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English Literature

  • A-Level

A-level English Literature will enable you to develop their interest and enjoyment of literature and literary studies.

A-level English Literature will enable you to develop their interest and enjoyment of literature and literary studies.

To study this subject, you'll need at least a Grade 7 in GCSE English.

What will you learn?

You will explore a range of literary texts across genres and time periods, analysing how writers shape meaning while developing your own critical and interpretative skills.

Course Components

Typically includes Shakespeare, a 19th-century novel, modern drama or prose, poetry (including a comparison across collections), and an independent critical study.

Skills you will develop

Read Widely & Independently

Develop the ability to engage with a broad range of texts beyond the set curriculum, forming your own informed and thoughtful interpretations.

Creativity

To engage creatively with a substantial body of texts and different ways of responding to them.

Literary Analysis

To develop and effectively apply their knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation in writing.

Context & Interpretation

To explore the contexts of the texts they are reading and others’ interpretations.

Students who study this subject, often have careers in...

Journalism

Develop strong writing, critical thinking and research skills that prepare you to report on stories, analyse information and communicate clearly with a wide audience.

Publishing

A deep understanding of texts and storytelling can lead to careers in publishing, where professionals edit, develop and bring books and written content to life for readers.

Law

Analysing complex texts and constructing persuasive arguments builds valuable skills for legal careers, where clear communication and interpretation are essential.

Marketing & Communications

Careers in marketing and communications benefit from creativity and strong language skills, helping professionals craft compelling messages and connect with audience

Education

A passion for literature can lead to teaching or academic careers, inspiring the next generation to explore texts, ideas and different perspectives through reading and discussion.

How will you be assessed?

Two written examinations and two non-exam based assessments.

OCR

Component 1: Shakespeare, Drama, and Poetry Pre-1900

2hr 30min 40% of grade

Students study one set Shakespeare text and one set pre-1900 drama text and one set pre-1900 poetry text (NEA).

Component 2: Comparative and Contextual Study

NEA 40% of grade

This will consist of a close reading exercise and a comparative essay on two texts chosen from lists set by the examination board.

Component 3: Text Based Study

Coursework 20% of grade

Candidates have to study three texts from across the genres of poetry/drama and prose. Task one: A critical analysis or a recreative piece. Task two: A comparative essay focusing on connections between two texts.

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

The Sixth Form Literary society run half-termly book clubs and enjoy a host of activities run by the English Department including theatre trips to London and Stratford. Past trips have included King Lear, Much Ado About Nothing, Death of a Salesman and Frankenstein. We also ensure Sixth Form students are booked onto externally run study days to complement the set examination texts.

Who will teach you?

Mr P Gray

Head of English & Teacher

Mrs A Smith

Assistant Head of English

Miss S O'Hare

Teacher of English

Ms N Jones Owen

Teacher of English

Ms G Ajmal

Teacher of English

Ms E Butler

Teacher of English

Students who study this subject, often get accepted at...

University of York

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Leeds Beckett University

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Universiry College London

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Warwick University

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University of Exeter

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Students who study this subject, often also study...

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Politics

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