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How to Interpret Poetry in IB English Exam

Updated: May 24, 2023

Interpreting poetry can be a challenging task, but it is an important aspect of the International Baccalaureate (IB) English exams. Understanding poetry requires a different set of skills than reading prose, and it’s essential to have a good understanding of the different elements of poetry to be successful on the exam. In this blog, we’ll cover some of the key elements to keep in mind when interpreting poetry for the IB English exams.


A teacher teaching a student how to interpret poetry in preparation for her IB English exam.

1. Imagery: This is one of the most important elements of poetry. It refers to the sensory details that are used to describe a scene or experience in a poem. To interpret poetry effectively, it’s essential to have a good understanding of the different types of imagery used in poetry and the emotions they evoke. Some of the most common types of imagery used in poetry include visual, auditory, olfactory, gustatory, and tactile imagery.


2. Point of View: what perspective the story is in is another important aspect of poetry interpretation. It refers to the perspective from which the poem is written and can impact the meaning of the poem, this includes first-person, second-person, and third-person perspectives. Understanding the point of view of a poem and thinking about why it is used can help you to better understand the emotions and experiences being conveyed in the poem.


3. Poetic Devices: These are literary techniques used in poetry to create a specific effect or emphasis. Some of the most common poetic devices include alliteration, metaphor, simile, personification, and rhyme. Understanding the different types of poetic devices used in a poem can help you to better understand the meaning of the poem and the emotions being conveyed.


4. Types of Poems: There are many different types of poems, each with its own unique form and structure. Some of the most common types of poems include sonnets, haikus, ballads, and free verse. Understanding the different types of poems can help you to better understand the structure and meaning of a poem.


5. Expert Analysis: One of the best ways to improve your skills at interpreting poetry is to study the work of experts and how they look at poems. Reading expert analyses of poems can give you a deeper understanding of the elements of poetry and the emotions being conveyed in the poem.


In conclusion, interpreting poetry for the IB English exams requires a different set of skills than reading prose. Understanding the key elements of poetry, such as imagery, point of view, poetic devices, and different types of poems, is essential to being successful on the exam. With practice and study, anyone can become an expert at interpreting poetry for the IB English exams.


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