Making IB English A Manageable and Enjoyable
The International Baccalaureate (IB) English A course is renowned for its rigorous curriculum and challenging reading list. But what if we told you that there are accessible works of literature that can make your IB journey smoother? Let's explore some easy yet enriching works of literature suitable for IB English A that will help you excel without feeling overwhelmed.
Why Choose Easier Works?
Balanced Workload
Choosing more accessible literature can help balance the overall workload of the IB Diploma Programme. With subjects like math, science, and foreign languages demanding significant effort, selecting manageable texts for English can make a big difference.
Building Confidence
Starting with easier works can build your confidence in literary analysis and critical thinking. Once you feel more comfortable, you can gradually tackle more challenging texts.
Enjoyment and Engagement
Reading literature that is easier to understand can make the learning process more enjoyable and engaging. When you enjoy what you read, you’re more likely to participate actively in discussions and perform better in assessments.
Recommended Easy Works of Literature for IB English A
1. "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald
- Why It's Easy: Fitzgerald's prose is elegant yet straightforward, making it accessible for students. The novel's themes and symbols are clear and lend themselves well to analysis.
- Plot Summary: Set in the Jazz Age, this novel tells the story of the mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby and his obsession with the beautiful Daisy Buchanan.
- Key Themes: The American Dream, love and obsession, social class.
2. "Animal Farm" by George Orwell
- Why It's Easy: Orwell's novella is short and uses simple language. Its allegorical nature makes it an excellent introduction to political satire and symbolism.
- Plot Summary: This allegory about the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalinism is set on a farm where the animals overthrow their human owner and attempt to govern themselves.
- Key Themes: Power and corruption, equality and inequality, propaganda.
3. "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
- Why It's Easy: The narrative is clear, and the language is accessible. The novel deals with profound themes through the eyes of a child, making it relatable.
