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 & Literature Paper 2) allows for a wide range of texts, and while literary texts are common, non-literary texts are definitely permissible. However, your choice needs to be strategic and well-justified.
This article will delve into the nuances of using non-literary texts for your IB English Paper 2, exploring the advantages, challenges, and crucial considerations for success.
Understanding the IB English Paper 2 Requirements
The core objective of Paper 2 is to demonstrate your analytical and critical thinking skills by examining how language creates meaning and effect in a chosen text. The assessment criteria emphasize your ability to:
- Analyze language: Identify and explain the effect of stylistic devices, tone, and diction.
- Interpret meaning: Understand and articulate the text's overall message and its nuances.
- Develop a reasoned argument: Construct a well-supported and coherent essay responding to the prompt.
- Use textual evidence: Support your claims with relevant and effectively integrated quotations.
While the examples often provided by the IB focus on literary works, the criteria don't explicitly exclude non-literary texts. The key is to choose a text that allows you to fulfill these assessment objectives effectively.
Suitable Non-Literary Texts for Paper 2
A wide array of non-literary texts could work, provided they offer sufficient complexity and scope for analysis. Consider these examples:
- Speeches: Political speeches, TED Talks, or commencement addresses offer rich opportunities for analyzing rhetorical devices, persuasive techniques, and the speaker's purpose. The language used to engage an audience, build credibility, or sway opinion can be extensively analyzed.
- Articles & Essays: Well-written journalistic articles, opinion pieces, or academic essays provide ample material for examining argumentative strategies, evidence presentation, and the author's stance. The use of evidence, logical fallacies, and appeals to emotion are all fertile grounds for analysis.
- Website Content: While less common, a carefully selected website (perhaps one with significant stylistic choices or a strong ideological stance) could provide material for analysis. However, ensure the content is substantial and complex enough to support a full essay.
- Official Documents: Legal documents, government reports, or company policy statements can be valuable if they exhibit sophisticated use of language to influence or persuade. Focus on the persuasive elements inherent in the way the information is presented.
Challenges of Using Non-Literary Texts
Using non-literary texts presents unique challenges:
- Finding Sufficient Depth: Some non-literary texts might lack the layers of meaning and stylistic complexity found in literature. Careful selection is crucial to ensure the text provides enough material for a substantial analysis.
- Identifying Literary Devices: While non-literary texts employ rhetorical devices, they might not utilize the same range or frequency as literary texts. You need to adapt your approach and focus on the specific language techniques present.
- Establishing Relevance: Clearly demonstrate the text's relevance to the chosen essay prompt. Explain how the language choices contribute to the overall meaning and effect within the specific context.
Strategies for Success
To successfully use a non-literary text, consider:
- Choose a complex and substantial text: Ensure the text provides ample opportunities for detailed analysis.
- Focus on linguistic features: Analyze the specific language choices, tone, style, and rhetorical techniques employed.
- Explain the context: Provide background information to help the examiner understand the text's purpose and intended audience.
- Connect to the prompt effectively: Clearly demonstrate how your analysis responds directly to the essay question.
In conclusion, while literary texts are a common and often effective choice for IB English Paper 2, non-literary texts are a viable option. Careful selection, thorough analysis, and a clear understanding of the assessment criteria are crucial for success. Remember, the focus should always remain on how language creates meaning and effect, regardless of the text type.
