The IO is a 15-minute spoken assessment where you get to dive into a global issue and show how it’s explored in two of your course texts.
And since it’s internally assessed, it’s one of the few parts of the IB where you steer the conversation.
Structure:
10 minutes: Your individual presentation.
5 minutes: Teacher-led questions based on your presentation.
What are the requirements?
Your presentation must be based on a global issue.
You must analyse two works studied in class.
For English Literature:
Two literary works
One of them must be a work in translation
Note
Important: You do not need to compare the texts directly.
Your goal is to explore how both texts present the same global issue through different methods.
What is a global issue?
Of broad significance to people across the world
Transnational, affecting multiple cultures or societies
Felt in everyday local contexts
Example
Power and oppression
Identity and marginalisation
Gender inequality
Human rights
Technology and surveillance
Tip
Phrase your global issue as a full sentence (e.g. "The psychological effects of patriarchal control") rather than a single word like "identity" or "freedom."
This forces clarity and focus.
Suggested Structure for the 10 Minute Presentation
1. Introduction (1 minute)
State your global issue clearly
Introduce both texts and their extracts
Briefly explain how the global issue appears in each text
Tip
Be specific but concise.
Practise saying this out loud under 1 minute.
2. Body Paragraphs (~8 minutes total)
Analyse each extract in detail (3–4 minutes per text)
Discuss:
How the author presents the global issue
Specific techniques used (e.g. structure, imagery, tone, symbolism)
How the extract links to the rest of the work
Tip
Use PEEL: Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link to global issue.
Don't just describe the issue. Focus on how it is communicated.
3. Conclusion (1 minute)
Reinforce how both texts offer insight into the global issue
End with a reflection on why the issue matters
The 5 Minute Question Section
After your presentation, your teacher will ask questions. These may focus on:
Other parts of the texts
Deeper analysis of your extracts
Clarification of your global issue
Alternative interpretations
Tip
Don’t panic. You are being assessed on your understanding, not memorisation.
Think aloud if you're unsure. Teachers value thoughtful engagement.
Exam technique
Choose a global issue that genuinely interests you
You’ll speak more passionately and analyse more deeply if you care about the topic.
Select extracts rich in technique and theme
Pick passages that offer multiple layers of meaning and stylistic complexity.
Practice your speech aloud: not just reading, but presenting
This helps with fluency, pacing, and natural delivery under time pressure.
Record yourself to assess timing, tone, and clarity
Listening back reveals where you can improve clarity and emphasis.
Know your extracts deeply, not just what happens, but how it is written
Focus on the writer’s choices and how they construct meaning.
Speak clearly and confidently. Avoid reading from a script
Aim for a conversational, assured tone that shows ownership of your ideas.
