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Biology Extended Essay Research Guide

The document outlines the key aspects that should be addressed in the introduction section of a biology extended essay: 1. The context, including how the topic arose and related background information. 2. Why the research question is worthy of investigation, such as addressing a gap in previous research. 3. The significance of the topic and what insights or applications the results could provide. The introduction should be 1-2 pages and establish the importance and relevance of the research.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
12 views6 pages

Biology Extended Essay Research Guide

The document outlines the key aspects that should be addressed in the introduction section of a biology extended essay: 1. The context, including how the topic arose and related background information. 2. Why the research question is worthy of investigation, such as addressing a gap in previous research. 3. The significance of the topic and what insights or applications the results could provide. The introduction should be 1-2 pages and establish the importance and relevance of the research.

Uploaded by

Antara Purohit
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Biology Extended Essay –

INTRODUCTION
2 pages / 1000 words

3 aspects to this criterion:

1. The context
2. The significance
3. The worthiness of investigation
1] The context
a) How has the topic of study arisen?

‘I first became interested in ………. having watched a documentary on…’

‘I recently read an article entitled ……. in the Biological Sciences


Review, and felt that the topic would be interesting to investigate
further in an Extended Essay’

‘Having read a recent article in the Straights times titled ‘………………’


‘During a recent trip to Tioman I had the chance to observe the
behaviour of ……’

‘It is common belief in …..culture that ……… causes ……… however, I


recently read an article which would suggest otherwise. I found this
very interesting and so have decided to investigate which is true
b) Briefly outline related aspects which are not addressed
in the EE.

‘In order to demonstrate the biological context and


significance of the research question the candidate needs to
present a summary of literature and other sources that have
been accessed.’

Sources should be biological e.g Journal of Biology, and


appropriate (not [Link])

Include general background and Biological theory
c) ‘Focus in’ from the area of interest to a specific
research question, and then clearly state the
research question

d) Explain any words or phrases in the RQ which


the examiner needs to understand

e) Summarize the approach that you intend to take


2] Why is your research question worthy of investigation?

Why should time be spent investigating this ?

• …..has the answer to the argument has not yet


been elucidated?
• ……is there a gap in the previous research in this
area of study?
• …..is this is a new aspect/angle/element of
previous research?
• ……are you are furthering research that has already
been done?
3] The Significance of your topic
What could the results lead to?
• …. could it provide a greater insight into the treatment of
disease?

• …….could it provide a more environmentally friendly way


of recycling?

• ….could it provide a method of increasing food


production in third world countries?

• ….could it increase our understandings of health and


wellbeing?

• ….could it answer an argument found in the literature?

Common questions

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Addressing new aspects or perspectives in research can enrich scientific discourse by opening avenues for novel insights, promoting diversity in scientific approaches, and challenging existing paradigms. It encourages innovation by introducing alternative hypotheses or methods which may uncover findings not observed with traditional approaches. New perspectives often stimulate further inquiry, collaborations, and debates, potentially leading to breakthroughs such as developing more effective treatments, creating sustainable technologies, or refining understanding of fundamental biological processes . It also diversifies the field by incorporating interdisciplinary methods or lesser-known cultural narratives, thus enhancing the robustness of scientific inquiry.

A research question's novelty can heavily influence the decision to pursue its investigation as new and original questions have the potential to uncover previously unknown phenomena or contradictions within established knowledge . Novel questions often attract interest because they can lead to breakthroughs, inspire creative methodologies, and potentially have high impact on the discipline. This pursuit of originality often fuels advancements in science by challenging researchers to think outside conventional boundaries and address problems from fresh angles, thus enriching the scientific landscape with innovative contributions.

Motivations for a researcher to further explore an existing area of study include identifying and filling gaps in previous research, building upon and refining existing theories, addressing controversies or unresolved questions, and applying established knowledge to new contexts or applications . Researchers may also aim to provide additional empirical evidence to support or refute existing hypotheses or to enhance the understanding of existing phenomena by introducing novel variables, methods, or interdisciplinary perspectives.

Clearly stating the research question is crucial in a scientific study as it defines the focus and direction of the investigation. It sets boundaries for the scope of the research, guides the methodology, and clarifies the central inquiry for the audience, which ensures the study remains relevant and organized . A well-articulated question helps avoid ambiguity, making it easier for readers and collaborators to understand the purpose and significance of the study, and allows for a structured approach to data collection and analysis.

Potential outcomes that could justify the significance of a research study include providing insights into disease treatment, offering environmentally friendly solutions for recycling, enhancing food production methods in developing countries, or improving our understanding of health and wellbeing . Such outcomes contribute tangible benefits to society and science, validate the research focus, and demonstrate the study's applicability beyond academic circles, potentially influencing policy, industry practices, or further scientific inquiry.

Explaining specific terminology in a research question is important for ensuring clarity and comprehension among diverse audiences, including readers who may not be experts in the field. Precise definitions help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that the research is accurately interpreted and evaluated according to its intended context . It facilitates effective communication in scientific discourse by setting a clear understanding of key concepts, which is vital for maintaining consistency in the assessment and replication of results.

When summarizing the intended approach for a research study, factors to consider include the clarity of the research question, relevance of the chosen methodologies, feasibility in terms of time and resources, and ethical considerations . The summary should outline the procedural steps, rationalize the selected methods in relation to the research question, and anticipate potential challenges or limitations. It should also consider how the approach fits within the wider scientific context and aligns with methodological standards in the field. This ensures that the study is well-prepared to yield meaningful and reliable results.

The context and significance of a study can heavily influence the perceived worthiness of an investigation by providing the foundation needed to determine the relevance and potential impact of the research. Contextualizing the research in terms of existing literature shows the investigator's awareness of the current field, which aids in identifying gaps or new perspectives that the research might fill . The significance highlights why addressing the research question matters, whether it is due to unexplored areas or potential practical applications such as improving disease treatment or enhancing sustainability methods . Thus, a well-defined context and significance can justify the time and resources necessary for investigation.

Summarizing literature and related sources helps frame the biological context by providing a comprehensive overview of current knowledge, theories, and debates surrounding the research question. It demonstrates the investigator's understanding of the relevant scientific background, helps delineate the scope of the study, and reveals gaps in knowledge or conflicting information that the research could address . It also aids in ensuring that the research is grounded in credible and scientific sources, lending credibility and focus to the investigation.

Investigating a research question with an uncertain or unexplored answer can significantly impact scientific understanding by filling knowledge gaps and providing new data or perspectives on the topic. Such research questions often lead to novel discoveries or insights that challenge existing theories or offer empirical data to support emerging hypotheses . They propel the scientific field forward by stimulating further research, encouraging methodological innovations, and potentially paving the way for practical applications or solutions to current problems, such as improving healthcare or environmental sustainability strategies.

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