IB English Independent Oral (IO) Survival Guide: Writing the Introduction
Crafting a strong introduction for your IB English Independent Oral (IO) is key to setting the tone and direction of your analysis. Let’s break down an example of what a top-mark IO introduction looks like and why it works so well.
Example IO Introduction
Through Shakespeare's Othello and Kehinde Wiley's portrait series Down, I will explore how power structures perpetuate racial prejudice across different historical contexts. While Shakespeare exposes how prejudice operates through subtle linguistic manipulation, Wiley directly challenges racist power structures by reimagining and reclaiming historical art forms. Both works reveal how racial prejudice persists through institutional power, though they differ significantly in their approach to resistance – Shakespeare's tragic exposure versus Wiley's deliberate empowerment.
Why This IO Introduction Works
It Clearly Defines the Global Issue
Global Issue Identified: The introduction highlights an abstract concept and a specific focus:
Abstract concept: power structures
Specific focus: racial prejudice
This combination demonstrates the relevance of the global issue across both texts and time periods.
Texts Are Clearly Identified
Both works are explicitly named: Shakespeare's Othello and Kehinde Wiley's Down.
There’s no unnecessary plot summary or context cluttering the introduction.
The reference to specific pieces (Othello and a particular portrait series) shows intentionality and focus.
Comparison Is Built Into the Introduction
The introduction draws a direct comparison between the two creators and their methods:
Shakespeare uses linguistic manipulation to expose prejudice.
Wiley uses visual art to challenge and reclaim power.
The contrast between their approaches to resistance is clear: tragic exposure versus deliberate empowerment.
Analytical Focus Is Clear
The introduction emphasizes how the works explore the issue, not just what the issue is about.
Techniques are named: linguistic manipulation (Shakespeare) and reimagining/reclaiming historical art forms (Wiley).
The purpose of each creator’s work is explained, showing the "why" behind their methods.
It’s Concise and Economical
Every word serves a purpose.
There’s no filler or unnecessary information.
The direction of the presentation is clear, giving the teacher and examiner a strong sense of where the IO is headed.
Tips for Crafting Your Own IO Introduction
To emulate this high-quality introduction, keep these pointers in mind:
Focus on a Strong Global Issue: Choose an issue that is both abstract and specific, showing its relevance across your texts.
Identify Your Texts Clearly: Name the works you’re discussing. Avoid plot summaries or vague descriptions.
Compare Creators and Methods: Show how the creators approach the global issue differently. Highlight techniques and draw contrasts.
Be Analytical, Not Descriptive: Focus on how the works tackle the issue and why those methods are effective.
Keep It Concise: Stick to the essentials. A clear and direct introduction is more impactful than one filled with filler.
Final Encouragement
Remember, the IO introduction is your chance to set the stage for a thoughtful and compelling discussion. By defining your focus, naming your texts, and introducing a comparative lens, you’ll showcase your analytical skills from the very beginning.
You’ve got this! It’s just about showing how different creators tackle similar issues in their own unique ways. 🎯
