By Bruce Zeemel
Extended Essay Coordinator
On 24 October, the Northbridge International School Cambodia grade 12 class partook in the Extended Essay Exhibition which was an opportunity for them to showcase their accomplishments. They were given the chance to answer questions and impart their wisdom to the grade 11 cohort who are just beginning their own Extended Essay journey.
As well, the grade 10’s participated and asked many astute questions regarding the process of the Extended Essay and how it can help them with their Personal Projects. Many of our grade 12’s completed the Personal Project in grade 10 and so could also impart their own insights into that process. One clever grade 10 went so far as to make the connection that the process is just as important as the product.
The Extended Essay is an in-depth study of a focused topic chosen from the list of available Diploma Programme subjects. It is intended to promote academic research and writing skills, providing students with an opportunity to engage in personal research in a topic of their own choice, under the guidance of a supervisor.
The Extended Essay process helps prepare students for success at university and in other pathways beyond the Diploma Programme. It is compulsory for all Diploma Programme students at NISC and is one of three elements that forms the Diploma Programme Core, which includes Theory of Knowledge (ToK) and Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS).
The Extended Essay is the result of approximately 40 hours of work by the student and leads to a major piece of formally presented, structured writing, in which ideas and findings are communicated in a reasoned and coherent manner, appropriate to the subject chosen. The Extended Essay is presented as a formal piece of sustained academic writing containing no more than 4,000 words accompanied by a reflection of no more than 500 words.
The Extended Essay is an exciting and rewarding project if the student is committed. Effective application of the Approaches to Learning (ATLs) which include self-management, research, communication, thinking, and social skills will most certainly provide a student with the tools and skills need to succeed with the Extended Essay.
In a rapidly evolving world, where artificial intelligence, automation, and environmental challenges reshape our societies, the value of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education has never been greater. At Northbridge International School Cambodia (NISC), we believe that fostering creativity and innovation is at the heart of preparing students for the future.
The transition into Grade 11 is more than a step up academically; it is a transformative phase where students begin to develop life skills essential for their future.
The move from primary to secondary school is a big deal—not just for students, but for parents too. The transition isn’t something that happens overnight or in a single day. It’s a journey that stretches across the whole year, and it's one that should be taken very seriously. It's true that change can feel daunting, but when a transition programme is executed well and with the right support, this can be one of the most exciting and transformative stages in children's education.
World Children's Day (WCD) is celebrated on November 20 each year to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children's welfare.
