Group 1 - Language & Literature (A)

At DCSG we offer both English Literature or English Language and Literature alongside Mandarin Language and Literature at both HL and SL. The English courses follow on perfectly from the English Language EdExcel (I)GCSE and the World Literature Cambridge (I)GCSE - following similar skill sets. 

IB Diploma Courses in English (Differences between the two courses in red.)

1. Language and Literature

Key features of the curriculum and assessment models : -

  • Available at higher and standard levels
  • Higher level study requires a minimum of 240 class hours, while standard level study requires a minimum of 150 class hours
  • Students study 6 works at higher level and 4 works at standard level from a representative selection of genres, periods and places alongside an equivalent body of works
  • Students develop the techniques needed for the critical analysis of communication, becoming alert to interactions between text, audience and purpose
  • An understanding of how language, culture and context determine the construction of meaning is developed through the exploration of texts, some of which are studied in translation, from a variety of cultures, periods and genres addressing global issues
  • Students are assessed through a combination of formal examinations, written coursework and oral activities
  • The formal examination comprises two essay papers, one requiring the analysis of unseen literary and non-literary texts, and the other a response to a question based on the literary works studied
  • All students produce one oral activity presenting their analysis of works read
  • Students of HL produce one written piece of work for external assessment

2. Literature

Key features of the curriculum and assessment models

  • Available at higher and standard levels
  • Higher level study requires a minimum of 240 class hours, while standard level study requires a minimum of 150 class hours
  • Students study 13 works at higher level and 10 works at standard level from a representative selection of genres, periods and places
  • Students develop the ability to engage in close, detailed analysis of literary works, building understanding of the techniques involved in literary criticism addressing global issues
  • The study of literary works in context is emphasised, and through the study of literature in translation the student is challenged to reflect on the role of cultural assumptions in interpretation
  • Students are assessed through a combination of formal examinations, written coursework and oral activities
  • The formal examination comprises two essay papers, one requiring the analysis of a passage of unseen literary text, and the other a response to a question based on the works studied
  • All students perform one oral activity presenting their analysis of works read
  • Students of HL produce one written piece of work for external assessment

Guidance regarding choice of level

  • Students are required to receive an A or A* in their (I)GCSE or equivalent studies to do the Higher Level.
  • Students looking to study English as a Major/ Degree or a subject which requires excellent communication should look to choose Higher level, examples include - 
    • Law
    • Business / Marketing
    • History
    • Psychology
  • We would recommend for more traditional Universities when applying for English Literature, History or Law that students choose the English Literature HL pathway.

Subject Curriculum Briefs

Language and Literature SL / HL

Literature SL / HL