IBDP English Language & Literature

Group 1 | English Language & Literature

What will I learn?

The Group 1 – Studies in Language & Literature offers a choice of two different courses: Literature A or Language and Literature A. 

Students will come away with a range of important skills and understandings that will both enrich their lives and prepare them well for tertiary study. Students will read and respond to a range of classic, contemporary and translated works, both literary and non-literary, written and visual. Engaging with these texts will help them develop their social, aesthetic and cultural literacy, as well as improving language competence and communication skills. The course focuses upon the relationships between texts, readers and writers; the influence of geography, culture and history on the composition and reception of texts; and on aspects of intertextuality. Students will be challenged in ways of thinking and being. 

Language and Literature course students will learn about the complex and dynamic nature of language and explore both its practical and aesthetic dimensions. They will explore the crucial role language plays in communication, reflecting on experiences and shaping the world. Students will also produce creative and analytical texts.  

At Higher Level (HL) students will study 6 literary texts over two years. At Standard Level (SL) students will study 4 literary texts over two years. 

Why should I consider this course?

Students will come away with a range of skills and understandings that will both enrich their lives and prepare them well for tertiary study. These skills will help them develop an understanding of how language works to create meaning in cultures beyond our own. Students will develop skills in recognising and evaluating the techniques used by Ancient Greek playwrights, Russian propagandists, photographers (Dombrovskis) and graphic novelists. As a result, they will develop greater confidence in expressing their own ideas. 

Assessment

What skills does this course provide?

The course will consolidate students' receptive, productive and interactive skills, develop their proficiency, fluency and linguistic range and, in particular, enhance textual analysis skills. Students will deepen their understanding of a wide variety of concepts explored through literary and non-literary texts in order to interpret, analyse, evaluate and then communicate this understanding in clear, organised and developed products. 

What Pathway Options does this course provide?

The Language and Literature course provides opportunities for students to collaborate and be better prepared for effective participation in an ever-changing world of work. Through approaches to learning skills, students are encouraged to become reflective, creative and critical thinkers and confident communicators. Successful completion of Language and Literature prepares students for tertiary study in a range of areas, including English, and can be used to meet tertiary entrance requirements.