IB Language ab initio SL

Course scope

IB Language ab initio is a subject offered only at SL, designed for students who are new to the target language or have very limited experience of it. Basic communication skills develop through themes such as identities, experiences, human ingenuity, social organisation and sharing the planet.

Exam and assessment structure

In the 2027 assessment, Paper 1 covers two written tasks and Paper 2 listening and reading comprehension; there is also an individual oral based on a visual stimulus and a thematic conversation. The subject focuses on using the language understandably in everyday and personal contexts. The language option and whether the student is suited to this beginner level are determined by the school.

Preparation at Youprep Studio

In this subject we work according to the student’s SL or HL level, exam year and the program followed at school. We close topic gaps and work on using knowledge in the relevant assessment formats and justifying answers. We set study priorities with the school’s exam and submission calendar in mind, and organise review and practice around the student’s progress.

Current exam information