The Higher Level Essay is a 1200-1500 word essay completed internally but externally assessed by an examiner.  It is a processed piece of writing that is completed over time and with guidance from the teacher.  It is the only opportunity for Higher Level students to write an essay not under exam conditions, and as the title suggests, this is for HL students only.

Students may write about a non-literary text or texts studied as part of their course. Alternatively, students may write about a literary work studied as part of their course.  Students may select any texts or works already studied as part of the course, but texts and works used for the internal assessment (individual oral) are not acceptable choices.  The IB is clear here.  That’s not allowed.  Also, students may not use texts intended for Paper 2.

Where students decide to focus on non-literary texts, and consult a number of texts, it is important that these texts are of the same text type, and that the texts are the work of one writer or producer. Also, at least one of the texts must have been studied in class as part of the course.  Students may base their essay on texts or works in translation. These should be professional translations. Texts and works in other languages that have not been translated are inappropriate. 

You may choose to use the course concepts to help students narrow down their topic, title, line of inquiry, and thesis.  However, the HLE must be the student’s own work and thinking.  They cannot be prescribed topics or titles.     

The basics

• The HLE is a 1200-1500 word formal, academic essay.

• The HLE is a processed essay and will take time to develop.

• The HLE is based on work(s) or text(s) studied in the course.

• Students select their own topic, title, line of inquiry and thesis although you are there to guide and support them.

• Students cannot base their essay on any work or text that was used for the Individual Oral or that will be used for Paper 2.

• It is not a requirement to use or consult secondary sources.