English Literature

Course summary

This a full-time study program with the final examinations at the end of the two-year course. A mandatory requirement of the course is an independent ‘Prose Study’ assignment which accounts for 20% of the overall grade. You will learn through a variety of teaching methods which will aim to meet the needs of each individual and accommodate different learning styles. Key aspects of the course include considering context and developing and evaluating other critical interpretations. The components of the qualification are as follows: Component 1: Poetry Section A: Poetry pre-1900 (open-book, clean copy) One two-part question based on the reading of one pre-1900 poetry text from a prescribed list Section B: Poetry post-1900 (open-book, clean copy) One question from a choice of two based on the reading of two post-1900 poetry texts. Component 2: Drama Section A: Shakespeare (closed book) ● One two-part question based on the reading of one Shakespeare play ● Section B: Drama (closed-book) ● One question from a choice of two based on the reading of a pair of plays: one pre-1900 and one post-1900 Component 3: Unseen Prose Section A: Unseen prose ● One question from a choice of two, analyzing an unseen passage of prose, taken from one of two prescribed periods for study Section B: Unseen Poetry ● One question from a choice of two, analyzing an unseen poem or poetry extract Component 4: Prose Study ● One 2500-3500 word assignment based on the reading of two prose texts from different periods, one pre-2000 and one post-2000 The course has final examinations upon completion of the course. This course encourages students to present informed, personal, and creative responses to literary text by considering: ● how writers use and adapt language, form, and structure in texts; ● the interpretation of texts by different readers from different historical periods; ● how texts relate to one another and literary traditions, movements, and genres; ● the cultural and contextual influences on readers and writers. You will read and study a variety of literary texts including, novels, drama, prose extracts, and poetry whilst getting the opportunity to investigate one pre and one post-2000 prose text of your own choice where you will investigate connections between different writing, genres, and authors. There will also be scope for extra-curricular activities including historic library trips, theatre visits, and subject workshops. An A level in English Literature will enhance your understanding of other A-level subjects such as History, Classical Civilisation, Religious Studies, Film Studies, and Sociology.