English Literature

OCR H472 Mr Neil Bowen English Literature

Why should I study English Lit?

Life informs literature and we very much believe that this is a two way process: literature also informs life. If you want to stretch your mind and learn how to tackle life’s complexities from a range of different perspectives then English is the one for you. Embracing an open minded approach to multiple interpretations yet finding the confidence to shape your own individual critical voice is key to A level English. As in literature study as in life. This course is expansive in its vision but intense in its engagement so literature is not just searching for meaning.

You will learn to detect the socio-historical factors that shape our literature and see how such contextual influences change over time and space. Not only that but you find the chance to luxuriate in in the wealth of the collective literary imagination and its glorious language!

What do I need to know or be able to do before taking English Literature?

You will need at least a B grade in English Language and English Literature in order to feel confident about tackling the demands of the subject at this level. You should be prepared to read widely for pleasure; you will be asked to keep a personal reading record during the course. You should be willing to support literary events held after school, such as the Literature Society and the peripeteia online forum which run a wide range of activities and you will also have the opportunity to attend theatre visits and creative writing workshops workshops.

Note - This is an English Literature course, and is not appropriate for those looking to study English as a foreign Language

What will I learn?

Pupils will be able to: • Explore the human condition as expressed through Literature, and Literature as medium for • this expression. Develop an understanding and enjoyment of literature through a wide range of critical and • independent reading. Discuss their response to a range of texts accurately, coherently and effectively through speech and writing. • Become familiar with the traditions of • • literature in English. Learn how to construct critical essays. Consider other readers’ interpretations of • literary texts. Have an awareness of cultural, historical and • other contextual influences on literature. Learn how to develop their creative writing.

Who is this course suitable for?

Pupils who enjoy expressing their opinions and justifying their comments. Pupils who have an interest in reading, discussing and writing on a wide range of literary texts. Pupils who are keen to develop a life-long reading habit. Pupils who want to develop their essay writing skills. Pupils who would like the opportunities for personal literary choice and the creative writing option offered by English literature coursework. Pupils who want to keep their options open for further study. Pupils who enjoyed GCSE English Literature.

How is the course assessed?

Topics:

Shakespeare and Poetry Pre 1900 Literature post 1900 Close reading in a topic area Comparative and contextual study American Literature; The Gothic; Dystopia; Women in Literature; The Immigrant Experience Critical or Re-creative work Comparative Essay

Two 2 hour 30 minute written examinations plus coursework component

What could I go on and do at the end of my course?

English Literature is a popular qualification for a wide range of courses in higher education or for future careers. You will learn and use a number of transferable skills during the course. These skills are in demand from employers and universities and are also valuable in their own right. English Literature pupils often go on to work in the following career areas: Journalism, Editing/publishing, Law, Academia/research, Writing professionally, Teaching, Advertising/PR.