English Literature

The A Level course comprises of the following:

Year 1:

• Shakespeare – Twelfth Night
• A selection of poetry
• Wilde – The Importance of Being Earnest
• Coursework – a 1,500-word essay on a poet
• Hosseini – The Kite Runner

Year 2:

• Henrik Ibsen: A Doll’s House
• Tony Harrison: Selected Poems
• Preparation for the unseen section of the exam
• Coursework – a 1,500-word essay on a novel of your choice

There are three papers:

Paper 1 worth 40% of the A Level.

2.5-hour examination on Twelfth Night, Wilde and a selection of poetry

Paper 2 worth 40% of the A Level.

3-hour examination on Harrison, Hosseini and Ibsen

Paper 3 worth 20% of the A Level.

Two coursework essays, one on a novel, one on poetry.

English Literature develops your ability to do these three things, among others:

• read complex material,
• write fluently and argue persuasively
• express yourself confidently in discussions and presentations

All employers and universities value these skills. They are useful in most careers and English graduates enter the fields of law, management, marketing, government, journalism and broadcasting. English Literature combines well with all other A Levels: the ability to read, think and express yourself will enhance study of all other subjects.

If you like reading and you like thinking about new ideas, then you will enjoy this course. English Literature A Level introduces you to a wide range of modern and classic texts from many genres.