ENGLISH LITERATURE
Why study English Literature? Studying English Literature at A Level brings immense pleasure, stimulates curiosity, improves writing skills and sets pupils up as informed and critical readers for life. The course involves studying a wide range of texts, from Middle English texts such as Chaucer to contemporary poetry and novels, all taken from the literary canon. Typically, they study: two Shakespeare plays; a modern American drama by the likes of Arthur Miller or Tennessee Williams; a pre-nineteenth-century novel by a classic author such as Austen or Dickens; a twentieth-century novel and a wide selection of poetry from across the ages. They also learn how to write critical appreciations of a wide range of unseen prose and poetry and are encouraged to evaluate views. The subject is mostly essay based, although pupils are taught in a variety of styles and encouraged to hone presenting, discussion and creative skills too. Over the summer of L6, they undertake an individual project exploring Gothic literature and comparing texts of their own choice. This provides a chance to demonstrate independent learning and research skills. The A Level set texts are carefully chosen to reflect a wide range of literature, including contemporary feminist texts, and to prepare pupils for further study at university. Because of the immense richness of this subject, many pupils choose to take their learning further by tackling a literature-based EPQ. Will I enjoy it? Yes! Without exception, the A Level cohort at Sherborne love this subject. We are frequently told by pupils that English Literature has become their favourite subject and the one that they actually enjoy revising!
What else should I consider? The course equips pupils with many skills that are useful to employers and universities: the ability to construct a well-supported argument, the ability to write fluently and clearly, and the ability to consider and evaluate the opinions of others and draw a balanced conclusion. The course can lead to careers in PR and marketing, journalism, teaching, law, publishing and many other sectors. It is highly regarded by universities and employers. Subjects to combine with English: Other subjects that complement English particularly well include Modern Foreign Languages, History, Classics, History of Art and Psychology. However, English Literature can be combined with any subject and is often taken by medics and scientists too. In terms of GCSE requirements, we recommend that those students who have achieved at least a 6 in English Language and Literature are best suited to this course. Assessment Examination board: CAIE This is a linear course, assessed through four two-hour exams at the end of U6. Each paper is equally weighted at 25% of the course and these are closed-book examinations. Paper 1 is Drama and Poetry, Paper 2 Prose and Unseen, Paper 3 Shakespeare and Drama, and Paper 4 is Pre- and Post- 1900 Poetry and Prose. Who can give me more information? Mrs Troup l.troup@sherborne.com
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