Sixth form English Literature
English Literature
Board: AQA
Type: GCE A Level
School: Sturminster Newton High School
Contact: Mrs K Collins
Why study English Literature?
The study of English Literature offers students the rare opportunity to experience intellectual, philosophical and emotional challenges, and to develop the widely transferable skills of analysis and communication within a credible academic discipline. Throughout the course, students will be exposed to some of the greatest literature ever created, from some of the most significant voices in history; they will explore a range of critical perspectives from Marxism, to feminism and post-colonialism, which will help them to connect the experiences of great thinkers to the works of these great writers, and may challenge, or even help to form, their own independent world-view. Students will also learn to express their individual opinions and critical observations with clarity, accuracy and eloquence.
What will I learn?
You will be encouraged to read widely and to analyse in depth novels, poetry and plays. We assume that you have enjoyed reading a variety of texts at GCSE level, that you read privately for pleasure and that you have ideas of your own that you are happy to share in writing and discussion. You will be following the AQA ‘B’ Specification.
What are the entry requirements?
Minimum: GCSE grade 5 in English. Ideal: GCSE grade 6 in English Literature and GCSE grade 6 in English Language.
You should be willing to discuss and reflect on the texts studied, and to spend time researching independently. Most importantly, you must enjoy reading!
How will I be assessed?
The A Level course is a two year course consisting of the study of literary genres as well as a study of texts and genres (elements of crime writing or elements of political and social protest writing). These components will be assessed through final examinations at the end of the two year course. The final part of the course is Theory and Independence.
The course also includes a non‐examination assessment where two essays are produced, worth 20% of the final grade. This component is designed to allow students to read widely and to choose their own texts and connect them to critical methods and ideas.
What do students do after studying English Literature?
An A Level in English literature equips students with both the transferable skills to succeed in the workplace, and the academic credibility to access a wide range of higher education courses. As a benchmark of both analytical ability and written communication, English Literature prepares students for any career involving written or spoken communication, or that requires attention to detail, careful analysis or research.
It is true that the study of English Literature offers good preparation for traditional careers in Journalism, Law, PR, Education, Publishing and Teaching, but also worth keeping in mind the importance of transferable skills in the rapidly changing employment market. Careers in Multi-Media Journalism, Online Copywriting, Advertising and Broadcasting are just a few areas which place a premium on effective communication skills. Furthermore, as a ‘facilitating subject’, English Literature supports applications to the widest possible range of University Courses.
What are the enrichment opportunities?
Alongside course-specific theatre trips, students will have the opportunity to enrich their learning through creative writing and public speaking competitions, literature appreciation clubs and debating club, which also offers the opportunity to enter national competitions.