Mastering the IB English HL Individual Oral (IO)

Manoj Arachige -

What Is the IB English HL Individual Oral?

In the IO, students compare one literary text and one non-literary text. The goal is to examine how a global issue—such as social justice, environmental degradation, or identity—is represented in both works. The assessment will require you to develop a structured 10-minute presentation and a 5-minute Q&A session with your teacher. 

Key Components:

  • Text Selection: Choose one literary and one non-literary text.
  • Global Issue: Both texts must address the same global issue.
  • Presentation: Deliver a 10-minute oral comparing how the global issue is represented in both texts.

Preparing for the Presentation

1. Text Selection

The most critical step in your preparation is choosing two complementary texts: one literary and one non-literary. The literary text could be a novel, short story, or poem, while the non-literary could range from advertisements, speeches, and even news articles. These texts should both address the same global issue but from different perspectives.

For example, you could analyse a poem exploring gender inequality and compare it to a magazine article addressing the gender pay gap in modern society. By doing so, you’ll have rich material to compare both stylistic features and thematic concerns.

2. Identifying a Global Issue

Once you’ve selected your texts, your next step is to identify the global issue that they both discuss. Global issues are broad and can range from environmental concerns and social justice to political corruption or mental health. Your chosen issue must be central to both works, allowing you to discuss it in depth and from different angles.

For example, if your global issue is environmental degradation, you might compare a dystopian novel to a news article on rising pollution. The novel could depict a world ravaged by climate change, while the article uses statistics to highlight real-world consequences.

3. Structuring Your Presentation

The IO presentation must be clear, concise, and well-structured. Begin with a brief introduction, stating your thesis and outlining the global issue and the two texts you're analysing.

Then, move into the body of your presentation. Discuss each text separately, focusing on how each work approaches the global issue. Compare literary features like imagery, tone, and narrative structure in the literary text, while in the non-literary text, highlight how techniques like statistics, rhetorical appeals, or visuals engage with the global issue.

Finally, wrap up with a conclusion that succinctly summarizes the key similarities and differences between the two texts and reinforces your thesis. Be sure to leave time for the Q&A session that follows.

Delivery: Speak with Confidence

Effective delivery is critical to success. Speak clearly and confidently, using a conversational tone. Avoid reading from a script; instead, practice until you're comfortable with your material. A well-prepared student will demonstrate confidence, engaging their audience with both content and delivery.

Tips for a Strong Delivery:

  • Eye Contact: Connect with your audience.
  • Vocal Variety: Emphasize key points with tone variation.
  • Body Language: Avoid fidgeting and use gestures to enhance your message.
  • Time Management: Keep within the 10-minute limit, ensuring all your key points are covered without rushing.

Grading Criteria

Your IO is graded based on four main criteria:

1. Knowledge and Understanding - of the chosen texts and global issues.

2. Analysis and Evaluation - of how the global issue is explored in both works.

3. Focus - on the global issue and relevant comparisons between the texts.

4. Organization and Development - of ideas, reflecting clear structure and coherent arguments.

Examiners look for insightful analysis and the ability to connect the global issue to specific elements of each text. 

Example: A Comparative Analysis of Environmental Issues

Imagine you’ve chosen a dystopian novel about climate change and a news article addressing plastic pollution. Both texts explore environmental degradation, but their approaches differ. The novel might use a narrative to evoke emotional responses, while the article relies on facts and data to argue for policy changes. In your oral, you’d compare the emotional appeal in the novel to the logical, data-driven approach in the article, highlighting how each represents the global issue of environmental responsibility.

How to Approach Success 

To excel in the IO, follow these steps:

  1. Research your global issue thoroughly. This ensures you have enough material to draw insightful comparisons.
  2. Develop a strong thesis that ties the global issue to the texts you’re analysing.
  3. Use quotes and specific examples to support your points.
  4. Practice speaking confidently and fluently within the time limit.

Recording yourself or practising in front of peers or family can help you refine your delivery and ensure you're prepared for the Q&A section.

FAQs 

What are some good examples of global issues for my IB English Oral?

Common global issues include gender equality, climate change, racism, social justice, and globalization. Choose one that both your texts can explore in meaningful ways.

Can I read from notes during my IB English presentation?

While you can glance at your notes, avoid reading directly from them. Practising your presentation multiple times will help you feel more confident and natural when speaking.

How do I choose the best texts for my IB English Oral assessment?

Look for texts that offer contrasting yet complementary perspectives on your chosen global issue. Literary texts like novels or poems can offer depth, while non-literary texts such as articles or speeches can provide contemporary context.

Want more personalized study guidance to help drastically improve your marks? A private tutor can make the biggest difference!

Written by KIS Academics Tutor for WACE, Simran Vaishnav. Simran is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Medical Studies / Doctor of Medicine at Bond University and has received stellar reviews from her past KIS Academics students. You can view Simran's profile here and request her as a tutor.