IB English Paper 2 - Details and Tips

Summary

In this informative video, Andrew and Dave, the IB English guys, delve into the intricacies of Paper 2, offering a comprehensive guide to mastering this comparative essay component of the IB English exam. They cover the basic requirements, express their affection for Paper 2 due to its focus on intertextuality and literature's power to deepen human understanding, and introduce 'The Fabulous Four' strategy for breaking down questions. They also provide actionable steps for success, including crafting a strong thesis and planning effectively. The video concludes with a detailed analysis of sample questions, highlighting the importance of understanding key terms and authorial choices to critically engage with texts and societal critiques.

Takeaways

• 📃 The IB English Paper 2 is a comparative essay requiring students to discuss two literary works in response to one of four general questions.
• 🗞️ Students have 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete the essay, with it accounting for 35% of the score for SL students and 25% for HL students.
• 📚 Texts used for the Higher Level Essay or Individual Oral cannot be used for Paper 2.
• 📖 A key aspect of Paper 2 is intertextuality, comparing and finding commonalities and differences between texts.
• 📝 Students have control over their success in Paper 2 by preparing and understanding their chosen texts thoroughly.
• 📱 Literature in Paper 2 is valued for its ability to deepen understanding of the human condition and foster empathy.
• 📌 The 'Fabulous Four' strategy includes answering the question directly, understanding themes and details, knowing the style and language, and comparing and contrasting the texts.
• 💬 Planning is crucial for a successful Paper 2 essay, including outlining the question, identifying keywords, crafting a comparative thesis, and planning body paragraphs.
• 📝 Authorial choices and literary craft are essential to discuss in response to the essay question, focusing on how these elements convey themes or criticisms.
• 👁️ A good response involves a systematic approach, including defining key terms, integrating thematic knowledge, and considering the significance of the texts in a broader context.

Q & A

What is the format and duration of Paper 2 in the IB English exam?

Paper 2 is a comparative essay that lasts 1 hour and 45 minutes for both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) students.

How many literary works must be compared in the IB English Paper 2?

Students must apply the given questions to two literary works.

Can texts used for the Higher Level Essay or Individual Oral be used again in Paper 2?

No, students cannot use texts in Paper 2 that they have already used for the Higher Level Essay or Individual Oral.

Why do the IB English Guys love Paper 2?

They love Paper 2 because it focuses on intertextuality, allows control over the texts being studied, and centers around literature which fosters a deeper understanding of the human condition and empathy.

What are the 'Fabulous Four' strategies mentioned for succeeding in Paper 2?

The Fabulous Four includes answering the question directly, understanding the themes and details of the works, knowing the style and language of the texts, and effectively comparing and contrasting the texts.

Why is planning important for writing Paper 2, according to the IB English Guys?

Planning is crucial as it helps organize thoughts, ensures a clear argument through a thesis statement, and outlines the body paragraphs, leading to a more focused and coherent essay.

How should students approach defining key terms in the essay question for Paper 2?

Students should interpret and define key terms in the introduction to show they've understood the question in relation to their chosen works.

What does the IB English Guys suggest about the use of comparative language in Paper 2?

They suggest integrating comparative thesis statements, topic sentences, and using comparative language throughout the essay to maintain a comparative perspective.

What emphasis do the IB English Guys place on authorial choices in Paper 2?

They stress the importance of focusing on authorial choices and craft as a key component of the analysis, especially in response to the essay question.

How do the IB English Guys suggest students interpret the 'significance' of elements in the literary works for Paper 2?

They suggest linking back to the thematic knowledge and considering what the works convey about the human condition or societal critiques, emphasizing the broader implications of the texts.