IB English A Lang & Lit Higher Level Essay Key Definitions

The IB English Paper 2 task in which students write an essay comparing two literary works studied in class, responding to a general question and demonstrating knowledge of both texts.

A 1,200-1,500 word essay written by HL students on one of the literary works studied in class, exploring a specific line of inquiry chosen by the student and assessed externally.

A 15-minute internally assessed component in which a student delivers a 10-minute presentation analysing two works through a global issue, followed by 5 minutes of teacher questions.

When two contrasting elements are placed side by side to highlight their differences or create tension.

A paragraph structure used in analytical writing: Point (state the argument), Evidence (quote the text), Explanation (analyse the technique and its effect), Link (connect back to the thesis).

One sentence, usually at the end of your introduction, that captures the main argument of your essay.

Visual techniques are the deliberate design choices that shape how we experience a visual text.