Chaptr – House of EducationChaptr House of Education
HomeFor Students
IB SSST languages

IB Language A Literature SSST Programme

The School-Supported Self-Taught (SSST) Language A programme is an official course within the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. It is designed for students who wish to study literature in their mother tongue, even if their school does not offer the language as a taught subject.

This pathway can lead to the IB Bilingual Diploma, a qualification valued by universities worldwide for its academic rigor and recognition of bilingual proficiency.

Start Your Journey

CHAPTR proudly supports a wide range of languages through the SSST programme in collaboration with your IB-school. Explore our Subject Section to see if your language is offered or reach out to us directly for guidance.

Your mother tongue is more than just a language—it’s part of who you are. With the IB Language A SSST programme, you can carry it with you into your academic journey, strengthen your future, and set yourself apart.

SSST A Literature for the following languages: 

  • Dutch
  • German
  • Korean
  • Norwegian
  • Russian
Student Chinese characters

Structure of the Programme

  • IB Teacher: Each student is paired with an IB teacher who is a native speaker of their mother tongue and experienced in guiding students through the SSST curriculum.
  • Individual Lessons: Students receive one dedicated lesson per week during the two years of the IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12).
  • Independent Work: Teachers assign reading, writing, and analytical tasks to be completed outside of lessons. This independent study forms a significant part of the course.
  • Examination Preparation:

Instruction prepares students for all formal IB Language A assessments, including:

  • Individual Oral Examination (IO)
  • Paper 1: Literary Analysis
  • Paper 2: Comparative Essay
  • School Coordination: Each school appoints an SSST coordinator, who ensures that administrative requirements are met and that examination arrangements are in place.

This framework combines independent study with expert guidance, enabling students to progress step by step toward their final assessments.

Benefits of the Programme

  • Eligibility for the IB Bilingual Diploma, an asset in international university admissions.
  • Continued development and preservation of the student’s native language and cultural heritage.
  • Acquisition of advanced skills in literary analysis, critical thinking, and academic writing, in line with the IB Diploma Programme’s standards.
Globe