English Literature
AS AND A2 LEVEL
Are you considering studying English Literature at A Level?
Presumably it’s because you enjoyed the subject at GCSE, you enjoy reading and want to find out more about our literary heritage.
Aims
Throughout the course you will develop as an informed, independent reader by close study of set texts as well as by your wide reading.
English students also enjoy the opportunities the subject provides for discussion; listening to the views of others and contributing your own ideas helps you gain confidence and develops your powers of expression in speech and in writing.
Content
Throughout the course you will study a range of novels, poetry and drama texts from Shakespeare and the Romantic poets to modern novelists such as Angela Carter and Margaret Atwood.
Lessons and homework
Most lessons will involve discussion and you will usually be required to prepare for these in advance. You may each be given a short passage to think about or perhaps you will be asked to present your ideas to the rest of the group. You may be given a point of view to debate or some research to carry out. Other homeworks will involve written tasks including practice essays.
Coursework
One Unit at AS and one at A2 will be assessed by a coursework essay. These projects are very popular as you are able to choose your own titles according to which aspects of the texts interests you most.
Wider Reading
Although you are probably already a keen reader, you may find yourself stuck for ideas or maybe you limit yourself to certain writers, periods or genres? Maybe you enjoyed your texts at GCSE but haven’t read much more. Don’t worry – help is at hand! We have a monthly reading group open to all members of the Sixth Form and the librarian is always ready with further suggestions.
Essential wider reading must include literature of the First World War as preparation for the synoptic unit in A2. Reading lists will be provided and your teacher will be happy to discuss your reading with you.
Are you considering taking English further?
English is a flexible subject at degree level that opens up a wide range of career choices. Graduates in English possess skills in written and spoken communication, working independently and thinking critically, which are highly valued by employers. Many go into general management, research and consultancy and the public services as well as teaching, publishing and the creative industries.
Sixth Form News
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AS/A2 results
Thursday 19th August