English Literature A level

The study of English Literature means to explore, enjoy and have debate about published written works, be they novels, poems or plays. Studying English Literature opens-up a world of inspiration and creativity, developing skills and awareness of a variety of issues that equip the learner for a better understanding of cultures, societies and traditions. The skills that are necessary for this course are very similar to those needed at GCSE and the importance of framing sustained, detailed, well organised and well referenced essays, lies at the heart of success.

We study English Literature therefore in a range of intriguing contexts, from pre 1900 poetry through to Shakespeare’s tragedies and comedies and on to War literature of various genres.

In this A level, we encourage you to study English in a way that helps you to think critically about complex topics from a range of different perspectives via close reading of whole texts and application of contextual research as well as personal response. Your chances to express and communicate your ideas about the texts and the issues they raise will be in abundance should you choose to study this subject.

Qualification	A level English Literature (Specification A, Option1)
Awarding body	AQA
Entry requirements	GCSE at Grade 6 or above in English Language and English Literature
Year 12	The Taming of the Shrew or Othello by William Shakespeare. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald with AQA Anthology of love poetry through the ages Texts Across Time: Non-Examined Assessment
Year 13	Blackadder Goes Forth by Richard Curtis and Ben Elton with A Long, Long Way by Sebastian Barry Up the Line to Death war poetry anthology Ed. Brian Gardener Revisiting of all topics studied Exam Technique Focus
Assessment	A level is assessed through a combination of examination and course work: Paper 1: Love through the ages: Shakespeare and poetry. Paper 2: Texts in shared contexts. (WW1 and the Aftermath) Non-examination assessment: texts across time (coursework).

Why study English literature?

English Literature is versatile and well-established A level qualification which can lead to a variety of careers and degree courses. It is regarded as a facilitating subject for those wishing to apply for the top universities. The qualification is suitable for anyone who is considering a career working with the public. Journalism, law, teaching and social work are only a few of the areas where English Literature is useful.

Initially I thought that English Literature would just be reading and essays, but I love that we have discussions about how we interpret a text.

Year 12 student

Potential career paths and further study

English Literature is a versatile and well-established A level qualification which can lead to a variety of careers and degree courses. It is regarded as a facilitating subject for those wishing to apply for top universities. This qualification is suitable for anyone who is considering a career working with the public. Journalism, law, teaching, banking and social work are only a few of the areas where English Literature is useful.

I love studying English Literature A-level as it has allowed me to see a whole new aspect of literature with so many opportunities to learn new, exciting things with close guidance and support.

Year 12 student