Courses

English Literature A Level

Course Description

If you are interested in the way writers and authors create characters and situations, and the way texts reflect our lives and relationships then this course is for you. You will have the opportunity to read and enjoy novels, poems and plays and study a range of traditional and modern texts of different styles and periods.

Entry Requirements

Students studying four A Levels will be expected to have a minimum of 6 GCSEs at grade 7, 8 or 9 including English Language and Mathematics at grade 6 or above. Students studying three A Levels will be expected to have a minimum of two GCSEs at grade 6 and three GCSEs at grade 4 including English Language and Mathematics at grade 4.

Course Content

The texts covered include various themes such as: comedy and tragedy, crime and politics, and independent writing for coursework where you choose your own books. Texts covered include: Othello; The Great Gatsby; The Kite Runner and A Doll’s House.

Assessment

There are two exams, one for each module.
Paper 1: (40%) Aspects of Tragedy three questions in response to two plays and a prose.
Paper 2: (40%) Elements of political and social protest writing three questions in response to a play, prose and an unseen passage.
Non-exam assessment: (20%)
You will also produce two essays, each responding to a different text and linking to a different aspect of the critical anthology.

Enrichment and Work Experience

There is an opportunity to complete a one week work placement in the summer term. You will have the opportunity to attend theatre trips, journalism workshops and university trips. You will also be able to attend day placements at schools.

Additional Information

Books will be provided by the English and MFL department although some coursework texts may be purchased by students.

Links with other subjects:
This subject links well with A Levels in English Language, History, Media Studies and Drama & Theatre Studies.

Future Career Opportunities

Both universities and employers value and respect an A Level in English Literature. Former students have gone on to study Humanities’ degree courses at university and careers in Journalism, Law, Teaching and Lecturing.

Why Study at BSFC?

The Department of English & Modern Foreign Languages is well-resourced, has highly qualified teachers who are also examiners, and achieves excellent results. As a student, 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
• Teachers available at lunchtimes
• An enjoyable atmosphere
• To pass!!