English Literature
Qualification: A-Level
- Awarding Body:
- AQA
- Length of Course:
- 2 Years
Students will study a variety of prose, poetry and drama texts. This will include the study of Shakespeare and various other genres of literature ranging from Renaissance Europe to the present day.
Studying for this specification encourages students to develop interest in, and enjoyment of, English Literature through reading widely, critically and independently. Students will also examine the theories and practice of literary criticism and learn how to evaluate others’ views, as well as their own.
| A level Units | ||
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Unit 1 Love Through the Ages: Shakespeare
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Unit 2 Texts in shared contexts: WW1 and its Aftermath
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Unit 3 Non-exam Assessment
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Shakespeare Play AQA Anthology of Poetry Unseen Poetry 19th Century Novel
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20th Century Drama Modern Novel ‘Up the Line to Death’ Poetry Anthology Unseen Prose Extracts
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Independent Critical Study: Texts across Time Comparative critical study of two texts, at least one of which must have been written pre-1900
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Assessment Written exam: 3 hours 40% of ‘A’ level
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Assessment Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes 40% of ‘A’ level
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Assessment One extended essay (2500 words) and a bibliography 20% of ‘A’ level
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Comparison with GCSE
There is some continuity of skills from GCSE English Language and Literature but the texts studied are more complex, varied and require a greater depth of study.
Relevance to Further Studies and Careers
English Literature is an obvious choice at A-level for anyone intending to study for a degree in any Arts subject, but it is particularly compatible with subjects such as History, Politics, Sociology, Classical Civilisation and Theology, where enthusiasm for reading, essay writing skills and the marshalling of evidence are required. It is also a great asset to the student of Modern Languages, as the skills developed are those essential for the study of literature in any language.
Clearly this A-level may be a preparation for the study of English Literature at degree level, and is likely to be a requirement for such courses.
Graduates in English pursue careers in many areas, such as teaching, business, the civil service, administration, politics, journalism and some will move on from their degree to take vocational courses in other fields.
Entry Requirements
At least Grade 6 in both GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature.Further Information
In order to cope with the demands of this course, it is necessary to have at least Grade 6 in both GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature.
