Mastering-IB-English-SL-Paper-2 (1).pptx

IB paper 2 Prep

1. Mastering IB English SL Paper 2 Welcome to your essential guide for the IB English SL Paper 2 exam. This literary comparative analysis counts for 35% of your final English assessment. You'll have just 90 minutes to analyze two works studied in class. Let's prepare you for success. by Carla McCarty

2. What is Paper 2? Exam Overview Paper 2 requires comparative analysis of two literary works. You'll demonstrate deep textual understanding without access to the books. The exam tests your ability to identify and analyze literary techniques across different texts. You'll need to write a coherent, well-structured essay that explores connections between the texts you've studied.

3. Why Paper 2 Matters University Preparation Develops transferable analytical skills Critical Thinking Shows ability to make meaningful connections Grade Impact Worth 35% of your final English assessment

4. Question Types & Structure General Focus Four questions covering literary genres, themes, and techniques. Common Topics Character development, setting, narrative perspective, and literary devices. Comparative Requirement All questions require analysis of two works. Universal Elements Questions address widely applicable literary concepts.

5. Effective Comparative Analysis Sample Exam Questions (May 2011 - May 2013) Sometimes narrators tell their story in a non-linear fashion. How and why do two literary works tell their stories in a non-linear fashion? (May 2011) Literature is often said to be timeless. To what extent is this true of two literary works? (Specimen 2011) Work together or stand on your own two feet. How do two literary works comment on collaboration or independence? (November 2013) How is belief or faith represented in two literary works? What, according to these works, is the significance of belief or faith? (May 2013) Practice Exam #2 Questions (May 2013 - May 2014) In what ways and for what reasons do two literary works appeal to their audience's eyes and ears? (May 2014) Works originally produced in a culture or in a language different from those of the reader can challenge the reader. With reference to two literary works, how do they challenge the reader to see the world in a new way? (May 2013) How do two works depict men and women struggling to resolve problems and not succeeding very well? (May 2013) How are notions of wealth and money represented in two literary works? (November 2013)

6. Effective Comparative Analysis Balance Both Texts Give equal attention to both works throughout your essay. Use Specific Evidence Include quotes and precise examples from both texts. Compare & Contrast Identify similarities and differences in techniques and themes. Connect to Question Link your analysis directly to the question throughout.

7. Planning Your Essay Time Management Dedicate 15 minutes to planning before writing Create Thesis Develop a clear thesis that addresses the question Identify Key Points Select 3-4 main comparative elements Organize Structure Choose block or alternating comparative approach

8. Writing a Strong Introduction Address the Question Begin by directly engaging with the specific question prompt. Show the examiner you understand what's being asked. Introduce Works Clearly identify both literary works with full titles and authors. This establishes the scope of your comparison. State Your Thesis Present a clear, focused thesis that outlines your comparative argument. This guides your entire essay. Preview Structure Briefly outline your approach to comparison. Keep the introduction concise, around 100 words total.

9. Structuring Your Comparative Essay Block Method Analyze one literary work thoroughly before addressing the second work. Provides in-depth analysis of each text Works well for complex literary elements Requires strong transitions between works First half: Work A's themes, techniques, characters Second half: Work B with explicit connections to A Point-by-Point Method Compare specific elements across both works in each paragraph. Creates direct, immediate comparisons Emphasizes similarities and differences clearly Easier for examiners to follow comparative analysis Each paragraph: specific theme/technique in both texts Maintains balanced analysis throughout Choosing Your Approach Select based on the specific question and your texts. Consider question focus (technique vs theme) Point-by-point often preferred by examiners Practice both methods before the exam Be consistent with your chosen structure

10. Developing Body Paragraphs Topic Sentence Begin each paragraph with a clear connection to your thesis. First Text Analysis Present specific evidence and analyze literary features from first work. Second Text Comparison Compare or contrast with similar elements from the second text. Link to Question Conclude by connecting analysis back to the exam question.

11. Common Pitfalls to Avoid Plot Summary Focus on analysis instead of retelling the story. Examiners want interpretation, not narration. Uneven Coverage Give equal attention to both texts. Avoid analyzing one work thoroughly while barely mentioning the other. Vague Claims Support all points with specific textual evidence. Avoid general statements without examples. Question Drift Stay focused on the specific question throughout. Don't drift into unrelated analysis.

12. Final Tips for Success 35% Grade Weight Paper 2's contribution to your final IB English score 90min Time Limit Complete your comparative analysis within this timeframe 2 Literary Works Number of texts you'll compare in your analysis