English Language and Literature

This course brings together literary and linguistic study in an integrated approach to English. It includes the unique opportunity to compare literary texts with non-literary texts and analyse literary texts from a linguistic perspective. The course is designed around some key themes including ‘Remembered Places’, ‘Imagined Worlds’, ‘Poetic Voices’ and ‘Exploring Conflict’. These topics encompass the study of all three literary genres, poetry, prose and drama, as well as non-fiction texts. Students will develop their analytical and creative writing skills in response to these texts. The course is divided into three main areas: Telling Stories, Exploring Conflict, and Making connections. This qualification is linear, which means that students will sit all of their exams at the end of the 2 year course.

The study of English Language and Literature will enable you to:

• Critically evaluate written and spoken texts and the ways in which narratives are constructed for different audiences and contexts.
• Present an informed and persuasive opinion both orally and in writing. Develop detailed critical understanding and analytical skills.
• Evaluate the relationships between texts plus the significance of contextual factors.
• Write creatively for different audiences and purposes.

English Language and Literature can be linked successfully with most other subjects. The most obvious links are with Media Studies, Humanities and Social Sciences, but equally many students enjoy studying this course alongside the Sciences or Maths. Students would not pair this with another English course.

English Language and Literature is a respected subject, valued by universities and employers alike. Opportunities available to you following this course are career paths in publishing, journalism, advertising, librarianship, plus media and communication roles.

Assessment

The A Level is assessed via two written exams and a coursework (or Non-exam Assessment) folder:

Paper 1—Telling Stories—3 hours, 40% of A Level.

• Section A explores anthology texts on the theme of Paris, and students write a comparative essay.
• Section B is an extract based essay on the novel Frankenstein.
• Section C is an essay on poetry by Carol Ann Duffy or John Donne.

Paper 2—Exploring conflict—2 hrs 30 mins, 40% of A Level.

• Section A is creative writing and a commentary in response to the novel The Kite Runner.
• Section B is an essay on Shakespeare’s Othello.

Non-Exam Assessment - Making connections, 20% of A Level, 2500-3000 words. This is an individual investigation that explores a theme in a literary and a non-fiction text. Students choose their own texts and theme.