Introduction
English Literature is a varied and interesting course. Students who enjoy reading, developing their ideas through discussion and close textual analysis will enjoy this popular, well regarded A Level. Students study a broad range of texts including Shakespeare, pre-1900s poetry and drama, and the dystopian genre. They gain an understanding of the contexts in which these texts were written and about the different ways they were received by contemporary audiences and can be read now.
Where does it lead?
The course is very popular and is a highly regarded qualification, recognised by universities and employers as a useful, academic and significant subject. An English Literature A Level creates opportunities in a wide range of areas especially those relating to the worlds of communication in the Arts and the Media. Indeed, there are few areas of life which do not benefit from increased skills of critical analysis and personal expression. Importantly the course is also rewarding and enjoyable in its
own right.
Course details
There will be two examination papers both sat in the summer of Year 13. Students will also submit a non-examination assessed folder as coursework. It is comprised of a comparative essay and either a short close reading of an individual text or a piece of re-creative writing with commentary.
Paper 1: Drama and Poetry Pre-1900: 2hr 30 min examination,40% of A Level. Closed text.
Paper 2: Comparative and Contextual Study: 2hr 30 min examination, 40% of A Level. Closed text.
Non-exam assessment: One comparative essay and either a close reading of a single text or a piece of re-creative writing with commentary 20% of A Level.