English Literature – A Level
Special Entry Requirements
In addition to the A Level entry requirements, you will need a minimum of grade 5 in GCSE English.
Subject Intent
We have put together a rich and varied English Literature course that will allow students to develop knowledge and skills as they access literature from different periods and cultures. Our students are encouraged to read widely and to read critically. Our English Literature course will give students the opportunity to:
· read complex texts confidently and methodically, in order to breakdown the language and structure to establish and analyse meaning
· demonstrate mastery of reading through discussion and writing
· enjoy a wide range of fiction and non-fiction texts which help them to connect with the world around them
· develop an appreciation of culture that will help remove barriers to achievement in future learning and the world of work
· write clearly, fluently and accurately showing flair and creativity
· use a wide range of appropriate and ambitious vocabulary with precision
· articulate and express their ideas, views and opinions about a wide range of topics clearly, confidently and respectfully
· develop resilience, confidence, independence, and the ability to work collaboratively
Course Introduction
If you love reading and analysing texts, then this is the course for you. It consists of the study of prose, poetry and drama and develops analytical skills, oral communication skills and above all, discursive writing skills. Taking English Literature will give you a love of reading that you can carry with you through life.
Preparing for A Level English Literature
We have created some transition packs to show you the kind of work that you will be doing at level 3 and to help you prepare for September.
Leaping into Literature
This is an additional booklet which we have found very useful to help bridge the gap between GCSE and A Level. You will also need the resource booklet:
If you have any questions about the course, please email admissions@s6f.org.uk
Course Modules
Unit 1: Comedy
In this unit we study dramatic comedy through William Shakespeare’s ‘The Taming of the Shrew’, Oscar Wilde’s ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ and an anthology of comic poetry that spans the centuries.
Unit 2: Political and Social Protest Literature
In this unit we study a range of short extracts as preparation for the unseen critical analysis question on the exam and we also study 3 set texts: ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ by Margaret Atwood, Blake’s ‘Songs of Innocence and Experience’ and ‘The Kite Runner’ by Khaled Hosseini.
Unit 3: Non-examined assessment (NEA)
Students have to produce 2 essays exploring literary texts of their choosing through the lens of different critical theories.
Assessment
This is a 2 year, linear course and is assessed through 2 exams and a non-examined assessment (coursework).
Career Opportunities
