MYP 1 - Language & Literature
UNIT 1: Language and Communication
1.1 Purpose of Language
Language is a powerful tool used by humans to communicate ideas, thoughts, feelings, and information.
It shapes understanding and influences relationships, culture, and society.
To inform: Giving factual or educational content to increase knowledge or understanding.
Examples: news reports, textbooks, scientific journals, manuals.
Key features: clear structure, precise vocabulary, factual evidence, diagrams.
To entertain: Amusing, engaging, or emotionally moving the audience.
Examples: stories, novels, poems, plays, cartoons.
Key features: narrative techniques, descriptive language, humour, suspense, rhyme or rhythm.
To persuade: Convincing someone to think, feel, or act in a certain way.
Examples: speeches, advertisements, opinion articles, debates.
Key features: rhetorical questions, emotive language, repetition, statistics, call-to-action.
Always identify the main purpose before analysing a text, as this influences interpretation, style, and audience engagement.
Additional purposes:
To instruct: Step-by-step guides, recipes, manuals, showing how to do something.
To describe: Giving detailed accounts of settings, characters, or processes (common in narratives and reports).
To express feelings or opinions: Letters, diaries, blogs, poetry.
1.2 Types of Texts
Texts can be broadly divided into two main categories:
Literary texts: Creative texts intended to entertain, explore human experiences, or provoke thought.
Stories, novels, short stories, plays, poetry, fables, myths.
Features: plot, characters, setting, narrative voice, figurative language (simile, metaphor, personification), themes.
Non-literary texts: Informational or practical texts created to convey factual or functional information.
Examples: articles, reports, letters, posters, advertisements, emails, instructions, pamphlets.
Features: headings, subheadings, bullet points, factual tone, images or diagrams, statistics.
Other classifications:
Print texts: Books, newspapers, posters, magazines.Digital texts: Websites, blogs, emails, social media posts.Oral texts: Speeches, debates, conversations, storytelling.Multimodal texts: Combine two or more modes (visual, audio, written) like videos, infographics, animations.
Text features to analyse:
Structure: Introduction, body, conclusion.
Language: Formality, tone, sentence types, vocabulary.
Visuals: Diagrams, illustrations, charts, typography.
Purpose: Why was it created, and how does it achieve its goal?
1.3 Audience and Context
Understanding the audience and context is essential for interpreting a text effectively.
Audience: Who the text is intended for.
Age group, cultural background, interests, education level.
Influences language choice, tone, and complexity.
Context: The situation in which the text is created.
Time period, location, social, political, or cultural factors.
Impacts style, examples, and references used.
Tone and formality: Reflects the writer’s attitude and relationship with the audience.
Formal: academic, professional, objective.
Informal: conversational, personal, subjective.
Mode of communication: Written, oral, visual, digital, or multimodal.
Rhetorical devices and techniques to consider:
Repetition – emphasises key ideas.
Emotive language – appeals to feelings.
Statistics and facts – adds credibility.
Rhetorical questions – engages audience.
Imagery and descriptive language – paints vivid pictures.
Always ask: Who is the audience? Why was this created? What effect is the writer trying to achieve? These questions guide analysis and interpretation.
1.4 Communication Skills
Effective communication combines clarity, structure, and empathy.
Verbal communication: Speaking clearly, using appropriate vocabulary, tone, and volume.Non-verbal communication: Body language, gestures, facial expressions, eye contact, posture.Written communication: Organisation, clarity, grammar, punctuation, style, and coherence.Listening skills: Active listening, summarising, questioning, clarifying.Digital communication: Emails, chats, social media posts – clarity and etiquette are crucial.
Techniques for improvement:
Practice summarising texts in your own words.
Engage in discussions and debates.
Peer feedback and reflection.
Analyse model texts for structure and language use.
1.5 Barriers to Communication
Understanding barriers helps improve clarity and reduce misunderstandings.
Physical barriers – noise, distance, environmental distractions.
Psychological barriers – stress, emotions, assumptions, bias.
Language barriers – unfamiliar words, jargon, accents, or dialects.
Technological barriers – poor connectivity, misused platforms.
Cultural barriers – differences in norms, beliefs, and values.
Identifying barriers is essential before attempting to communicate effectively.
1.6 Evaluating Texts
Critical reading and analysis help determine purpose, effectiveness, and reliability.
Identify author and credibility.
Analyse structure, language, and tone.
Check for bias or opinion vs. fact.
Evaluate evidence: statistics, examples, anecdotes.
Consider audience response and impact.
Tips: Annotate, summarise key points, highlight examples and techniques, and ask why each element is used.
1.7 Modes of Communication
Written: Books, letters, articles, essays, reports.Oral: Speeches, presentations, debates, interviews.Visual: Posters, infographics, charts, videos.Multimodal: Combines two or more modes, e.g., video presentations with captions and graphics.
Choosing the appropriate mode depends on audience, purpose, context, and resources available.
UNIT 2: Reading and Text Analysis
2.1 Fiction
Fiction texts tell imagined or creative stories that explore characters, events, and ideas.
Plot: The sequence of events that make up the story.
Exposition: Introduces setting, characters, and context.
Rising action: Builds tension or conflict.
Climax: Turning point or most intense moment.
Falling action: Consequences of the climax.
Resolution/denouement: Conflict resolved, story concludes.
Setting: Where and when the story takes place.
Time: Historical period, season, or era.
Place: Physical locations and social environment.
Atmosphere/mood: Created through descriptive language and tone.
Characters: People, animals, or beings in the story.
Protagonist: Main character who drives the story.
Antagonist: Character or force opposing the protagonist.
Supporting characters: Add depth and context to the plot.
Characterisation methods: Direct description, dialogue, actions, thoughts, and how others perceive them.
Theme: Central idea, message, or moral of the story.
Common examples: Friendship, love, courage, injustice, perseverance.
How to identify: Look for recurring motifs, conflicts, or moral dilemmas.
Narrative Perspective:
First-person: Told from “I”, offers personal insight.
Third-person limited: Focused on one character’s perspective.
Third-person omniscient: Narrator knows all characters’ thoughts and feelings.
When analysing fiction, connect characters’ choices and events to the theme. Consider how setting and plot create tension or emotion.
2.2 Non-Fiction
Non-fiction texts provide factual or informative content and aim to explain, inform, or persuade the reader.
Main ideas: The essential points or messages the text communicates.Supporting details: Evidence, examples, explanations, or anecdotes that reinforce main ideas.Facts vs Opinions: Facts are verifiable statements; opinions are subjective beliefs or interpretations.Text features: Headings, subheadings, bullet points, images, charts, and captions to guide understanding.Author’s purpose: Why the text was written (to inform, persuade, or entertain).Bias and reliability: Check sources, evidence, and potential author perspective.
Annotate non-fiction texts by highlighting main ideas, circling supporting details, and writing questions in the margins.
2.3 Literary Devices
Literary devices enhance meaning, create mood, and engage the reader.
Simile: Comparison using “like” or “as” (e.g., “Her smile was like the sun”).Metaphor: Direct comparison without using “like” or “as” (e.g., “Time is a thief”).Personification: Giving human traits to objects or animals (e.g., “The wind whispered”).Imagery: Language appealing to senses: visual, auditory, tactile, gustatory, olfactory.Alliteration: Repetition of consonant sounds to create rhythm (e.g., “She sells seashells”).Onomatopoeia: Words that imitate sounds (e.g., “buzz”, “clang”).Symbolism: Objects, characters, or actions representing larger ideas.Irony: Contradiction between expectation and reality (verbal, situational, dramatic).Foreshadowing: Clues hinting at future events.
Identify literary devices and analyse their effect on the reader’s understanding, emotion, or interpretation of the theme.
2.4 Making Inferences
Inference is the skill of understanding information that is implied but not directly stated, by using clues from the text.
Look for context clues in descriptions, dialogue, or actions.
Analyse word choice and tone to understand implied meaning.
Consider the narrator’s perspective and biases.
Use background knowledge to interpret unstated ideas.
Support inferences with textual evidence, including quotes or page references.
Good inference is the bridge between literal comprehension and critical analysis. Always ask, “What does this really mean beyond the words?”
2.5 Evaluating Texts Critically
Analyse purpose: Why was it written? Who is it for?
Check credibility: Author, sources, and reliability of information.
Identify techniques: Literary devices, tone, structure, evidence use.
Assess effectiveness: Does it achieve its purpose? How does it affect the audience?
Consider context: Historical, social, cultural, and political factors that shape the text.
Annotating while reading is essential: underline key ideas, circle literary devices, and write short margin notes for clarity.
2.6 Comparing Texts
Identify similarities and differences in theme, style, tone, or purpose.
Analyse how different authors approach similar topics.
Compare narrative perspectives and characterisation.
Look at use of literary or rhetorical devices in each text.
Consider audience and context differences.
2.7 Developing Analytical Responses
Plan responses: identify main ideas, themes, and evidence.
Use textual evidence to support claims or interpretations.
Explain the effect of language and structure on meaning.
Link analysis to context, audience, and purpose.
Use clear paragraphs and logical sequencing for written responses.
Practise makes perfect: summarise, analyse, and write paragraphs daily to internalise skills.
UNIT 3: Writing Skills
3.1 Narrative Writing
Narrative writing tells a story, real or imagined, with a clear sequence of events and engaging characters.
Exposition: Introduces characters, setting, and context.
Who is involved? Describe key traits and relationships.
Where and when is the story set? Use vivid sensory details.
Hint at the main conflict to create interest.
Rising Action: Events that develop the story and build tension.
Introduce obstacles or challenges faced by characters.
Develop character motivations and relationships.
Use dialogue and action to show emotions and conflict.
Climax: The turning point or most intense moment.
The main conflict reaches its peak.
Decisions made here affect the outcome.
Often includes suspense, surprises, or dramatic tension.
Falling Action: Events following the climax leading toward resolution.
Consequences of the climax unfold.
Loose ends and secondary conflicts begin to resolve.
Characters reflect or react to the climax.
Resolution: The conclusion where conflicts are resolved.
Shows the final outcome for characters and setting.
Leaves a lasting impression or moral for the reader.
Can hint at future events if part of a series.
Tip: Use vivid verbs, show emotions through actions, and structure your story clearly. Always plan your plot with a storyboard or outline first.
3.2 Descriptive Writing
Descriptive writing focuses on creating vivid pictures in the reader’s mind using detailed sensory information.
Senses to include: Sight, sound, touch, taste, smell.Use figurative language: Similes, metaphors, personification to enhance imagery.Focus on details: Describe one moment, object, or character at a time for maximum effect.Organise logically: Spatial order, chronological order, or by importance.Tone and mood: Word choice influences how the reader feels.
Example: Instead of “The garden was nice,” write “Sunlight glittered on the dew-covered petals as the fragrance of jasmine filled the crisp morning air.”
3.3 Informative / Expository Writing
Informative writing explains ideas, concepts, or processes clearly and logically.
Purpose: To inform, educate, or explain using facts, data, or examples.Structure: Introduction (topic statement), Body (facts, evidence, examples), Conclusion (summary, reflection).Clarity and precision: Avoid vague language; use technical terms where appropriate.Evidence-based: Use facts, statistics, examples, or diagrams to support points.Transitions: Connect ideas logically (first, next, moreover, finally).Language style: Formal, neutral, and objective tone.
Tip: Bullet points, subheadings, and diagrams help make information easy to read and understand.
3.4 Persuasive / Argumentative Writing
Persuasive writing aims to convince the reader to accept a point of view or take action.
Purpose: Influence opinions or encourage specific actions.Structure: Introduction (state opinion), Body (arguments and evidence), Conclusion (reinforce viewpoint).Use of evidence: Facts, statistics, examples, expert opinions, anecdotes.Persuasive techniques:
Rhetorical questions
Repetition for emphasis
Emotive language
Contrast and comparison
Direct address to the reader
Counterarguments: Acknowledge opposing views and refute them with evidence.Tone and style: Confident, assertive, yet respectful.
Tip: Persuasive writing works best when you connect emotionally with the reader while providing logical evidence to back your claims.
UNIT 4: Language Use and Grammar
4.1 Parts of Speech
Words are classified according to their function in a sentence. Understanding them helps with clarity, variety, and accuracy in writing.
Nouns: Names of people, places, things, or ideas.
Common nouns: dog, city, school
Proper nouns: Rosa, Mumbai, Eiffel Tower
Abstract nouns: freedom, happiness
Pronouns: Replace nouns to avoid repetition. Examples: he, she, it, they, who.Verbs: Express actions or states.
Action verbs: run, write, think
Linking verbs: is, are, seem
Adjectives: Describe nouns or pronouns. Example: tall, beautiful, mysterious.Adverbs: Describe verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. Example: quickly, very, silently.Prepositions: Show relationships between nouns/pronouns and other words. Example: in, on, under, between.Conjunctions: Connect words, phrases, or clauses. Examples: and, but, although, because.Interjections: Express strong emotions. Examples: wow!, oh no!, hurray!
Tip: Identify parts of speech in sentences to improve grammar, sentence variety, and precision.
4.2 Sentence Structure
Sentences can be classified by their complexity. Using varied structures improves readability and style.
Simple sentences: One independent clause. Example: “The sun rises.”Compound sentences: Two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction. Example: “The sun rises, and the birds start singing.”Complex sentences: One independent clause and at least one dependent clause. Example: “Although the sun rises, it is still cold in the morning.”Compound-complex sentences: Combination of compound and complex sentences. Example: “Although it was raining, I went outside, and I met my friend.”
Tip: Use sentence variety to make writing more engaging and avoid monotony.
4.3 Tenses
Tenses show the time of an action. Correct tense usage ensures clarity and consistency in writing.
Present: Happening now or habitual actions. Examples: “I write daily.” / “She plays football.”Past: Happened before now. Examples: “I wrote yesterday.” / “They played football last week.”Future: Will happen later. Examples: “I will write tomorrow.” / “She will play football next week.”Perfect tenses: Show completed actions relative to another time. Examples:
Present perfect: “I have written the essay.”
Past perfect: “I had finished before the bell rang.”
Future perfect: “By tomorrow, I will have finished.”
Continuous / Progressive tenses: Emphasize ongoing actions. Examples: “I am writing.” / “She was playing football.” / “They will be traveling.”
Tip: Always maintain tense consistency within a paragraph or story to avoid confusing the reader.
4.4 Punctuation
Punctuation marks are essential for meaning, clarity, and flow in writing.
Period (.) Ends declarative sentences or statements.Comma (,) Separates items in a list, clauses, or introductory phrases.Exclamation mark (!) Shows strong emotion or emphasis.Question mark (?) Ends interrogative sentences.Colon (:) Introduces lists, explanations, or quotes.Semicolon (;) Joins closely related independent clauses.Quotation marks (“ ”) Indicate direct speech or quotations.Apostrophe (’) Shows possession or contractions. Example: “Rosa’s book”, “don’t”.Parentheses ( ) Add extra information or clarification.Hyphen (-) Joins compound words or splits words at line breaks.Dash (– or —) Emphasizes or adds a break in thought.
Tip: Proper punctuation prevents ambiguity. Always reread sentences to ensure punctuation matches intended meaning.
UNIT 5: Speaking and Listening
5.1 Oral Communication
Effective oral communication involves expressing ideas clearly and engagingly. Key aspects include clarity, tone, volume, pace, and body language.
Clarity: Pronounce words correctly; avoid mumbling.Volume: Speak loud enough to be heard but not too loud.Pace: Maintain a steady speed; slow down for emphasis or complex points.Pitch and Tone: Use variations to convey meaning and emotion.Body language: Gestures, facial expressions, and posture support your message.Eye contact: Engage your audience and convey confidence.
Types of Oral Communication:
Formal: Presentations, speeches, debates.Informal: Group discussions, peer conversations.Interpersonal: One-on-one conversations, interviews.Public speaking: Addressing a larger audience with confidence and structure.
Tip: Practice aloud and record yourself to improve clarity, pace, and confidence.
5.2 Listening Skills
Listening is as important as speaking. Active listening helps understand and respond effectively.
Attention: Focus fully on the speaker; avoid distractions.Understanding: Interpret words, tone, and context accurately.Retention: Remember key points and examples.Response: Ask questions, clarify doubts, or summarize points.
Types of Listening:
Active listening: Engaging with the speaker, nodding, and providing feedback.Critical listening: Evaluating information, forming judgments, identifying bias.Empathetic listening: Understanding emotions, showing support.Appreciative listening: Enjoying and valuing the style and expression of the speaker.
Tip: Take brief notes during listening to retain information and respond thoughtfully.
5.3 Dialogue and Discussion Skills
Participating in discussions and dialogues strengthens understanding, critical thinking, and communication skills.
Turn-taking: Wait for your turn and listen before responding.Clarifying: Ask questions when points are unclear.Agreeing and disagreeing politely: Use respectful language and reasoned arguments.Summarizing: Repeat key points to ensure understanding.
Tip: Use phrases like "I see your point, but..." or "To add to that..." to engage effectively.
5.4 Presentation Skills
Presenting ideas clearly requires organization, visuals, and audience engagement.
Structure: Introduction, main content, conclusion.Visual aids: Slides, charts, diagrams to support points.Practice: Rehearse to maintain confidence and timing.Engagement: Ask questions, encourage participation, or use examples.Feedback: Accept constructive feedback to improve future presentations.
Tip: Keep slides minimal and readable; focus on speaking naturally, not reading from the screen.
UNIT 6: Media and Digital Literacy
6.1 Media Texts
Media texts are created to inform, entertain, or persuade. They include both print and digital forms.
Advertisements: Promote products or ideas; often use persuasive language, slogans, and images.Posters: Visual texts combining images and words to convey a clear message quickly.Digital articles and blogs: Online content aimed at informing or entertaining readers.Videos and social media: Combine audio, visuals, and text for engagement.
Analyzing Media Texts:
Identify the purpose of the text.
Recognize target audience and appeal methods.
Examine language, tone, and style .
Analyze visual elements like color, layout, and images.
6.2 Purpose, Bias, and Visual Literacy
Understanding the purpose and potential bias in media helps interpret messages critically.
Purpose: Inform, persuade, entertain, or educate.Bias: Favoring one viewpoint over another; may be intentional or unintentional.Visual literacy: Ability to interpret images, symbols, and layout to understand meaning.Media techniques: Use of color, composition, font, and imagery to influence perception.
Tip: Always ask “Who created this? For whom? Why?” to detect bias and hidden messages.
6.3 Literary and Rhetorical Devices in Media
Media often uses literary devices to make content engaging, persuasive, or memorable.
Alliteration: Repeating initial sounds for emphasis (e.g., “Fresh, Fast, Fantastic!”).Hyperbole: Exaggeration to grab attention (e.g., “The best phone ever!”).Metaphor: Direct comparison to create impact (e.g., “Time is money”).Simile: Comparison using “like” or “as” (e.g., “As smooth as silk”).Personification: Giving human qualities to objects (e.g., “The car roared to life”).Repetition: Repeating words or phrases for effect (e.g., slogans).Rhetorical questions: Questions that provoke thought rather than require an answer.Emotive language: Words designed to evoke feelings (e.g., “heartbreaking,” “amazing”).Symbolism: Using symbols to represent ideas or themes.Irony: Saying the opposite of what is meant for effect.
Tip: Identify both visual and language devices when analysing media to understand how creators influence audiences.
6.4 Critical Analysis and Evaluation
To fully understand media texts, apply critical thinking to evaluate credibility, reliability, and effectiveness.
Check for accuracy of facts and sources.
Look for persuasive techniques and appeals (ethos, pathos, logos).
Consider multiple perspectives and missing information.
Evaluate whether the message is biased or objective .
Reflect on your own response and interpretation of the text.
Tip: Annotate as you read or view, highlighting devices, techniques, and key messages for discussion or essays.
iBStudyVault • Editor: Archisha Tipparaaju • MYP 1
