Course Live_AC_paperturn-3 - Flipbook - Page 29
ENGLISH LITERATURE
A Level
Studying English Literature gives you the chance to
critically engage with the world around you through the
lens of diverse and thought-provoking texts. From plays
and poetry to novels - both contemporary and classic - we
explore how writers use language, form, and structure to
convey meaning and address complex issues.
You will examine how literature reflects and shapes culture,
considering how different interpretations evolve over time
and the impact of context on both writers and readers.
Through engaging discussions, analysis and written
essays, you’ll learn how to craft academic arguments that
are supported by critical, textual and contextual evidence.
A Level English Literature invites you to delve into
challenging themes, approaching them with intellectual
curiosity and sensitivity.
Independent reading is essential, as you will be required
to read at least two novels on your own to support class
discussions and coursework. A commitment to reading and
essay-writing is key to success in this course.
COURSE CONTENT
You’ll read a minimum of eight set texts
(poetry, prose and drama) ranging from the
17th century (Shakespeare, John Donne,
John Webster) to the 21st century. There is
also the study of unseen prose and poetry.
The course comprises of:
80% exam
• Paper 1: poetry (John Donne/TS Eliot &
Thomas Hardy)
• Paper 2: drama (Shakespeare King
Lear, Webster The Duchess of Malfi,
Tennessee Williams A Streetcar Named
Desire)
• Paper 3: unseen prose 1918-39 and
unseen poetry
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
20% coursework
Standard Advanced Level entry
requirements
You will write a 3500-word coursework
essay comparing a pre-2000 novel, (eg
Kate Chopin’s The Awakening) with a
contemporary novel from a given list.
ASSESSMENT
TRANSFERABLE SKILLS
OTHER INFORMATION
CAREER PATHWAYS
The course equips you with valuable
skills, including effective oral and written
communication, critical analysis, and the
ability to engage with diverse texts. You
will also develop teamwork, research skills,
independent thinking, and the ability to
reflect and make informed judgments.
As part of the course, you will have the
chance to participate in a variety of
enriching activities, including workshops,
theatre trips, conferences, and university
visits. The College regularly hosts guest
speakers, including writers and industry
professionals. You can also get involved
in creative writing enrichment and public
readings, if that is something you are
interested in.
English Literature is a prestigious and
versatile qualification that opens the door
to a wide range of career opportunities.
Graduates can pursue careers in law,
the civil service, social work, advertising,
education, public and private sector
administration, and management roles
across various industries.
80% exam, 20% coursework
VA R N D E A N S I X T H F O R M C O L L E G E 2 0 2 6
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