If you are interested in the techniques employed by authors to create characters and situations and how texts reflect our lives and relationships, then this course is for you. You will read, study and enjoy modern novels and plays, some Victorian texts, some Shakespeare and review a wide range of writing. Additionally, we will discuss texts in performance, how they work on stage and screen and not least in imagination.

Students studying three A Levels will be expected to have a minimum of two GCSEs at grade 6 and three GCSEs at grade 5/4, including English Language and Mathematics at grade 5/4 or above. Or eight GCSEs at a minimum of grade 5.

• Shakespeare: The Tempest

• Dystopian Text: The Handmaid’s tale

• Pre 1900 prose: A Doll’s house

• NEA (course work): close reading or re-creative writing piece with commentary & a comparative essay (3 different literary forms)

The texts covered include a range of themes and theoretical perspectives including socio-political writing and Marxism. The NEA would allow you to further your own interest in modern literature. Students would be able to analyse ways in which meanings are shaped, articulate informed, personal and creative responses to the chosen literary text, demonstrate understanding of the significance and influence of the texts and explore connections across the chosen literary texts.                                             

There are two exams, one for each module

Paper/ component 1:    Shakespeare (one question with 2 parts), and Drama & poetry (one question) 40%

Paper/ component 2:    Comparative and contextual study. Dystopian text (The Handmaid’s tale) + another text 40%

NEA/ coursework: 20%

Exam Board: OCR

There is an expectation to complete a one-week work placement in the Summer term. There are opportunities for you to attend theatre trips, journalism workshops and university trips as well as day placements at local schools.

The Department of English & Modern Foreign Languages is well-resourced, has highly qualified teachers who are also examiners, and achieves excellent results.

You can expect:

• Interesting and thought-provoking topics 

• Expert teaching and assessment

• Lively classroom discussion

• Friendly guidance

• Optional extra lessons

• Theatre, cinema and TV studio trips

• An enjoyable atmosphere

• High progression rates to university

Both universities and employers value and respect an A Level in English Literature. Former students have progressed to humanities courses at university and careers in journalism, law, teaching and lecturing. A high level command of English is a required skill in many career pathways.

Books will be provided by the department, although some coursework texts may be purchased by students.