Do you have a passion for reading plays, poems and novels? Do you enjoy reading widely and exploring the way that writers conjure meaning and feeling, place and atmosphere, character and plot? If so, English Literature is an ideal subject for you.
Novels, poetry and drama are at the heart of this course, offering a wonderful opportunity to delve into classics such as Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, Shakespeare’s King Lear and strikingly modern drama and poetry, including Lucy Prebble’s Enron and Carol Ann Duffy’s Mean Time. You will also have the opportunity to pursue your own literary interests in choosing two novels for your second year extended comparative essay. The independent research, reading and writing required for this piece of work will equip you well for study at university level.
What will my day look like?
Explore example timetableCourse Information
At least five GCSEs at grades 9-4 in one sitting. An average GCSE score of 5 or more is preferred.
GCSE English and Maths at grade 4. (A grade 5+ in GCSE English preferred.)
There are three written examinations and one coursework component completed over the two-year course. Component 1 (Poetry) is worth 30%, Component 2 (Drama) is worth 30%, Component 3 (Unseen Texts) is worth 20%, and Component 4 (Prose Study coursework) is worth 20%.
- Poetry Pre-1900
- Poetry Post-1900
- Shakespeare
- Pre-1900 Drama
- Post-1900 Drama
- Unseen Texts
- Unseen Prose Analysis
English Language is the perfect A Level to take if you want to pursue a degree in English Language or linguistics, either as a single subject
or combined with English Literature, creative writing, linguistics or journalism.
This course is predominantly theory-based with a substantial independent coursework element. Approximately 80% examination / 20% coursework. There is no practical assessment.
Work alongside professionals in marketing, journalism and PR at the First Light Festival, where you will get to report on and
represent the event. Meet academics and linguists from prestigious universities, including attending the A Level Language conference in London. Develop your own creative writing portfolio to help with your university, training or employment opportunities.
