English Literature
Course Information
The English Literature A Level is an exciting course in which we explore a range of texts and authors thematically and chronologically. In the 'Tragedy' unit, we study Shakespeare's 'Othello' and 'King Richard II' and 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald. In the 'Texts and Genres' unit, we examine elements of crime writing in 'Atonement' by Ian McEwan, 'Brighton Rock' by Graham Greene' and a range of pre-1900 poetry.
The Theory and Independence unit gives students the opportunity to study critical literary theories. The first essay will focus on applying the Feminist theory to a range of Christina Rossetti's poetry. Whereas the second essay will be a re-creative response which will offer a critical reading of a base text of their own choosing.
We welcome enthusiastic readers who have enjoyed GCSE English Literature.
Assessment
Paper 1: Literary Genres (Aspects of Tragedy)
Written Exam (2 hours 30 minutes)
Closed book
Paper 2: Texts and Genres (Elements of Crime writing)
Written Exam (3 hours)
Open book
NEA: Theory and Independence
One essay analysing and evaluating Christina Rossetti (collection of poems) from a Feminist perspective.
One re-creative piece accompanied by a commentary linked to both a Critical theory and a prose (novel) of your own choosing.
Transferable Skills
- Analytical skills
- Critical thinking
- Communication skills
- Writing skills
What can I use this qualification for?
English Literature will enable you to progress on to university, apprenticeships and employment opportunities.
Here are some career choices it could help with:
- Teaching
- Film and script writing
- Law/legal profession
- Journalism
- Most professional career pathways
