Registering for classes can be very confusing for some, especially when you have to decide between two similar classes. For current sophomores, one of the most troublesome decisions is whether to take IB Literature or IB Language and Literature. So, which should you take?

Sophomore Jasmin Surur chose IB Literature. “I really enjoy literature and reading and annotating novels” said the sophomore, who reportedly finds it much more enjoyable to glean deeper meanings from texts read in class. She was influenced to sign up for IB Literature through the content of her other English classes, saying that “reading all the different novels influenced my decision.”

In the end, Jasmin concluded that teachers “helped [her] understand the difference between Lit. and Lang. Lit.,” allowing her more freedom in her choice and sparing her some pressure in choosing.

While IB Literature is novel based, IB Language and Literature uses various sources such as news articles and nonfiction material to help shape students’ understanding of the world around them.

Sophomore Lisa Shoyhin spoke about how her older brother aided in her decision, saying “he learned more about writing, which is what I want to do.” She also registered because of the “broader aspect of literature” IB Language and Literature teaches, incorporating more cultural contextualization into the curriculum.

No matter which class you take, both IB Literature and IB Language and Literature will help prepare you for your future English classes, as well as improve your understanding of the world around you.