Untranslated Literature

Course summary

English within the IB consists of the study of literary texts, i.e. poetry, prose, drama and non-fiction. It is taught by the discussion of these texts in class, and by writing essays and giving oral presentations on them. You will study a range of texts in different genres, some of them in translation. You will write a coursework essay on one of these texts. In the Upper Sixth, you will give an oral presentation on short extracts from two of these texts, one originally written in English, and one in translation, connecting them with a global issue such as, for example, gender, power or identity. You will also take an exam at the end of the course in which you have to respond to two unseen passages of poetry, drama or prose; you will practise the skills for this exam throughout the course. We offer a very wide range of extra-curricular activities. Lit Soc meets weekly for talks and discussions led by girls and teachers, while the Sixth Form Reading Group meets every half term to discuss a range of contemporary novels in an informal setting with coffee and cake. Debating Club is one of the most popular activities in the school, running a House competition within the school, and also training girls for several external competitions.