✅ Understanding IB Paper 2
IB English Paper 2 is a comparative literary essay based on one question chosen from a set. You must compare at least two works studied during the course—SL or HL.
Here’s what matters most:
- Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Format: Comparative essay on themes, characters, or literary techniques
👉 Check the official blueprint in Structuring Your IB English Paper 2 Essay(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)
🧠 Step 1: Planning Your Comparative Essay
Spend the first 5–10 minutes planning:
- Choose your works carefully—ideally with contrasting perspectives on the prompt.
- Define a focused thesis that responds directly to the question.
- Create a skeletal structure with balanced coverage for both texts.
👉 Learn how planning impacts your score in IB English Paper 2: Essential Guide for Success(revisiondojo.com)
🧩 Step 2: Introduction with Purpose
Your opening paragraph should:
- Provide context and identify your chosen texts
- Present a clear thesis statement outlining your comparative approach
- Set up how you'll explore similarities and differences
👉 Templates available in How to Score a 7 in IB English Paper 2(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)
🧷 Step 3: Body Paragraphs – Balanced Comparative Analysis
Use 4–6 well-structured paragraphs that:
- Begin with clear topic sentences
- Follow with detailed analysis of each text (theme, technique)
- Include linking sentences using comparative language (“Similarly…”, “In contrast…”)
👉 Sample guidance in Paper 2 Sample Responses & Essays(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)
🎓 Step 4: Literature Techniques & Terminology
To stand out:
- Deploy literary terms such as imagery, symbolism, tone, and narrative voice
- Connect form and content—discuss how techniques shape meaning and theme
👉 Tips from Effective Study Techniques for IB English A: Language and Literature(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)
📝 Step 5: Conclusions That Resonate
Your final paragraph should:
- Summarize your comparative points
- Restate the thesis with deeper insight
- Leaving a memorable reflection or broader implication
********• Avoid introducing new material; tie your discussion back to the question.
🌟 Top Tips for Excellence
- Use a comparative structure—avoid writing two separate essays
- Focus on a limited number of comparative points analyzed deeply
- Use transitions like “both…”, “whereas…”, “while…” for cohesion
👉 These strategies are explained in How to Score a 7 in IB English Paper 2(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)
🧾 Quick Reference Table
Element Purpose in Comparative Essay Plan First Organize arguments and quotations before writing Introduction Hook + context + precise thesis with exploratory direction Body Paragraphs Balanced analysis using topic sentences and comparative linking Literary Techniques Use terminology and analyze technique-function connections Conclusion Summarize, reinforce thesis, and deliver final evaluative insight
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How many texts should I compare?
You should compare at least two works from your course. More than two may dilute focus.
Q2: Should I alternate texts per paragraph?
Yes—for clarity and balance, discuss both texts within each comparative paragraph.
Q3: How do I avoid repetition?
Vary your phrasing and use comparative connectors to maintain flow and clarity.
Q4: How detailed should my quotes be?
Choose concise but effective quotations; then unpack their significance in depth.
Q5: Which paper is harder—Paper 1 or Paper 2?
It depends on your strengths: Paper 1 tests unseen analysis; Paper 2 demands deep knowledge and balanced comparison.(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)
Q6: Where can I practice more example essays?
Visit Paper 2 Sample Papers and Exemplar Responses(revisiondojo.com)
🎯 Conclusion & RevisionDojo Call to Action
Comparative mastery in IB English Paper 2 requires structure, balanced analysis, and deep engagement with your texts. Choosing compelling texts, crafting a clear thesis, and using precise comparative language will elevate your essays.
👉 Explore [RevisionDojo’s IB English Paper 2 resources]—including structure guides, sample essays, and practice templates—to build confidence and write like a top scorer.
