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A Level English Literature
Bishop Laney Sixth Form
Downham Road, Ely, England, CB6 2SH
Available start dates
Available start dates
Course Summary
There are so many reasons to study English Literature. On a practical level, A-Level Literature is valued by universities and employers alike, even if you do not intend to pursue an English/Literature-based career. This is because studying Literature:
- Develops analytical skills Develops an understanding of other periods
- Develops an understanding of different cultures
- Develops empathy
- Improves formal essay writing which develops communication skills that are invaluable in the workplace.
- Improves essay writing skills are enhanced for every other essay writing subject
Literature is a fascinating subject in its own right! You will study texts from across the literary canon and learn how to analyse and interpret the books according to your individual interests. To be successful in this course, you will be strongly encouraged to read independently of lessons.
You will be given weekly study and home work by your teachers and will have regular assessment and feedback to keep you on track.
We look forward to welcoming you on the course!
Course Details
Studying Literature is fascinating in its own right, but it is also valued by both universities and employers. Our curriculum offers three exciting topics:
Love Through The Ages
We explore different perspectives of love in different periods, including romantic love of many kinds; love and loss; social conventions and taboos; jealousy and guilt; truth and deception and other relevant themes.
Modern times: 1945 to the present day
This module takes the end of WW2 as a starting point. It explores both modern and contemporary Literature's engagement with different issues that helped to shape the latter half of the 20th century and the early decades of the 21st century.
Non-Examined Assessment Independent critical study
This part of the course is based on your personal interests! You will write a 2500-word essay on texts of your choice, comparing the presentation of a theme.
How will it be delivered and assessed?
You will study a variety of texts from the literary canon for three different modules. Two of these modules are assessed by examination: 'Love through the Ages' and 'Modern times: literature from 1945 to the present day'. These exams will take place at the end of your A-Level course.
There is also a Non-Examined Assessment module. This is the 'Independent critical study: texts across time'. This is where you will have the choice to base your studies on your own interests. You will choose your theme and at least one of your texts to base on which to base an independent exploration and comparison.
Entry requirements
At least 5 GCSE Grades 9 - 4 to include Maths; and Grade 5 or above in all English subjects entered.
Your next steps...
Studying English Literature will enhance a multitude of subject-specific skills. It will also give you many transferable skills applicable to studying other subjects and that are relevant to the workplace.
A Level Literature study not only develops your ability to read carefully and analytically but also develops your confidence and skill in verbal debates. Many universities value A Level Literature in applications because of the high level of analysis it requires of its students. These analytical skills are valuable in many subjects. Employers value literature skills in candidates as people who have studied Literature will have excellent communication skills, both written and verbally.
For more courses like this, check our courses page.