Introduction – Why Quotes Matter in IB English Paper 2
In IB English Paper 2, your ability to interpret literature and support your analysis with well-chosen, well-integrated quotes is essential. Quotations are not just “proof”—they’re the anchor points for insightful commentary. Using quotes effectively shows that you can navigate the text with depth, accuracy, and literary awareness.
But many students fall into the trap of quoting too much, quoting poorly, or quoting without purpose. This guide breaks down pro strategies for selecting and embedding quotes that enhance your argument and impress IB examiners.
Choose Relevant and “Super” Quotes
The most effective quotes in IB English are those that serve multiple purposes:
- Reflect a central theme
- Showcase a literary technique (like irony, metaphor, or foreshadowing)
- Reveal character development
- Offer opportunities for deep analysis
These are often referred to as “super quotes” because they provide layered insight. Instead of quoting lengthy passages, focus on short, impactful phrases that you can analyze from multiple angles.
How to Choose:
- Align each quote with your guiding question or thesis
- Favor quotes that reflect universal themes (e.g., power, guilt, loss, betrayal)
- Build a quote bank organized by theme, technique, and character
Integrate Quotes Smoothly
Quotations should never be dropped into a paragraph like an afterthought. They should be seamlessly woven into your own sentences.
Effective Integration Techniques:
- Use signal phrases:
- “The author illustrates…”
- “This is evident when…”
- “As the narrator reflects…”
- Match the quote to the grammar of your sentence
- Avoid standalone sentences that just state the quote with no setup or follow-through
Example:
Poor integration:
“Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” This shows that power is bad.
Better integration:
Lord Acton’s famous observation that “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely” underscores Orwell’s portrayal of authoritarianism in 1984, where truth and freedom are systematically dismantled.
Use the Quotation Sandwich Method
A proven structure to ensure your quotes serve your argument well:
- Introduce: Set up the quote with context or a brief explanation
- Insert: Present the quote accurately
- Analyze: Unpack its meaning and how it supports your point
Example:
In Macbeth, Lady Macbeth urges her husband to mask his intentions by saying, “Look like the innocent flower, but be the serpent under’t.” This metaphor not only suggests deceit but also reflects the corrupting influence of unchecked ambition, a central theme in the play.
Balance Analysis with Quoting
Your goal is to write an essay that is 80% analysis and 20% evidence. That means:
- Don’t let the quote speak for you
- Follow every quote with detailed analysis of language, tone, or symbolism
- Connect the quote back to your argument or thesis
Tip:
Use the quote as a starting point, not the end of your point.
Quote Accurately and Attribute Properly
Accuracy shows attention to detail, a trait IB examiners value.
Dos:
- Use quotation marks, ellipses (…) for omissions, and brackets [ ] for clarifications
- Attribute the quote to the correct speaker, narrator, or character
- Paraphrase only when the wording is unclear or too long to quote directly
Don’ts:
- Never alter a quote’s meaning to suit your argument
- Don’t attribute quotes to the wrong character—it shows lack of understanding
Avoid Overusing or Underusing Quotes
More isn’t better. In fact, too many quotes can interrupt flow and reduce the strength of your analysis. Aim for:
- 2–3 quotes per paragraph, depending on essay length
- One strong quote per idea, analyzed deeply, is better than three weak ones
Focus on depth over quantity.
Real Student Example: Quote Integration in 1984 and Macbeth
Sample paragraph:
In 1984, Orwell critiques the manipulation of truth through language, most notably when Winston reflects, “Who controls the past controls the future: who controls the present controls the past.” The repetition reinforces the circular logic of authoritarian control, which is echoed in Macbeth, where the witches’ paradox—“Fair is foul, and foul is fair”—foreshadows the moral inversion of Macbeth’s actions. Both texts use paradoxical statements to depict regimes in which language conceals rather than reveals truth.
This paragraph uses quotes purposefully, analyzes language, and connects two texts around a guiding idea.
Tips for Building Your Personal Quote Bank
- Start early: Gather quotes while you read
- Organize by theme, character, technique, or act/chapter
- Use flashcards or a spreadsheet for easy review
- Include page numbers and context for each quote
- Practice writing paragraphs using your bank before exams
Common Pitfalls and How to Fix Them
- Quoting without analysis: Always follow with interpretation
- Using quotes as fillers: Every quote should earn its place
- Misquoting or paraphrasing incorrectly: Proofread and verify
- Forgetting the guiding question: Tie each quote back to your central argument
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How many quotes should I use in a 1200-word Paper 2 essay?
Around 10–12 well-analyzed quotes are sufficient, depending on your structure.
Q2: Can I use the same quote for multiple points?
Yes—especially if it’s a “super quote” that covers multiple ideas.
Q3: Do I need to cite page numbers in the IB exam?
No formal citations are required, but accuracy and correct attribution are essential.
Q4: What if I can’t remember the exact quote in the exam?
Paraphrase carefully and acknowledge that it is a paraphrase.
Q5: Is it okay to use very short quotes?
Yes—short quotes (1–5 words) are perfect for embedding within sentences.
Q6: How can I practice quote integration?
Try rewriting your notes into mini-paragraphs that combine thesis, quote, and commentary.
Conclusion – Quotes as Analytical Power Tools
Used effectively, quotations are more than evidence—they’re tools to deepen interpretation, demonstrate literary insight, and structure strong arguments. With careful selection, smooth integration, and clear analysis, your use of quotes in IB English Paper 2 can transform your essay from good to exceptional.
