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If you're already done with your EE, it’s time to set up that last meeting with your supervisor to wrap everything up. This post will break down the Extended Essay Viva Voce – your final interview with your supervisor that ends with writing your last reflection.
EE Viva Voce
What is the Viva Voce?
The viva voce is a short, final interview between you and your Extended Essay supervisor. It’s typically 10 to 15 minutes long and takes place after you’ve submitted your final EE. Your supervisor will ask you a series of questions and discuss the entire process, based on which you complete your final reflection for the RPPF Form. is a reflective conversation, rather than an exam or a test. The purpose of the Viva Voce is to assess your personal engagement with the topic, to help the supervisor confirm the authenticity of your work, and to reflect on your research journey, challenges faced, and what you learned. It is essentially supposed to provide closure to the whole EE process.
What type of questions will my supervisor ask?
Below you'll find the questions that your EE supervisor may ask you during the final interview:
- What is the most significant lesson you have learned from this experience?
- Which obstacle presented the greatest difficulty, and how did you manage to overcome it?
- What questions have arisen as a result of your investigation?
- What conclusions have you reached regarding the topic?
- What would you have done differently if you had the chance to do your Extended Essay again?
The Viva Voce Reflection
Following the final interview, students are required to complete a final reflection, which will be assessed as part of the RPPF (Reflections on Planning and Progress Form). This reflection should be honest and thoughtful, offering a clear and accurate account of the student’s journey throughout the Extended Essay process. It should highlight both the personal growth experienced and the challenges encountered along the way. For a comprehensive breakdown of the RPPF criteria and requirements click here. Below is a strong example of the Viva Voce Reflection that fulfills all the Criteria.
Overall, my EE journey was an exciting experience that allowed me to deepen my knowledge on a topic of personal relevance. I am pleased with the outcome of my essay. Initially, I struggled to incorporate differing viewpoints, which made my argument one-sided and narrative. However, with my supervisor’s guidance, I was able to include multiple perspectives. This taught me the importance of considering various sources to create a well-rounded, balanced argument. Additionally, being raised in Poland, a country deeply affected by WW2 German atrocities, I found it challenging to set aside personal bias and emotions while writing. Nonetheless, I believe I managed to approach the topic academically. This experience has made me aware of the importance of conducting historical research without preconceived notions. Both lessons – acknowledging multiple perspectives and remaining objective – will be valuable in my future career, as lawyers must consider all angles and not let personal emotions cloud their judgment. Furthermore, this essay has been my first major piece of academic work, and it has equipped me with skills in referencing, quoting, and structuring arguments, which will undoubtedly help me during university. If I were to undertake this task again, I would create a more structured schedule to manage my time better. At times, I found myself stressed by deadlines and had to cram my work, so better planning would have made the process smoother.
Why is this a good Viva Voce Reflection?
- The student reflects on their entire writing journey.
- The student explains how writing the Extended Essay has impacted them personally.
- The student discusses self-growth, highlighting the skills they have acquired and how these may prove useful in the future.
- The student mentions an improvement they would make if given the chance to undertake this task again.
We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of IA, EE and TOK exemplars available at Clastify and other guides available on our blog.
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