Ab Initio Coursework: What You Need to Know – Structure, Assessment & Tips

Ab Initio Coursework: What You Need to Know

The IB Language Ab Initio course is the perfect entry point for students who want to learn a new language from scratch. But what exactly does the coursework involve—and how can you succeed? In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know, with direct links to RevisionDojo’s expert resources designed to help Ab Initio learners thrive.

1. Who Should Take Ab Initio?

Ab Initio is specifically designed for complete beginners in a language—students who have little to no formal instruction. It’s offered only at Standard Level (SL) and is ideal for learners looking to build fundamental skills without tackling the complexities of Language B.

If you’re unsure which course suits you best, read Language B vs Ab Initio: Choosing the Right Path in IB Language Studies to help guide your decision.

2. Course Themes and Content Structure

Ab Initio focuses on five core IB themes:

• Identities
• Experiences
• Human Ingenuity
• Social Organization
• Sharing the Planet

Each theme is divided into subtopics that students explore through vocabulary, grammar, reading, and speaking. For a breakdown of how these themes are used in lessons and assessments, see What Is Ab Initio in the IB Program?

3. How the Coursework Is Assessed

The assessment structure includes both internal and external components:

• Internal Assessment (30%): A recorded individual oral based on a visual stimulus related to one of the course themes.
• External Assessment (70%):
  • Paper 1 (Writing): One short response and one extended writing task.
  • Paper 2 (Listening & Reading): Comprehension tasks using audio clips and written texts.

Want detailed examples of the oral task and stimulus types? Read Impromptu Speaking: The Overlooked Key to Individual Oral Success.

4. Tips to Excel in Ab Initio Coursework

Here’s how to stay ahead of the curve:

• Practice speaking daily using simple dialogues or oral prompt apps.
• Use theme-based vocab lists from RevisionDojo to stay aligned with course expectations.
• Work with native materials (songs, short videos) to boost listening and pronunciation skills.
• Follow the study plan from Essential Tips for Mastering Language B (Also Applies to Ab Initio) for hybrid speaking and writing practice.

5. Common Questions About Ab Initio

Can I switch from Language B to Ab Initio?
Only early in the program, and only if you truly have beginner-level skills. Check out Can You Take Ab Initio After Studying a Language for Several Years? for guidelines on course eligibility.

Is Ab Initio easier than Language B?
Yes. Ab Initio is lighter in workload, with simpler grammar, no literary texts, and shorter assessments.

Does it help with university admissions?
While not as academically rigorous as Language B HL, Ab Initio still demonstrates a commitment to bilingualism. Read Language B vs Ab Initio: Which Is Better for University Applications? for advice on what universities prefer.

Conclusion: Build a Strong Foundation with Ab Initio

The Ab Initio course is an accessible, well-structured pathway into language acquisition for IB students. With the right tools and strategies, it sets you up for academic success and global communication.

📘 Looking for vocabulary guides, sample writing tasks, or oral prompt packs?
Visit RevisionDojo.com to access targeted resources made for Ab Initio students—from IA practice to speaking fluency tools.