IB English - A1

Course Description

Grade(s): 11-12                        Level: IB SL or HL                        Credit(s): 2 in English

Prerequisite(s): Teacher recommendation and successful completion of English 10 with a minimum B average.

This course is specifically designed for first language speakers of English or those students who have at least equal proficiency as native speakers despite the fact that English may be their second language.

The International Baccalaureate English A1 course offers students the opportunity to read and to analyze literature critically in different genres from various cultures and periods in literary history.  It should be noted that this is the most challenging secondary school English course that is offered, and thus candidates must have both critical thinking skills and diligence.  Students who take this course must be ready to deal with challenging works of literature, which they must interpret critically.  In addition, students must be determined to develop their formal writing skills, as this component of the course is particularly challenging. 

Students complete four assignments which are assessed by external IB evaluators:  two formal writing assignments on literature studied in translation, including a comparative essay and a commentary on creative work;  and two written exams on works written in English including a commentary and a comparative essay.  Students also complete two oral assignments, which will be assessed by the instructor and moderated by external IB evaluators.