Here’s the complete list of text types that can appear in IBDP English A Paper 1, combining non-literary and literary texts:

Non-Literary Texts

  1. Advertisements
  2. Articles
  3. Brochures or Leaflets
  4. Blog Posts
  5. Charity Appeals
  6. Comic Strips
  7. Editorials or Opinion Columns
  8. Essays
  9. Infographics
  10. Interviews
  11. Letters
  12. Memoirs
  13. Extracts from Autobiographies
  14. Manifestos
  15. News Stories
  16. Social Media Texts
  17. Reviews
  18. Reports
  19. Speeches
  20. Websites or Webpages

Literary Texts

  1. Extracts from Novels
  2. Extracts from Short Stories
  3. Poetry (modern or classical)
  4. Extracts from Plays or Drama
  5. Extracts from Memoirs or Literary Autobiographies
  6. Literary Essays (analytical or reflective pieces with artistic merit)
  7. Prose Poems (a blend of prose and poetic qualities)
  8. Excerpts from Epistolary Fiction (letters as part of a fictional narrative)

Marks

Summary Table

Feature HL SL
Number of texts 2 1
Time limit 2h 15m 1h 15m
Total marks 40 20
Writing style Two separate analyses One full analysis
Depth of analysis Higher, with some comparison Focused on one text

Melons Structure

“MELONS” Explanation Paper 1 Criteria
M for “Marking.”
Mark or note down the basic information about the text type.
✅ Identify text type (poem, article, speech, ad, etc.).
✅ Summarize the central meaning and themes.
✅ Explain the purpose (persuade, inform, entertain, critique, etc.).
✅ Establish the tone and mood.
✅ Start with a thesis statement outlining your main argument.
Criterion A: Understanding & Interpretation
✔ Clearly identifies themes, purpose, and meaning.
✔ Shows a strong grasp of the text’s message.
E for “Elements & Evidence.”
It is now time for identifying the various elements that make the text-type.
✅ Identify literary, rhetorical, or visual elements used in the text.
✅ Provide specific evidence (quotes, images, word choices).
✅ Explain how these elements develop meaning, tone, and reader impact.
✅ Link back to the writer’s purpose.
Criterion B: Analysis & Evaluation
✔ Insightful analysis of techniques and effects.
✔ Strong evidence and clear explanations.
L for “Language.” ✅ Analyze diction (formal, informal, poetic, persuasive).
✅ Examine figurative language (imagery, metaphors, alliteration, irony).
✅ Discuss tone shifts and their impact on interpretation.
✅ Consider how language engages the reader.
Criterion B: Analysis & Evaluation
✔ Strong focus on language and style choices.
✔ Shows how language shapes meaning and emotions.
O for “Organization.” ✅ Analyze structure and flow (linear, cyclical, fragmented, contrast).
✅ Discuss sentence length & pacing (short = tension, long = reflection).
✅ Identify progression of ideas (cause-effect, chronological, logical argument).
✅ Consider any shifts in focus or tone.
Criterion B: Analysis & Evaluation
✔ Examines text structure and progression.
✔ Evaluates how structure reinforces meaning.
N for “Nuances & Negatives.”
Start analyzing the unseen areas of the text-type along with some of the limitations and biases.
✅ Explore multiple interpretations—how might different audiences react?
✅ Consider historical, cultural, or personal context affecting meaning.
✅ Discuss subtleties in word choices, connotations, and symbolism.
✅ Compare with other texts if relevant.
Criterion B: Analysis & Evaluation
✔ Goes beyond surface meaning to explore depth and complexity.
✔ Recognizes alternative perspectives.
S – Sum Up (Conclusion) ✅ Reinforce the key insights from your analysis.
✅ Link back to the writer’s overall purpose and impact.
✅ Offer a final thought—why is this text significant?
Criterion C: Focus & Organization
✔ Effectively wraps up ideas without repeating.
✔ Leaves the reader with a strong final impression.

NB: The Criterion C and D are part of all levels of an analysis. You should be focused on the organization.

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