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:
