IB English A: Language & Literature
IB English A Language and Literature analyses how language works in literary and non-literary texts, from advertising to poetry, across time, culture, and media.
Difficulty
Challenging
Popularity
56%
Past questions
3
Study tips
5
Key Topics
Exam Format & Dates
May & November, annually
Papers 1–2 + Oral + HL Essay
1–7 scale (IB)
4 = passing | 6–7 = excellent
| Section | Duration | Content | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 — Guided Analysis | 1h 15m (SL) / 2h 15m (HL) | Unseen text(s) | 35% |
| Paper 2 — Comparative Essay | 1h 45m | 1 essay | 25–35% |
| Individual Oral | 15 minutes | Global issue | 20–30% |
| HL Essay | Coursework | 1 essay | 20% (HL) |
Exam Breakdown & Insights
Difficulty · Demanding
Popularity score
Student Poll
1 votesHow tough is this class, really?
Tap an option to vote and see live results.
Study Tips
- 1
Every analytical paragraph should follow point → evidence → analysis of effect — never just identify a technique.
- 2
Practice writing timed essays regularly; a brilliant essay that is never finished scores poorly.
- 3
Plan before you write: a clear, debatable thesis and 3–4 organized arguments beat unstructured brilliance.
- 4
Past papers with mark schemes are the single best IB revision resource — learn exactly how marks are allocated.
- 5
Do not neglect your Internal Assessment: it is a significant chunk of your grade that you control before exam day.
Past Exam Questions
Explain what is meant by Textual Analysis and identify the techniques a writer typically uses to convey it.
Analyse how a writer uses language, structure, and form in relation to Language & Context. Quote specific evidence and explain its effect on the reader.
"A writer's treatment of Non-Literary Texts reveals their deeper purpose." Discuss this view, developing a clear argument supported by close textual analysis.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕
Quoting without commenting — evidence only earns marks when it is analyzed.
- ✕
Writing without a clear, arguable thesis, so the essay drifts.
- ✕
Poor time management that leaves essays unfinished.
Official Resources
Free, official study material for IB English A: Language & Literature — always start with the source your exam board publishes.
Ask Sage · your AI tutor
Ask anything about IB English A: Language & Literature — or upload your notes.
Ask anything, or attach your notes / past questions and I'll tutor you on them.