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IB English A: Language & Literature: HL essay Line of inquiry, structure, criteria. 3 subtopics, 13 key terms.
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6.1 HL essay: format and criteria HL Key terms HL essay A 1200–1500-word formal essay on one literary work or non-literary body of work studied. Line of inquiry The specific question or focus the essay explores. Criterion A Knowledge, understanding and interpretation (5). Criterion B Analysis and evaluation (5). Criterion C Focus, organisation and development (5). Criterion D Language (5). Weighting : 20% of the HL grade, 20 marks, externally assessed. Written over the course, with teacher feedback on one draft.
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Exam tip: Write your line of inquiry as the title: it keeps every paragraph focused.
6.2 HL essay: choosing a line of inquiry HL Key terms Line of inquiry A focused, arguable question linked to a course concept. Arguable Reasonable people could disagree; it needs evidence, not just description. Scope Manageable for 1500 words. Start from a concept (identity, culture, creativity, communication, perspective, transformation, representation) and a technique you find interesting.
The full notes, worked example and check questions for this subtopic are in the app.
Exam tip: Narrow beats broad: a precise question lets you analyse in depth, which is where Criterion B marks are.
6.3 HL essay: structure, evidence and academic honesty HL Key terms Thesis statement The essay's central argument answering the line of inquiry. Development Each paragraph advances the argument, not repeating it. Citation Acknowledging quotations and sources (e.g. MLA). Secondary sources Critics or articles; optional, and must support, not replace, your analysis. Introduction: context, line of inquiry, thesis. Body: 3–5 analytical paragraphs building the argument. Conclusion: synthesis and significance.
The full notes, worked example and check questions for this subtopic are in the app.
Exam tip: Read your topic sentences in a row: they should form a logical argument on their own.
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