A-Level
Careers related to studying English Literature:
If you choose to study English Literature, you will develop comprehensive written and spoken communication skills, becoming adept at arguing a point, framing a narrative and analysing various levels of meaning. As a result, English Literature students can be found in more or less every industry, filling a variety of roles – from editor to academic, or legal advisor to manager.
You could consider careers in: media, publishing, journalism, teaching, advertising, marketing, PR, public sector, law or business.
Course content:
Through studying this course, you will increase your power of analysis and further your knowledge of the wonderful world of literature. You will study a number of literary texts from the three genres of drama, poetry and prose. The texts are taken from a range of time periods and will include both modern and pre-1900 texts. You will also develop the ability to express yourself in written and oral forms and to formulate opinions based on the ideas of others.
Entry requirements:
You must have achieved at least a grade 6 in English Literature at GCSE.
Subject specific events:
You will be encouraged and supported in entering a variety of related essay and/or story writing competitions, some of which offer prizes of up to £3000!
You will also take part in an exciting trip to London, where you can experience a wealth of modern literature events, as well as take in an authentic Shakespeare play within the majesty of The Globe theatre.
Methods of study:
There are five lessons per week which are divided between two subject specialists. Teaching groups tend to be between eight and sixteen in number, and the
course is taught through a range of teaching and learning strategies.
These strategies include group discussion (whole group, small group and pairs), close reading and annotation of texts and the use of audio/visual stimuli. You will also prepare presentations (individual, paired or small group) and will report back on your findings.
Much of your work will be produced independently. However, there are frequent opportunities to share ideas either prior to, during or after written assignments. You should expect to complete approximately 5 hours of independent study outside of your lessons. This could include: reading, research, essay writing or other activities. In order for you to take full advantage of the course it is also recommended that you immerse yourself in the wider reading of any texts that interest, inspire or intrigue you.
Methods of assessment:
Component 1 Drama
You will study one Shakespeare play and one other from the categories of tragedy or comedy.
Examination (30% of qualification)
Component 2 Prose
You will study two thematically linked texts, at least one
of which will be pre-1900. Examination (20% of qualification)
Component 3 Poetry
You will study poems from two published poetry texts, as well as unseen poetry.
Examination (30% of qualification)
Component 4 Coursework
You will produce one assignment (2500-3000 words) comparing two texts of your choice.
Internally assessed (20% of qualification)