Expectations of Independent Study • Read the course texts, including any secondary sources. • Organise revision notes and essay plans. • Read and develop personal responses to the Shakespeare: Critical Anthology. • Research the literary, social and historical contexts of the literature that we cover, developing an understanding of how to apply them. • Personal research and completing essay deadlines. • Complete the research for, and contribute towards the completion of, the ‘Non-exam Assessment’ (coursework). Why is it interesting? This course gives students a thorough grounding in the canon of English literature. It develops analytical skills, understanding, evaluating and communication. It develops an awareness of our rich literary heritage and links with the cultural and historical influence on English literature. What skills and knowledge will I develop by studying this subject? AS Level (One-Year Course) Component 1: Unseen Poetry and Drama Section A – Unseen Poetry: one essay question on an unseen modern poem. Modern poetry will be studied in preparation for this. Section B – Drama one essay question. The drama selection is mainly modern with some pre-1900 drama available. Component 2: Prose - Two prose texts from a chosen theme will be studied. At least one prose text must be pre-1900. The choice of themes are: Childhood; Colonisation and its Aftermath; Crime and Detection; Science and Society; The Supernatural; or Women and Society. A Level (Two-Year Course) Component 1: Two drama texts are studied. One Shakespeare play plus one other drama text either tragedy or comedy. Component 2: Two prose texts from a chosen theme. One text must be pre-1900, one may be modern (See AS list for the themes available). Component 3: Contemporary Poetry A range of poetry from a literary period or a range of poetry from a named poet. Two essays, one will be comparative. This course would be suitable for students who have the following skills and interests: Students are expected to read widely as an essential part of their learning. It is also vital to read literary criticism to inform their responses to texts. It goes without saying that students following this course should have a love of literature and enjoy reading for pleasure. What career pathways are open to me if I study this subject? History and Art are particularly compatible with English Literature, especially with the new AS/A Level syllabus. Students following Maths and Science courses also benefit by demonstrating the diversity of their interests and skills. Communication skills are vital for any managerial post. The ability to express oneself clearly in both written and spoken English is the hallmark of a professional person. Journalism, the law, the media, education and medicine are all career paths which an advanced qualification in English could help the student embark upon.