In Part 4 - Literature: critical study we examine literary texts through a more form-focused lens. This is to say that close reading, textual analysis and critical literacy are at the heart of Part 4. There are several requirements to consider when engaging in texts throughout Part 4. 

 

Texts

When selecting texts, it is important to keep the nature of the corresponding assessment in mind. Since students will be speaking about a passage from one of their Part 4 works, there should be a significant quantity of stylistic and structural features in these works. Poetry tends to be popular in Part 4, as poems are often dense in their use of language. Literary texts in Part 4 do not have to have a common theme or genre, but they must all be taken from the Prescribed List of Authors (PLA)

Two literary texts, both from the PLA.

Three literary texts, all from the PLA.

 

Time

The following hours of tuition should be spent on Part 3 and preparation for its corresponding form of assessment

30 hours

50 hours

 

Assessment

In the individual oral commentary, students receive a 40-line passage from one of the Part 4 works. There are 20 minutes to prepare a 10-minute commentary on the text, after which a 5-minute discussion ensues. This form of Internal Assessment counts towards 15% of the final mark.

At SL students must also write at least one written task based on a literary work from either Parts 3 or 4. At HL students must write at least one written task based on a literary work from Part 3 and also one based on a work from Part 4.