Insider Tips to Excel in IB English Literature Internal Assessment

In this era of disrupted exams and shifting landscapes, the significance of excelling in your IB English Literature Internal Assessment (IA) has never been more pronounced. In this article, we unravel everything you need to know to secure that coveted 7-point score.

The First Crucial Step: Your 1,200 to 1,500 Word Essay

Constituting 25% of your overall grading, this essay requires meticulous attention. For Standard level students, two works of literature are studied, while Higher level students delve into three, with the freedom to choose one for their essay. The works are drawn from the IB English Literature IA Prescribed Literature in Translation (PLT) list.

Choosing a work for analysis is key. Imagine crafting an essay on Pablo Neruda's "Poem 20," originally in Spanish. Focusing on Neruda's use of imagery could be a winning strategy.

Navigating the Marking Criteria: A Roadmap to Success

The marking criteria encompass various aspects:

  • A: Reflective Statement (6 Marks): Reflect on the interactive oral, demonstrating development in understanding cultural and contextual elements.

  • B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 Marks): Showcase detailed knowledge, perceptive insight, and understanding of the work's messages.

  • C: Appreciation of the Writer’s Choices (6 Marks): Exhibit excellent appreciation of language, structure, technique, and style in shaping meaning.

  • D: Organisation on Development (5 Marks): Persuasively organize ideas with integrated examples, maintaining a logical flow within the 1,500-word limit.

  • E: Language (5 Marks): Ensure clarity, precision, and appropriateness in language use, with attention to grammar, vocabulary, and style.

The Second Leg: Detailed Study

For Standard Level, a 10-minute oral commentary on one work is required, while Higher Level involves an additional 10-minute discussion on poetry. The catch? You receive the work just minutes before the presentation!

Imagine presenting on Shakespeare's "Othello," emphasizing dramatic structure or Iago's manipulative language. Outline the context, focus on distinct themes, and anticipate questions for the Q&A segment.

The Third Dimension: Options

The final segment explores three works chosen freely from the Prescribed List of Authors. Topics commonly explored include cultural context, thematic focus, characterisation, and literary techniques.

Picture a student delving into F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," focusing on the motif of the green light across the bay. This assignment, worth 30 marks, follows a scheme akin to Part 1 but introduces a 10-mark Presentation criterion.

Crafting a Winning Presentation: Beyond Words

The Presentation category evaluates your effectiveness in conveying the message. Employ a range of presentational devices—gestures, tonal shifts, posters, dramatic monologues, artwork, or music—where appropriate.

The Pinnacle: Acing Your English Literature IA

Having traversed the intricacies of the IB English Literature IA, the coveted 7 should now be within reach. However, remember that while guides and tips offer valuable insights, your dedication and passion for English Literature remain the ultimate keys to success. Dive into your readings, embrace the challenge, and let your passion shine.

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