English

English Literature A-level

AQA (7711)

Why choose this course?

The study of Literature allows us to understand the world in which we live now, worlds which have come before and worlds which, hopefully, will never come. The ability to understand and empathise makes us human and Literature offers a door into worlds we may never explore otherwise. To communicate with conciseness, clarity and compassion will make the paths students walk in the future less daunting, and this course will push students to think perceptively about humanity, culture and the strength of words.

Course content and assessment

Content

Paper 1: Love Through the Ages

1. Shakespeare – Othello 2. Selection of Pre 1900 Poetry 3. Unseen Poetry 4. The Great Gatsby

Paper 2: Texts in Shared Contexts – Modern Times

1. The Handmaid’s Tale 2. Feminine Gospels – Carol Ann Duffy 3. A Streetcar Named Desire 4. Unseen Prose

Non-exam Assessment: Independent Critical Study – Texts Across Time

Independent comparative critical study of two texts, at least one of which must have been written before 1900

Assessment

Written exam – 3 hours Open book (not Othello)

Written exam – 2 hours 30 Open book

One extended essay – 2500 words plus bibliography 75 marks 40%

75 marks 40%

50 marks 20%

Enrichment opportunities

• Experience live productions at a range of theatres • Attend student seminars and workshops at prestigious institutions • Opportunities to attend author events • University visits/visiting speakers • Attend Stage-to-Screen productions

Progression routes

English Literature is a highly regarded A-level that can take students onto almost any course of study. It is an obvious choice for English degree courses, but is also an excellent option for those considering Arts and Humanities subjects, Languages, Business, Psychology and Law degrees.