How to Get a 7 in IB English A: Proven Strategies for Top Marks

Aiming for a Level 7 in IB English A, whether in Literature or Language and Literature, requires strong reading, writing, and analysis skills. This guide shares practical and proven strategies top IB scorers and examiners use to help you succeed in every part of the course, with clear advice tailored to both subject options and tips that apply across the board.

Introduction

Getting a Level 7 in IB English A shows you can think critically, write effectively, and analyse texts deeply. Whether studying Literature or Language and Literature, the standard is high and the rewards are worth the effort.

Both subjects fall under IB Group 1 and share some common assessment skills, although each has unique components. This guide includes strategies that apply to both courses and specific tips tailored to help you succeed in each one.

Understanding the IB English A Courses and Assessment Structure

Knowing the structure of each course helps you study more efficiently and perform better in the exams. Understanding what each assessment involves means you can prepare with purpose, manage your time wisely, and focus on the right skills.

English A: Literature

This course is entirely focused on literary texts. You will explore novels, plays, poetry, and short stories from various cultures and time periods. The goal is to understand how writers use language, structure, and style to convey meaning.

Assessment includes:

• Paper 1: A literary commentary on an unseen prose or poem.
• Paper 2: A comparative essay analysing two studied texts in response to a question.
• HL Essay (HL only): A 1200–1500 word literary analysis on one text of your choice, guided by a line of inquiry.
• Individual Oral (IO): A spoken analysis comparing a studied literary text with a non-literary body of work through a global issue.

English A: Language and Literature

This course includes literary and non-literary texts such as newspaper articles, political speeches, advertisements, and social media posts. It teaches you to examine how language is used to inform, persuade, and create meaning in various contexts.

Assessment encompasses:

• Paper 1: A comparative textual analysis of two unseen non-literary texts.
• Paper 2: A comparative essay on two literary works studied during the course.
• HL Essay (HL only): A written analytical essay on either a literary or non-literary text, based on a chosen line of inquiry.
• Individual Oral (IO): A spoken presentation comparing a literary and a non-literary work, focusing on how they each present a global issue.

Common Assessment Criteria Across Both Courses

No matter your course, IB English assessments follow the same core criteria. Knowing these helps you match your writing to what examiners expect.

• Knowledge and understanding of the texts and their context
• Analysis of language and stylistic features, including their effects
• Organisation and development of ideas and arguments
• Language use, including accuracy, appropriate register, and academic style

Strong performance in each of these areas is key to achieving a 7 in IB English A.

General Strategies for Achieving a 7 in IB English A

Here are four essential strategies that apply to both IB English A: Literature and Language and Literature. 

Master the Criteria

To score top marks, understand what examiners expect. Focus on mark schemes and key command terms like analyse, evaluate, and compare. Here’s what you can do:

• Break down examiner reports and mark schemes to see what top answers do well
• Highlight key phrases that show strong understanding and analysis
• Apply those phrases and expectations to your own essays
• Ask teachers or tutors for detailed feedback based on IB assessment criteria

This approach helps you write with purpose and meet the standards examiners are trained to look for.

Develop Analytical Thinking

IB English is about understanding how language creates meaning and influences the reader, not just retelling the story. To do well, you need to show clear and thoughtful analysis. Look for techniques like diction, symbolism, and irony. Notice patterns and contrasts, and ask why the writer made those choices. Making these connections in your writing is what examiners are looking for.

Refine Writing Skills

Writing clearly and persuasively is essential. A high-scoring essay is well-organised, evidence-based, and easy to follow. To sharpen your writing:

• Follow the PEEL structure in your paragraphs: Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link
• Embed quotations smoothly to support your argument
• Make sure your thesis is focused and consistent throughout the essay

Simple, confident writing scores better than essays filled with overly technical or showy language.

Practice Time Management

Effective time management is often the difference between finishing strong and running out of steam. Many students know what to write but struggle to finish on time during exams. 

To manage your time well in IB English exams:

• Spend 10 minutes planning your response before you begin writing
• Use the next 60 to 70 minutes drafting your essay, keeping each paragraph focused
• Leave 10 to 15 minutes at the end to check structure, grammar, and clarity

By mastering the criteria, thinking analytically, writing with clarity, and managing your time well, you’ll build the core skills needed to achieve a 7 in IB English A.

Detailed Strategies for IB English A: Literature

Now let’s look at specific strategies for IB English A: Literature students. 

Mastering Paper 1: Unseen Literary Commentary

In Paper 1, you’ll be given an unseen prose or poem and asked to write a detailed literary commentary. Here are some IB English Paper 1 tips:

• Read the text twice before writing to absorb the content and tone
• Identify key literary techniques such as imagery, tone, structure, and symbolism
• Organise your response clearly around themes or techniques rather than narrating the plot
• Always connect techniques to their effect on the reader and the text’s overall meaning

Strong responses are not just insightful but also clearly structured. Practise is essential, so aim to complete timed practice commentaries regularly.

Approaching Paper 2: Comparative Literary Essay

Paper 2 is a comparative essay based on two texts you’ve studied. You’ll choose one of the given questions and build an argument using both works as evidence.

For IB English Paper 2 guide:

• Be confident in your knowledge of themes, characters, and authorial style in both texts
• Prepare in advance by creating comparative notes on key topics
• Use appropriate comparative language such as “while,” “similarly,” or “in contrast”
• Make sure your essay is balanced, giving each text equal attention and depth

Practising different types of questions and essay outlines helps you become flexible and confident during the exam.

Writing the HL Essay (Higher Level Essay)

The HL Essay allows Higher Level students to explore one literary work in detail through a focused line of inquiry. Choosing a topic you are genuinely interested in makes the process easier and more meaningful.

Plan your thesis carefully, support your ideas with strong analysis and evidence, and give yourself time to revise. It is a shorter, more focused version of the extended essay and a chance to demonstrate depth, clarity, and originality.

Acing the Individual Oral (IO)

The IO is a spoken presentation where you compare one literary text and one non-literary body of work through the lens of a global issue. This task accounts for a significant portion of your final grade.

IB English IO preparation tips:

• Choose a global issue that is clearly reflected in both texts
• Structure your presentation clearly: introduction, analysis of each text, conclusion
• Practise presenting out loud and keep track of your timing
• Focus on delivering a calm, confident performance supported by clear analysis

Being well-prepared and organised will help reduce nerves and ensure you present your ideas effectively. Practice with feedback can boost both clarity and confidence.

Detailed Strategies for IB English A: Language and Literature

Students in Lang & Lit need to handle both literary and non-literary texts. These strategies are tailored for that mix.

Mastering Paper 1: Textual Analysis (Unseen Texts)

In Paper 1, you will analyse two unseen non-literary texts. The goal is to explore how each text communicates its message. Here’s how to approach it:

• Identify the type of text, such as a speech, advertisement, or editorial
• Focus on tone, purpose, audience, and key stylistic features
• Compare how both texts present ideas or messages
• Use accurate terminology to describe structure, language, and visuals

Clarity and insight matter more than simply listing techniques. Show how the features contribute to meaning and impact.

Approaching Paper 2: Comparative Essay (Literary Works)

Lang and Lit students also write a comparative essay on two studied literary texts. The task is similar to the Literature course, focusing on context and communication. To strengthen your response:

• Connect your analysis to the context in which each text was produced or received
• Explore how language shapes meaning in each work
• Pay attention to both content and delivery, what is said and how it is said

Good preparation includes comparing texts in advance across themes, characters, and style.

Writing the HL Essay (Higher Level Essay)

Lang and Lit HL students write a 1200 to 1500-word analytical essay based on a literary or non-literary text. Choose a text with enough depth, create a clear guiding question, and structure your essay around a strong line of inquiry. Use formal language, support your ideas with detailed analysis, and aim to show thoughtful engagement with the text.

Acing the Individual Oral (IO)

For the IB Individual Oral (IO), you must analyse one literary and one non-literary text through the lens of a global issue. It is important to stay focused and structured.

Key tips for success:

• Keep your analysis closely tied to the chosen global issue
• Highlight how techniques in both texts contribute to broader meaning
• Use clear, concise notes to guide your delivery and not a full script
• Practise out loud, time yourself, and ask for feedback

By applying targeted strategies to each assessment, Language and Literature students can confidently analyse texts, communicate ideas clearly, and work towards achieving a 7.

Conclusion: Your Roadmap to a Level 7 in IB English A

Finishing IB English with a Level 7 is absolutely possible. It takes practice, smart preparation, and the right strategies.

Final Motivational Tips

Here are a few final reminders to remember as you work toward a 7 in IB English A. Start early rather than waiting for mock exams. Giving yourself time makes a big difference. Stay active in your learning by annotating texts, writing regularly, and reviewing your notes. Most importantly, be reflective. Take feedback seriously, look for patterns in your mistakes, and adjust your approach. Improvement comes from small, consistent changes that build real confidence over time.

Consistency and Practice as the Keys to Success

Your study routine doesn’t have to be intense, but it should be steady and consistent. Use weekends for essay writing and weekdays for reading, analysis, and reviewing feedback. Rotate between Paper 1, Paper 2, the IO, and the HL Essay, and make time to practise under exam conditions to improve pacing and reduce stress.

Expert Help To Get 7 in IB English A

Sometimes the quickest way to improve is to get guidance from someone who truly understands the IB syllabus. At TutorsPlus, our IB English tutors are experienced teachers and examiners who can help you refine your essay writing, prepare for your oral, understand what examiners expect, and plan a strong HL Essay.

These happy IB students received exceptional assistance from our tutors:

“Shamiela has tutored me over the course of the 2 year IB program and helped specifically with my IO, HL Essay, and Paper 2.”

“Ben was great, for the first time in English language and literature I felt like I was heard and he gave me the faith that I needed in myself to go and pull off a high grade in English.”

With consistent effort and a clear approach to each assessment, you’ll give yourself the best chance of scoring a 7. Use these strategies regularly, stay focused on your goals, and keep believing in your progress. If you’re looking for an IB English tutor, contact us at and 022 731 8148.