Time Alloted
Standard Level (SL) – 1.15 hours
Higher Level (HL) – 2.15 hours
IB Language and Literature Tuition
Understand the syllabus, exam format and get free resources.
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Why Ascend Now is the Top Choice for IB Language and Literature Tuition?
68%
Of Ascend Now Students got 6+/7 in IB DP Language A: Lang Lit
83%
Improved their IB DP Language A: Lang Lit score by 1 point or more
12+
Certified IB DP Language A: Lang Lit Examiners and Tutors
81%
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What is Language A: Language & Literature? Why Study it?
The IBDP Language & Literature course is an in-depth study of both literary and non-literary texts, focusing on how language functions across different contexts and mediums. It fosters critical thinking by analyzing the relationship between language, meaning, and culture. This course is particularly valuable for careers in journalism, marketing, public relations, and law, where strong analytical and communication skills are essential. By studying Language & Literature, students gain a deep understanding of how language influences power dynamics and societal structures. This equips them to navigate and impact various professional fields effectively.
Your track record in the IB Language and Literature Tuition course is one of the key factors that will determine your college acceptances. Work with certified IB Language and Literature Tuition Examiners to get that 7/7.
Speak to an advisor todayIB DP Language & Literature Syllabus: Topics + Overview
Designed for both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) students, this course offers a great opportunity to explore a diverse array of texts spanning various cultures, historical periods, and literary genres. Higher level study requires a minimum of 240 class hours, while standard level study requires a minimum of 150 class hours. Students study 6 works at HL and 4 works at SL from a representative selection of literary forms, periods and places.
Component
SL
HL
Readers, Writers and Texts
Recommended Learning:
±70 Hours
Sub-topics
Understanding the nature of linguistic and literary communication; exploring key concepts such as text, context, and audience.
Recommended Learning: 50 Hours (SL)
Same Sup-topics as SL
Recommended Learning: 80 Hours (HL)
Time and Space
Recommended Learning:
±70 Hours
Sub-topics
Study of how texts reflect, represent, or adapt to different contexts, cultures, and times.
Recommended Learning: 50 Hours (SL)
Same Sup-topics as SL
Recommended Learning: 80 Hours (HL)
Intertextuality: Connecting Texts
Recommended Learning:
±70 Hours
Sub-topics
Exploration of connections between texts from different genres, periods, and cultures.
Recommended Learning: 50 Hours (SL)
Same Sup-topics as SL
Recommended Learning: 80 Hours (HL)
Readers, Writers and Texts
Topic
Recommended Learning:
±70 Hours
Included in both SL and HL
Sub-topics
Understanding the nature of linguistic and literary communication; exploring key concepts such as text, context, and audience.
Recommended Learning: 50 Hours (SL)
Only HL
Same Sup-topics as SL
Recommended Learning: 80 Hours (HL)
Time and Space
Topic
Recommended Learning:
±70 Hours
Included in both SL and HL
Sub-topics
Study of how texts reflect, represent, or adapt to different contexts, cultures, and times.
Recommended Learning: 50 Hours (SL)
Only HL
Same Sup-topics as SL
Recommended Learning: 80 Hours (HL)
Intertextuality: Connecting Texts
Topic
Recommended Learning:
±70 Hours
Included in both SL and HL
Sub-topics
Exploration of connections between texts from different genres, periods, and cultures.
Recommended Learning: 50 Hours (SL)
Only HL
Same Sup-topics as SL
Recommended Learning: 80 Hours (HL)
Download full sub-topic list for the IB DP Math AI SL and HL
Download SyllabusIB DP Language A: Language & Literature Exams and Past Papers: Overview
Paper 1
For both SL and HL
35% of SL Final Exam Grade
35% of HL Final Exam Grade
Example Question
Analyze Language
Analyze how language is used in the provided text to convey meaning and influence the audience.
Paper 2
For both SL and HL
35% of SL Final Exam Grade
25% of HL Final Exam Grade
Example Question
Theme of Power
Discuss how two works studied explore the theme of power.
HL Essay
Only HL
NA
20% of HL Final Exam Grade
Example Topic
What does Humbert Humbert’s abjection of the feminine reveal about his own existence?
Individual Oral (IO)
For both SL and HL
30% of SL Final Exam Grade
20% of HL Final Exam Grade
Example Topic
How oppression fuels rebellion.
Download all the free past papers
Download Free Test PaperIs IB DP Language A: Language & Literature Difficult?
The difficulty of Language & Literature is subject, dependent on the individuals English skills, interests and commitment. IBDP Language & Literature can be a challenging course for some students as it requires them to navigate complex texts, dissect them critically, and articulate their ideas fluently through writing and oral presentations. Additionally, classroom discussions often will be based on complex themes and issues, demanding students to think critically and engage in meaningful conversations.
May 2023 Score Distribution
Standard Level
Higher Level
27,789
Number of SL students
40,652
Number of HL students
4.9
SL Mean Score
4.7
HL Mean Score
Ascend Now Examiner Tips
Practice Textual Analysis Regularly
“Engage with a variety of texts—both literary and non-literary—on a regular basis to strengthen your ability to quickly identify key themes, stylistic devices, and contextual elements.”
Urska
IB DP Lang Lit Tutor
7+ years experience teaching English
Use Specific Evidence
“ Always support your arguments with specific evidence from the texts, whether you're analyzing a passage or comparing works. This strengthens your analysis and shows a deep engagement with the material.”
Magda
IB DP Lang Lit Tutor
8+ years experience teaching English
Prepare Thoroughly for the Individual Oral
“Practice your oral presentation skills by discussing your chosen texts with peers or teachers. Focus on clearly articulating how the texts address the global issue you've chosen to explore.”
Mohseena
IB DP Lang Lit Tutor
20+ years of experience teaching English
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