What Is the IB English Individual Oral (IO)?
The IO is an internal, assessed speaking task in IB English A (Language & Literature or Literature). It requires students to:
- Present a 10-minute structured analysis of two paired texts (excerpts from one literary and one non‑literary text or two literary texts at HL).
- Discuss a global issue that connects both texts.
- Respond to a 5-minute discussion with the examiner.
The IO evaluates understanding, analysis, communication skills, and critical engagement with global issues.
Preparation Before the Exam
Understanding the IO Criteria
Familiarize yourself with the IA rubrics: focus on analysis, organization, language, and global issue insight. Identify how each contributes to your overall mark and plan accordingly.
Choosing Your Extracts and Global Issue
Select excerpts that:
- Present rich language and clear relevance to your global issue.
- Offer contrast or resonance when paired.
- Allow exploration of techniques, themes, and wider contexts.
Framing a Precise Global Issue Question
Frame a focused question such as:
- "How does power shape identity in times of social unrest?"
This sharpens your analysis and aligns it with assessment expectations.
Linking Texts to Your Global Issue
Map out how each extract addresses your issue through:
- Themes
- Imagery or structure
- Cultural or contextual references
- Tone and perspective
Structuring Your IO Presentation
Introduction (Approx. 1 minute)
- Briefly contextualize both texts.
- Introduce your global issue and central thesis.
- State your analytical plan.
Part 1 — Extract One Analysis (Approx. 3 minutes)
- Use literary/language terminology.
- Show how techniques work and why they matter.
- Quote precisely and link to the global issue.
Part 2 — Extract Two Analysis (Approx. 3 minutes)
- Mirror your first extract’s structure.
- Highlight both parallels and contrasts.
Part 3 — Comparative & Wider Connections (Approx. 3 minutes)
- Discuss textual interplay—similarities, differences, perspectives.
- Connect to broader cultural, historical, or social contexts.
Delivering with Confidence
Practice Techniques and Timed Rehearsals
- Perform full runs to refine timing and structure.
- Adjust pace, transitions, and note usage.
Language Refinement, Connectives, Tone, and Fluency
- Use transition words (“moreover, conversely, therefore”).
- Aim for polished fluency, minimal filler words.
- Focus on intonation and clarity.
Handling Bullet Points
- Use no more than 10 bullet points during prep—during delivery, speak freely.
- Avoid reading; use notes to guide rather than script.
🆙 Tools to Enhance Your IO Preparation
RevisionDojo Support: Extract Banks & Sample IOs
Explore RevisionDojo for:
- High-quality extract libraries
- Annotated sample IO presentations
- Models showing structure, analysis, vocabulary flow, and polish
Peer Review, Feedback, Recording & Self‑Analysis Methods
- Practice in front of trusted peers or teachers
- Record and critically listen for pace, clarity, and argumentative strength
- Refine based on feedback and self‑reflection
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
- Over-description instead of analysis — always probe how and why.
- Vague global issues — make them concise and text‑based.
- Poor pacing — practice to hit milestones.
- Overloaded quotes — choose selective, effective lines.
- Limited global context — show international, cultural dimensions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use the same extract in multiple practice sessions?
Yes—practice builds confidence. Vary your global issues to investigate wider themes.
Q2: Is memorizing advisable?
No—memorization increases stress. Aim for adaptable fluency.
Q3: How important is cultural context?
Essential. It shows depth and global awareness within your chosen theme.
Q4: What if I go over time?
Conclude concisely. Transparency beats rushing.
Q5: How do I handle follow‑up questions?
Stay calm, engage fully, and anchor responses in your earlier analysis.
Final Thoughts: Elevating Your IO with Purpose & Precision
The IB English IO is your opportunity to shine through structured analysis, global insight, and confident presentation. With focused preparation, clear structure, vocal polish, and support from tools like RevisionDojo, you can deliver a compelling and high-scoring IO.
🎯 Ready to refine your IO skills and access top-tier examples?
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