International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) DP Core: Extended Essay (EE) and CAS Flashcards

24 sample cards from the DP Core: Extended Essay (EE) and CAS deck

Sampled from the end of the deck, so these are different cards from the ones shown on the syllabus page.

1. What is the maximum combined word count of the RPPF reflections?

   500 words total across all reflection sessions.

2. What are the three formal reflection sessions documented on the RPPF?

   (1) The first/initial reflection, (2) the interim reflection, and (3) the final reflection, which takes place after completing the essay as part of the viva voce.

3. What is the viva voce in the EE process?

   A short concluding interview (about 10-15 minutes) between the student and supervisor after submission. It is the final reflection session, supports authentication, and informs the supervisor's comments and the final RPPF reflection.

4. Which EE assessment criterion does the RPPF directly inform?

   Criterion E (Engagement), which is awarded based on the reflections recorded on the RPPF and the supervisor's comments.

5. List the five EE assessment criteria and their letters.

   A: Focus and method; B: Knowledge and understanding; C: Critical thinking; D: Presentation; E: Engagement.

6. How many marks is each EE criterion worth, and what is the total?

   A = 6, B = 6, C = 12, D = 4, E = 6, for a total of 34 marks.

7. Which EE criterion carries the most marks, and what does it assess?

   Criterion C, Critical thinking (12 marks), assessing research, analysis, discussion, and evaluation—how well evidence is used to construct a reasoned argument.

8. What does EE Criterion A (Focus and method, 6 marks) assess?

   The topic, the research question, and the methodology/approach—whether the question is clearly stated and focused and the method is appropriate and effective.

9. What does EE Criterion B (Knowledge and understanding, 6 marks) assess?

   The student's knowledge of the topic and subject, the appropriate use of source material, and command of relevant subject-specific terminology and concepts.

10. What does EE Criterion D (Presentation, 4 marks) assess?

    The structure and layout of the essay—title page, table of contents, page numbers, consistent referencing, and adherence to required formatting and the 4,000-word limit.

11. How are the EE's 34 marks converted into a letter grade?

    The total mark out of 34 is mapped onto letter grades A (excellent) through E (elementary) using IB grade boundaries.

12. What is the TOK/EE points matrix used for?

    It combines the letter grades from the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge to award between 0 and 3 bonus points toward the Diploma's total of 45 points.

13. What is the maximum number of Diploma points available from the combined EE and TOK?

    3 points.

14. What EE and TOK grade combination earns the maximum 3 points?

    Two grades of A (A in both EE and TOK), or one A and one B, both earn 3 points.

15. Using the TOK/EE matrix, how many points does a student with EE grade B and TOK grade C receive?

    2 points. (B/C and C/B combinations award 2 points.)

16. How many points does a student earn if both EE and TOK are graded C?

    1 point.

17. What is the 'failing condition' associated with the EE and TOK?

    A grade of E (or no submission) in either the Extended Essay or TOK is a failing condition that prevents the award of the IB Diploma, regardless of total points.

18. What does CAS stand for, and over what period is it undertaken?

    Creativity, Activity, Service. It runs throughout the Diploma Programme, typically over a period of at least 18 months (roughly the two DP years).

19. Define the three CAS strands.

    Creativity: arts and activities involving creative thinking. Activity: physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle. Service: unpaid, voluntary action benefiting a community, of genuine reciprocal value.

20. Is CAS graded or assessed with marks?

    No. CAS is not formally assessed and earns no points; however, satisfactory completion (meeting all seven learning outcomes through CAS experiences and a project) is a requirement for the IB Diploma.

21. List the seven CAS learning outcomes.

    1) Identify own strengths and areas for growth; 2) Undertake new challenges and develop new skills; 3) Initiate and plan a CAS experience; 4) Show commitment and perseverance; 5) Work collaboratively and recognize its benefits; 6) Engage with issues of global significance; 7) Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions.

22. What is the CAS project, and what is its minimum duration?

    A collaborative, extended CAS experience that challenges students to show initiative, perseverance, and teamwork. It involves at least one CAS strand and must last a minimum of one month from planning to completion.

23. What are the five CAS stages used to structure experiences and the project?

    Investigation, Preparation, Action, Reflection, and Demonstration.

24. What is the purpose of reflection in CAS?

    Reflection is the central element that lets students describe what happened, express feelings, generate ideas, and ask questions—evidencing the learning outcomes and personal growth, rather than simply listing activities.

What this deck covers

DP Core: Extended Essay (EE) and CAS flashcards FAQ