The extended essay, a component of the DP core, is a compulsory, externally assessed piece of independent research, presented as a formal piece of academic writing. It is an in-depth study of a focused topic, undertaken either through a subject-focused approach, or an interdisciplinary approach combining two DP subjects. Students choose from the list of available Diploma Programme subjects for the examination session in question. For those taking the diploma this is normally one of the student’s six selected subjects, or two in the case of the interdisciplinary pathway. Students can also choose a topic in which they have some background knowledge. The EE is intended to promote academic research and writing skills. It gives students the opportunity to engage in personal research on their own choice of topic, under the guidance of a supervisor (an appropriately qualified member of staff within the school). Students produce a significant piece of appropriately presented and structured writing, in which their ideas and findings are communicated in a coherent, reasoned manner that is suitable for the chosen subject(s)