English Literature
Entry Requirements
Grade 7 in GCSE English Language & English Literature.
About This Course
This subject is a must for anyone who enjoys reading and exchanging ideas. Building on prior knowledge from GCSE, you will study a variety of texts from Shakespeare to the modern day and will have the opportunity to examine different genres within their social and historical contexts. There are lots of opportunities to discuss and debate as you develop your insight. You will be expected to undertake independent reading and research. The course will include, whenever possible, theatre trips to see performances of the texts studied.
Course Content & Assessment
A Level Literature is assessed via two closed text examinations at the end of A2 (80%) and a non-examined assessment folder (20%) of approximately 3000 words not including quotations. The non-examined assessment unit comprises of a short task, typically a close analysis and one extended comparative essay.
Component 1
- Section A: Shakespeare: Hamlet
- Section B: Drama & Poetry Pre-1900: Drama text; A Doll’s House by Henrik Ibsen. Poetry: Paradise Lost, Books 9 and 10. John Milton.
Component 2
- Section A: Close reading in a chosen topic area (Gothic Literature)
- Section B: Comparative & contextual study in a chosen topic area. Gothic Literature. Your main texts for comparison will include: The Bloody Chamber (Angela Carter) and Frankenstein (Mary Shelley).
Non examined assessment - Students will be required to write a critical response to a poetry unit and a comparative essay, together worth 20% of their overall grade. The texts for comparison are: A Streetcar Named Desire (Tennessee Williams) and The Bell Jar (Sylvia Plath)
What could this course lead to?
A Level English Literature is a highly valued qualification and prepares students for university and entry into a diversity of professions. Some of the possible career opportunities are: Barrister, Building Surveyor, Civil Service, Estate Agent, Surveyor, Journalist, Personal Assistant, Press Officer, Psychologist, RAF Officer, Retail Manager, Social Worker or Teacher.
*Please note that indications of texts studied are based on the current syllabus and are subject to change in the event of exam board changes and teacher expertise.
