Crush the IO in 5 Simple Steps

Photo by Jason Rosewell

The IB English A Independent Oral (IO) can be daunting, but our strategy helps you ace it. In this blog post, I'll explore global issues across extracts to show you how to develop a winning approach. 

Step 1: Choose a Familiar Text and Extract

For this exercise, let's use Arthur Miller's classic play, "The Crucible." The extract that stands out in my mind is the following dialogue between John Proctor and Reverend Hale:

HALE: This is a strange time, Mister. No man may longer doubt the powers of the dark are gathered in monstrous attack upon this village. There is too much evidence now to deny it. You will agree, sir?

Step 2: Identify Global Issues in the Extract

To identify the global issues present in this extract, I've used an AI tool to reveal the following global issues in the "The Crucible" extract:

• Abuse of power and authority

• Conflict between personal beliefs and societal norms

• The role of religion and its influence on society

• The consequences of intolerance and persecution

Step 3: Find a Similar Global Issue in a Second Text

For the second text, let's use George Orwell's dystopian novel, "1984." The extract that explores a similar global issue is the following:

"If you want a picture of the future, imagine a boot stamping on a human face—forever."

This extract touches on the global issue of oppression and totalitarian control, which is similar to the abuse of power and authority seen in the "The Crucible" extract.

Step 4: Craft a Global Issue Statement

Based on the two extracts, we can craft the following global issue statement:

The misuse of power by those in positions of influence can lead to the oppression and persecution of individuals and communities, with far-reaching consequences for society as a whole.

Step 5: Analyse the Extracts

Now, let's dive deeper into the analysis of each extract and how they inform the global issue. To provide a comprehensive analysis, one that demonstrates depth and understanding, I will address the following four elements:

Evidence → Devices → Authorial Intention → Link to the Global Issue

This level of analytical awareness is crucial for crafting a compelling and insightful IO performance.

"The Crucible" Extract

Example Talking Point

In this extract, we see Reverend Hale’s use of coercion to assert his dogmatic certainty and compel Proctor's compliance:

Evidence → "This is a strange time, Mister. No man may longer doubt the powers of the dark are gathered in monstrous attack upon this village. There is too much evidence now to deny it. You will agree, sir?" Device(s) → Reverend Hale's rhetorical questions and declarative statements exemplify the literary device of coercion, as he asserts his authority to compel Proctor's compliance with religious doctrine. Authorial Intention → Through this exchange, Miller highlights the religious leaders' abuse of power in Salem, as Hale's dogmatic certainty and dismissive tone towards dissent demonstrate the authorities' suppression of individualism. Link to the Global Issue → This abuse of clerical power to enforce conformity and crush dissent is a troubling reflection of how those in positions of authority can exploit their influence to the detriment of the community. 

"1984" Extract

Example Talking Point

In this extract, Orwell presents a chilling vision of a totalitarian future where the government exerts complete control over the lives of its citizens.

Evidence → "If you want a picture of the future, imagine a boot stamping on a human face—forever." Device(s) → The vivid imagery of a "boot stamping on a human face" is a metaphorical representation of the totalitarian oppression and the relentless abuse of power. Authorial Intention → Orwell's intention is to paint a dystopian vision of the future, where individual freedom and human dignity are completely crushed under the boot of an oppressive government. Link to the Global Issue → This stark imagery resonates with the global issue of authoritarian overreach, underscoring how the erosion of basic rights can lead to the complete subjugation of the populace under the boot of tyranny.

As you prepare for your own IO, remember that the key is to focus on how the works inform the global issue—demonstrate your ability to draw insightful connections between the works and their wider global implications. Taking this approach puts you well on your way to delivering a winning performance that will impress the teacher and leave a lasting impression.

If you need additional support in developing your analytical skills or preparing for the IB English A IO, reach out to Lead Academics, where you’ll find personalised guidance and resources to help you succeed.