Navigating the IB English A Divide: Literature vs. Language & Literature

The IB Diploma Program's Group 1 "Studies in Language and Literature" requirement can be fulfilled through two distinct course options: IB English A: Literature and IB English A: Language & Literature. While both pathways cultivate students' language and literary analysis skills, there are significant differences worth exploring.

Texts & Works

• IB English A: Language & Literature has a broader, interdisciplinary approach. Students critically examine

  • Language Texts:

    • a collection of 3-5 non-literary bodies of work (BOWs), such as

      • speeches

      • news articles

      • advertisements

      • visual media
        

  • Literature Works:

    • 4 (Standard Level) literary works or 6 (Higher Level) literary works such as

      • novels

      • plays

      • poetry

      • short stories

      • literary non-fiction

• IB English A: Literature takes a focused scope. Students critically examine

  • Literature Works:

    • 9 (Standard Level) literary works or 13 (Higher Level) literary works such as

      • novels

      • plays

      • poetry

      • short stories

      • literary non-fiction

Assessment Components

• IB English A: Language & Literature has external and internal exams :

  • Paper 1 unseen textual analysis

  • Paper 2 comparative literature essay

  • HLE higher level essay 1200-1500 words, with focus on a text or work studied in class

  • IO individual oral presentation on a g; (internally assessed)

• IB English A: Literature also has both external and internal exams:

  • Paper 1 unseen literary analysis

  • Paper 2 comparative literature essay

  • HLE higher level essay 1200-1500 words, with focus on a work studied in class

  • IO individual oral presentation (internally assessed)

Skill Focus

• Language & Literature cultivates a more versatile skillset, preparing students to critically analyse language use across diverse contexts.

• Literature offers deep immersion in imaginative writing, developing sophisticated close reading and analytical skills.

Best Fit

• Language & Literature can be valuable for fields like journalism, marketing, law, or politics.

• Literature suit students with a strong affinity for literature who plan to pursue humanities studies.

Regardless of the pathway, both IB English A courses provide a rigorous foundation in language, literature, and critical thinking - essential for success in the IB Diploma Program and beyond. The choice ultimately depends on a student's academic interests and future aspirations.