Group 1: IB English Course Overview

Participation Options

Students may choose between two IB English pathways: a one-year Standard Level (SL) course or a two-year Higher Level (HL) sequence. HL offers a deeper literary focus and is recommended for full IB Diploma candidates.

Credit Summary

• SL: 1 year • 1 HS credit (weighted 5.0)
• HL: 2 years • 2 HS credits total (weighted 5.0 each year)

Students completing official IB exams may qualify for college credit or advanced standing depending on their scores and university policies.

Eligibility & Enrollment

Open to juniors and seniors who have completed English II or Honors English II. Enrollment requires strong reading and writing skills and a willingness to participate in independent analysis and discussion.

Who Should Participate

IB English is a great fit for students who enjoy reading widely, thinking deeply, and expressing ideas through writing or performance. It suits students interested in communication, media, journalism, law, education, or the arts.

Things to Note

IB assessments combine written analysis, oral commentaries, and creative tasks that showcase interpretation, synthesis, and presentation skills.

IB Assessments (At a Glance)

• Language & Literature HL: Combines literary and media analysis with both written and oral assessments. Includes an Individual Oral connecting a literary and non-literary text through a global issue, a formal HL Essay, and two external written exams analyzing unseen texts and comparing studied works.
• Literature & Performance SL: Blends textual analysis and performance. Students complete an Internal Performance Task adapting literature for the stage, an Individual Oral Commentary analyzing an extract, and External Written Exams focused on interpretation and comparison.

IB English Course Options

IB English Language & Literature HL — Year 1 (Code: 582) / Year 2 (Code: 583)

This course focuses on the study of language, culture, and literature. Students analyze a variety of texts—literary and non-literary—to develop critical thinking, communication, and an understanding of how language shapes meaning and identity.

IB English Literature & Performance SL — (Code: 584)

This interdisciplinary course combines literary study with elements of performance. Students analyze texts and adapt them for the stage, exploring how language and expression transform from page to performance while building creativity and interpretive skills.

Quick Links & Resources

• IBO Site: Studies in Language and Literature
• Benefits of IB
• International Baccalaureate (IB) Website
• AP, IB, CCP, CTAG in Dublin City Schools
• High School Scheduling Information