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English Literature

Introduction

A Level English is a rigorous, stimulating and challenging qualification which allows freedom of textual choice and includes elements of independent study. The freedom within the non‑exam assessment component allows learners to pursue more detailed work in a field of particular personal interest, offering excellent preparation for study at undergraduate level.

The OCR A Level in English Literature allows you to undertake independent and sustained studies to deepen your appreciation and understanding of literature, including its changing traditions. You will have the opportunity to broaden your understanding of literature and study challenging classics by seminal authors and playwrights such as Oscar Wilde, Angela Carter and Henrik Ibsen.

A Level English is a very popular choice which is highly respected by all universities because it gives you the knowledge and skills necessary for higher education and which are also useful in any career. Students who specialise in English can go on to become academics and teachers however history also supports other career paths like journalism, politics, economics, law, social work and public services.

AS/A Level Exam Boards Used
We use the exam board OCR. Students studying A Level English Literature complete the following modules:

AS: H071
F661: Poetry and Prose 1800-1945
F662: Coursework: Literature post 1900

A2
F663: Drama and Poetry pre 1800
F664: Coursework: Texts in Time

Course Description

Exams and coursework

  • Component 1- Shakespeare and Drama & Poetry pre-1900
  • Component 2- The Gothic genre comparative study
  • Component 3 (coursework)- Creative piece or Close Reading and Comparative Essay

 

Knowledge, Skills, Understanding

  • Articulate informed, personal and creative responses to literary texts, using associated concepts and terminology, and coherent, accurate written expression.
  • Analyse ways in which meanings are shaped in literary texts.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the significance and influence of the contexts in which literary texts are written and received.
  • Explore connections across literary texts.
  • Explore literary texts informed by different interpretations.

What independent study will I have to do?

As a Language and Literature student you will be expected to read independently and keep a journal of the books you have studied. In addition to this, you must read a broadsheet newspaper, such as The Guardian, The Times and The Independent, at least once a week to inform understanding of topical issues and to broaden vocabulary. Listening to podcasts from BBC radio 4 and 5Live will also support the spoken word element of the course.

Homework is set weekly and it is imperative the tasks are completed with care and detail.

A Level Results 2022

Congratulations to our Year 13 students on achieving 100% A*-C

What are the options post-18 and what are the career pathways if you study this course?

There are a broad range of opportunities open to students who have studied A-Level English Combined. You could go on to study English at degree level at a wide range of universities across the country, as well as many other non-English related courses.

A-Level English Language and Literature is complimentary to the following careers and many of our students have progressed to study subjects as varied as: English Literature, Creative Writing, Journalism, Medicine, Law, Education, Politics

A Level Results 2023

Congratulations to our Year 13 students on achieving

88.9% Grades A*-C in English Language & Literature 

88.2% Grades A*-C in English Literature