A Level English Literature is a great subject for students who enjoy reading, thinking independently and evaluating ideas.
This is a two-year linear course where you will gain critical appreciation of literary texts. This is accomplished through methods of analysis, expressing this in cogent, detailed and critical essays.
For the exams, you will read and compare various literary texts, from classic plays to modern poetry. You will be evaluating interpretations from your close reading of texts such as The Tempest, The Duchess of Malfi and The Whitsun Weddings in addition to analysing unseen prose and poetry in the exam. The coursework, which is worth 20%, is a 2500-3500 word comparative essay. This essay allows you to compare the modern novel Notes on a Scandal with The Great Gatsby.
Where does an A Level English Literature course lead?
English subjects are challenging, but are an excellent preparation both for university and your future career. Obvious careers include, for instance, journalism, sales, teaching, management, administration, information management, publishing and careers in the public services.
Course Entry Requirements
Grade 5 in GCSE English Language and a grade 5 in GCSE English Literature (if studied).
A Level English Literature Course Leaflet
Click the link below to view the Course Introduction video
Click the link below to view the Student Introduction video
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Exam board course specification
What our students say about studying English Literature
English Literature Alumni
Caitlin Corrigan – Law, Oxford University
Edward Hodgson – English Literature, University of Warwick
Samuel Puxley – English Literature & History, Durham University
Hannah Mitchell – English, Corpus Christi College, Cambridge
Sophie Harrison – English Literature and Creative Writing, Lancaster University
Eva Carroll – English, King’s College, Cambridge
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