IB Language A: Lang & Lit

Turn “good ideas” into examiner-ready analysis.

Times Edu trains students to score with a repeatable system: close reading → line of argument → evidence selection → IB-style commentary → timed execution.

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Critical study of literary and non-literary texts.

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Exploration of concepts: Identity, Culture, Creativity, Communication.

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"The structured approach to Paper 1 completely changed how I analyze unseen texts."

— Sarah L., IB Score 7

Why students lose marks in Lang & Lit

Common pitfalls we fix in the first few sessions.

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Vague Thesis Statements

Writing general observations instead of a sharp, debatable argument.

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Paper 1 Time Management

Running out of time before concluding the analysis effectively.

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Weak Text Connections

Failing to make meaningful comparisons in Paper 2 or the IO.

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Descriptive vs. Analytical

Retelling the content rather than analyzing the author's choices.

Outcomes: What improves in 4–8–12 weeks

We don't just teach content; we build skills that translate directly to rubric points.

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Sharper Thesis

Craft precise, defensible arguments instantly.

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Evidence Discipline

Select and embed high-value quotes seamlessly.

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Paper 1 Speed

Finish full analysis within the strict time limit.

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Paper 2 Comparison

Master comparative structures and linking.

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Confident IO

Speak fluently for 10 minutes without reading.

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HL Essay Clarity

Develop a deep, scholarly line of inquiry.

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Free 30’ Diagnostic Session

Stop guessing where you're losing marks. In 30 minutes, we'll give you a personal score roadmap, breakdown by component, and identify your specific mark-loss habits.

No commitment required

SL vs HL — What changes?

The core difference lies in the number of texts studied and the addition of the HL Essay.

FeatureStandard Level (SL)Higher Level (HL)
Works Read4 Works6 Works
Paper 11 hr 15m (1 text)2 hr 15m (2 texts)
HL EssayNot required1200-1500 words

Assessment Overview

Paper 1: Guided Analysis

35%

Analysis of unseen non-literary passages.

Paper 2: Comparative

25-35%

Comparative essay on two literary works studied.

Individual Oral (IO)

20-30%

10-min oral connecting two texts to a Global Issue.

HL ONLY

HL Essay

20%

1200-1500 word coursework essay on one work.

Content Map: IB's 3 Areas of Exploration

We structure our lessons through these three critical lenses.

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Readers, Writers & Texts

Focus on the interaction between the author, the text, and the audience response.

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Time & Space

Understanding how context (historical, cultural, geographical) shapes meaning.

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Intertextuality

Connecting texts to other texts, traditions, and broader global issues.

Times Edu Strategy Playbook

COMPONENT A

Paper 1: “Unseen” Non-Literary Analysis

Don't just describe the text. Use our 5-step routine to deconstruct visuals, tone, and rhetorical devices instantly.

  • check 5-Minute Deconstruction Method
  • check "Big 5" Paragraph Frame
  • check Technical Vocabulary Bank
COMPONENT B

Paper 2: Comparative Essay

Comparison is the main driver of marks. We teach you how to weave two texts together using "comparative topic sentences".

  • check Comparison Thesis Generator
  • check Linking & Transition Words
  • check Evidence Selection Discipline
COMPONENT C

Individual Oral: Structure Wins

10 minutes can feel like an eternity without a map. Our 10-Minute Outline ensures you hit every rubric point without rambling.

  • check Global Issue Selection Guide
  • check Smart Extract Selection
  • check Bullet-Point Scripting
HL ONLY

HL Essay: Depth Over Breadth

The key to the HL Essay is a narrow, profound Line of Inquiry. We help you refine your topic before you write a single word.

  • check Line of Inquiry Workshop
  • check Academic Citation Standards
  • check 1200-Word Drafting Plan

How learning works at Times Edu

01

Diagnostic

We assess your current writing style and identify rubric gaps.

02

Strategy

Learn the specific structures (Paper 1, 2, IO) needed to score 7s.

03

Execution

Timed practice with rigorous feedback on every paragraph.

04

Refinement

Fine-tune vocabulary and sophisticated expression for the final exam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you cover both Literary and Non-Literary texts? expand_more
Yes. For Paper 1, we focus heavily on non-literary text types (ads, speeches, articles). For Paper 2 and IO, we help you analyze your specific school-chosen literary works.
Can you help with my specific IO Global Issue? expand_more
Absolutely. We help students refine broad topics into sharp, analyzable Global Issues that fit their selected texts perfectly.
What is the difference between SL and HL tutoring? expand_more
HL students receive additional dedicated modules for the HL Essay (coursework) and advanced comparative strategies for the longer Paper 1 exam.
Do you grade my practice essays? expand_more
Yes. Detailed feedback is our core offering. We mark against IB criteria (A, B, C, D) and give specific rewrite suggestions.

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