examiner through the whole process so that they understand what went behind all of that. Then you also have to give reasons for what you did and why. After that, you have to give more information about the possible sources and methods that you used.

Furthermore, you also have to talk about what you expect to learn or achieve from this topic. Sharing ideas about how you think you should explore the topic further is also one of the most important things here. This helps the examiner understand the kind of road map that you had in your mind after you selected this topic. You can also touch upon any challenges that you faced throughout. Anything else that you can talk about that highlights how engaged you were through the whole process would also be idea to add here. 

Interim Reflection 

This is the section that you should complete after the first reflection is done. This can also be around 150 words in total. Here, you touch upon the research that you have already done. You also need to touch upon what you have already learned here and why that is important.

Apart from that, you also talk about some new things that you have discovered through this process. If you have slightly tweaked your research question also here, then you should also mention that in the best way possible.

You can also touch upon the progress in the timeline and how well you are doing on this by far. Then you also touch upon any arguments that you think are very important here. If there are any challenges that you have faced here, then you also talk about those. If there is anything that you feel will help you show how engaged you are through the process, then you can also highlight that here. 

Final Reflection 

This is the last part of the reflection that you have to work on. This can again be of around 150 words. Here, you have to talk about the personal relevance that this topic has to you. When you do that, it helps you learn so much about the topic, and also helps the examiner learn more about who you are and how this has helped you further.

It shows the examiner how you can grow as a learner and how working on this topic has further allowed you to do just that. If there is anything else that you think can add value to this section, then you can add that as well.

Remember that the idea is to show the examiner how involved you are in the whole process. So you must make sure that you do that. This is most integral to help you get done with things in the best way. 

FAQ’s about EE RPPF

Here are a few of the common questions that many people ask about this. 

Is the EE RPPS marked?

While this is not marked, you have to make sure that you do your best here to show the full engagement that you have here as a student. This is crucial to help the examiner understand the approach you had right when you started.  

How do I submit my EE RPPF?

You need to submit this form along with the extended essay on the portal. This is an imperative part so you must make sure that you do it diligently. Online, you will find several IB RPPF examples to help you through this. So make sure that you go through most things thoroughly to understand this well. 

What is extended essay RPPF word limit?

The word limit for the reflections on planning and progress form (RPPF) is typically around 400-500 words. Some schools say that it has a strict word limit of 500 words, and supervisors will not even check your RPPF in case you are above the limit. However, it’s always best to check with your school or supervisor for their specific guidelines , as they may vary.

If you can show how you worked your way through things correctly, then you will definitely be able to do a good job on this. 

Example of EE RPPF

Below, you will find an example of how to fill an extended essay RPPF:

Ready to work on your reflections on planning and progress form?

Many students find this part extremely difficult even after they have the right know how of how to do it. We at the Writing Metier are here to help you with the IB RPPF.

Writing Metier has experienced writers on board who can help you get done with this in the best way. All you need to do is get in touch with us on our website and order an essay RPPF.

We will make sure to give you the best possible work! 

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Vasyl Kafidoff is a co-founder and CEO at WritingMetier. He is interested in education and how modern technology makes it more accessible. He wants to bring awareness about new learning possibilities as an educational specialist. When Vasy is not working, he’s found behind a drum kit.

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EE Tips for Completing the Reflections (RPPF Form)

Travis Dixon November 26, 2020 Extended Essay

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Giving students an empty space and saying, “reflect” can be really challenging. This is why I like to give a few possible ideas of what they could write about. These are explained below. 

The RPPF (Reflections on Planning and Progress Form) is where EE students write their three reflections: First, Interim and Final (after the viva voce). The maximum word count for all three reflections combined is 500 words and should be recorded on the most recent version of the RPPF Form.

Your school’s IB Coordinator can help you with the RPPF if you need it.

The RPPF is a chance for EE students to show one or more of the following:

• Intellectual, creative, personal, and/or developmental growth,
• How actively engaged they are in the learning process ,
• What they have learned about how to learn and research and/or how they have grown as a learner,
• critical thinking,
• decision-making,
• general research,
• referencing and citations,
• specific research methodology,
• time management.
• EE Supervisor Tips: The Viva Voce
• How to write the perfect EE question
• 3 Examples of how to write excellent EE questions

The following suggestions have been created using information from the EE guide (pg. 55) to help students write their reflections.

First Reflection

This should be completed after your initial reflection session with your supervisor. 

Possible topics to discuss in this section of the RPPF include (but are not limited to) your thoughts on:

• Your initial topic exploration,
• The topic you have chosen and why,
• Possible sources and methods,
• What you might hope to learn or achieve from studying this topic,
• Possible ideas of how you might answer your question and/or research the answer,
• Questions or challenges faced so far,
• Anything else you feel could show your engagement, learning, growth or initiative.

Remember that the total word count for all three reflections is 500 words. This means about 140-170 words is perfect for each reflection.

Interim Reflection

This should be completed after your interim reflection session with your supervisor. 

• The research so far, including reactions to specific things you’ve learned or discovered,
• How your research (including your research question) changed or developed,
• Things you’ve learned about the topic and/or research process,
• Progress in the timeline for completing the essay,
• Possible outlines of arguments being made in response to your RQ,
• Challenges encountered and strategies used to overcome them,

Final Reflection

This should be completed after your viva voce (final) reflection session with your supervisor. 

• The personal significance of the work to you as a student,
• What you have learned about the topic,
• What you have learned about learning and/or how you have “grown” as a learner,
• New questions you have about your topic,

If you have questions post them to our Facebook group for IB Psych Students or our Facebook group for IB Psych Teachers .

Travis Dixon is an IB Psychology teacher, author, workshop leader, examiner and IA moderator.

Extended Essay: Criterion E: Engagement (Reflection)

• Kick Off Day
• Define Topic
• Locate Resources
• Annotated Bibliography
• Evaluating Sources
• Integrating Quotes
• Citations & Referencing
• Evaluation Criteria & Examiner Reports
• Criterion A, B, C: Assessment of Research
• Criterion D: Presentation
• Criterion E: Engagement (Reflection)
• The Viva Voce
• EE Draft Feedback Template for Supervisors
• Language of Analysis
• Approaches to Learning (ATL)
• Roles and Responsibilities

Criterion E: Reflection (6 pts max)

Remember to include discussion of the Approaches to Learning (ATL's) in your reflections. This discussion needs to be specific and well-illustrated with clear examples. For specific language related to each of the ATL's, please click here .

Reflection One- Initial Stage

This will be after one of the early sessions with your supervisor where you outline:

• Your ideas regarding the topic in general
• The research question you have in mind
• Initial background reading or research you may have conducted
• Possible approaches
• Initial thoughts about the answer to your research question
• Roughly 100 words in length

Guiding Questions:

What exactly do you want to find out?

What resources do you plan to use?

What problems do you anticipate in your research?

What writing and research have you done since last session?

Have you found any sources with conflicting viewpoints?

Have you been able to find relevant sources from different eras?

What challenges did you encounter in finding relevant sources?

How do you think you might use your sources?

Have you collected sufficient data?

Have you finished note taking from your text?

• What am I interested in researching and why?
• What are my motivations for undertaking research in this area?
• How will I begin the research process?
• Is my chosen topic appropriate for the subject I have chosen to complete it in?
• Do I have sufficient knowledge of the subject area to fulfill the criteria of an EE?
• What possible question(s) might I research?
• How might I go about undertaking this research?
• Do I have access to appropriate sources?
• Are my chosen research methods appropriate for the subject I have chosen to complete it in?
• Are there any ethical issues I need to consider before pursuing this area of research?
• Is there sufficient focus to my research area?

Examples of Reflection One

• Sample History EE Reflection

I was attracted to Anna Comnena's The Alexiad as a result of some extra readings which formed part of my IB History course (Crusades). As the first female historian, she stands in a unique place in terms of historiography, something which appealed to me as both a woman and budding historian. I was initially considering writing about her accounts of the First Crusade but quickly found the topic to be far too wide in scope. A reading of Paul Magdalino's article "The Pen of the Aunt" helped refocus me on the issue of historical purpose, i.e., why she wrote the history she did. I have now allocated time to reading historical accounts of Manuel I's reign to decide how closely the events Anna mentions in her history of her father's reign (Alexius) so as to validate my current hypothesis-  that Anna intended the work as a celebratory account of her father so as to cast a negative light on the rule of her nephew Manuel I. My current list includes Runciman, France, Macrides, Christomides, and Hill.

Reflection Two- Interim Stage

This reflection session will usually fall somewhere in the middle to latter half of your EE process, usually before the first draft is completed.

• Discuss how the research question has become more refined.
• Comment on any challenges you have encountered & what solutions you have attempted.
• Discuss how your thinking on your topic has evolved.
• Roughly 200 words in length

Where was I? Where I am now? Where am I going?

What sources do you find helpful?

How have you evaluated your sources?

Have you adopted a structure for writing based on what the IB requires?

What do you need to do next?

Examples of Reflection Two

I was finding it hard to come up with a satisfactory counter to the question of accuracy and authenticity which feature prominently in modern readings of her work. Historians ranging from Edward Gibbon and John France to the more direct Howard-Johnson paper which completely challenges her authorship effectively negated my hypothesis entirely. Using Magdalino and Hill as a focus point, I re-read key sections of The Alexiad and mapped out her account against the policital events of Manuel I's reign and quickly discovered some interesting overlaps (building works, military campaigns, relations with the West, etc.). Though occasionally obscure and subtle, the criticisms emerge by means of an unspoken comparison which Byzantine readers of her account would have well understood. This approach is providing me with a suitable counter to the aforementioned criticisms. I have also begun structuring my work accordingly with sections devoted to historical context followed by a section on The Alexiad which compares and contrasts events from Alexius' time with those of Manuel's. I am considering a chapter on the historiographical tradition of Byzantium but may integrate it into the main body in the end.

Reflection Three- Looking Back

This final reflection should be written BEFORE the Viva Voce meeting. It should:

• Offer your final reflections on the process
• Discuss any achievements realized or challenges overcome
• Discuss elements that allowed you to complete the task that may not be readily apparent in the essay itself.
• Discuss any relevant ATL's (Approaches to Learning) that you have developed through the process & be ready to provide good examples.

Guiding Questions

What did you discover that surprised you?

Is writing the EE mainly about process or product AND why?

What would you have done differently and why?

What advice would you give to a student just beginning this process?

What have been the high and low points of the research and writing processes?

What would you have done differently?

What is the most important thing that you learned?

What was your greatest challenge and how did you overcome it?

What would you change if you did another EE?

What was the most valuable experience that you took away from the process?

What was your greatest challenge and what did you do to overcome it?

What IB learner profile attribute would you say helped you through the process (communicator, risk-taker, etc.)?

Would you like to continue reading on this topic?

What questions did this process raise?

What conclusions have you drawn about the topic?

Examples of Reflection Three

I am very pleased with how the essay has turned out. Skills wise, I had no problems with referencing which I picked up quickly though integrating source analysis did prove a challenge at times due to my narrative tendencies. I believe I've been able to challenge the orthodox interpretations of Anna's work as a piece of fantasy fiction at the hands of a disgruntled woman by showing that Anna was effectively using one of the few weapons still permitted her in her diminished political state- the power of words- to criticize the existing leadership. Hill's works proved of particular use to me as they examined female power in a broader context and thus gave me a framework for interpreting what Anna was able to do within the context of her time.

IB-provided exemplars of "Reflections on Planning and Progress"

• Lang. Lit. Examplar #1
• Lang. Lit. Exemplar #2
• Lang. Lit. Exemplar #3
• History Exemplar #1
• History Exemplar #2
• Psychology Exemplar
• Biology Exemplar
• Math Exemplar #1
• Math Exemplar #2
• Visual Arts Exemplar #1
• Visual Arts Exemplar #2
• World Studies Exemplar #1
• World Studies Exemplar #2

Reflection Sentence Starters and Key Words

Click here or on the image below to go to the list of sentence starters you can use to help you write up your reflections. Regarding word count, we recommend 100 words for first reflection, 200 words for second reflection, and 200 words for third reflection (roughly).

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Extended Essay : Reflection RPPF

• Home - EE Overview
• Educate Yourself (Key IB Documents)
• Set up Research Reflection Space (RRS)
• Research Questions
• Databases & Research
• Citation & Referencing This link opens in a new window
• Introduction
• Presentation
• Assessment Criteria
• Reflection RPPF
• Supervisor Info
• EE Session Presentations

Criterion E

Quick links to information on this page:, reflection                                      tips for writing your ee reflection                                      , viva voce                                      questions to ask yourself, your three reflections                   guidance for writing your rppf reflection, criterion e                                     sample rppfs, criterion e engagement rubric, don't take criterion e lightly. reflection accounts for 18% of your ee mark and can make the difference of a grade level (up or down) depending on the quality of your work.

You will meet with your supervisor a number of times while you are working on your EE, for a total of 3 to 5 hours.  Three of those sessions will be " reflection sessions ", meaning that following these meetings you will be required to submit a 150-175 word reflection on the research and writing process of your EE.  Your reflections will be submitted to the IB by our IB Coordinator, using the Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF).

Your 1st formal reflection session will be in the spring of your junior year. The remaining two sessions take place during the winter of your senior year. The 2nd or interim session will take place in December and the 3rd or final session called the Viva Voce will take place in February. Writing a good reflection is important as the three combined reflections count for 19% of your final EE grade from the IB examiner. 

Source: Susan Trower West Sound Academy

Your Three Reflections

• Reflection 1 Prompts
• Reflection 1 Example
• Reflection 2 Prompts
• Reflection 2 Example
• Reflection 3 Prompts
• Reflection 3 Example
• Sample Scored Reflections From the IB

Write the  first reflection  after one of the early sessions with your supervisor. Use the prompts below to help guide your reflection and discussion with your supervisor. (Think 100-125 words)

• What am I interested in researching and why?
• What are my motivations for undertaking research in this area?
• How will I begin the research process?
• Is my chosen topic appropriate for the subject I have chosen to complete it in?
• Do I have sufficient knowledge of the subject area to fulfill the criteria of an EE?
• What possible question(s) might I research?
• How might I go about undertaking this research?
• Do I have access to appropriate sources?
• Are my chosen research methods appropriate for the subject I have chosen to complete it in? 
• Are there any ethical issues I need to consider before pursuing this area of research?
• Is there sufficient focus to my research area?

Source:  Shekou Int School Libguide  & IBO

1st Reflection - History

I was attracted to Anna Comnena's  The Alexiad  as a result of some extra readings which formed part of my IB History course (Crusades). As the first female historian, she stands in a unique place in terms of historiography, something which appealed to me as both a woman and budding historian. I was initially considering writing about her accounts of the First Crusade but quickly found the topic to be far too wide in scope. A reading of Paul Magdalino's article "The Pen of the Aunt" helped refocus me on the issue of historical purpose, i.e., why she wrote the history she did. I have now allocated time to reading historical accounts of Manuel I's reign to decide how closely the events Anna mentions in her history of her father's reign (Alexius) so as to validate my current hypothesis-  that Anna intended the work as a celebratory account of her father so as to cast a negative light on the rule of her nephew Manuel I. My current list includes Runciman, France, Macrides, Christomides, and Hill.

The  Second Reflection  session usually falls in the latter half of your EE process. Use the prompts below to help guide your reflection and discussion with your supervisor. (Think 175-250 words)

• Do I have a reasoned argument that can be sustained throughout the essay?
• Did I make coherent links between different points made and the evidence presented?
• To what extent have I answered my research question?
• What reasons may have affected my ability to answer my research question?
• If I have been selective in the evidence presented in my essay, can I justify my choices?
• Is there a clear summative conclusion, and does this reflect the discussion that has taken place?
• To what extent do I think I have fulfilled the expectations of the extended essay as a task?
• Has my research resulted in me changing my perspective or views on the topic in question?
• What strategies have I employed that have worked particularly well at this stage of the process?

2nd Reflection - History 

I was finding it hard to come up with a satisfactory counter to the question of accuracy and authenticity which feature prominently in modern readings of her work. Historians ranging from Edward Gibbon and John France to the more direct Howard-Johnson paper which completely challenges her authorship effectively negated my hypothesis entirely. Using Magdalino and Hill as a focus point, I re-read key sections of  The Alexiad  and mapped out her account against the policital events of Manuel I's reign and quickly discovered some interesting overlaps (building works, military campaigns, relations with the West, etc.). Though occasionally obscure and subtle, the criticisms emerge by means of an unspoken comparison which Byzantine readers of her account would have well understood. This approach is providing me with a suitable counter to the aforementioned criticisms. I have also begun structuring my work accordingly with sections devoted to historical context followed by a section on  The Alexiad  which compares and contrasts events from Alexius' time with those of Manuel's. I am considering a chapter on the historiographical tradition of Byzantium but may integrate it into the main body in the end.

The  Third Reflection  can be written before the Viva Voce meeting to help you prepare for the conversation and after you have submitted your final draft. (Think 175-250 words)

What did you discover that surprised you?

Is writing the EE mainly about process or product AND why?

What would you have done differently and why?

What advice would you give to a student just beginning this process?

What have been the high and low points of the research and writing processes?

What would you have done differently?

What is the most important thing that you learned?

What was your greatest challenge and how did you overcome it?

What would you change if you did another EE?

What was the most valuable experience that you took away from the process?

What was your greatest challenge and what did you do to overcome it?

What IB learner profile attribute would you say helped you through the process (communicator, risk-taker, etc.)?

Would you like to continue reading on this topic?

What questions did this process raise?

What conclusions have you drawn about the topic?

3rd Reflection - History

I am very pleased with how the essay has turned out. Skills wise, I had no problems with referencing which I picked up quickly though integrating source analysis did prove a challenge at times due to my narrative tendencies. I believe I've been able to challenge the orthodox interpretations of Anna's work as a piece of fantasy fiction at the hands of a disgruntled woman by showing that Anna was effectively using one of the few weapons still permitted her in her diminished political state- the power of words- to criticize the existing leadership. Hill's works proved of particular use to me as they examined female power in a broader context and thus gave me a framework for interpreting what Anna was able to do within the context of her time.

• An RPPF with Examiner Comments With a little guidance, every candidate should be able to score top marks on Criterion E: Engagement, which is based on the Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF). Reflection is an art form. And like any art form it can be learned. Below is a rather mediocre RPPF in the left column. In the right column, an experienced examiner has provided comments. Try to learn from these comments before writing your own RPPF comments or commenting on other RPPFs.

Source: Shekou Int School Libguide 

• Lang & Lit (Eng A) RPPF with Examiner Comments
• Lang Acq (Eng B) RPPF with Examiner Comments
• BM RPPF with Examiner Comments
• Econ RPPF with Examiner Comments
• History RPPF with Examiner Comments
• Biology RPPF with Examiner Comments
• Chemistry RPPF with Examiner Comments
• Computer Science RPPF with Examiner Comments
• Physics RPPF with Examiner Comments
• SEHS with Examiner Comments
• Music RPPF with Examiner Comments
• Visual Arts RPPF with Examiner Comments

Questions to Ask Yourself

Avoid using only description and keep descriptions brief. Use the prompts to spark your thinking.

Descriptive Ideas (limited reflection)

• What did I do?
• How did I undertake my research?
• What were the problems I faced?
• Did my approach or strategies change throughout the process?
• What have been the high and the low points of the research and writing process?

Analytical Ideas (good reflection)

• To what extent was my research successful?
• If I changed approach or strategies during the process, why did I do this?
• What did I learn from the experience in terms of my understanding of the subject area and/or skills needed?
• How has my understanding of the topic and process developed?

Evaluative Ideas (excellent reflection)

• If I did this again, what would I do differently?
• If I did this again, would I change the theories applied, or my methodology?
• Would there be a different outcome?
• What can I conclude?
• Were the strategies I used most appropriate for achieving my outcomes?
• What questions emerged as a result of my research? Would these questions influence my approach if I did this all over again?

Guidance for writing your RPPF reflection

What is the  viva voce ?

The  viva voce  is a short conference between the student and the supervisor. It is the recommended conclusion to the Extended Essay process, and lasts between 10 and 15 minutes. 

Why have the  viva voce ?

The EE supervisor is required to submit a report when your EE is shipped to the IB examiner has been assigned to grade it.  The supervisor can ask questions in the  viva voce  that will help with writing that report.  This is especially important if the supervisor feels there is a need to check for plagiarism and malpractice in general.  Supervisors are required to confirm the authenticity of the work in any Extended Essay submitted to IB.

The supervisor will use the  viva voce  to help you:

• Reflect on the successes and difficulties you had when researching and writing your essay
• Reflect on what you have learned

What questions will be asked in the  viva voce ?

Here are some examples of questions you might be asked:

• What have been the high and low points of the research and writing process?
• In hindsight, would you choose the topic again?
• What were the most interesting aspects of the process?  Did you discover anything that surprised you?
• What have you learned through writing this essay?  
• Having finished your essay, what additional questions did you find that could lead to further investigation?
• Is there any advice you could pass on to someone who has just started work on their EE?

Source: Susan Trower - West Sound Academy

Source: IBO Criterion E

Tips for Writing your EE Reflection

Sample RPPFs

• Bus Mgt RPPF Sample D
• Bus Mgt RPPF Sample C
• Eng A RPPF Sample G

Criterion E: Engagement Rubric

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• Last Updated: Jun 29, 2023 8:16 AM
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Extended Essay: Reflection

• Extended Essay- The Basics
• Step 1. Choose a Subject
• Step 2. Educate yourself!
• Using Brainstorming and Mind Maps
• Identify Keywords
• Do Background Reading
• Define Your Topic
• Conduct Research in a Specific Discipline
• Step 5. Draft a Research Question
• Step 6. Create a Timeline
• Find Articles
• Find Primary Sources
• Get Help from Experts
• Search Engines, Repositories, & Directories
• Databases and Websites by Subject Area
• Create an Annotated Bibliography
• Advice (and Warnings) from the IB
• Chicago Citation Syle
• MLA Works Cited & In-Text Citations
• Step 9. Set Deadlines for Yourself
• Step 10. Plan a structure for your essay
• Evaluate & Select: the CRAAP Test
• Conducting Secondary Research
• Conducting Primary Research
• Formal vs. Informal Writing
• Presentation Requirements

Evaluating Your Work

You will meet with your supervisor a number of times while you are working on your EE, for a total of 3 to 5 hours.  Three of those sessions will be " reflection sessions ", meaning that following these meetings you will be required to submit a 150-175 word reflection on the research and writing process of your EE to the EE Coordinator.  Your reflections will be submitted to IB by WSA's IB Coordinator, using the Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF).

The 'Initial Session' in the spring of your junior year.  The remaining reflection session take place in your senior year:  one 'Interim Session' in September, and one 'Final Session' (also know as 'Viva Voce') in December.

Your three reflections will count for 18% of your final EE grade from the IB examiner.

On this page: 

Reflecting Throughout the Research Process Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF) and RPPF examples Viva Voce - the final conference with your EE Supervisor

One way to help with your reflection is to ask yourself questions. Your answers will help you identify any problems, so you can then find ways to solve them. See the page in this section:

Check the WSA EE Timeline for the scheduling of reflection sessions with your supervisor and the due dates for the three reflections.

Reflecting throughout the research process

Reflection is a continual process. If you are constantly considering the decisions you are making in the extended essay (EE) process, you are better able to avoid the common pitfalls of independent research. Reflection also helps you plan, allowing you to monitor your progress. 

The following table identifies three stages in the review process and the kinds of questions you can usefully consider at each. It also suggests what evidence you might use in your reflection sessions to demonstrate your progress and learning.

What is the viva voce ?

The  viva voce  is a short conference between the student and the supervisor.   It is the recommended conclusion to the Extended Essay process, and lasts between 10 and 15 minutes.  

Why have the viva voce ?

The EE supervisor is required to submit a report when your EE is shipped to the IB examiner has been assigned to grade it.  The supervisor can ask questions in the viva voce that will help with writing that report.  This is especially important if the supervisor feels there is a need to check for plagiarism and malpractice in general.  Supervisors are required to confirm the authenticity of the work in any Extended Essay submitted to IB.

The supervisor will use the viva voce to help you:

• Reflect on the successes and difficulties you had when researching and writing your essay
• Reflect on what you have learned

What questions will be asked in  the viva voce ?

Here are some examples of questions you might be asked:

• What have been the high and low points of the research and writing process?
• In hindsight, would you choose the topic again?
• What were the most interesting aspects of the process?  Did you discover anything that surprised you?
• What have you learned through writing this essay?  
• Having finished your essay, what additional questions did you find that could lead to further investigation?
• Is there any advice you could pass on to someone who has just started work on their EE?

Reflections on planning and progress form (RPPF)

The Reflections on planning and progress form (RPPF) enables examiners to gain an insight into students’ thinking processes while researching and writing the EE. The examiners are looking to see how students’ thinking and skills have developed during this time.  

• Reflections on planning and progress form (RPPF) For first use in 2018 assessment

The following are examples of the RPPF.  There is no one "right" way to complete the form and these examples should not be viewed as the "ideal".

• RPPF Example 1 - Studies in Language and Literature
• RPPF Example 2 - Studies in Language and Literature
• RPPF Example 3 - History
• RPPF Example 4 - Visual arts
• RPPF Example 5 - World Studies
• RPPF Example 6 - Biology
• RPPF Example 7 - World Studies
• RPPF Example 8 - Mathematics
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• Next: Evaluating Your Work >>
• Last Updated: Apr 12, 2024 2:56 PM
• URL: https://libguides.westsoundacademy.org/ee

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Final Steps: The Supervisor’s Report, Viva Voce and the RPPF

After you’ve read the E.E. and used the criteria to assess the Essay itself, you’re almost done.

The Final Steps for the E.E., have more to do with your efforts than any other part of the E.E. process.

There are 2 major final steps before you have determined the Predicted Grade .

The Viva Voce

• The Supervisor’s Report, part of the RPPF

The Viva Voce’s importance to the Extended Essay experience is more defined with the new curriculum. It is now designed to be a thirty minute session where the mentor and the student discuss the E.E.

Viva Voce Information from the I.B.

• Reminder, the student will complete their 3rd Mandatory Reflection statement after the Viva Voce with you. This reflection is to be written within 24-48 hours of that meeting.
• This is because Criterion E evaluates the three reflections, one of which will not be written before the Viva Voce.

The Supervisor’s Report and RPPF

For years, we haven’t been given much to refer to when it comes to the Supervisor’s Report.

With the new E.E., that has changed.

The  Reflections on planning and progress form  provides insight into the importance of your report and the student reflections on Criterion E. It also provides exemplars of the RFFPs. At the bottom of the RPPF you’ll find sample supervisor reports. That is going to really help you out.

• Do not provide any identifying characteristics about the student. This includes their name, gender, sexuality, religion, ethnicity or any other identifier.
• This is to ensure that this is truly a “Blind Read”
• At the top of the RPPF, there is a place to enter a Candidate Personal Code. I’ll be in touch with the information closer to January.
• “Important note: The total number of supervision hours must not exceed five hours . Coordinators are asked to remind all extended essay supervisors that the hours of supervision stated on the coversheet should not include any lab supervision necessary for safety reasons. The hours stated should include only one-to-one time spent discussing the progress of the extended essay. All supervisors must be familiar with the extended essay requirement for the Diploma Programme and their responsibilities for guiding candidates on the preparation and writing of an extended essay.” ( B7.3 Regulations )

When writing your supervisor’s report, use the Supervisor’s Comments section in Managebac. (Found under Planning & Progress on your student’s page)

The commentary you provide will be transferred into the RPPF after you EXPORT the file. See the slide below where the steps are laid out.

RPPF Information from the I.B.

Extended Essay: EE Reflections

• General Info
• EE Timeline
• Picking a Subject Area
• Picking a Topic
• Picking your EE Supervisor
• First Reflection Session
• Interim Reflection Session
• Research Proposal
• Annotated Bibliography
• EE Presentation
• First Complete Draft
• Second Complete Draft
• Final Draft

Why reflection is important in the EE Process

Remember, you are limited to a total of 500 words for all three reflections!

The Omaha Central Extended Essay timeline is designed to emphasize the importance of the the three mandatory reflection periods that end with a written reflection on the Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF).  See the completed RPPF samples on this page.

The form states the following:

 “The first formal reflection session should focus on your initial ideas and how you plan to undertake your research; the interim reflection session is once a significant amount of your research has been completed, and the final session will be in the form of a viva voce once you have completed and handed in your EE.” 

Sample RPPFs by Subject Area

Here are a few sample RPPFs -- provided so you can see what other students have written for their required Extended Essay reflections. You may use these as inspiration -- but keep in mind that we don't know how these reflections were scored!

• Sample Biology RPPF
• Sample English RPPF
• Sample History RPPF
• Sample Psychology RPPF
• Sample Visual Arts RPPF

Reflection Deadlines

The reflection deadlines are:

March 25 -- First reflection deadline -- 150 words to ManageBac

May 30 -- Interim reflection deadline -- 150 words to ManageBac

February 2019 -- Final reflection due date TBD -- 200 words to ManageBac

• << Previous: Picking your EE Supervisor
• Next: First Reflection Session >>
• Last Updated: Apr 2, 2019 11:45 AM
• URL: https://libguides.ops.org/c.php?g=813602

Omaha Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, age, genetic information, citizenship status, or economic status in its programs, activities and employment and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following individual has been designated to address inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Superintendent of Schools, 3215 Cuming Street, Omaha, NE 68131 (531-299-9822).

Las Escuelas Públicas de Omaha no discriminan basados en la raza, color, origen nacional, religión, sexo, estado civil, orientación sexual, discapacidad , edad, información genética, estado de ciudadanía, o estado económico, en sus programas, actividades y empleo, y provee acceso equitativo a los “Boy Scouts” y a otros grupos juveniles designados. La siguiente persona ha sido designada para atender estas inquietudes referentes a las pólizas de no discriminación: El Superintendente de las Escuelas, 3215 Cuming Street, Omaha, NE 68131 (531-299-9822).

HS IB Extended Essay Guide: Supervisor Info

• Getting Started

Research Questions

• References & Citations
• Reflection (RPPF)

World Studies Extended Essay

• Science EE Info
• Past Essays
• Supervisor Info
• Citing Images, Tables, & Graphs

Supervisor Responsibilities

• Supporting the Extended Essay - Supervisor

Supervisors WILL :

• undertake three mandatory reflection sessions with each student they are supervising
• initial and date each reflection summarized on the  Reflections on planning and progress form  and provide comments at the end of the process. If the form and essay are submitted via the eCoursework system, then it is deemed signed and authenticated. An RPPF that is blank, unsubmitted, or written in a language other than that of the essay, will be awarded a 0 for criterion E.
• provide students with advice and guidance in the skills of undertaking research
• encourage and support students throughout the research and writing of the extended essay
• discuss the choice of topic with each student and, in particular, help to formulate a well-focused research question which is suitable to the subject of registration and ensure that the chosen research question satisfies appropriate legal and ethical standards with regard to health and safety, confidentiality, human rights, animal welfare and environmental issues
• is familiar with the  regulations  governing the extended essay and the assessment criteria, and gives copies of these to students
• monitor the progress of the extended essay to offer guidance and to ensure that the essay is the student’s own work (this may include presenting a section of the essay for supervisor comment)
• read and comment on one draft only of the extended essay (but do  not  edit the draft); this should take place after the  interim reflection session , but before the  final reflection session , the  viva voce
• ensure that the final version of the essay is handed in before the final reflection session ( viva voce ) takes place, and that no changes are made to it subsequently
• read the final version and, in conjunction with the  viva voce , confirm its authenticity.

Source: ibo.org

Supervisors are  strongly  recommended to:

• read recent extended essay reports for the subject
• spend between three and five hours with each student, including the time spent on the three mandatory reflection sessions
• encourage the development of a  Researcher’s reflection space  for students
• set a clear schedule for the reflection sessions
• ensure that the chosen research question is appropriate for the subject
• access to appropriate resources (such as people, a library, a laboratory)
• research methods
• how to cite and reference .

Supervisor Meetings

• EE Supervisor Meetings - Guidance

There are three mandatory reflection sessions that are a formal part of the extended essay.

• Reflection sessions
• First formal reflection session
• Interim reflection session
• Viva Voce reflection session

Source: Oxford, EE Manual, 2016

Five Criteria

A: Focus and method (6)

B: Knowledge and understanding (6)

C: Critical thinking (12)

D: Presentation (4)

E: Engagement (6)

Total: 34 marks

• Full EE Criteria
• Full EE Criteria - with comment space
• Assessment: Grade Descriptors
• Assessment: Unpacking the criteria
• Assessment: Understanding the assessment criteria

Grade Boundaries

Reporting Procedures

EE progress will appear on Reports DP Year 1: Semester 2 (EE supervisor) DP Year 2: Semester 3 & Semester 4 (EE coordinator) 

• EE: Reporting Instructions
• Formulating well-focused research questions
• Sample research questions
• The World Studies EE is organized across six global themes. Students choose one of these under which to register their essay
• The World Studies EE invites students to conduct an in-depth,  interdisciplinary  investigation into an issue of contemporary global importance
• The World Studies EE requires students to bring together aspects of different disciplines to illuminate their chosen topic
• Recognize and understand local and global relationships in dynamic interaction
• Students should use two DP subjects. It is strongly recommended that students are undertaking a course of study in at least one of the subjects chosen for their essay
• Students are not expected to address the topic in its full complexity, but should aim to generate understandings that are new to them
• World Studies global themes
• World Studies introduction
• World Studies multiple forms of integration

Subject Reports

These reports are produced by IB EE examiners, based on past student work and include subject specific notes about: 

• Range and suitability of work submitted
• Candidate performance against criteria A-E
• Recommendations for supervision of future candidates
• EE: Do's & Don'ts by Subject - April 2021 These do's and don'ts lists were compiled by EE supervisors, based on the EE Subject reports
• EE: General report 2021
• Biology: EE subject report 2021
• Business Management: EE subject report 2021
• Chemistry: EE subject report 2021
• Chinese B: EE subject report 2021
• Design: EE subject report 2021
• Economics: EE subject report 2021
• ESS: EE subject report 2021
• Film: EE subject report 2021
• Geography: EE subject report 2021
• Global Politics: EE subject report 2021
• History: EE subject report 2021
• Language A: EE subject report 2021
• Language B: EE subject report 2021
• Math: EE subject report 2021
• Music: EE subject report 2021
• Philosophy: EE subject report 2021
• Physics: EE subject report 2021
• Psychology: EE subject report 2021
• SEHS: EE subject report 2021
• Theatre: EE subject report 2021
• Visual Arts: EE subject report 2021
• World Religions: EE subject report 2021
• World Studies: EE subject report 2021

IB Subject Specific Requirements

These files cover individual subjects’ requirements for the extended essay (EE) in terms of:

• Choice of topic
• Treatment of topic

You can find subject specific information at the following website or in the PDF documents below:

• IBO.org EE Subject specific guidance Choose your subject group and then your identified subject to find out the subject requirements.
• EE guide Language A
• EE guide Language B
• EE guide Business Management
• EE guide Economics
• EE guide Global Politics
• EE guide History
• EE guide Psychology
• EE guide Philosophy
• EE guide ITGS
• EE guide Biology
• EE guide Chemistry
• EE guide Design Technology
• EE guide Physics
• EE guide SEHS
• EE guide Mathematics
• EE guide Music
• EE guide Theatre
• EE guide Visual Arts
• EE guide Film
• EE guide World Studies
• EE guide ESS
• EE guide Computer Science
• << Previous: Past Essays
• Next: Citing Images, Tables, & Graphs >>
• Last Updated: Feb 26, 2024 11:05 AM
• URL: https://seoulforeign.libguides.com/EE

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• Formal reflection sessions: Form EE/RPPF
• The IB core
• Extended essay

Under the new extended essay criteria, from the May 2018 session onwards, extended essay supervisors must now complete a series of mandatory reflection sessions. These must be recorded using the Reflections on planning and progress form. Each session should last between 20 – 30 minutes. The aim of these sessions is for students to share their reflection with the supervisor. Sessions will focus on the progress being...

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• Support Sites

Extended Essay Support Site

Visual art - klee.

Study the assessment criteria for the Extended Essay before reading the example essay and RPPF that have been provided below. How would you apply the assessment criteria ? How many marks would you award the essay for Criteria A-D and the RPPF for Criterion E? Discuss your comments and marks with a colleague or classmate, before revealing the examiner's comments and marks below.

When writing about Visual Arts

There are a few points worth considering when writing an EE in Visual Arts. Take these into consideration when reading the following essay: 

• Be careful not to summarise secondary sources (i.e. history books on art).
• Focus on applying theories and ideas on art to particular artists.
• Avoid writing a biography on an artist.
• There should be evidence of critical analysis of primary sources (i.e. artwork).
• Try to come to a personal conclusion that is based on an orginial argument. 

An RPPF with examiner comments is also on this site here . In fact the RPPF that is annotated is the one from this essay. In brief, it is a rather mediocre RPPF , which could have scored much better with a few key changes. Learn from this student's mistakes, so that you do not have to make them on your RPPF . 

Extended essay

The extended essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper.

One component of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) core, the extended essay is mandatory for all students.

Read about the extended essay  in greater detail.

You can also read about how the IB sets deadlines for the extended essay , find examples of extended essay titles from previous DP students and learn about the world studies extended essay .

Learn more about the extended essay in a DP workshop for teachers . 

DP subject briefs

Find out about what each subject offers within the Diploma Programme (DP).

Our DP subject briefs—for both standard and higher level—contain information about core requirements, aims and assessment.

• Explore the DP subject briefs