English Literature

A Level English Literature - Spec B (AQA)

Please note: To study this course, you must meet the general Sixth Form entry requirements as well as the subject-specific entry requirements listed below.

View General Sixth Form Entry Requirements

Year 12  

In the first year of the course, students will study:  

Paper 1: Literary Genres – Drama - Aspects of Tragedy   

This will include the study of one Shakespeare play, one drama text and poetry. 

Assessment: Written exam - 2 hours 30 minutes (40% of qualification). 

Coursework Unit: Theory and Independence 

Students study one poetry and one prose text, informed by a Critical Anthology of literary theory. They will produce two essays, each responding to a different text.  

Assessment: coursework essays (20% of qualification). 

Year 13  

The full A level course develops the skills and areas of study from Year 12. The course includes:

Paper 2: Texts and Genres - Elements of Crime Writing.

This involves the study of three texts: one post -2000 prose text; a collection of poetry; and one further text (one of these will be pre - 1900)

Assessment: Written exam - 3 hours (40% of qualification)

Why Study?

English Literature is a stimulating and engaging course, which develops students’ knowledge and understanding of literary texts, genres and contexts. Students will develop a wide range of skills, such as the ability to read critically, analyse, evaluate and undertake independent research, which are valuable for both further study and future employment.

Entry Requirements

Grade 6 in GCSE English Language and English Literature.