IB EnglishSubject Selection

IB English Literature vs. IB English Language and Literature: Syllabus Comparison

K
Krish Mohanani Daswani
••7 min read

Deciding between IB English Literature (Lit) and IB English Language and Literature (Lang Lit) can be pivotal for your academic journey. Both courses offer unique content and skills, but which one aligns best with your interests and goals? Let's dive into a detailed comparison of their syllabi to help you make an informed choice.

IB English Literature (Lit) Syllabus

Course Focus

IB English Literature focuses exclusively on literary texts, exploring various genres, periods, and cultural contexts. The course aims to develop a deep appreciation of literature and critical analysis skills.

Core Components

  1. Works in Translation:
    • Study of at least three works originally written in a language other than the one studied.
    • Focus on cultural and contextual understanding.
  2. Detailed Study:
    • In-depth analysis of selected texts from different genres.
    • Emphasis on close reading and critical interpretation.
  3. Literary Genres:
    • Exploration of different literary genres such as poetry, drama, and prose.
    • Comparative analysis of works within and across genres.
  4. Textual Analysis:
    • Development of skills to analyze and interpret literary texts.
    • Use of literary terms and concepts to articulate insights.

Assessment Components

Internal Assessments:

  • Individual Oral Commentary (IOC): An oral presentation analyzing a specific extract from a studied text.
  • Written Tasks: Essays and creative responses to texts studied in the course.

External Assessments:

  • Paper 1: Guided Literary Analysis:
    • SL: Analysis of one unseen literary text.
    • HL: Analysis of two unseen literary texts.
  • Paper 2: Comparative Essay:
    • Comparative analysis of at least two works studied in the course.
  • Higher Level Essay (HL only):
    • A 1,200-1,500 word essay on a text or texts studied, chosen by the student.

IB English Language and Literature (Lang Lit) Syllabus

Course Focus

IB English Language and Literature combines the study of literary texts with non-literary texts. The course explores how language is used in various contexts and media, offering a broader approach to language and communication.

Core Components

  1. Textual Analysis:
    • Analysis of both literary and non-literary texts.
    • Emphasis on understanding how language creates meaning in different contexts.
  2. Contexts of Production and Reception:
    • Examination of how texts are influenced by their contexts.
    • Analysis of audience, purpose, and medium.
  3. Language in Cultural Contexts:
    • Study of how language reflects and shapes cultural identities and social issues.
    • Exploration of global issues through language.
  4. Intertextuality:
    • Understanding connections between texts and how they influence each other.
    • Comparative analysis of texts from different media and genres.

Assessment Components

Internal Assessments:

  • Individual Oral (IO): An oral presentation analyzing one literary text and one non-literary text through the lens of a global issue.
  • Written Tasks: Essays, reports, and creative responses to texts studied in the course.

External Assessments:

  • Paper 1: Textual Analysis:
    • SL: Analysis of one unseen non-literary text.
    • HL: Analysis of two unseen non-literary texts.
  • Paper 2: Comparative Essay:
    • Comparative analysis of at least two works studied in the course.
  • Higher Level Essay (HL only):
    • A 1,200-1,500 word essay on a text or texts studied, chosen by the student.

Key Differences Between IB English Lit and Lang Lit

Focus and Approach

  • IB English Lit: Solely focuses on literary texts, aiming for deep literary analysis and appreciation.
  • IB English Lang Lit: Combines literary and non-literary texts, providing a broader understanding of language use in various contexts.

Types of Texts Studied

  • IB English Lit: Involves novels, plays, poetry, and works in translation.
  • IB English Lang Lit: Includes literary texts as well as non-literary texts like advertisements, speeches, news articles, and visual media.

Skills Developed

  • IB English Lit: Enhances skills in literary analysis, critical thinking, and textual interpretation.
  • IB English Lang Lit: Develops skills in textual analysis, media literacy, and understanding of language in different contexts.

Which Course is Right for You?

Consider Your Interests

  • Literature Enthusiasts: If you have a passion for reading and analyzing literary works, IB English Lit may be the better choice.
  • Broader Language Interests: If you are interested in how language functions in various contexts, including media and communication, IB English Lang Lit could be more suitable.

Future Academic and Career Goals

  • Humanities and Arts: IB English Lit is excellent preparation for studies in literature, history, and the humanities.
  • Media, Communication, and Social Sciences: IB English Lang Lit offers skills applicable to journalism, media studies, communications, and social sciences.

Academic Strengths

  • Analytical Skills: Both courses require strong analytical skills, but IB English Lit focuses more on close reading and literary criticism.
  • Versatility: IB English Lang Lit requires the ability to analyze a wide range of texts and media, making it suitable for students with diverse interests.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing between IB English Literature and IB English Language and Literature depends on your personal interests, strengths, and future aspirations. Both courses offer valuable skills and knowledge, but understanding their differences can help you select the one that best fits your academic journey.

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