Can We Use Non-Literary Texts for English IB Paper 2?
The short answer is: yes, but with careful consideration. The IB English Paper 2 (previously known as Language and Literature Paper 2) allows for a broad range of texts, and while literary texts are common, non-literary texts are absolutely acceptable. However, your choice needs to be strategic and well-justified.
This post will explore the nuances of using non-literary texts for your IB English Paper 2, providing guidance on selection, analysis, and maximizing your marks.
Understanding the Requirements of Paper 2
Before diving into the specifics of non-literary texts, let's revisit the core requirements of Paper 2. The exam assesses your ability to analyze how writers craft texts to achieve particular purposes and effects. This applies equally to literary and non-literary works. The examiners are looking for your critical engagement with the text's language, structure, and audience.
Suitable Non-Literary Texts for Paper 2
Many different non-literary texts can be effectively analyzed for Paper 2. Here are some examples:
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Speeches: Political speeches, motivational talks, or even TED Talks offer rich opportunities to analyze persuasive techniques, rhetorical devices, and the speaker's relationship with their audience. Consider analyzing the use of pathos, ethos, and logos.
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Articles and Essays: Journalistic articles, opinion pieces, and academic essays provide ample material to examine argumentation styles, biases, and the use of evidence. Focus on the author's purpose and the techniques used to achieve it.
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Websites and Blogs: While requiring careful selection, well-structured websites or blogs can be analyzed for their design, intended audience, and the persuasive techniques employed. Consider elements like imagery, font choices, and overall structure.
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Advertisements: Analyzing advertising campaigns allows for the exploration of persuasive language, imagery, and target audience manipulation. Focus on the techniques used to appeal to emotions and desires.
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Official Documents: Government reports, legal documents, or policy statements can be insightful texts to analyze for their clarity, persuasive strategies, and the assumptions they make.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Non-Literary Text
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Complexity: The text should be complex enough to sustain a detailed analysis. Avoid overly simplistic texts that lack depth.
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Purpose and Audience: Clearly identify the text's purpose and intended audience. How does the writer tailor their language and style to reach this audience?
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Analytical Potential: Choose a text that allows for a robust exploration of linguistic features, stylistic devices, and persuasive techniques.
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Availability: Ensure you have easy access to the complete text throughout your preparation and examination.
Analyzing Non-Literary Texts for Paper 2
Your analysis should focus on the following:
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Language: Examine the word choice, tone, and stylistic features. How do these contribute to the text's overall effect?
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Structure: Analyze how the text is organized and how this structure influences the reader's understanding.
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Audience: Identify the intended audience and consider how the writer adapts their language and style to reach them.
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Purpose: Determine the writer's primary purpose and how effectively they achieve it.
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Context: Consider the broader social, historical, or cultural context in which the text was created.
Conclusion: Strategic Selection is Key
Using a non-literary text for your IB English Paper 2 can be a strategic choice, showcasing your analytical skills and potentially offering a fresh perspective. However, careful selection and a meticulous approach to analysis are crucial. Remember, the focus is always on how the writer constructs the text to achieve their purpose—and that principle applies equally to all types of writing. Choose wisely, analyze deeply, and practice consistently to maximize your chances of success.
