As we study a wide range of texts, we are likely to consider many critical questions that relate to the nature of knowledge, certainty, belief and truth. Such questions are relevant to the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), which is a core requirement for any IB student. In fact TOK is all about asking questions, of which the most important may be: "How do I know what I claim to know?"  TOK does this by encouraging students to consider knowledge claims and knowledge questions, where knowledge claims are expressed as assertions whilst knowledge questions, as the term suggests, are framed with greater openness. 

While TOK is almost always offered as a separate subject, every IB teacher has a responsibility to incorporate the ideas of TOK into the curriculum. In the context of English A: Language and Literature, there are many starting points. Language, after all, is a medium. To some considerable extent, it is through language we acquire knowledge. Literature, constructed through language, is generally regarded as a form art, which opens it up to questions of value, tradition, and culture. 

How do we structure TOK and integrate it into the Language end Literature classroom? First of all, it is recommended that you read the TOK guide (available on My IB); this provides much useful insight, ideas, and suggestions. In addition, on the menu to the left on this page, there are a range of suggested lessons and activities. Over time, these will be added to as the website expands and develops.