The Grade 12 IB English A: Language & Literature HL/SL rubric provides a structured framework for assessing students’ analytical and communicative skills in both literary and non-literary texts. This rubric evaluates students across four key criteria: understanding and interpretation; analysis and evaluation; focus and organization; and language use. By engaging with this rubric; students develop critical thinking skills as they learn to interpret complex texts; identify stylistic and rhetorical devices; and evaluate the effectiveness of an author’s choices. The emphasis on close reading and textual analysis fosters a deeper appreciation for language as a dynamic tool for communication and persuasion. The rubric encourages students to construct well-supported arguments; ensuring their responses are coherent; logically structured; and grounded in textual evidence. This process strengthens their ability to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively; a skill valuable in both academic and professional contexts. Additionally; the focus on language use promotes precision; fluency; and stylistic sophistication; helping students refine their written and oral expression. For HL students; the rubric includes higher expectations in terms of depth of analysis and engagement with broader contextual factors; preparing them for the rigors of university-level study. SL students benefit from a streamlined yet challenging assessment that ensures foundational competence in literary and linguistic analysis. Both levels cultivate an awareness of cultural and ideological perspectives embedded in texts; fostering global-mindedness and empathy. Ultimately; the IB English A: Language & Literature rubric equips students with transferable skills in critical reading; analytical writing; and effective communication; empowering them to engage thoughtfully with diverse texts and real-world discourses.