Key Stage 5

Qualification

AQA - GCE A level and GCE AS level

Wide-ranging and in depth study of English novels, plays and poetry.

In the First Year you will study a novel, a Shakespeare play, Poetry and Drama.

In the Second Year you will study pre 1900 Poetry and Drama, two linked texts and respond to unprepared texts.

You will also produce coursework in both years.

Course Length

Two years full 'A' level. One year 'AS' level.

Entry Requirements

A higher grade pass in GCSE English and English Literature is normally required.

Course Delivery

The teaching takes place in small group / seminar sessions. Students are encouraged to discuss, explore ideas and develop their own views. Much of class time is spent reading, responding to and discussing a variety of literature texts. Additionally, individual and paired work is encouraged.

Students will be expected to do longer reading and written tasks in their study time. As well as reading set books, students are encouraged to read as widely as possible. For personal study, you will be given clear individual guidance. Some time will be spent using audio and video-taped performances of plays and novels.

Students will be encouraged to go on theatre and cultural visits in the evenings and during school time.

Assessment Method

All courses will be assessed in modules. Three modules successfully passed represent 'AS' level and a further three ('A2') represent the full 'A' level.

Modules will be assessed in June of Year 12 and Year 13.

Progression from the course

English Literature is a key subject when progressing to Higher Education. All institutions offer Degree courses in English but many other areas such as Law, Management Studies, Language Studies, Administration, Psychology, Sociology, Education are logically the next step for those who have studied a course which is about communication, ideas, forming judgments and making decisions.

All the above areas lead into a wide range of professional career opportunities. Past students have gone on to work as solicitors, journalists, nurses, teachers, and administrators as well as to find jobs in finance and retailing.