IB DP Portuguese A

Language and Literature

Develop advanced proficiency in Portuguese through deep engagement with literary texts, critical analysis, and academic writing. Master the skills required for excellence in the IB Diploma Programme.

Course Overview

Portuguese A: Language and Literature is a rigorous IB Diploma Programme course designed for students with advanced proficiency in Portuguese. This course develops your ability to analyze texts critically, interpret literature within cultural and historical contexts, and communicate sophisticated ideas in Portuguese.

Through engagement with diverse literary and non-literary texts, you will develop deep understanding of how language creates meaning, how literature reflects cultural values, and how writers use language strategically to achieve their purposes. This course prepares you for university-level literary studies and advanced Portuguese language use.

Textual Analysis

Develop sophisticated skills in analyzing both literary and non-literary texts. Learn to identify linguistic features, rhetorical strategies, and stylistic choices that create meaning and effect.

Literary Interpretation

Explore how literature reflects cultural values, historical contexts, and human experience. Develop the ability to interpret texts within multiple frameworks and articulate nuanced literary arguments.

Argumentative Writing

Master academic essay writing and argumentative composition. Learn to construct compelling arguments supported by textual evidence and develop your voice as a critical thinker.

Oral Communication

Develop confidence and fluency in discussing literature and language in Portuguese. Master the skills needed for oral presentations and academic conversations.

Assessment Structure

1

Paper 1: Textual Analysis

Analyze unseen non-literary and literary texts. You will identify linguistic features, rhetorical strategies, and stylistic choices that create meaning. This assessment tests your ability to apply analytical skills to unfamiliar texts and articulate detailed interpretations.

2 hours 15 minutes | 35% of final grade
2

Paper 2: Literary Analysis

Write essays analyzing literary texts studied in your course. You will explore themes, literary techniques, cultural contexts, and the author's purpose. This assessment demonstrates your ability to construct sophisticated arguments about literature.

1 hour 45 minutes | 35% of final grade
3

Individual Oral Examination

Participate in a 15-minute oral examination where you discuss a literary text and a non-literary text. You will analyze how language creates meaning and discuss the texts' significance within their cultural and historical contexts.

15 minutes | 15% of final grade
4

Internal Assessment (Written Assignment)

Complete a written assignment analyzing a literary text of your choice. This allows you to explore texts that interest you deeply and demonstrate your ability to construct a sustained, well-argued analysis.

15% of final grade

What You'll Study

Literary Texts

Engage with a range of Portuguese and Lusophone literary works across different periods, genres, and styles. Analyze how authors use language to create meaning, develop themes, and reflect cultural values and historical contexts.

  • Poetry, drama, and prose from various periods
  • Works by canonical and contemporary authors
  • Texts reflecting diverse cultural perspectives

Non-Literary Texts

Analyze how language functions in non-literary contexts. Develop understanding of how writers use language strategically in speeches, articles, advertisements, and other forms of communication.

  • Journalistic and persuasive texts
  • Speeches and political discourse
  • Digital and multimodal texts

Language and Culture

Explore the relationship between language and culture. Understand how language reflects and shapes cultural values, identities, and perspectives across Portuguese-speaking communities.

  • Language variation and register
  • Cultural contexts of literary works
  • Global issues reflected in literature

Skills You'll Develop

Textual Analysis

Identify and analyze linguistic features, rhetorical strategies, and stylistic choices. Understand how writers create meaning through language and form.

Literary Interpretation

Develop sophisticated interpretations of texts. Explore themes, cultural contexts, and the author's purpose within historical and social frameworks.

Academic Writing

Master essay writing and argumentative composition. Construct well-supported arguments and develop your academic voice in Portuguese.

Oral Communication

Develop fluency and confidence in discussing literature and language. Master academic conversation and presentation skills in Portuguese.

Why Choose Portuguese A: Language and Literature?

Deep Language Mastery

Develop advanced proficiency in Portuguese through engagement with authentic literary and non-literary texts.

Cultural Understanding

Explore Portuguese and Lusophone cultures through literature and understand how language reflects cultural values.

University Preparation

Develop the analytical and writing skills needed for university-level literary studies and advanced language use.

Critical Thinking

Develop sophisticated critical thinking skills through analysis of diverse texts and perspectives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Excel in Portuguese A?

Schedule a consultation to discuss how Diploma Path can support your Portuguese A: Language and Literature studies and help you achieve excellence in the IB Diploma Programme.