Welcome to the world of International Baccalaureate English! As you embark on this journey, it’s important to equip yourself with the best study guides and notes that will help you achieve success in both SL and HL levels. Whether you’re struggling with analyzing literary texts or need a refresher on grammar rules, our comprehensive guide has got your back. From concise summaries of classic novels to exam techniques that will make you stand out of the crowd.
These tips will also involve various CEFR levels in English. We’ve compiled all the resources you need to ace your IB English exams. So sit tight as we take a deep dive into the best IB English study guide and notes for SL/HL.
What is IBDP?
The IBDP (International baccalaureate diploma program) is a high-priority 2 years IB course structured for students who are between 16 and 19 years across the world. This diploma program aims at improving students intellectually mentally and physically.
The IB diploma program is a highly advanced 2 years program offered to students who are in the final 2 years of High school. The students have 6 different subjects and 3 core elements in this curriculum. They take examinations at the end of these courses and they receive an IB diploma. Levels in IB diploma course
There are two main levels in the International Baccalaureate diploma program.
1 Standard level
2 Higher level
What is the difference between IB HL vs SL?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) program offers two curriculum tracks for students in grades 11 and 12 – Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL). So, what’s the difference between HL and SL English?
HL (Higher level) = Higher Level English is more challenging than Standard Level, covering more material in greater depth. The HL course also includes an additional literature component, which introduces students to a variety of literary genres.
SL (standard level) = Standard Level English is designed for students who may not be planning on pursuing further education after high school. The course covers the same core topics as Higher-Level English but in less depth.
Both Higher Level and Standard Level English courses are assessed through written exams, oral presentations, and classwork. However, the assessment criteria for the Higher Level are more demanding than for Standard Level.
So, which course should you take? If you’re considering university studies, or if you’re simply looking for a more challenging academic experience, Higher Level English is the way to go. If you need a less demanding course load or you’re not planning on attending university, Standard Level English may be a better fit.
How does the IB English literature course work?
To earn an IB English Literature diploma, students must complete at least 150 hours of study in the course, including a minimum of 60 hours at the higher level (HL). The course is designed to encourage students to explore works of literature in depth and from different perspectives. In addition to close readings of literary texts, students write papers, give presentations, and participate in class discussions.
The assessment for IB English Literature consists of two written examinations—paper 1 and paper 2—and an oral examination.
Paper 1 is based on prescribed literary works that the student has studied throughout the course. The paper 1 examination is 2 hours long and consists of three essay questions, each focused on a different literary work.
Paper 2 is based on a comparative study of two works of literature that the student has chosen from a list of 15 prescribed works. The paper 2 examination is 2 hours long and consists of three essay questions, each focused on a different pair of literary works.
The oral examination is based on the student’s knowledge and understanding of one or more literary works studied throughout the course. The oral examination is 20 minutes long and consists of two parts: an interview with the examiner about one or more prescribed works, and a presentation by the student on a topic related to one or more prescribed works.
What Skills would you develop for the International Baccalaureate program?
Assuming you want tips for studying English for the International Baccalaureate program:
First and foremost, make sure you are aware of the differences between Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL). The biggest difference is the number of texts you will be expected to read at each level – twice as many for HL. This naturally means that more time will be needed to prepare for the latter.
Whichever level you are studying; it is important to engage with the material. This means reading actively, critically, and with a pen in hand! Underline key quotations, jot down your thoughts in the margins, and write mini-essays on topics that interest you. Basically, make the text your own.
A big part of IB English is being able to discuss literary theory and link it to real-life examples. This can seem daunting at first, but once you get into the swing of things it becomes much easier. A good way to start preparing for this is by reading articles and books outside of the syllabus that deals with literary criticism (Marxist/Feminist/Postcolonial etc.)
Practice makes perfect! When it comes time to write your commentaries and essays, don’t start from scratch on the day. Write drafts beforehand so that you can get feedback from your teacher or peers, and refine your work until it is as good as it can be.
There is no single best IB English Study Guide and Notes for SL/HL, as the best one depends on the individual student’s needs and preferences. However, a number of excellent IB English Study Guides and Notes are available that can help students prepare English for competitive exams.
Some of the most popular IB English Study Guides and Notes for SL/HL include the Cambridge International Exams (CIE) General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) English Language Programme Study Guide, The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS Academic Writing, The Official Cambridge IELTS Grammar Guide, and The Princeton Review’s AP Calculus AB & BC Study Guide.
