Course content & format

A Level English Literature is a challenging and rewarding course for students who enjoy reading widely, thinking critically and exploring how writers use language, form and structure to shape meaning. You will study a broad range of literary texts across poetry, drama and prose, while also considering the ways texts are interpreted by different readers across time.

This is a two-year A Level course, normally studied alongside two other A Levels or equivalent qualifications. The course develops your ability to analyse closely, compare texts, explore context and evaluate different critical interpretations, while also strengthening your essay writing and independent study skills.

The course is made up of four components:

· Component 1: Poetry

· Component 2: Drama

· Component 3: Unseen Texts

· Component 4: Prose Study

In Component 1: Poetry, you will study:

· Poetry pre-1900 (open-book, clean copy)

· Poetry post-1900 (open-book, clean copy)

In Component 2: Drama, you will study:

· Shakespeare (closed-book)

· Drama through a paired study of one pre-1900 and one post-1900 play (closed-book).

In Component 3: Unseen Texts, you will analyse:

· Unseen prose

· Unseen poetry.

In Component 4: Prose Study, you will complete one 2,500–3,500 word assignment based on two prose texts by different authors, one published pre-2000 and one post-2000. This allows you to undertake an independent comparative study and make connections between texts, contexts and literary traditions.

Throughout the course, you will develop your understanding of:

· how writers use and adapt language, form and structure

· how texts are interpreted by different readers

· how texts relate to literary traditions, movements and genres

· the cultural and contextual influences that shape reading and writing.

Your unique experience

A Level English Literature encourages students to present informed, personal and creative responses to literary texts. You will read and discuss a wide range of literature, including poetry, drama, prose and unseen extracts, while learning to construct thoughtful and well-supported arguments.

The course offers opportunities to engage with literature from different periods and perspectives, helping you to understand how texts connect to wider historical, cultural and intellectual contexts. Alongside the set texts, the coursework component gives you the chance to investigate prose texts in greater depth through more independent reading and research.

Students may also benefit from enrichment opportunities such as theatre visits, historic library trips and subject workshops, all of which help bring the study of literature to life beyond the classroom.

English Literature also complements a range of other A Level subjects, including History, Classical Civilisation, Religious Studies, Film Studies and Sociology.

Entry Qualifications

Entry requirements for A Level courses

· Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Mathematics.

· A strong interest in and enthusiasm for, the subject chosen.

· A willingness to commit to regular Independent Study outside of lesson time, as A Level courses require a high level of motivation, organisation and academic commitment.

· An interview may be required as part of the application process.

Please note: some courses have additional entry requirements.

How is this course assessed?

This course is assessed through three written examinations and one non-exam assessment:

· Component 1: Poetry – written examination, 2 hours, 30%

· Component 2: Drama – written examination, 2 hours, 30%

· Component 3: Unseen Texts – written examination, 2 hours, 20%

· Component 4: Prose Study – non-exam assessment, 2,500–3,500 words, 20%.

Assessment includes close analysis of literary extracts, comparative and discursive essay writing, and independent coursework. Students are also supported throughout the course through discussion, presentations, written feedback and ongoing formative assessment.

What can I do next?

A Level English Literature is a highly respected academic subject that develops valuable transferable skills in analysis, interpretation, argument, communication and independent research.

Possible progression routes include:

· Higher Education

· Employment

· Apprenticeships or higher-level apprenticeships

This qualification can support progression into areas such as:

· English Literature

· Creative Writing

· Journalism

· Law

· Teaching

· Publishing

· Broadcasting

· Marketing

· Copywriting

· Graduate trainee programmes