IB English

Those students in Years 12 and 13 who have selected the IB as their programme of study will take English Literature as their GROUP 1 subject if English is their first language or if they are academically competent in English.

GROUP 1: Literature English (HL and SL). Students will study literature, including selections of literature in translation, and may choose to combine this with language or performance studies, depending on their choice of course. They will have the opportunity to develop:

  • a personal appreciation of language and literature
  • skills in literary criticism
  • an understanding of the formal, stylistic and aesthetic qualities of texts
  • strong powers of expression, both written and oral
  • an appreciation of cultural differences in perspective

The course is organised into four parts, each focused on a group of literary works. Together, the four parts of the course add up to a comprehensive exploration of literature from a variety of cultures, genres and periods. Students learn to appreciate the artistry of literature, and develop the ability to reflect critically on their reading, presenting literary analysis powerfully through both oral and written communication.

Key features of Assessment and Curriculum:

  • Available at higher and standard levels
  • Higher level study requires a minimum of 240 class hours, while standard level study requires a minimum of 150 class hours
  • Students study 13 works at higher level and 10 works at standard level from a representative selection of genres, periods and places
  • Students develop the ability to engage in close, detailed analysis of literary works, building understanding of the techniques involved in literary criticism
  • The study of literary works in context is emphasised, and through the study of literature in translation the student is challenged to reflect on the role of cultural assumptions in interpretation
  • Students are assessed through a combination of formal examinations, written coursework and oral activities
  • The formal examination comprises two essay papers, one requiring the analysis of a passage of unseen literary text, and the other a response to a question based on the works studied
  • Students also produce a written assignment based on the works studied in translation, and perform two oral activities presenting their analysis of works read.

Please contact the Head of IB Mrs Rodgers j.rodgers@tgs.school.nz or the Head of English Mrs Walker d.walker@tgs.school.nz for further information.