English Literature
Why study A-level English literature?
The English literature A-level course offers students the opportunity to undertake independent and sustained studies to deepen their appreciation and understanding of literature, including its changing traditions. You will need a passion for literature to enjoy this course, in conjunction with an interest in ideas and the world around you.
- Qualification
- A-level
- Course length
- Two years
- Exam board
- OCR
- Assessment
- Two exams + coursework
Course introduction
- Course Title
English Literature
- Examination Board
OCR
- Linear Qualification?
Yes
Course presentation
Entry requirements
Grade 5 GCSE in English literature and English language
Course content
The course is structured to encourage students to develop their interest in, and enjoyment of, literature and literary studies. Students will read widely and independently from areas of study including Shakespeare, 19th Century literature, poetry and American fiction.
Students will engage critically with a substantial body of texts, developing ways of responding and effectively applying their knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation through written essays and extended coursework.
In order to further cultivate their own critical responses, students will explore literary and historic contexts surrounding the set texts, as well as exploring a range of readings and interpretations.
Assessment
Students will complete the following units:
A-level Component 1
- Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes (40% of A-level)
- What’s assessed: Shakespeare, drama and poetry pre-1900 (closed text)
A-level Component 2
- Written exam: 2 hours and 30 minutes (40% of A-level)
- Close reading and comparative contextual study from chosen topic area: American Fiction 1880-1940 (closed text)
A-level Component 3
- Non-exam assessment: Linked texts essay and a piece of close analysis (20% of A-level)
- What’s assessed: Literature post-1900
Future pathways
There is an almost universal career application; English literature facilitates any career or course involving communication and critical thinking. Students often choose English literature for love of the subject; however gaining a qualification in English shows high levels of written and oral communications skills, invaluable when applying for university courses and looking for future employment. English literature students have gone on to careers in law, medicine, public relations, journalism, film and media and linguistics.
Contact the subject team
Ask questions about the course and discuss your choices with us.
Mrs O'Doherty vo'doherty@wilmslowhigh.com