The research question
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Flip to reveal answersWhat makes a good HL-essay question?
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Question
What makes a good HL-essay question?
Answer
Focused, arguable, and about authorial choices (‘how does the writer…’).
Question
Why avoid a topic like ‘the theme of love’?
Answer
It invites a list, not a developed argument.
Question
Why avoid a yes/no question?
Answer
There's no real argument to develop.
Question
How should the question usually begin?
Answer
‘How does the writer use…’ or ‘to what effect…’.
Question
How narrow should it be?
Answer
Narrow enough to answer in depth in 1,200–1,500 words — one aspect.
Question
What must the question focus on?
Answer
Authorial choices, not just content.
Question
Which criterion does the question drive?
Answer
Criterion C — focus and development.
Question
A topic vs a line of inquiry?
Answer
A topic names a subject; a line of inquiry poses an arguable ‘how’ question.
Question
What must the question be answerable through?
Answer
Close analysis of the work.
Question
The two traps?
Answer
A broad topic (a list) and a closed yes/no (no argument).
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