IB Spanish A Literature

The IB Diploma Programme Spanish A: Literature course can be studied at two levels: Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL). While both courses consist of the same four sections, there are quantitative and qualitative differences: :

• In the SL, you must focus your study on ten literary texts over the two-year program. Regarding literary genres, the SL must cover three.
• In the HL, you must focus on thirteen literary texts and cover four literary genres.

The program is made up of four sections, in which different places, periods, authors, literary texts and genres are studied. It should be noted that authors cannot be repeated in the same section of the program; however, the same text may be studied in two different sections.

The works must represent at least three distinct periods, which can be centuries and literary or historical movements. As for the locations, they must also be representative of three different geographies.

To summarize, you'll need language skills that allow you to express your ideas clearly and convincingly. You also need to develop and master a critical approach to literary texts, knowledge of literary conventions, which will facilitate their study, and, finally, the development of visual skills if you're studying graphic works and/or film.

Part 1: Obras traducidas

It studies literary works that have been translated. The titles must be chosen from the prescribed list of translated works (PLT). This part of the course encourages intercultural study, as the corresponding works were not originally conceived in Spanish. Since they are written in a different language, it is necessary to recognize elements from other cultures that enable their understanding and analysis. This assessment involves writing a reflection and a literary essay on a work studied in Part 1.

At SL, two works will be chosen for study, while at HL, the emphasis should be on the analysis of three.

Part 2: Estudio detallado

It explores works from different literary genres and different authors. It requires more in-depth reading and analysis, considering significant elements (technical and content related). All works must be chosen from the Prescribed List of Authors (PLA).

Each work must belong to a different literary genre and author. At HL, one of the genres must be poetry. It is assessed orally.

• At SL, there will be an individual oral commentary (recorded) and an individual oral presentation.
• At HL, however, there will be an individual oral commentary and discussion (recorded). Finally, at HL, there will also be an individual oral presentation.

As in Part 1, in Part 2, two literary works will be analyzed at SL, and three at HL.

Parte 3: Géneros literarios

It focuses on works belonging to the same literary genre; the objective is to conduct a comparative study of them. You will explore the most characteristic conventions of the selected literary genre. This part is assessed externally, as these works will be studied in Paper 2.

Two literary works will be analyzed in SL, and three in HL.

Part 4: Opciones

In this section, your teacher will freely select the works based on the students' specific interests or needs and the local curriculum. The works do not have to belong to any of the prescribed lists. The assessment is oral through individual oral presentations. At both SL and HL levels, this is done in the same way: in class and not recorded.

At both SL and HL levels, three literary works will be analyzed.

Spanish A: Literature is a subject you can choose to write your extended essay (monografía), a necessary component of obtaining the IB diploma.

• Master close reading: analyze literary devices, tone, and structure with precision.
• Know your texts deeply: understand historical, cultural, and philosophical contexts.
• Practice comparative essays: link themes and techniques across works.
• Refine your oral commentary: speak clearly, structure ideas, and support with evidence.
• Use sophisticated Spanish: varied vocabulary, accurate grammar, and formal register.

In Spanish A: Literature, you will immerse yourself in classic and contemporary Spanish-language texts. You will explore novels, plays, poetry and short stories, engaging with themes, contexts and authorial techniques.

You can expect to

• read and annotate works such as Borges, Cervantes or Morejón
• lead and participate in Socratic seminars to deepen textual understanding
• write comparative essays and literary commentaries under timed conditions
• deliver oral presentations analyzing literary devices and cultural contexts

As we move through the IB curriculum, you’ll prepare for both internal and external assessments. Here’s what comes next:

• Internal oral assessments that combine individual responses with interactive exchanges
• External written examinations featuring text analysis, essay writing and listening tasks
• Extended essay or comparative commentary for Literature and Language & Literature students
• Regular feedback sessions and targeted workshops to hone exam strategies

I’m here to support you every step of the way. Let’s make this course a journey of discovery, growth and genuine connection with the Spanish-speaking world.