English Literature

This course is modular and can last for one or two years depending on individual student choices. It is for students who are keen readers and who have enjoyed their study of literature during GCSE. We follow AQA Specification B.

Students are encouraged not only to read and watch but to develop further their ability and desire to think, talk and write about the way characters in books and plays behave, and about why novels, plays and poems are written as they are, using such media as video and audio tapes as well as print and the texts themselves.

COURSE CONTENT

The course begins with an introductory unit which aims to consolidate work done at GCSE and to develop further students’ literary analysis skills, while encouraging wide reading. Also, students’ knowledge of the history of Literature in English is broadened.

Students are prepared for the modular examinations throughout the course. Study of a Shakespeare play is required, as is practical criticism of literary texts. The other texts studied will be pre and post-1900, including poetry, a novel and a play. Students work with the teacher, independently and in groups, completing essays as well as research and seminar work.

Assessment is by a combination of coursework and examination. Students take AS examinations in June of Year 12. They can then choose to follow another AS course or to pursue the subject to A2 or Advanced Level in Year 13.

CAREER PROSPECTS

Both the AS and the A Level are recognised by universities for entrance to higher education as well as being particularly useful for students interested in a career in journalism, advertising, public relations, the Civil Service and teaching as well as any other career where you have to use communication skills.

For further details please see your English teacher