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IB English Guide | The Importance of Reading Prescribed Authors and Literature in IB English


An open IB English book on prescribed authors and literature.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) English program is designed to foster a love of reading and writing, and to develop critical thinking skills. To achieve this, the program includes a list of prescribed authors and literature from around the world that students are expected to study. The purpose of studying these works is to expose students to a range of cultures, writing styles, and perspectives.

As a student enrolled in an IB English course, it's important to take the time to thoroughly read and understand the books on the prescribed list. These books will form the basis of your studies and will be the subject of in-class discussions, essays, and exams.

To help you prepare, it's essential to take detailed notes on each book you read. Pay close attention to key moments, themes, motifs, and symbols. These are the elements that you will be expected to discuss on your in-class tests and on the IB papers.

Here are a few popular books that are often included on the prescribed list:

  1. "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee

  2. "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen

  3. "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald

  4. "1984" by George Orwell

  5. "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger

Each of these books offers a unique perspective on the world and will help you develop your critical thinking skills. By studying these works, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the human experience and be better equipped to analyze, interpret, and respond to texts.

In conclusion, reading the prescribed authors and literature is an essential component of the IB English program. It's important to approach each book with an open mind, actively engage with the text, and take detailed notes to help you prepare for in-class discussions, essays, and exams.

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