Notes for English Lit Paper 2 Commentary - IB | RevisionDojo
English Lit Paper 2 Commentary Notes
The Commentary
Refer to 3.4.1 The Essay:
1. Theme: Control
Sample Question:How do two of the works you have studied portray the consequences of individuals resisting or losing control?
Texts: 1984 by George Orwell & A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams
This model answer scores 30/30 for IB English A: Literature Paper 2 because it excels across all four IB criteria:
Criterion A: Knowledge, Understanding, and Interpretation (10/10)
Thorough textual understanding: It demonstrates deep insight into 1984 and A Streetcar Named Desire, engaging with characters, themes, and narrative strategies.
Precise, accurate references: Detailed references like “2 + 2 = 5” and “I have always depended on the kindness of strangers” show strong textual control.
Complex interpretation: It moves beyond surface-level analysis, e.g., examining how control links to identity, ideology, and truth.
Tip
Keep tying your analysis back to the question.
Don’t just show you know the text, show you understand what it says about the prompt.
Instead of:
“Winston is tortured in Room 101.”
Say:
“Winston’s torture in Room 101 shows Orwell’s bleak view that resisting control ultimately leads to the destruction of self.”
Always relate examples to big ideas in the question (e.g. identity, morality, power).
Criterion B: Analysis and Evaluation (10/10)
Sustained analysis: Each paragraph thoroughly unpacks ideas and devices like symbolism (glass paperweight, paper lantern), narration, and irony.
Evaluative insight: The essay doesn't just describe effects, it evaluates authorial purpose (e.g., “Orwell’s devastating irony” or “Williams critiques...patriarchal systems”).
Balanced comparison: The essay compares how and why techniques are used, not just what happens. For example, it contrasts Orwell’s bleak dystopian realism with Williams’ poetic stagecraft.
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Questions
Recap questions
1 of 5
Question 1
Recap question
To ensure a coherent comparative flow throughout an essay on 1984 and A Streetcar Named Desire, which organizational strategy is most effective?
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