“You develop the insight of an artist, the analytical precision of a scientist and the persuasiveness of a lawyer “
English Literature builds on the content of GCSE by broadening the range of texts studied and developing the skills appropriate to literary study. Pupils have the opportunity to read a variety of styles including established classics and modern literature. As well as fostering a love of literature and language, the AS/A Level English course is a flexible and adaptable subject that opens up a wide range of career choices. Pupils are encouraged to analyse and discuss; give presentations; read widely; pursue their own independent research; and produce clearly structured and well-organised pieces of writing.
A wide range of teaching styles is used at A Level. Pupils are expected to take responsibility for their learning. Pupils are given guidance in organising their private study time and managing their workload effectively. Staff offer a rigorous but supportive learning environment, especially with regard to producing written responses. Pupils are taught to analyse texts critically in terms of genre, context and the writer’s craft. They are encouraged to make comparisons between texts and to develop their own independent opinions and judgements. Pupils of English possess skills in written and spoken communication, working independently and thinking critically, which are highly valued by universities and employers.
AS EXAMINATIONUNIT 1 (AS 60%, A2 30%)
Victorian Literature - Texts in Context
Written paper - 2 hours 'open book'- Candidates must answer two questions: one set poetry text plus wider reading.
UNIT 2 (AS 40%, A2 20%)
Creative Study
Coursework - Two tasks: one on prose text and one on drama text - 2500 words in total.
A2 EXAMINATION
UNIT 3 (A2 30%)
Reading for Meaning
Written paper - 2 hours and 30 minutes 'closed book' - Candidates must answer two questions involving unprepared extracts and wider reading on the unit theme ‘Love Through the Ages’.
UNIT 4 (A2 20%)
Extended Essay and Shakespeare Study
Coursework - Three texts including a Shakespeare play. An extended comparative essay of 3000 words.
Enrichment Activities: Pupils are requested to buy their own texts for the purpose of annotation. This amounts to approximately £40 over the two years. Pupils are invited to participate in theatre trips and literature conferences; the cost of these over the course is approximately £35.
When? Start date: September.
Duration: 2 years.
How is it delivered? Usually as part of a full-time programme.
Availability: Current and continuing.
Time Slot: Daytime.
Who can do it? Age range: 16 - 19.
What will you be working towards?
Qualification: AQA Level 3 Advanced GCE in English Literature A (500/2568/5).
Awarding Body: AQA.
Type: A2 Level.
Sector: Languages, Literature and Culture of the British Isles.
Qualification: AQA Level 3 Advanced Subsidiary GCE in English Literature A (500/2576/4).
Awarding Body: AQA.
Type: AS Level.
Sector: Languages, Literature and Culture of the British Isles.
What happens when you have finished?
You could take this course to complement other advanced level courses or to prepare for the A2 part of an Advanced GCE in English Literature, which could lead onto higher education in English related studies or more general higher education courses.
The qualification is accepted by a variety of degree courses. Contrary to popular belief, teaching is not the main occupation of English graduates. Many go into law, management, research and consultancy, the civil service, the media, politics as well as publishing, journalism and the creative industries.
You could also go straight into a job as the AS GCE is a recognised qualification that will help you develop the skills, understanding and knowledge that many employers across lots of industries are looking for.
Where Can I Find More Information?
To find out more about this qualification, contact our Admissions Manager at admissions@twggs.kent.sch.uk or by phone on 01892 520902, ask your Connexions Personal Adviser or school/college careers staff.
Also see related pages: Academic Curriculum