English Literature
AQA 8702
What will I study?
You will be exposed to a variety of literary texts ranging from Shakespeare to modern day poetry. All texts will have relevance and will hopefully inspire you to read more widely and enrich your life.
How will I be assessed?
Paper 1: Shakespeare and the 19th-century novel
Assessed by written exam - 1 hour 45 minutes, worth 64 marks - 40% of GCSE.
Section A - Shakespeare
You will answer one question on the play of choice. You will
be required to write in detail about an extract from the play and then to write about the play as a whole.
Section B - The 19th-century novel.
You will answer one question on the novel of choice. You will be required to write in detail about an extract from the novel and then to write about the novel as a whole.
Paper 2: Modern texts, Poetry, Unseen poetry
One written exam, 2 hour 15 minutes, worth 96 marks - 60% of GCSE.
Section A Modern texts: you will answer one essay question from a choice of two on your studied modern prose or drama text.
Section B Poetry: you will answer one comparative question on one named poem printed on the paper and one other poem from your chosen anthology cluster.
Section C Unseen poetry: You will answer one question on one unseen poem and one question comparing this poem with a second unseen poem.
Enrichment opportunities
You will have the opportunity to be involved with the following extra curricular activities:
- Young Writers Competitions
- A variety of trips and visits
Self-study
You will be expected to meet strict deadlines and produce good quality work. You will need to adopt an independent approach to your English studies and read regularly for pleasure.
The Future
There is a wide choice of educational and career paths that build upon success at GCSE in this subject area. These include studying English Literature or English Language at A Level and beyond. English also combines well with most subjects, especially history and most of the humanity subjects. Career options post-16, include work in publishing, advertising, law, media and teaching.
