English Literature
Department:
English
Type of Qualification:
A Level
Exam Board:
AQA
Requirements:
Grade 6 in GCSE English Literature recommended
Course Content
Paper 1: Aspects of Tragedy – focus on the genre of Tragedy through the study of drama and poetry. Three texts are studied: Othello, The Death of a Salesman, and Keats – Collected Poems.
Paper 2: Elements of Crime Writing or Elements of Political and Social Protest Writing – focus on genre with texts such as: Atonement, Brighton Rock, 19th century poetry, Hamlet, Oliver Twist, The Kite Runner, Tony Harrison – Collected Poems, and A Doll’s House.
Paper 3: Non-Examined Assessment (coursework) – studying a novel and poetry of the student’s choice, with teacher guidance. Literary Theory such as Feminism, post-Colonialism and Marxism are studied as ways to approach the texts.
Texts are selected according to the teachers’ and students’ preferences and may vary from year to year.
Style Of Assessment
- Paper 1: Two and a half hour exam
- Paper 2: Three hour exam with access to texts
- Paper 3: Non-Examined Assessment (NEA) – two essays, 1500 words each, completed over a number of weeks
Whose kind of course?
A love of reading is essential. Also needed is an open-minded approach to texts and the ability to recognise and appreciate the opinions of others. Students must be able to write fluently and accurately. Lessons consist of seminar style sessions with plenty of discussion and sharing of ideas. Essay writing to an A Level standard is developed gradually with plenty of support and guidance.
Beyond the classroom
Students are encouraged to read extensively beyond the texts required for examinations and the NEA. In order to maximise their chances of achieving the highest possible grade, they should read literary journals and study guides as well as reading a range of texts suggested by teachers. Theatre and conference trips are regularly organised by the department; recent trips include The Globe Theatre and the Jane Austen Museum.
Career Prospects
English Literature is a highly regarded and versatile qualification, respected and valued by universities and employers. It is a “facilitating” subject so could be offered alongside science based subjects for entry to a wide variety of courses, as well as careers such as media, law and teaching. It is valued for its focus on analytical skills, debate and evaluation – vital skills for university and the workplace.
