Course Overview

Please note: you will make your selection of three A Levels once you have progressed into the application process.

During your English Literature A Level, you will study a broad and engaging selection of poetry, novels, and dramatic texts from across the literary periods, by writers such as William Shakespeare, Emily Bronte and Carol Ann Duffy. In addition to learning to unpick intricate layers of meaning you will explore the cultural and historical influences on writers and learn to apply literary criticism.

English Literature A Level will provide you with acutely developed analytical and research skills much valued in higher education and by employers. It is also useful for the study of other A Level subjects. The course is assessed through exams and independent coursework, for which students choose their own focus to pursue.

Topics may include:

• Poetry
• Drama
• Novels
• Social, historical, biographical, and literary contexts
• Literary theory and criticism.

At the start of the course, all students are expected to make a payment via the college online store, for copies of the studied texts.

Assessment Methods

Students sit three written exams at the end of year two. Additionally, there is a coursework element, involving the comparison of two novels, also submitted in year two.

Progression Options

Students who have gained this qualification have gone on to study at some of the top universities such as Oxford, Exeter, York and Bristol. Subjects include: English, history, teaching, international relations, linguistics and drama.