INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE

The English A: Literature course involves the study of literature from a variety of cultural backgrounds over a broad period of time. Texts are selected from a range of genre and, through an emphasis on cultural awareness, students gain an appreciation of people and issues outside of their immediate experience. The English A: Literature course requires students to dedicate time to reading literature and responding to it verbally and in writing. I will help you develop the skills of analysis to enable you to show your appreciation of previously unseen texts as well as your knowledge and understanding of texts studied in class.

There will be an emphasis on discussion and verbal commentaries in order to equip you for assessment in formal oral situations.

Higher Level students study 13 texts. Standard Level students study 10 texts. Works include texts in translation, such as novels and plays. Poetry, autobiography and short stories including New Zealand texts are also included in the course.

The English A: Language and Literature course involves the study of language in cultural context, language and mass communication, and literature from a variety of cultural backgrounds over a broad period of time. I will help you develop the ability to engage in close detailed analysis of individual texts and make relevant connections with them and between them; develop your power of expression both in oral and written  communication; encourage you to appreciate the formal, stylistic and aesthetic qualities of the texts and think critically about the different interactions between text, audience and purpose.

Higher Level students study 6 texts and two language units. Standard Level students study 4 texts and two language units. Works include texts in translation such as novels and plays. New Zealand texts are also included in the course. The language units are: language in cultural context and language and mass communication.