A Level

What is English Literature?

Studying A Level English Literature will encourage you to develop your interest and enjoyment of the written word. You will gain an understanding of the traditions of literature, make informed opinions and judgements on literary texts and develop your knowledge of cultural and historical influences on text. By reading widely, and critically, across centuries, gender and genre; you will develop as an independent reader and critic.

You will be taught to critically analyse a text according to its historical and cultural period and, as well as enjoying great works, you’ll develop keen powers of analysis and an understanding of literature in all its forms.

Exam Board: AQA

Course Summary

Paper 1: Love Through the Ages	Othello (Shakespeare) The Great Gatsby (F S Fitzgerald) Anthology Pre-1900 Poetry Unseen Poetry Texts
Paper 2: Texts in Shared Contexts: Modern Times (literature 1945 – present day)	Feminine Gospels (Carol Ann Duffy) A Handmaid’s Tale (Margaret Atwood) Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (Tennessee Williams) Unseen Prose Text
NEA (Non-Examined Assessment)	Coursework comparing two texts. Independent work – 2500 words.

What skills will I gain from studying English Literature?

You will develop:-

• your ability to articulate informed and relevant responses, using appropriate terminology.
• your ability to demonstrate detailed understanding and analyses of structures, form and language.
• your ability to explore links and connections between texts and contexts.

Where can I find out more information?

 Miss Chorley, Mrs Davies, Mr East: achorley@parkhall.org