For students who have a passion for reading, storytelling and the discussion of meaningful ideas, English Literature is an    enjoyable and thought-provoking subject which expands their understanding of the society in which they live. People have told stories to one another for millennia, to help make sense of the world around them; some of the greatest of these stories are embodied within English Literature. Through the subject, we explore some of the most important ideas, expressed in the most beautiful language.

What is the structure of the course?

The course is assessed over two exams and supported by a Non-Exam Assessment portfolio of 3000 words. Paper One, Drama and Poetry Pre-1900, consists of Shakespeare’s Richard III, Oscar Wilde’s An Ideal Husband and a collection of Christina Rossetti poetry. Paper Two, Comparative and Contextual Study, explores American Literature through the study of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby and Nella Larsen’s Passing; the exam also includes an unseen analysis of a piece of American Literature from 1880-1940. The Non-Exam Assessment portfolio consists of two essays, based on modern interpretations of classical literary texts.

What skill/requirements are essential?

Students will need an enthusiasm for reading and a mind open to considering the ways in which texts from different times and places explore significant concepts and pose challenging questions. The course requires an ability to work independently as we expect students to be reading around the set texts and researching any relevant issues of context. Writing analytically is essential, as well as the ability to engage in debate.

What do students think?

“In English Literature we explore all sorts of issues through discussion of the texts. As a Year 13 student it is clear that this subject is opening all sorts of doors for me!”  

Where can this course lead?

English Literature is a facilitating subject and is considered desirable by University admissions departments for a range of courses. The core skills we develop over the A Level course are applicable to a range of disciplines and prepare students for academic study at a higher level. An English Literature A Level develops many skills that are valued by employers, such as communication skills, the ability to work co-operatively and the ability to write accurately.