English Language and Literature

Course summary

A Level English Language and Literature offers the chance to study a wide range of texts, both literature and journalism, and produce creative writing. You will study A Streetcar Named Desire (Tennessee Williams), The Great Gatsby (F Scott Fitzgerald), and The Whitsun Weddings (Philip Larkin). You will also study an anthology of non-fiction texts which includes newspaper articles and opinion columns, famous speeches, and transcripts of TV interviews e.g. one with former President Obama. In the coursework component, you will write a piece of fiction and non-fiction e.g. a dystopian short story and an article on a subject of your choice. You also write an analytical commentary on your work. During the course, you will develop your analytical and creative skills. You will become an expert in understanding a writer’s voice and style of writing. Essay writing and creative writing skills will be developed to a high level.